Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations

Credential:: certificate
Program length:: 1 year
Location:: In person (Main Campus)
International applicants:: Accepted PGWP eligible
Faculty:: MacPhail School of Energy
CAJG Eligible

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Overview

The Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations program is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in the water and wastewater industry.

This program, crafted by industry professionals, blends in-class theory with hands-on training to prepare you for the Alberta Water and Wastewater Operators (AWWOA) and Alberta Boiler and Safety Association (ABSA) Fourth-Class Power Engineering certifications.

As a student, you will:

learn the science behind water and wastewater treatment, including water chemistry, microbiology and the physical treatment processes necessary to meet stringent environmental safety and public health standards
complete extensive laboratory and fieldwork, allowing you to gain practical experience in the operation of treatment facilities, maintaining equipment and performing critical water quality tests
learn how to troubleshoot and understand the regulatory and environmental issues related to water and wastewater management
learn to operate and maintain boilers, steam systems, turbines, pumps, valves, plant water treatment systems, instrumentation and other plant equipment related to the water and wastewater domain.

The program often includes interaction with industry professionals and potential employers, offering networking opportunities and insights into current industry practices.

Water treatment and power engineering certifications

Water and wastewater treatment operators work in municipal water treatment facilities, industrial water and wastewater operations, equipment manufacturing, steam generation, power generation, water recycling, environmental consultancy, and companies specializing in emerging water technologies.

As a graduate, you can pursue various roles such as junior water/wastewater operator, fourth-class power engineer in municipal or industrial settings, or sales representative in water treatment technologies once fully certified.

Through in-class related lab experience and recognized work experience, you’ll be prepared to write industry-required ABSA certification exams for Fourth Class Power Engineering and AWWOA Small Systems plus Level 1 Water/Wastewater Treatment certification.

By the end of this one-year program, you’ll be well-equipped to start your water and wastewater treatment career.

Water and wastewater treatment operators tend to be objective, innovative, detail-oriented and methodical.

You need:

a strong sense of workplace health and safety
good hearing, eyesight and colour vision
good health and stamina
the ability to climb ladders, lift, bend and work in awkward positions
manual dexterity
mechanical interest and aptitude
good math skills
good speaking, reading and writing skills
a careful and responsible approach to their work
a strong work ethic.

You should enjoy using tools and instruments, studying test results and instrument readings, taking a systematic, step-by-step approach to collecting and analyzing samples, and providing reliable feedback to team members and leaders.

The opportunity to advance your education by transferring into this program or gain credit for previous postsecondary courses may be available.

There may also be opportunities to further your education once you graduate.

Learn more about program and institution transfer options.

You’ll participate in a four-month, 600-hour practicum during your final semester.

Your practicum will take place at a company or organization involved in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection and wastewater treatment systems.

This program will prepare you to apply for the following certifications:

Alberta Water and Wastewater Operators (AWWOA) Small Systems and Level 1
Alberta Boiler and Safety Association (ABSA) Fourth Class Power Engineering level.

You must write the exams and complete the required plant-time hours to earn your certifications.

After successfully completing this program, you’ll receive a SAIT Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations certificate.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

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

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 21120, 74204, 90011, 92101.

Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Services and workshops

Courses

The Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations certificate requires 33 credits (12 courses) to complete.

The program spans one year, with three semesters.

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

Semester 1

Course Code	Course Name	Credit
COMM-249	Technical Communications	1.5
COMP-261	Applied Digital Technologies	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

