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This program will be delivered on campus (OF/CLAS) for the Fall 2021 semester, pending additional COVID-19 restrictions.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
The reuse of treated wastewater has become a sustainable option for minimizing water scarcity problems. Learn the skills needed for a rewarding career in municipal and industrial water/wastewater systems.
Graduates will develop a working knowledge and skills related to treatment technologies and water/wastewater systems operations including related laboratory analytics. Through in-class learning and recognized work experience they will be prepared to write industry required certification exams including the 4th class power engineering and water/wastewater treatment.
Graduates of the program will possess the following proficiencies:
- perform water analysis tasks to support plant water quality targets
- analyze current and past data to support plant performance decisions
- apply knowledge of water/wastewater system processes including pressure vessels and power generating equipment to achieve performance requirements
- perform basic preventative maintenance tasks
- apply fundamental knowledge of chemistry and biology to maintain process performance
- operate according to all applicable regulatory guidelines
- collaborate with stakeholders to achieve optimum process performance
- control water/wastewater collection and distribution systems
- run high-pressure boiler and steam systems
Is this the right fit for me?
Students with higher grades usually experience more success in SAIT programs.
An interest in science and mathematics would be an asset. Specific interest in chemistry and biology is desirable.
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations certificate.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities:
- as a junior water/wastewater operator
- in sales positions at water treatment and processing companies
- in a 4th Class Power Engineer position at municipal, industrial, equipment manufacturing facilities
- in entry-level positions at any steam generation facility, power generation facility, water recycling company, environmental consulting company or at emerging water technology systems companies.
Related careers include:
- environmental technician
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $20,195
Year 1 (International): $25,555
*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 for fall 2021 open Oct. 7, 2020 and are accepted until the program start date.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 | April 29, 2022 |
Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations
The Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations program gives graduates the opportunity for expanded growth through their career by combining both water and wastewater treatment operations with power engineering.
Admission requirements
Admission and selection
- Fall 2021 start: applications are open Oct. 7, 2020 until the program start date but are subject to change.
Admission requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1, OR 50% in English Language Arts 30-2
- At least 50% in Math 30-1, OR Pure Math 30, OR 60% in Math 30-2
- At least 50% in Chemistry 30
- At least 50% in Biology 20.
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 Water and Wastewater Treatment 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.
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
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Program outline
Semester 1
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM 249 | Technical Communications | 1.5 |
| COMP 261 | Microsoft Office: An Introduction | 1.5 |
| PWEN 251 | Power Qualifications Theory I | 3.0 |
| PWEN 262 | Power Qualifications Lab I | 3.0 |
| RREG 202 | Regulatory, Health, Safety and Environment | 3.0 |
| WATR 220 | Industrial Water and Wastewater Process and Operations | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PWEN 273 | Power Qualification Lab II | 3.0 |
| PWEN 274 | Power Qualifications Theory II | 3.0 |
| WATR 200 | Bio-Chemical Processes for Water and Wastewater | 3.0 |
| WATR 201 | Wastewater Treatment and Collection Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| WATR 202 | Water Treatment and Distribution Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
| First Year Total | 30.0 | |
Semester 3
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PRCT 202 | Practicum | 3.0 |
| Program Total | 33.0 | |
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.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,862 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $20,195 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $24,222 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $25,555 |
*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.
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place on Sept. 2. Watch your inbox for the time and location.
Learn more about our SAIT-wide orientation activities.
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.
You'll need a lab coat and CSA-approved safety glasses (with uvex and side shields) to enter the chemistry labs.
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.
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