Overview
Get wired for a bright future. The Electrical Engineering Technology program offers comprehensive training in power systems, electrical design and control and automation. The program prepares students for careers managing electrical energy from renewable and conventional energy sources.
Graduates work in a variety of settings, including power generating facilities, industrial complexes, substations, laboratories, construction sites and offices.
Is this the right fit for me?
Journeyman electricians and those with work experience in other related occupations or with related post-secondary education may receive some advance credit after an assessment by SAIT’s Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition.
Accreditation
The program is nationally accredited by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board and Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists at the technologist level.
Graduates are eligible for membership in the following professional association: Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET).
Credential
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities with consulting and design firms in the oil and gas industry, industrial plants, technical sales companies, electrical contractors, utility companies and various manufacturers and distributors. Potential positions include:
- electrical engineering technologist
- industrial control technologist
- power systems technologist
Related careers include:
- design estimating
- power generation distribution


Tuition and fees per year*
Year 1: $6,158
Year 2: $6,382
Year 1 (International: $19,113
Year 2 (International): $19,299
Year 1: $6,762
Year 2: $7,008
Year 1 (International): $19,759
Year 2 (International): $21,337
*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.
- Applications for winter 2022 open March 31, 2021, and are accepted until the program start date.
Term | Program start |
---|---|
Fall 2021 | Sept. 7, 2021 |
Winter 2022 | Jan. 10, 2021 |
Nationally accredited education
Our Electrical Engineering 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 are open Oct. 7, 2020 until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Winter 2022 start: applications are open March 31, 2021 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 at least 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 Physics 20
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 Electrical Engineering 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
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
COMM-238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
COMP-213 | Computing for Engineering Technology | 3.0 |
ELCT-205 | Electrical Principles | 3.0 |
ELTR-232 | Digital and Electronic Circuits | 3.0 |
ENVS-247 | Safety and Environment | 1.5 |
MATH-237 | Math for Technologists | 3.0 |
Semester 1 Total | 16.5 |
Semester 2
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
COMM-288 | Technical Communications II | 3.0 |
ELEC-266 | Electrical Practices | 3.0 |
ELEC-291 | Electrical Analysis | 3.0 |
ELTR-262 | Power Electronics | 3.0 |
ENGD-238 | Electrical Diagrams and AutoCAD | 1.5 |
MATH-280 | Calculus for Technologists | 3.0 |
Semester 2 Total | 16.5 | |
First Year Total | 33 |
Second year
Semester 3
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
CNTR-309 | PLC - Premium Unity Pro Applications | 3.0 |
DSGN-301 | Electrical Design Principles | 3.0 |
ELEC-302 | Generation and Grid Operations | 1.5 |
ELEC-306 | Machine Applications | 3.0 |
ELEC-352 | Rotating Machines | 3.0 |
ELEC-353 | Transformer Applications | 3.0 |
PROJ-333 | Technical Project Management | 1.5 |
Semester 3 Total | 18.0 |
Semester 4
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
CNTR-358 | PLC - Contrologix Applications | 3.0 |
DSGN-396 | Industrial Electrical Design | 3.0 |
ELCM-374 | Industrial Networks & Communications | 1.5 |
ELEC-361 | Power System Analysis | 3.0 |
ELEC-364 | Protection and Control | 3.0 |
PROJ-373 | Capstone Project Course | 3.0 |
Semester 4 Total | 16.5 | |
Second Year Total | 34.5 | |
Program Total | 67.5 |
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
- Camosun College
- Lakehead University
- Memorial University of Newfoundland (The Marine Institute)
- Thompson Rivers University
- University of Victoria
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 | $4,936 | $682 | $288 | $252 | $6,158 |
2 | $5,160 | $682 | $288 | $252 | $6,382 |
2020/21 International Tuition and Fees*
Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2020/21 total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | $17,800 | $682 | $288 | $344 | $19,113 |
2 | $18,609 | $682 | $288 | $344 | $19,299 |
*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 | $5,429 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,762 |
2 | $5,675 | $792.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $7,008 |
2021/22 International Tuition and Fees*
Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health & Dental Plan | 2021/22 total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | $18,334 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $344 | $19,759 |
2 | $20,509 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $344 | $21,337 |
*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.
Winter 2021
Orientation
Orientation for new students will take place online closer to the program start date. Watch your inbox.
To find the time and platform, visit our orientation page.
Delivery
This program will be delivered in a blended format for the Winter 2021 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 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 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 CSA-approved (green triangle) protective footwear and CSA Z94.3 (class 1) safety glasses with side shields.
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 Winter 2021 booklist will be available beginning in late November.
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: 403.284.8451
Email: macphail.students@sait.ca
Academic chair
Rysen Jordan, Academic Chair
Email: rysen.jordan@sait.ca
OrientationOrientation for new students will take place online on Sept. 3, 2020. To find the time and platform, visit our orientation page. DeliveryThis 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 classesYou'll follow a fixed block registration process to enrol in your classes. Learn how to register on our registration and schedules page. Computers and laptopsThis 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 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 CSA-approved (green triangle) protective footwear and CSA Z94.3 (class 1) safety glasses with side shields. Preparation coursesTo 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 textbooksThe 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. |
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.