Overview
Get hands-on with the basics of chemistry to begin your career as a chemical, laboratory or research technologist in a number of industries, from petroleum and natural gas to environmental consulting.
In the Chemical Laboratory Technology program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of chemistry and get hands-on experience using analytical instrumentation to analyze laboratory samples. Eligible students may also participate in a 12-month paid work placement program.
As a Chemical Laboratory Technologist, you’ll work in a wide range of industrial and research settings.
Is this the right fit for you?
Students with higher grades and recent upgrading in Math 30 (Pure Math) and Chemistry 30 will experience more success in this program.
Additionally, students should have good work ethics and communication skills.
Accreditation
This program is nationally accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC). Graduates can also register with the Alberta Society of Engineering Technologists and Chemical Institute of Canada.
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Chemical Laboratory Technology.
Learn more about our energy and environmental programs
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in petroleum and natural gas processing, petrochemicals, metallurgical refining, food and beverage processing, agriculture, environmental consulting and government departments of agriculture, forestry and education. Potential positions include:
- chemical technologist
- laboratory technologist
- research technologist
- technical sales and service specialist
- technical assistant
Related careers include:
- petroleum and natural gas processer
- environmental consultant
Tuition and fees
Domestic 2022/23
- Year 1: $7,076
- Year 2: $6,809
International 2022/23
- Year 1: $20,386.01
- Year 2: $19,485.20
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 on Oct. 6, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
Hands On: Aerobic water treatment control unit
This small-scale treatment plant gives water resource management students big-picture insights into automated processes they'll use in domestic and industrial labs to address local and global water challenges.
Admission requirements
Application dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Fall 2022 start: applications opened on Oct. 6, 2021.
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 60% in Math 30-1 or Pure Math 30, or 75% in Math 30-2
- At least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 75% in English Language Arts 30-2
- At least 60% in Chemistry 30
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 Chemical Laboratory 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 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.
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
First year
Semester 1 - Fall
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CHEM-240 | General Chemistry | 3.0 |
| CHEM-270 | Basic Laboratory Techniques | 6.0 |
| COMM-238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
| COMP-261 | MS Office: An Introduction | 1.5 |
| MATH-237 | Math for Technologists | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 16.5 | |
Semester 2 - Winter
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CHEM-245 | Inorganic Chemistry | 3.0 |
| CHEM-253 | Organic Chemistry | 6.0 |
| CHEM-275 | Analytical Chemistry | 1.5 |
| INST-296 | Chemical Instrumentation Theory | 1.5 |
| INST-297 | Chemical Instrumentation Laboratory | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
| First Year Total | 31.5 | |
Second Year
Semester 3 - Fall
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CHEM-303 | Chemometric Applications | 1.5 |
| CHEM-345 | Unit Chemical Process Operations | 1.5 |
| ENVS-301 | Water Treatment | 1.5 |
| INST-300 | Applied Analytical Instrumentation I | 6.0 |
| SFTY-201 | Chemical Safety | 1.5 |
| THRM-318 | Thermodynamics | 3.0 |
| Semester 3 Total | 15.0 | |
| Co-op Work Term (Option) | ||
| PRAC-303 | Work Term for Chemistry Co-op* | |
| *International students may not qualify for the optional co-operative work-study program. Please contact the SAIT International Centre to confirm eligibility for optional operative work-study placements. | ||
Semester 4 - Winter
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CHEM-325 | Technical Project Week | 1.5 |
| CHEM-351 | Oil Field Chemical & Fluids Intro | 1.5 |
| ENVS-320 | Environmental Science/Ecology | 3.0 |
| INST-396 | Applied Analytical Instrumentation II | 6.0 |
| QUAL-352 | Quality Assurance and Quality Control | 3.0 |
| Semester 4 Total | 15.0 | |
| Second Year Total | 30.0 | |
| Program Total | 61.5 | |
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 | $5,101 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,434 |
| 2 | $4,858 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,191 |
International tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,411 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $19,744 |
| 2 | $18,369 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $19,702 |
*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 and supplies cost approximately $1,800 in the first year and $900 in the second year.
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: $178
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $5,607 | $200 | $553 | $7,076 |
| 2 | 2 | $5,340 | $200 | $553 | $6,809 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $600.54
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $18,917.01 | $200 | $553 | $20,386.01 |
| 2 | 2 | $18,016.20 | $200 | $553 | $19,485.20 |
*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 and supplies cost approximately $1,800 in the first year and $900 in the second year.
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 Sept. 1 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 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 standard hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.
Required equipment/tools
You'll require a scientific calculator capable of performing linear regression.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.
PPE is required in various labs. You'll need a lab coat and CSA-approved safety glasses (with uvex and side shields) by the first day of class to enter the chemistry labs.
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.
MATH 123: Math Refresher
Give your math skills a boost, refresh some of the basics and get ready for calculus with a review of algebra, geometry, functions and graphs, trigonometry, exponents, systems of equations and more. MATH 123 is specifically designed to help students in the following programs prepare for MATH 238: Chemical Engineering Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, Engineering Design and Drafting, Geomatics Engineering Technology, Instrument Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Petroleum Engineering Technology.
Register before Monday, Jan. 10, 2022 by completing the form. The course is self-paced and will be accessible through Brightspace (D2L) from Jan. 17 – Mar. 31, 2022.
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 this term.
Contact
Email: MacPhail.students@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.
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