Overview
The Geomatics Engineering Technology program will provide you with extensive practical skills combined with a broad theoretical background to acquire tools and techniques used in land surveying, remote sensing, cartography, geographic information systems (GIS), global navigation satellite systems (GPS), photogrammetry, geography and digital mapping.
To succeed in the program, you will need to be comfortable with mathematics and enjoy working with computers and instrumentation. In addition, you must be a good team player, have good communication skills, and enjoy working outdoors.
Is this the right fit for me?
Students who enjoy mathematics, are comfortable using computers and instrumentation will experience more success in this program. Additionally, the ideal candidates are methodical and pay attention to detail, have good work ethics and communication skills. Successful students can think visually about geometric forms and can appreciate details in drawings and objects.
Contact time with instructors in lectures and labs is about thirty hours per week. The average student is expected to spend about an additional 25 hours per week on assignments, studying, and projects.
A career in Geomatics Engineering Technology typically includes both office and fieldwork. Depending on a student’s particular career path the proportion of office and field exposure can vary significantly. In the GNT program, students are exposed to fieldwork that simulates field activities.
Additionally, the ideal candidates are methodical and pay attention to detail, have good work ethic and communication skills. GNT graduates will often work in teams of various sizes. In the GNT program, many courses require working in teams for projects or lab assignments. This requires good communication and interpersonal skills.
Accreditation
This program is nationally accredited, at the technologist level, by Technology Accreditation Canada. Graduates are eligible for certification by the Alberta Society of Surveying and Mapping Technologies (ASSMT) and the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals in Alberta (ASET).
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT diploma in Geomatics Engineering Technology.
Get more information about this and similar programs
Career opportunities
Graduates may pursue job opportunities in land surveying, mapping, energy exploration and production, civil engineering and construction, geographic information systems (GIS), mining and natural resources and all levels of government.
Potential positions include:
- surveyor
- mapping technologist
Related careers include:
- geomatics engineer
- engineering design and drafting technologist
Tuition and fees
Domestic 2022/23
- Year 1: $6,629
- Year 2: $6,629
International 2022/23
- Year 1: $20,312.90
- Year 2: $20,312.90
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 open Oct. 6, 2021.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
Geomatics Engineering Technology
Dive into an education in land surveying, geography, cartography, geographic information systems (GIS) and global navigation satellite systems (GPS).
Admission and selection
Application dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Fall 2022 start: applications are open Oct. 6, 2021.
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- At least 50% in Math 30-1 or Pure Math 30, or at least 70% in Math 30-2, AND,
- At least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, AND,
- At least 50% in Science 30 or 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 Geomatics Engineering 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.
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
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMP-220 | Computer Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| ENGD-213 | Geomatics Drafting | 3.0 |
| MATH-238 | Math for Engineering & Tech I | 3.0 |
| MAPS-204 | Mapping Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| SURV-214 | Surveying I | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM-238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
| MATH-288 | Math for Engineering & Technology II | 3.0 |
| SURV-230 | Satellite Positioning | 3.0 |
| SURV-248 | Surveying II | 3.0 |
| SURV-263 | Measurement Analysis and Adjustment | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 Total |
15.0 | |
| First Year Total |
30.0 | |
Second year
Semester 3
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CADD-308 | Geomatics CADD Applications | 3.0 |
| MAPS-310 | Geodesy and Map Projections | 3.0 |
| MAPS-315 | Geographic Information Systems | 3.0 |
| SURV-330 | Surveying III | 3.0 |
| SURV-342 | Remote Sensing | 3.0 |
| Semester 3 Total |
15.0 | |
Semester 4
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| MAPS-362 | 3D Modeling | 3.0 |
| MAPS-365 | Photogrammetry | 3.0 |
| PROJ-385 | GNT Capstone Project | 3.0 |
| SURV-343 | Applications in Geomatics Engineering | 3.0 |
| SURV-345 | Cadastral Surveying | 3.0 |
| Semester 4 Total |
15.0 | |
| Second Year Total |
30.0 | |
| Program Total |
60.0 | |
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 | $4,814 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,147 |
| 2 | $4,814 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,147 |
International tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,340 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $19,673 |
| 2 | $19,213 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $20,546 |
*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 are approximately $1,500 for the first year and $500 for 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: $172
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $5,160 | $916 | $553 | $6,629 |
| 2 | 2 | $5,160 | $916 | $553 | $6,629 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $628.13
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $18,843.90 | $916 | $553 | $20,312.90 |
| 2 | 2 | $18,843.90 | $916 | $553 | $20,312.90 |
*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 are approximately $1,500 for the first year and $500 for 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 Aug. 31 online and Sept 2 on campus (optional). Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about your 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 personal protective equipment (PPE)
Wait to purchase your equipment, we'll discuss industry-approved PPE in class.
Preparation courses
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 required this term.
Contact
Phone: 403.284.8469
Email: construction.GNT@sait.ca
Academic chair
Blair Marsden, Academic Chair
Email: blair.marsden@sait.ca
Next steps for all students
Here's what else you'll need to do to get ready!
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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