Nov 21, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2024-2025 Credit Catalog

Chemical Laboratory Technology

Location(s): In Person (Main Campus)


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Our Chemical Laboratory Technology program will get a positive reaction from those drawn to the chemical sciences and seeking a role that combines experimentation with practical application.

You will master the fundamentals of chemical laboratory techniques and develop hands-on expertise with sophisticated analytical instrumentation to analyze laboratory samples.

Engage in extensive hands-on laboratory training with the cutting-edge analytical instruments used in modern laboratory practices.

In this program, you will:

  • gain comprehensive knowledge of chemical substances and their properties, reactions and safety protocols
  • become proficient in the use of advanced analytical techniques and equipment for sample analysis
  • develop a versatile skill set applicable to a wide range of scientific settings, from research and development to quality control.

Take advantage of the opportunity to participate in an optional 12-month paid work placement, giving you real-world experience, a taste of your future career and networking opportunities.

This program will prepare you to work as a chemical laboratory technologist or chemical laboratory technician across various sectors, such as industrial corporations, service laboratories, government agencies or educational institutions.

If you are an aspiring laboratory scientist or technician, technologist, or someone interested in research and development in chemical sciences, pharmaceuticals, or chemical technology, this program is for you. 

Traits, skills and aptitudes


Those who work in laboratory technology tend to be methodical, innovative, and objective.

You need:

  • integrity and a professional attitude
  • a liking for science (especially human biology) and a keen interest in scientific work
  • the ability to do detailed work accurately
  • good colour and form perception (to study blood cells, etc.)
  • the ability to listen and speak well
  • the ability to get along with different people
  • the ability to adapt to change quickly and easily.

You should enjoy taking a step-by-step approach to your work, studying results and developing procedures, and using computers and instruments for accurate and precise testing. 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities


You’ll have the option to participate in a 12-month work term after your second semester.

During this work term, you’ll perform a chemical laboratory technology technical project in an industrial, service, government or university laboratory under the supervision of a lab supervisor.

This work term is not required to graduate from the program.

Accreditations, designations or certifications


This program is nationally accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC).

Graduates can also register with the Alberta Society of Engineering Technologists and Chemical Institute of Canada. 

Credential


After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Chemical Laboratory Technology diploma.

Program length


2 to 3 years

Accepts international applicants - not-PGWP eligible


This program is open to international applicants; however, program availability may be limited. This program does not meet the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program

Not eligible for CAJG


This program is not eligible for the Canada Alberta Job Grant

Related careers


Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education. 

Potential careers (NOC):

  • Chemical technologists and technicians (22100)
  • Supervisors, petroleum, gas and chemical processing and utilities (92011)
  • Central control and process operators, petroleum, gas and chemical processing (93101)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada


All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet all of the following requirements or equivalents:

  • at least 60% in Math 30-1 or 75% in Math 30-2, and
  • at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 75% in English Language Arts 30-2, and
  • at least 60% in Chemistry 30.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

Admission requirements - Applicants educated outside of Canada


All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Program outline


The Chemical Laboratory Technology diploma requires 61.5 credits (21 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year. If you choose to complete the optional one-year co-op work term, the program spans three years.

Optional courses


Suggested schedule of study


Progression


You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure > 

Books and supplies


Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 for the first year and $500 for the second year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore’s website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn’t receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you’re in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

The industry-approved PPE you’ll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes. 

PPE is required in various labs. You’ll need a lab coat and CSA-approved safety glasses (with UVEX and side shields) by the first day of class to enter the chemistry labs.

Energy program advising


For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our MacPhail School of Energy.

Phone: 403.284.8451
Email: macphail.students@sait.ca 

Program outcomes


  1. Research, critically analyze, prepare, document, submit and defend a technology report.
  2. Apply the knowledge of algebra, matrix manipulation and introductory calculus to resolve applied science/engineering technology problems.
  3. Apply the knowledge of best statistical processes to resolve applied science/engineering technology problems.
  4. Apply the current project management practices to applied science and engineering technology projects consistent with the discipline requirements.
  5. Apply the principles of physical and natural science, applicable to a discipline, to solve applied science/ engineering technology problems.
  6. Apply knowledge of management principles, ethics, sustainability, contract law, and codes.

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