Overview
Train to be an instrumentation technologist, studying control system design and computer-based processes for work in a wide range of industries, including oil and gas refining and petrochemical processing.
Instrumentation Engineering Technology provides students with sound theoretical and practical training in the operation and maintenance of automated process control and measurement systems used in the production of various commodities.
Instrumentation technologists use electronic test equipment to install, troubleshoot, calibrate, maintain and repair electrical/electronic measurement and control instruments. Students will learn about pneumatic devices, control valves, electronic instruments, digital logic devices, computer-based process controls and control system design.
Students also become well versed in personal computer applications in instrumentation, process control systems design, Fieldbus™ SCADA, PLC, distributed control system design and interfacing of industrial microcomputer control systems with real processes. Modern laboratory facilities include pilot-scale versions of processes found in various industries and a fully equipped control room.
The Instrumentation Engineering Technology program is currently only offered full-time. Each academic year consists of two 15-week semesters and students generally take two years to complete the program.
Is this the right fit for me?
The Instrumentation Engineering Technology program (IIET) requires an interest and aptitude for math, science and computers. The foundation that you have developed in these areas through previous education and experience will be further enhanced through courses that include lecture and laboratory components.
Contact time with instructors in lectures and labs is thirty hours per week. The average student is expected to spend about an additional twenty five hours per week on assignments, studying and projects.
A career in Instrumentation Engineering Technology typically includes both office and fieldwork. Depending on someone’s particular career path, the proportion of office and field exposure can vary significantly.
In the IIET program, students are exposed to lab work that simulates field activities. This includes using machinery and hand tools to assemble, calibrate and troubleshoot industrial instrumentation components, following safety requirements including the use of personal protective equipment like safety glasses and footwear.
Some of the subject areas that are a focus of the program include:
- Industrial process analysis
- Process instruments
- Analytical instruments
- Control and safety systems
In the industry, instrumentation practitioners will often work in teams of various sizes. In the IIET program, many courses require working in teams for projects or lab assignments.
We invite you to reflect on the following questions:
- Do I enjoy working in a team environment?
- Am I a good communicator? (I have strong English language skills and can write clearly and concisely.)
- Am I a self-starter who likes to think critically through problems and challenges?
- Am I adaptable?
The IIET program is designed to provide teaching, or the delivery of information to students, at the beginning of the program, but evolves to more of a coaching role, where students learn more independently. This requires students to take more initiative and responsibility for their learning, with instructors available as a resource, as they progress through the program.
Students will have to secure their own job after graduation. Assistance is available on resumé writing and interviewing for a position. Networking opportunities with industry are available through the program. Students are encouraged to be active in their student club, to develop the soft skills that are important to a successful career and to access additional opportunities to network with industry.
Accreditation
Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC) nationally accredits the Instrumentation Engineering Technology program at the Engineering Technologist level.
Students are eligible for membership in the Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals in Alberta (ASET) and the International Society of Automation (ISA).
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Instrumentation Engineering Technology.
Learn more about our energy and environmental programs
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in a variety of sectors, including power production, processing, transportation, fertilizer production, pulp and paper, wood processing, food processing, mining and manufacturing. Potential positions include:
- instrumentation technologist
- engineering design
- instrumentation sales
- industrial processing
Related careers include:
- oil and gas refining
- petrochemical processing
Tuition and fees
Estimated cost per year:
Domestic total 2023/24
- Year 1: $7,270
- Year 2: $7,270
International total 2023/24
- Year 1: $20,409.40
- Year 2: $20,409.40
Final costs are dependent on the number of courses 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.
Process control cabinet
Eight first-year Instrumentation Engineering Technology students experienced real-world control room technology on an industrial scale.
Admission requirements
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or their equivalents:
- at least 60% in Math 30-1 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 Physics 20
- at least 60% in Chemistry 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. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.
Reserved seats
Four seats are reserved for applicants who have completed and obtained a minimum of 70% in each of the following Career and Technology Studies courses:
- PRS1010 - Overview of Alberta Geology
- PRS1020 - Non-renewable Resources
- PRS1060 - Consumer Products and Services
- PRS2030 - Non-Conventional Hydrocarbon Exploration
- PRS2060 - Refining Hydrocarbons
When should you apply?
Visit our Apply page to see when applications open and close for upcoming semesters.
To see which semesters this program has intakes for, look at the Available Intakes information at the top of this page.
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 the program and submit your transcripts.
Admission will be extended on a first-qualified, first-offered basis until the program is full.
Step 4: Continue to monitor your application status through mySAIT.ca.
You must submit final transcripts/grades to show you have completed the courses and met the minimum admission requirements by the transcript deadline or your seat will be rescinded.
This program meets the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program for international students as long as the student is enrolled in the on-campus delivery mode or completes more than 50% of the courses on campus (for the blended option). International students attending all classes online will NOT be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. International students are responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.
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 recommend you add the macphail.students@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
When do classes start?
Classes for this program adhere to the following year start and end dates based on the semester the student begins their program.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
| Fall 2023 | Sept. 5, 2023 | April 26, 2024 |
Program outline
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Open Studies courses available
Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies.
