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This program will be delivered in a blended format (OA, OS, OR and OF/CLAS) for the Fall 2021 semester.
Some courses will be delivered online while others occur on-campus.
Learn more about our course delivery options
Overview
Get hands-on automotive training in our two-year diploma and prepare for your apprenticeship as an Automotive Service Technician. You’ll be taught by industry-trained instructors who will combine theory and hands-on learning opportunities so you gain a strong foundation in automotive vehicle maintenance, diagnosis, repairs, manufacturers’ specifications, customer service and communications.
If you complete this program successfully, you will be eligible to challenge the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) Automotive Service Technician Periods 1-4 exams.
Accreditation
The Automotive Service Technology program aligns with the Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) Periods 1-4 training. Successful students are eligible to challenge Periods 1-4 apprenticeship exams. The pass mark for apprenticeship exams is 70%.
Students who are successful in completing SAIT’s diploma program are eligible to receive a 300-hour, on-the-job training credit towards each of the four Periods of the Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship.
Credential
Upon successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT diploma in Automotive Service Technology.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a(n):
- automotive service technician*
- mechanic
- foreman
- service manager
Related careers include:
- heavy equipment technician
- career and technology studies teacher
*Upon successful completion of automotive service technician apprenticeship, graduates specialize in various areas such as engines, driveability, electrical, chassis systems, wheel alignment, automatic transmissions and more.
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $6,861
Year 2: $6,861
Year 1 (International): $19,855
Year 2 (International): $20,588
*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 fall 2021 opened on Oct. 7, 2020
- Applications for winter 2022 opened March 31, 2021
- Applications for spring 2022 opened on June 14, 2021
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 | April 29, 2022 |
| Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2022 | Aug. 19, 2022 |
| Spring 2022 | May 9, 2022 | Dec. 16, 2022 |
Making it happen
Was it easy? No. Was it worth it? Absolutely.
The idea of going back to school can be a daunting one at any age, but the decision to make the investment in yourself and your future is worth taking the plunge. Randy Dhillon did just that. After realizing he wanted to spend his time solving problems and using his hands to do so, he made the call to come to SAIT.
Admission Requirements
Admission and selection
- Fall 2021 start: applications opened on Oct. 7, 2020 until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2022 start: applications opened on March 31, 2021 until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Spring 2022 start: applications opened on June 14, 2021 until the program start date but are subject to change.
Admission requirements
At least 50% in the following courses or their equivalents:
- Math 20-1 or Math 20-2 or Math 20-3 or Pure Math 20 or Applied Math 20, and,
- English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, and,
- a Grade 11 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 Automotive Service Technology 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 transportation.info@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 |
|---|---|---|
| ELTR-248 | Electrical/Electronics I | 1.5 |
| MATH-202 | Mathematics | 1.5 |
| MOTR-220 | Automotive Shop I | 6.0 |
| MOTR-221 | Automotive Theory IA | 3.0 |
| MOTR-222 | Automotive Theory IB | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| APSC-250 | Science for Trades and Technicians | 1.5 |
| COMM-238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
| ELTR-288 | Electrical/Electronics II | 1.5 |
| MOTR-260 | Automotive Shop II | 6.0 |
| MOTR-261 | Automotive Theory II | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 total | 15.0 | |
Second year
Semester 3
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ELTR-328 | Electrical/Electronics III | 1.5 |
| MNGT-200 | Introduction to Business | 3.0 |
| MOTR-320 | Automotive Shop III | 6.0 |
| MOTR-321 | Automotive Theory III | 3.0 |
| MOTR-370 | Vehicle Modifications | 1.5 |
| Semester 3 total | 15.0 | |
Semester 4
| Course code | Course name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ELTR-348 | Electrical/Electronics IV | 1.5 |
| MOTR-303 | Climate Control | 1.5 |
| MOTR-360 | Automotive Shop IV | 6.0 |
| MOTR-361 | Automotive Theory IV | 3.0 |
| PROJ-348 | Automotive Service Technology 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:
- Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training
- Thompson Rivers University
To learn more, visit transfer options.
Costs
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5,528 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,861 |
| 2 | $5,528 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,861 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,522 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $19,855 |
| 2 | $19,255 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $20,588 |
*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 $450 per year.
- The required tools will cost approximately $2,000 - $5,000 (depending on the quality and brand of tools chosen) for the first year and $250 for the second 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 on Sept.1. Watch your inbox for the time and location.
Learn more about our SAIT-wide orientation activities.
How to register for classes
You'll follow a fixed 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 equipment/tools
Tools will be provided.
A driver's license, the ability to manoeuvre a vehicle in tight spaces and drive a manual transmission vehicle is highly recommended to succeed in this program and industry.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
You will need CSA-approved steel-toe boots and safety glasses, welding gloves, earplugs (supplied) and coveralls. Service technician coveralls will be available for purchase at the start of the semester.
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: 403.971.9488
Email: James.Oancia@sait.ca
Academic chair
James Oancia, Academic Chair
Email: James.Oancia@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