Course	Credits
This course explores and develops skills for public speaking and technical presentations. Students will focus on technical writing for reports. Students will also develop resume styles to assist them in their job searches.	1.5
This applied computer course provides students with critical electronic communications, data and file management skills, along with a strong focus on using common productivity applications to format, calculate, analyze, visualize, and present or report data and information. Equivalents: COMP 264	1.5
This course will prepare you to write the Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Fourth Class Power Engineer’s Certificate of Competency Part A exam. This course includes power theory instruction in the Power Engineering Profession, Communications, Sketching and Drawing, Materials and Welding, Piping and Valves, Applied Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Basic Electricity, Boiler Systems Basic Controls and Instrumentation, Low and High Pressure Boiler Design, Construction, and Operations, Boilers Feedwater Systems and Fittings, and Systems Parts and Operations. Power theory classroom instruction will be coordinated with associated power lab application towards achievement of the Certificate of Competency. Corequsites: PWEN 262	3
This course will prepare you to write the Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) 4th Class Power Engineer’s Certificate of Competency (Part A) exam. It includes the topics of Materials and Welding, Piping and Valves, Basic Electricity and Generators, Thermodynamics, Basic Control and Instrumentation, External and Internal Water Treatment, Boiler Feedwater Systems and Fittings, High Pressure and Low-Pressure Boiler Design and Operations, Steam Turbines, and Fittings, Parts and Operation. Your time in power lab will be spent applying principles learned in power theory instruction. Corequsites: PWEN 251	3
This course will prepare you to write the Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) 4th Class Power Engineer’s Certificate of Competency (Part B exam). It includes the topics of Prime Movers, Engines, Air and Process Gas Compressors, Gas and Steam Turbines, Lubrication Systems, Pumps, Power Boilers, Heating Boilers and Associated Equipment, and Refrigeration, Heating. And Air-Conditioning Operations and Systems. Your time in power lab will be spent applying principles learned in power theory instruction. Pre-requisites: PWEN 251 PWEN 262 Corequsites: PWEN 274	3
This course will prepare you to write the Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) 4th Class Power Engineer’s Certificate of Competency (Part B exam). This course continues power theory instruction in the Power Engineering Profession. As well, it includes power theory instruction in Lubrication, Pumps and Compressors, Power Boilers, Heating Boilers, Boiler Plant Operation and Management, Boiler Safety Devices, Prime Movers, Engines, Gas and Steam Turbines, Refrigeration, Heating Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC), Building Environmental Systems, and a general review of Industrial Plant Operations. Power theory classroom instruction will be coordinated with associated power lab application towards achievement of the Certificate of Competency. Pre-requisites: PWEN 251 PWEN 262 Corequsites: PWEN 273	3
In this course, you will learn about the reporting requirements in the water and wastewater industry. You will prepare simulated reports for federal, provincial and local governments, as well as First Nations regulatory agencies. You will address safety in the workplace by learning to conduct health, safety and environmental reviews of the safety standards, practices and certificates that are required in the industry. You will also explore risk assessments in water and wastewater facilities.	3
Using laboratory procedures, you will explore the fundamentals of process control and regulatory testing. You will get hands on experience in the water and wastewater labs conducting testing as per the American Water and Wastewater Association (AWWA) standards and methods. You will also receive the framework for troubleshooting operational upsets and ways to optimize the water and wastewater process. Pre-requisites: WATR 220	3
This course explores wastewater treatment and collection systems. You will gain an understanding of operator responsibilities and wastewater treatment operation management, starting with a wastewater source and ending with a receiving water body. Through theory and labs, you will learn how to operate a variety of wastewater treatment and collection systems. Pre-requisites: WATR 220 RREG 202	3
This course examines water treatment and distribution systems. You will learn about the management of these operations from the source to the tap. Through theory and labs, you will gain the knowledge and skills to operate a wide variety of water treatment and distribution systems. Pre-requisites: WATR 220	3
This course provides an overview of treatment processes in municipal water and wastewater treatment plants, focusing on the operation of industrial wastewater treatment equipment. You will examine the processes of industrial wastewater generation, preliminary treatment, physical-chemical treatment, filtration and membrane separation, softening and organic matter removal, as well as explore the role of a water operator in plant operation and maintenance. You will review the water and wastewater treatment process, identify key treatment equipment, explain the working mechanisms of the equipment, safely perform maintenance on the equipment, collect representative samples, perform laboratory testing, and interpret and apply analysis data in the process operation.	3
You will be able to apply the skills learned in class through a four-month work practicum with a company or organization involved in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection and wastewater treatment systems. This will provide you with an opportunity to integrate theoretical knowledge and practical skills in on-site settings. Learners will be supervised and evaluated by industry partner staff Pre-requisites: Completion of 30 credits	3

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.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Explore your options!

Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies. You can complete courses via Open Studies to get a head start on your education, reduce your course load once accepted into a credentialed program, or determine which career path best suits you before you fully commit.

You may also take courses for general interest or personal and professional development.

Available Open Studies courses

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents.

at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 OR 50% in English Language Arts 30-2, AND,
at least 50% in Math 30-1 OR 60% in Math 30-2, AND,
at least 50% in Chemistry 30, AND,
at least 50% in Biology 20

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

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 out what educational documents are accepted and assessment options.

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

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Available intakes

Fall 2024

Start dates:

Sep 03, 2024

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: June 28, 2024
International students: Closed: Application deadline: May 29, 2024

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5*	$19,239	$1,840	$21,079
Total cost:				$21,079

_{*.5 indicates a combination of full-time semester(s) and part-time semester(s) in the same academic year. In many cases, students are completing a practicum during their part-time semester. Part-time students are those taking less than nine (9) course credits in a semester.}

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5*	$26,400	$1,922.50	$28,322.50
Total cost:				$28,322.50

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $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.

The courses below will require Power Engineering Fourth Class Textbook Set - Part A, Part B and Academic Supplements from PanGlobal.

PWEN 251
PWEN 262
PWEN 273

PWEN 274 will require Power Engineering Fourth Class Textbook Set - Part B and Academic Supplements from PanGlobal.

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.

2023/24 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective until June 30, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5*	$18,876	$1,873	$20,749
Total cost:				$20,749

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5*	$25,883.55	$1,873	$27,756.55
Total cost:				$27,756.55

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

This program is eligible for Canada Alberta Job Grant funding.

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside the typical 15-week program.

2024/25 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

A breakdown of mandatory fees based on whether you are taking less than or more than nine credits per semester
SAIT fees	Less than 9 credits/semester	9 or more credits/semester
Campus athletic and recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.	$51.50	$103
Student support fee: supports services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including Career Advancement Services and Student Development and Counselling.	$53.75	$107.50
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance your experience.	$53.75	$107.50
UPass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Additional eligibility requirements apply to obtain a UPass.	n/a	$165
Saitsa fees
Saitsa fee: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of various student services, activities, and programming. Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.	$16.23/credit	$146 maximum
Health and dental plan: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits. In most cases, your fees are quoted based on paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt-out.	n/a	$91 for health $84 for dental

Application process

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Communication during admission

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Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal.

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $150 for international applicants.

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Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Water and Wastewater Treatment Operations

On this page:

On this page:

Overview

Water treatment and power engineering certifications

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Academic path

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning

Accreditations, designations and certifications

Credentials

Careers and opportunities

Career counselling and support

Courses

Required courses

COMM 249 - Technical Communications Show details

COMP 261 - Applied Digital Technologies Show details

Equivalents:

PWEN 251 - Power Qualifications Theory I Show details

Corequsites:

PWEN 262 - Power Qualifications Lab I Show details

Corequsites:

PWEN 273 - Power Qualification Lab II Show details

Pre-requisites:

Corequsites:

PWEN 274 - Power Qualifications Theory II Show details

Pre-requisites:

Corequsites:

RREG 202 - Regulatory, Health, Safety and Environment Show details

WATR 200 - Bio-Chemical Processes for Water and Wastewater Show details

Pre-requisites:

WATR 201 - Wastewater Treatment and Collection Fundamentals Show details

Pre-requisites:

WATR 202 - Water Treatment and Distribution Fundamentals Show details

Pre-requisites:

WATR 220 - Industrial Water and Wastewater Process and Operations Show details

PRCT 202 - Practicum Show details

Pre-requisites:

Progression

Explore your options!

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants educated outside of Canada

Academic Upgrading

English language proficiency

Available intakes

Fall 2024

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

Domestic students

International students

Books and supplies

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

2023/24 tuition and fees

Domestic students

International students

Financial aid

Application process

Ready to apply?

Communication during admission

Begin your application

Information sessions

Contact us

MacPhail School of Energy

International Student Advising

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