Open Studies is a great way to explore a certain subject before diving into the full program. See what courses are offered by finding this program on the Open Studies courses tab.
First year
Semester 1
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| APSC-215 | Applied Physics for Instrumentation | 1.5 |
| COMP-261 | Applied Digital Technologies | 1.5 |
| ELEC-256 | Electrical Fundamentals | 3.0 |
| INST-202 | Process Instruments I | 3.0 |
| INST-257 | World of Instrumentation | 3.0 |
| MATH-238 | Mathematics for Engineering & Technology I | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 2
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM-238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
| ELEC-258 | Electrical Applications | 3.0 |
| INST-262 | Process Instruments II | 3.0 |
| MATH-288 | Mathematics for Engineering & Technology II | 3.0 |
| MNTN-231 | Instrument Installation and Maintenance | 1.5 |
| INST-265 | Programming for Instrumentation | 1.5 |
| Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
| First Year Total | 30.0 | |
Second year
Semester 3
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| CMPN-317 | Remote Automation Systems | 3.0 |
| INST-335 | Instrumentation Software | 1.5 |
| STAT-245 | Statistics for Engineering & Technology I | 3.0 |
| CNTR-322 | Process Control Systems I | 3.0 |
| CMPN-337 | Distributed Control Systems I | 3.0 |
| APSC-202 | Applied Chemistry for Instrumentation | 1.5 |
| Semester 3 Total | 15.0 | |
Semester 4
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANLS-330 | Process Analyzers | 3.0 |
| INST-345 | Advanced Technologies | 3.0 |
| PROJ-370 | Instrumentation Project | 3.0 |
| CMPN-330 | Distributed Control Systems II | 3.0 |
| CNTR-359 | Process Control Systems II | 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.
Review our grading and progression procedure >
Transfer options
The opportunity to advance your education by transferring in, within or on from SAIT is available.
Learn more about program and institution partnership agreements.
Costs 2022/23
Domestic tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $178
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $5,340 | $916 | $553 | $6,809 |
| 2 | 2 | $5,340 | $916 | $553 | $6,809 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit:
$603.83
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $18,114.90 | $916 | $553 | $19,583.90 |
| 2 | 2 | $18,114.90 | $916 | $553 | $19,583.90 |
*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*
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 2023/24
Tuition and fees
The following costs are effective as of July 1, 2023. They are an estimate of tuition and fees based on the recommended course load per year. *
Domestic students
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $5,700 | $948 | $622 | $7,270 |
| 2 | 2 | $5,700 | $948 | $622 | $7,270 |
International students
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $18,839.40 | $948 | $622 | $20,409.40 |
| 2 | 2 | $18,839.40 | $948 | $622 | $20,409.40 |
*For a detailed breakdown of tuition costs per course, visit the domestic and international fee tables.
Fees
Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)
Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside of the typical 15-week program.
Learn more about what your fees are for
Fees are subject to change without notice.
| Fees | < 9 credits per semester | > 9 credits per semester |
| SAIT fees | ||
| Campus athletic and recreation | $51.50 | $103 |
| Student support fee | $52.75 | $105.50 |
| Student technology fee | $52.75 | $105.50 |
| UPass* | N/A | $160 |
| Total | $157 | $474 |
| Saitsa fees | ||
| Student association fee** | $16.23/credit | $146 |
| Health plan*** | N/A | $86 ($172 annually) |
| Dental plan*** | N/A | $79 ($158 annually) |
| Total | $311 maximum | $476 |
*Additional eligibility requirements apply for students to obtain a UPass. To check your eligibility, visit our Upass page.
**Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.
***Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. In most cases, program fees quoted are based on students paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and/or dental plans can opt-out. Learn more at saitsa.com/benefits.
Books and supplies*
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 your tuition and financial aid options
*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.
Orientation
Your program orientation (ORNT 118) will take place on campus on Aug. 31. Check your schedule in mySAIT for the time and location details.
Learn more about your orientation.
How to register for classes
Course registration opens on March 1 through March 15 for Spring 2023.
You’ll receive an email from us indicating what registration process you’ll use to enroll in your classes.
Learn more about how to register and the different registration methods used at SAIT.
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 CSA-approved (green triangle) protective footwear and CSA Z94.3 (class 1) safety glasses with side shields.
Preparation courses
To support your success, short courses are available to you to help prepare you for the academic year:
MATH 123: Mathematics Refresher
Give your math skills a boost, refresh some of the basics and get ready for calculus with a review of algebra, geometry, functions, graphs, trigonometry, exponents, systems of equations and more.
MATH-123 is specifically designed to help prepare students who must take MATH 238 as part of their program.
The course is virtual, self-paced, and can be accessed on Brightspace (D2L) from January 3, 2023 until April 28, 2023.
Register online between November 23, 2022 and January 23, 2023.
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.
Students taking a full-time course load, or more than nine (9) credits per semester, will be automatically enrolled in these courses.
They are optional for students taking a part-time course load (9 or fewer credits per semester). Part-time students can register by emailing academic.coaching@sait.ca.
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
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.
Your journey starts here
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