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All courses in this program will be delivered online (OA, OS, OR) for the Fall 2021 semester.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
Gain the essential skills, knowledge and abilities required to work as an Architectural Technologist for architectural firms, residential builders and many other companies involved in the construction industry.
This program enables graduates to perform and manage the fundamental duties of a junior architectural technologist.
This diploma program is two years in length, consisting of four 15-week semesters. In the fourth semester, you refine your skills in a comprehensive capstone project.
The Architectural Technology program is learner-centred. We believe that students learn best when they construct knowledge and meaning from a collaboration between their learning experiences and their ideas. This type of applied experiential education means the development of the hand and mind through innovation, relevant content, engaged instructors and students who want to create meaningful careers.
The program employs a Project-Based Learning (PBL) model. This means that the “single subject inputs and assignments all relate to, and support the project work.” In this applied education model the repeated practice of going through a problem enables you to build up a repertoire of significant experiences. A critical feature of the program the focus on blending the science and practice of architectural technology.
You will learn by undertaking projects that simulate and simplify work practices in an educational setting modelled on a real-world environment. It is a setting where you get to practice. Semesters are typically organized around a manageable core or central project. These projects will involve both individual and group-based work. In both instances, collaborative learning and teaching are practised. In all cases, there is an emphasis on learning by doing. This program will develop critical thinking skills through the practice of confronting uncertainty. It allows one to see unfamiliar situations as familiar and this, in turn, allows one to have a feel or approach to problems that do not conform to rules.
Is this the right fit for me?
The most successful students in the program are those with a solid foundation in high school Math and Physics and the aptitude to apply those skills to solving real problems.
The ability to visualize in three dimensions and an affinity towards computerized graphics software are valuable assets.
Credential
Upon successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT diploma in Architectural Technologies.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in architectural offices and building construction. Potential positions include:
- architectural technologist
- architect assistants
- building inspectors
- building products sales
- graphic designers
Related careers include:
- drafting technician
- engineering design and drafting technician
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $6,304
Year 2: $6,304
Year 1 (International): $19,054
Year 2 (International): $19,392
*Tuition, fees, books and supply costs are subject to change
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 open until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for winter 2022 opened on March 31, 2021.
- Applications for spring 2022 opened on June 14, 2021.
- Applications for fall 2022 open on Oct. 6, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2022 | Aug. 19, 2022 |
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 | Dec. 16, 2022 |
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
Commitment and support pay off in convocation celebration
SAIT Architectural Technologies grad overcomes struggle with grades to finish strong with award-winning capstone project.
Admission Requirements
Admission and selection
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2022 start: applications opened on March 31, 2021.
- Spring 2022 start: applications opened on June 14, 2021.
- Fall 2022 start: applications opened Oct. 6, 2021.
Admission requirements
At least 50% in the following courses or their equivalents:
- Math 30-1 or Math 30-2 or Pure Math 30 or Applied Math 30, AND,
- English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, AND,
- A Grade 12 Science.
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 Architectural Technologies 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. We recommend you add construction.at@sait.ca and the sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
First year
Semester 1
| Course code | Course name | credit |
|---|---|---|
| ARCH 200 | Documentation and Regulation I | 3.0 |
| ARCH 201 | Science and Systems I | 3.0 |
| ARCH 203 | Technology I | 3.0 |
| ARCH 205 | Research and Design I | 3.0 |
| COMM 238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ARCH 261 | Science and Systems II | 3.0 |
| ARCH 262 | Documentation and Regulation II | 3.0 |
| ARCH 263 | Technology II | 3.0 |
| ARCH 285 | Research and Design II | 3.0 |
| MATH 262 | Technical Mathematics I | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 total | 15.0 | |
| First year total | 30.0 | |
Second year
Semester 3
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ARCH 300 | Documentation and Regulation III | 3.0 |
| ARCH 301 | Science and Systems III | 3.0 |
| ARCH 303 | Technology III | 3.0 |
| ARCH 305 | Research and Design III | 3.0 |
| STAT 245 | Statistics for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
| Semester 3 total | 15.0 | |
Semester 4
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ARCH 351 | Science and Systems IV | 3.0 |
| ARCH 353 | Technology IV | 3.0 |
| ARCH 362 | Documentation and Regulation IV | 3.0 |
| ARCH 386 | Research and Design IV | 3.0 |
| PROJ 372 | Architectural Capstone Project | 3.0 |
| Semester 4 total | 15.0 | |
| Program total | 60.0 | |
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 with the following universities and colleges:
- Athabasca University
- Griffith University
- SAIT
- Thompson Rivers University
- University of Alberta
- VIA University College
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 | $4,971 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,304 |
| 2 | $4,971 | $792.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,304 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $17,721 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $19,054 |
| 2 | $18,059 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $19,392 |
*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*
- Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.
- 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.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place Aug. 31 online and Sept. 2 on campus (optional). Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about your orientation.
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 power-user hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Students require a Windows PC. Mac-based laptops are not supported in this program.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
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: 403.284.8367
Email: construction.info@sait.ca
Academic chair
Blair Marsden, Academic Chair
Email: blair.marsden@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.
Meet some of the instructors
Instructor