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.
Credential
After successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT diploma in Avionics Technology.
Students who achieve 50% or higher in each course as well as maintain a 2.0 GPA will receive a SAIT diploma.
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.
Get more information about this and similar programs
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.
When can you apply?
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for fall 2022 opened Oct. 6, 2021.
- Applications for spring 2023 opened June 13, 2022
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
| Spring 2023 | May 8, 2023 | Dec. 16, 2023 |
Avionics Technology
Become an E-licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer with your passion for aviation and interest in electronics. Receive hands-on training in one of Canada's most comprehensive training facilities, the Art Smith Aero Centre for Training and Technology.
Admission requirements
Application dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Fall 2022 start: applications opened Oct. 6, 2021.
- Spring 2023 start: applications open June 13, 2022.
Program 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
- 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. Find more information here.
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 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: Log in to mySAIT.ca to check your admission status and monitor changes to your application status.
Failure to meet anticipated final grades will result in offers being rescinded.
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 receive a significant number of applications for this program so the selection process can take some time. Every effort will be made to maintain the timeline above. We appreciate your patience.
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-310 | Aircraft Navigation Systems | 1.5 |
| ASYS-320 | Electrical Interface I Theory | 1.5 |
| ASYS-350 | Electrical Interface II Theory | 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.
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education through transfer in, within or on from SAIT is available.
Visit transfer options to learn more.
Costs 2021/22
Domestic tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6,517 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $7,850 |
| 2 | $5,924 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $7,257 |
International tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,617 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $22,950 |
| 2 | $20,588 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $21,921 |
*Fees and tuition are based on a two-semester full course load structure. There may be additional fees for practicums and terms held outside of this time frame.
SAIT fees
- Campus athletic and recreation fee: $183.20
- Universal transit pass (Upass): $310
- Student support fee: $150
- Student technology fee: $150
Health and dental fees
Domestic students
- Health plan: $122
- Dental plan: $130
Students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Please refer to Saitsa's website for information.
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 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.
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.
Fall 2021
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place on Sept. 2 on campus. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about campus orientation.
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.
Additional technology requirements
Students will require a subscription to AutoCAD.
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 and safety glasses are required. Safety glasses can be purchased using a debit or credit card at SAIT. Coveralls you will need to purchase elsewhere.
Wait to purchase this equipment. The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed at orientation.
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 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.
