Mechanical Engineering Technology

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Those in the mechanical engineering technology field tend to be objective, innovative and methodical. 

You need:  

• the ability to perceive objects in 3D by looking at 2D drawings 
• sketching or drawing skills
• an aptitude for math 
• the ability to solve problems and think outside the box 
• writing and speaking skills 
• the ability to work as part of a team with minimal supervision.

You should enjoy: 

• doing precise work 
• obtaining and analyzing test results 
• finding creative solutions to problems 
• taking a methodical approach to your work 

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning opportunities

You’ll participate in a capstone project where you’ll work in teams to address a real-world challenge. In some cases, this project will include an industry partner.

Accreditations, designations or certifications

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

Graduates may apply for their Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) designation after two years of appropriate work experience. 

While attending SAIT, you can become members of the following societies: 

• Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals (ASET) 
• Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) 
• American Society for Quality (ASQ) 

Credential

After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Mechanical 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):

• Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians (22301)
• Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians (22302)
• Drafting technologists and technicians (22212)
• Manufacturing managers (90010)

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 at least 75% in Math 30-2, and
• at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and 
• at least 60% in Physics 20 and Chemistry 20 or at least 60% in Science 30.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside of 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 Mechanical Engineering Technology diploma requires 60 credits (24 courses) to complete.

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

Required courses

• COMM 256 - Professional Communications and Presentation Skills 3 Credits
• COMP 213 - Computing for Engineering Technology 3 Credits
• DSGN 380 - Machine Design 3 Credits
• DYNA 265 - Dynamics 1.5 Credits
• ECON 209 - Engineering Economics 1.5 Credits
• EMTL 250 - Engineering Materials 3 Credits
• EMTL 300 - Mechanics of Materials 3 Credits
• ENGD 250 - Technical Modeling 3 Credits
• FLDS 320 - Fluid Power 1.5 Credits
• MATH 238 - Math for Engineering & Tech I 3 Credits
• MATH 288 - Mathematics for Engineering & Technology ll 3 Credits
• MECH 200 - Mechanical Engineering Technology Concepts 3 Credits
• MECH 202 - Technology and Society 1.5 Credits
• MECH 205 - Electro-Mechanical Systems 3 Credits
• MNFG 290 - Manufacturing Processes 3 Credits
• MNFG 310 - Advanced Manufacturing 3 Credits
• PROJ 375 - Capstone Project 3 Credits
• STAT 245 - Statistics for Engineering and Technology I 3 Credits
• STCS 255 - Engineering Statics 1.5 Credits
• THRM 200 - Introduction to Thermodynamics 1.5 Credits

Elective courses

You will complete one of the following course groups depending on your specialization.

Elective courses - Design and analysis

• DSGN 303 - Mechanical Systems Design 3 Credits
• FLDS 350 - Fluid Mechanics 1.5 Credits
• MACH 380 - Machine Dynamics 1.5 Credits
• THRM 320 - Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer 3 Credits

Elective courses - Design and automation

• CNTR 300 - Control Systems 3 Credits
• EMSI 300 - Modern Automation Integration 1.5 Credits
• EMSI 320 - Robots and Robotics 1.5 Credits
• EMSI 360 - Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers 3 Credits

Elective courses - Design and development

• PRDT 300 - Product Development 3 Credits
• PRDT 305 - Model Making and Prototyping 1.5 Credits
• PRDT 310 - Applied Product Development 1.5 Credits
• PRDT 320 - Product Analysis 3 Credits

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.

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.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a custom computer hardware and software requirement.

The preferred hardware requirements for this program are as follows:

• Intel i7 (gen 7 or newer or AMD Ryzen 7)
• 16 GB RAM or greater
• 1 TB HD or greater
• Nvidia Quadro or AMD Radeon Pro video card
• Windows 10 PC (build 1906 or higher)

There is also required software, including SolidWorks.

During the program, you will use industry-standard software. Although the minimum specification will work, we recommend the best computer you can afford.

Required equipment/tools

The required tools will be provided.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

Safety glasses are required on the first day of class.

Manufacturing and Automation program advising

For any questions or to set up an advising appointment, please contact our School of Manufacturing and Automation.

Phone: 403.284.8641
Email: ma.info@sait.ca

Program outcomes

1. Research, analyze, prepare, document, submit and present a technology report (capstone project) relating to a significant technology-related issue.
2. Demonstrate capability in mathematics consistent with the discipline requirements and program objectives.
3. Apply the current project management practices to applied science and engineering technology projects consistent with the discipline requirements.
4. Apply the principles of physical and natural science.
5. Apply the knowledge of business/management principles, ethics, sustainability, contracts, codes and standards.
6. Obtain and analyze data and prepare and document data.
7. Utilize computer software, hardware, and other technological tools that are appropriate and necessary to perform tasks.
8. Apply health and safety practices to minimize exposure to unsafe conditions and ensure a safe working environment for oneself and co-workers.
9. Mechanical machine design - analyze, design, and specify machine elements and mechanical parts.
10. Prepare CAD drawings, specifications, estimates and other technical documentation.
11. Fabrication processes -  apply knowledge of material and engineering principles to manufacturing operations and processes.
12. Applied thermodynamics - apply concepts of conduction, convection, radiation and heat transfer in analyzing properties and heat transfer problems.
13. Process instrumentation and HVAC controls - design and specify automated manufacturing operations.
14. Demonstrate an understanding of the properties of fluid mechanics.
15. Assist in the commissioning of mechanical building systems.
16. Apply the principles of project management in mechanical engineering work.
17. Computer-aided engineering - use appropriate integrated asset management software.