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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, get hands-on experience performing experiments and analyzing samples in laboratories and you'll 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.
Credential
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Chemical Laboratory Technology.
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
$48,000
Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $6,844
Year 2: $6,576
Year 1 (International): $21,021
Year 2 (International): $21,082
Year 1: $7,405
Year 2: $7,115
Year 1 (International): $21,528
Year 2 (International): $21,133
*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 for fall 2021 open Oct. 7, 2020, and are accepted until the program start date.
| Term | Program start |
|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 |
Nationally accredited education
Our Chemical Laboratory Technology program has been evaluated and is accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada — a national accrediting body for the engineering technology and applied science profession. This process represents excellence in education and the high standards of the industry awaiting our graduates.
Admission Requirements
Admission and Selection
- Fall 2021 start: applications open Oct. 7, 2020, and are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
Admission 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 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.
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 to, within or from SAIT is available with the following universities and colleges:
- Athabasca University
- NAIT
- Royal Roads University
- Thompson Rivers University
To learn more, visit Transfer Options.
Costs
2020/21 Domestic Tuition and Fees
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5,622 | $682 | $288 | $252 | $6,844 |
| 2 | $5,354 | $682 | $288 | $252 | $6,576 |
2020/21 International Tuition and Fees
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $19,708 | $682 | $288 | $344 | $21,021 |
| 2 | $18,769 | $682 | $288 | $344 | $20,082 |
*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: $171.20
Universal transit pass (UPass): $310 - Check eligibility here.
Student support fee: $100
Student technology fee: $100
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: $344
- 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 for the first year and $500 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.
2021/22 Domestic Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $6,071 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $7,404 |
| 2 | $5,782 | $792.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $7,115 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $20,103 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $344 | $21,528 |
| 2 | $20,485 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $344 | $21,133 |
*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: $344
- 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 for the first year and $500 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.
Important dates and deadlines
Find important dates applicable to all students, including your transcript and tuition payment deadlines on our Important Dates page.
Fall 2020
Orientation
Orientation for new students will take place online on Sept. 3, 2020.
To find the time and platform, visit our orientation page.
Delivery
This program will be delivered in a blended format for the Fall 2020 term due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated health and safety guidelines. The majority of courses will take place online, with certain labs and hands-on learning scheduled on campus.
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, SAIT offers some short courses before classes start, including PREP 100: The SAIT Experience, ETHI 110: SAIT Ethical Practices and SAFE 160: Safety Orientation.
Required textbooks
The booklist will be available about two weeks before classes start.
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
Email: MacPhail.students@sait.ca