Delivery options
On-Campus Day* - Your course activity is done in-person Monday - Friday, before 6 PM.
On-Campus Evening/Weekend - Your course activity is done in person on weekdays from 6 PM or later, or Saturdays and Sundays.
Online Day* - Your course activity is done online Monday - Friday, before 6 PM.
Online Evening/Weekend - Your course activity is done online on weekdays from 6 PM or later, or Saturdays and Sundays.
Online Flexible Delivery - Your course activity is not scheduled and therefore you can determine when to do the coursework.
Blended Delivery - Both On-Campus and Online - Some of your coursework will be in-person, on-campus and some will be done online.
* There may be circumstances that require some day delivery of classes to be scheduled into the evenings.
Please note due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these delivery options may shift from term to term. Please consult your program for details on delivery options.
Program length
Estimated program length is based on the recommended course load per semester as outlined in the Courses tab.
Actual program length will vary based on the number of courses/credits successfully completed per semester.
International Students
This program meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program for international students as long as the student is enrolled in the on-campus delivery mode or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for the blended option).
International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
International Students
This program is available to international students, however, program availability may be limited. This program does not meet the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program.
Program menu
Overview
Start your career as an aircraft avionics technician by learning to repair and maintain the electrical and electronic systems — including communication, navigation and data systems — in all types of airplanes and helicopters.
The Avionics Technology program offers the student the knowledge and skills required to start a career as an aircraft maintenance engineer (AME) “E”. As an “E” licensed AME, you will be responsible for the servicing and repair of aircraft electrical and electronic systems. An “E” licensed aircraft maintenance engineer will maintain and repair the aircraft communication, navigation and data systems. The Avionic Technology program covers all the aspects of aircraft avionics systems used in general aviation, corporate, charter, transport category aircraft, and helicopters.
The program is four semesters in length with a break between semesters two and three. All classes are scheduled at the Art Smith Aero Centre for Training and Technology, located at the Calgary International Airport.
Is this the right fit for me?
Most successful students spend approximately two hours each day doing homework and review, with additional study required to prepare for exams.
The material is presented at a fairly rapid rate so, for the greatest level of success, students must be present and take responsibility for their learning experience.
Students must be able to read, write and comprehend the English language at a level exceeding basic conversational English.
Students with higher grades usually experience more success in SAIT programs.
Accreditation
The program's accreditation is ongoing and subject to periodic audits from Transport Canada.
Graduates who are in compliance with the required attendance (95%) and minimum marks of 70% in each course will receive Transport Canada credit of 18 months' work experience towards the 'E' category AME license.
Credential
After successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT diploma in Avionics Technology.
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a(n):
- avionics technician
- avionics technologist
- aircraft electronics technician
- mechanic
Related careers include:
- electronic engineering technologist
- aircraft structures technician
Tuition and fees
Domestic 2022/23
- Year 1: $8,630
- Year 2: $7,979
International 2022/23
- Year 1: $23,679.98
- Year 2: $21,660.80
Final costs are dependent on the number of course credits a student takes per semester.
Requirements
You will be offered admission to this program through direct entry if you meet the admission requirements and space is available.
Government of Alberta invests $10.8 million in SAIT to fund high-demand programs
Investment in SAIT allows more students to pursue programs in growing industries
Admission requirements
Admission dates
This program may not have an intake every semester. See available intakes above.
Intake semester | Semester begins | Applications open | Domestic applications close* | International applications close |
---|---|---|---|---|
Winter 2023 | Jan. 9, 2023 | March 30, 2022 | Oct. 27, 2022 | Now closed |
Spring 2023 | May 8, 2023 | June 13, 2022 | Feb. 24, 2023 | Now closed |
Summer 2023 | July 4, 2023 | Oct. 5, 2022 | April 28, 2023 | June 20, 2023 |
Fall 2023 | Sept. 5, 2023 | Oct. 5, 2022 | June 28, 2023 | May 23, 2023 |
Winter 2024 | Jan. 8, 2024 | March 29, 2023 | Oct. 26, 2023 | Sept. 28, 2023 |
Spring 2024 | May 6, 2024 | June 12, 2023 | Feb. 23, 2024 | Jan. 22, 2024 |
*In some instances, domestic applications will be accepted after the application deadline. In that case, the program's intake status will remain open.
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- at least 50% in Math 30-1 or Math 30-2
- at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 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. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.
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 the program and submit your transcripts.
Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Continue to monitor your application status through mySAIT.ca.
You must submit final transcripts/grades to show you have completed the courses and met the minimum admission requirements by the transcript deadline or your seat will be rescinded.
This program meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program for international students as long as the student is enrolled in the on-campus delivery mode or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for the blended option). International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
Communication during admission
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 the transportation.info@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
When do classes start?
Classes for this program adhere to the following year start and end dates based on the semester the student begins their program.
Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
---|---|---|
Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
Spring 2023 | May 8, 2023 | Dec. 16, 2023 |
Fall 2023 | Sept. 5, 2023 | April 26, 2023 |
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
First year
Semester 1
Course code | Course name | Credit |
---|---|---|
AERO-220 | Aerodynamics | 1.5 |
ELCM-355 | Avionics Systems Introduction Theory | 1.5 |
ELCM-356 | Avionics Systems Introduction Lab | 1.5 |
ELEC-214 | Electricity for Aircraft Theory | 1.5 |
ELTR-216 | Applied Sciences for Aviation Electronics | 1.5 |
ELTR-235 | Electronics I Theory | 3.0 |
ELTR-236 | Electronics I Lab | 3.0 |
STDP-215 | Standard Practices I Theory | 1.5 |
STDP-224 | Standard Practices I Lab | 1.5 |
Semester 1 total | 16.5 |
Semester 2
Course code | Course name | Credit |
---|---|---|
AREG-250 | Introduction to Canadian Aviation Regulatory Requirements | 1.5 |
DATA-310 | Aircraft Instruments | 1.5 |
DFTG-250 | Aircraft Electrical Drawing I | 1.5 |
DIGI-235 | Digital I Theory | 3.0 |
DIGI-236 | Digital I Lab | 1.5 |
ELCM-250 | Electronic Communications Theory | 1.5 |
ELTR-259 | Electronics II Theory | 3.0 |
ELTR-260 | Electronics II Lab | 1.5 |
STDP-283 | Standard Practices II Lab | 1.5 |
Semester 2 total | 16.5 |
Second year
Semester 3
Course code | Course name | Credit |
---|---|---|
ASYS-307 | Electrical System Interfacing and Installation Theory | 3.0 |
ASYS-310 | Aircraft Navigation Systems | 1.5 |
ASYS-351 | Electrical Interface II Laboratory | 1.5 |
COMM-249 | Technical Communications | 1.5 |
DFTG-305 | Aircraft Electrical Drawing II | 1.5 |
ELCM-348 | Communications Systems II Laboratory | 3.0 |
ELCM-349 | Communications Systems II Theory | 3.0 |
Semester 3 total | 15.0 |
Semester 4
Course code | Course name | Credit |
---|---|---|
ASYS-220 | Aircraft Systems Theory | 1.5 |
ASYS-225 | Aircraft Systems Laboratory | 1.5 |
AVTR-353 | Introduction to Technical Records | 1.5 |
CMPH-365 | Aircraft Computers | 1.5 |
CNTR-360 | AutoPilot and Control Systems | 1.5 |
EFAB-340 | Avionics Systems Installation | 1.5 |
ELCM-390 | Avionics Systems Laboratory | 3.0 |
ENGN-240 | Aircraft Engines Theory | 1.5 |
HFAC-245 | Human Factors | 1.5 |
Semester 4 total | 15.0 | |
Program total | 63.0 |
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.
Review our grading and progression procedure >
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education by transferring in, within or on from SAIT is available.
Learn more about program and institution partnership agreements.
Costs 2022/23
Domestic tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $217
Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | $7,161 | $916 | $553 | $8,630 |
2 | 2 | $6,510 | $916 | $553 | $7,979 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $673.06
Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | $22,210.98 | $916 | $553 | $23,679.98 |
2 | 2 | $20,191.80 | $916 | $553 | $21,660.80 |
*Maximum fee. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits a student takes per semester and whether they opt-out of health and dental benefits.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $196
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $320
- Student support fee: $200
- Student technology fee: $200
Saitsa fees
Student Association fee
- Maximum: $291
This is the maximum amount the student will pay. Actual fees may be less and are based on the number of credits the students take per semester.
Health and dental fees
- Health plan: $127
- Dental plan: $135
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
For more information on health and dental benefits for international students, please contact the International Centre.
Books and supplies*
Books are approximately $1,000 for the first year and $100 for the second year.
The required tools and personal safety equipment will cost approximately $1,200. However, prices vary depending on the quality and brand of tools chosen.
For an estimate of the costs associated with purchasing a computer that meets the program's hardware and software requirements, see our computers and laptops page.
Learn more 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.
Orientation
Your program orientation (ORNT 118) will be held on campus on Sept. 1. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about campus orientation.
How to register for classes
Course registration opens on Tuesday, Nov. 15 for Winter 2023.
You’ll receive an email from us indicating what registration process you’ll use to enroll in your classes.
Learn more about how to register and the different registration methods used at SAIT.
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
A tool list will be provided at orientation. You'll have to purchase these during your first few weeks of classes.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Coveralls (supplied by SAIT) and safety glasses are required. Safety glasses can be purchased using a debit or credit card.
Wait to purchase equipment. The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed at orientation.
Preparation courses
To support your success, short courses are available to you to help 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.
Students taking a full-time course load, or more than nine (9) credits per semester, will be automatically enrolled in these courses.
They are optional for students taking a part-time course load (9 or fewer credits per semester). Part-time students can register by emailing academic.coaching@sait.ca.
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 is required for this term.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.7018
Email: aerocentre@sait.ca
Academic chair
David Moody, Academic Chair
Email: david.moody@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.