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

Petroleum Engineering Technology

Location(s): In Person (Main Campus)


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Drill into the core of the energy industry with our Petroleum Engineering Technology program. This two-year diploma is crafted for those who want to make a tangible impact in the world of oil and gas in Alberta and beyond.

From uncovering new energy reserves to optimizing field operations, this program offers training in all facets of the upstream petroleum industry.

This sector involves the search for potential underground or underwater oil and gas fields, drilling of exploratory wells, and subsequently drilling and operating the wells that recover and bring the crude oil or raw natural gas to the surface.

In this program, you will:

  • gain a proficient understanding of the geophysical and geological principles underlying petroleum and related subsurface resources exploration
  • obtain technical expertise in drilling methods, well design and field operations management
  • develop competency in applying computer technology for simulation, economic analysis and reserve determination
  • discover how to assess the viability of potential drilling sites and manage the lifecycle of a drilling operation
  • learn current environmental and safety regulations to ensure compliance in all operations.

Our program emphasizes practical skills. Engage with real-world simulation software and gain hands-on experience in our cutting-edge labs. Learn from seasoned professionals and engineers who bring not only advanced degrees but also real-world experience and industry connections to enrich your educational journey.

As a graduate, you will be prepared for a variety of roles, including petroleum engineering technologists and other careers within the oil and gas industry. You’ll confidently enter the workforce, knowing that our diploma is recognized and valued across the industry. 

Traits, skills and aptitudes


Petroleum engineering technologists tend to be objective, innovative and directive.

You need:

  • an aptitude for math, chemistry and physics
  • organizational, interpersonal and communication skills
  • the ability to work alone or with a team.

You should be comfortable analyzing data. You should like working with tools and instruments at precision tasks. You should enjoy creative problem-solving and be at ease taking charge. 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities


In your final semester, you’ll complete a capstone project in partnership with an industry mentor and overseen by an instructor. This project will involve a real-world example of the type of work you’ll perform once you enter the workforce. 

Accreditations, designations or certifications


Graduates are eligible for membership in The Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals in Alberta (ASET.) 

This program is nationally accredited by the Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC) at the technologist level. 

Credential


After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Petroleum Engineering Technology diploma.

Program length


2 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):

  • Petroleum engineers (21332)
  • Geological and mineral technologists and technicians (22101)
  • Drillers and blasters - surface mining, quarrying and construction (73402)
  • Supervisors, mining and quarrying (82020)
  • Underground production and development miners (83100)
  • Underground mine service and support workers (84100)

Admission requirements - Applicants educated in Canada


Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses 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, and
  • at least 60% in Physics 20.

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 Petroleum Engineering Technology diploma requires 60 credits (24 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

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 $1,500 per full-time 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 equipment/tools

You’ll require a scientific calculator capable of performing linear regression.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

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

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. Apply an understanding of oil and gas operation principles to subsurface and surface production.
  2. Apply geological concepts to analyze and interpret geological data.
  3. Collect, organize and analyze reservoir data in order to evaluate and predict reservoir performance.
  4. Apply basic formation evaluation theory and techniques to analyze and interpret well logs.
  5. Design drilling, completion and well intervention programs using current industry standards.
  6. Evaluate and compare the economic viability and risk of petroleum projects in order to recommend places of action.
  7. Interpret surveys, maps, land divisions, and acquisition procedures.
  8. Use recognized project management practices for petroleum projects.
  9. Use software to analyze and solve problems in the petroleum industry.
  10. Develop and evaluate petroleum engineering projects adhering to regulatory, environmental, legal, ethical, and safety requirements.
  11. Communicate technical information in written and verbal formats targeted to specific audiences in the petroleum industry.
  12. Demonstrate professional attitudes, behaviors and skills according to the legal and ethical requirements of ASET (or equivalent) in individual and/or team environments.
  13. Apply critical thinking skills to analyze and solve problems.

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