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Next information session
There are no events scheduled for this program. Please visit the link below to see all upcoming and on-demand information sessions.
This program will be delivered in a blended format (OA, OS, OR and OF/CLAS) for the Winter 2022 semester.
Some courses will be delivered online while others occur on-campus.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
Safely run processing equipment at oil and gas and natural gas processing facilities with training that covers basic plant operations, safety and thermodynamics. Graduates are ready to write the Alberta Boiler Safety Association Fourth-Class certification exam.
Power and Process Operations is an eight-month program that trains students for careers as operators, responsible for the daily safe running of processing equipment at oil and gas facilities. The program consists of both classroom and laboratory study, and prepares students to become fourth class Power Engineers through ABSA.
Is this the right fit for me?
A Grade 12 equivalent is recommended to increase employment opportunities. Applicants should be physically agile, have good hearing and be capable of lifting 45-kilogram chemical sacks.
Students with serious colour vision defects or who suffer from claustrophobia or fear of heights may have trouble with certain aspects of instruction and may experience problems securing employment.
Accreditation
This program is integrated with the Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Certification System. Graduates are eligible for membership in the following professional associations:
- Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA)
- Institute of Power Engineers (IPE)
- International Pressure Equipment Integrity Association (IPEIA)
- National Association Corrosion Engineers (NACE)
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT certificate in Power and Process Operations.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in industries such as petrochemical, fertilizer, pulp and paper, natural gas processing, metallurgical, petroleum refining and food and beverage production.
Potential positions include:
- plant operator
- process operator
- field operator
Related careers include:
- oil pipeline operator
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $6,135
Year 1 (International): $18,514
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
Full costs
Tuition and financial aid
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
When can you apply?
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for winter 2022 open March 31, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2022 | Aug. 19, 2022 |
Admission requirements
Admission and selection
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2022 start: applications open March 31, 2021.
Admission requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 60% in Math 30-1 or Pure Math 30, or at least 75% in Math 30-2, Math 30-3 or Applied Math 30
- At least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 75% in English Language Arts 30-2.
All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission. If you don't meet the requirements, consider Academic Upgrading.
SAIT evaluates international documents for admissions. After you've applied, consider our international document assessment service if your education is from outside of Canada.
Direct entry: four-step process
Step 1: Read the program information to see the qualities needed for student success.
Step 2: Ensure that you meet all of the admission requirements listed above.
Step 3: Apply to Power and Process Operations and submit your transcripts and/or anticipated final grades.
- Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Find out how to monitor your application status after you apply.
Reserved seats
Four seats are reserved for applicants who have completed and obtained a minimum of 70% in each of the following Career and Technology Studies courses:
- PRS1010 - Overview of Alberta Geology
- PRS1020 - Non-renewable Resources
- PRS1060 - Consumer Products and services
- PRS2030 - Non-Conventional Hydrocarbon Exploration
- PRS2060 - Refining Hydrocarbons
Communication during selection
Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications.
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Semester 1
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM-201 | Industrial Communications | 1.5 |
| COMP-261 | MS Office: An Introduction | 1.5 |
| ENVS-221 | Safety and Environmental Protection | 1.5 |
| PROP-262 | Process Operations I | 3.0 |
| PWEN-285 | Basic Plant Operations I | 6.0 |
| THRM-224 | Thermodynamics | 1.5 |
| Semester 1 total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CHEM-233 | Chemistry and Corrosion | 1.5 |
| COMM-352 | Communicating in The Workplace | 1.5 |
| MACH-236 | Workshop Practices | 1.5 |
| PROP-266 | Process Operations II | 3.0 |
| PROP-270 | Unit Operations | 1.5 |
| PWEN-284 | Basic Plant Operations II | 6.0 |
| Semester 2 total | 15.0 | |
| Program total | 30.0 | |
Progression
Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer to, within or from SAIT is available. Visit Transfer Options to learn more.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4,802 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,135 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $17,181 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $18,514 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside this time frame.
SAIT Fees
Campus athletic and recreation Fee: $183.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): $310 - Check eligibility here.
Student support fee: $150
Student technology fee: $150
Health and Dental Fees
Domestic Students
- Health Plan: $122
- Dental Plan: $130
- For students with existing health and/or dental plans, please refer to the Saitsa website for information on opting out.
International Students
- Health and Dental Plan: $252
- For more information on Health and Dental Benefits for International students please contact the International Centre.
Books and supplies*
- For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a device that meets the standard hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
- Find out about tuition and financial aid.
* Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change.
Next steps for incoming students
Have you been accepted to this program? Here's what you'll need for your first day of classes.
Winter 2022
Orientation date
Your program orientation will take place online. You will receive further details shortly from your academic chair or program coordinator.
Learn more about your orientation.
We are expecting to meet you at student orientation. Important program information is discussed to ensure you are prepared to begin classes that begin on day one. Orientation is a mandatory part of your learning experience to ensure student success.
How to register for classes
You'll follow an adjustable block registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page.
Computers and laptops
This is a bring your own device program with a standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
We recommend you wear CSA-approved (green triangle) protective footwear in our labs. A hard hat and safety glasses will be provided to you.
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
PERS 050: Student Rights and Responsibilities
This course is designed to introduce you to student rights and responsibilities at SAIT. You will learn about SAIT's rich and diverse community, become familiar with guidelines and procedures that create a safe, respectful learning experience for you, and gain practical tips for how you can engage in the SAIT community in a positive and responsible way. PRES-050 must be completed within 30 days from the start of the semester.
PREP 100: The SAIT Experience
Get tips and insider information on time management, exam preparation, effective notetaking and more through this free, online short course for new students. Plus, learn about discussion boards, online communication and submitting assignments online. Course completion is recommended by the end of your first semester.
Both courses can be accessed through Brightspace (D2L) before the first day of classes.
Required textbooks
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 required this term.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8543
Email: macphail.students@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
Next steps for accepted students
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.