Mechanical Engineering Technology
Credential: Diploma
Length: 2 or 3 years
International Students: Accepted

Delivery options
On-Campus Day* - Your course activity is done in-person Monday - Friday, before 6 PM.
On-Campus Evening/Weekend - Your course activity is done in person on weekdays from 6 PM or later, or Saturdays and Sundays.
Online Day* - Your course activity is done online Monday - Friday, before 6 PM.
Online Evening/Weekend - Your course activity is done online on weekdays from 6 PM or later, or Saturdays and Sundays.
Online Flexible Delivery - Your course activity is not scheduled and therefore you can determine when to do the coursework.
Blended Delivery - Both On-Campus and Online - Some of your coursework will be in-person, on-campus and some will be done online.
* There may be circumstances that require some day delivery of classes to be scheduled into the evenings.
Please note due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these delivery options may shift from term to term. Please consult your program for details on delivery options.
Program length
Estimated program length is based on the recommended course load per semester as outlined in the Courses tab.
Actual program length will vary based on the number of courses registered in and successfully completed per semester.
Learn more about program length on SAIT Credentials and the Academic Calendar.
International Students
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.
International Students
This program is available to international students, however, program availability may be limited. This program does not meet the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program.
Program menu
Overview
The Mechanical Engineering Technology program is a practical, hands-on, full-time, two-year diploma program that lets you develop strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills essential for a range of exciting careers in the challenging field of mechanical engineering.
During the common first year, you will be exposed to a variety of topics including foundational math and physics, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and additional specialized courses to prepare you to enter into one of three specialized majors. Upon successful completion of the common first year, selection of your major will occur.
Although SAIT will attempt to help students complete the program major of their choice, grade points for specific courses will be used in the selection criteria for each major, in case of a seat shortage for specific majors.
The following majors are available for the Mechanical Engineering Technology program:
Design and Analysis |
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Specialized skills include design, analysis and troubleshooting of various systems including mechanical, thermal and fluids. |
Design and Development |
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Specialized skills include product design and development, prototyping, ergonomics and industrial design. |
Design and Automation |
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Specialized skills include automated systems design and maintenance, manufacturing controls and robotics. |
In all three available majors, a focus will be placed on professionalism, creativity, teamwork, effective communication and collaboration. Each student will also participate in a major capstone project that will address a real-world industry challenge.
Accreditation
All three majors are nationally accredited by the Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists (CCTT). Graduates may apply for their Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) designation after two years of appropriate work experience.
While attending SAIT, Mechanical Engineering Technology students can become members of the following societies:
- Association of Science and Engineering Technology Professionals (ASET).
- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
- American Society for Quality (ASQ).
Credential
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in either:
- Mechanical Engineering Technology - Design and Analysis
- Mechanical Engineering Technology - Design and Development
- Mechanical Engineering Technology - Design and Automation
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities in a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, oil and gas, energy production, electronics, aerospace, plastics, wood products, warehousing, food processing and technical sales.
Potential positions include:
- mechanical engineering technologist
- project manager
- agricultural engineering technologist
Related careers include:
- aerospace engineer
- biomedical engineer
Tuition and fees
Estimated cost per year:
Domestic total 2023/24
- Year 1: $7,840
- Year 2: $7,840
International total 2023/24
- Year 1: $20,128.60
- Year 2: $20,128.60
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.
Hands On: Magnetic Particle Tester
The Magnetic Particle Tester in SAIT's Non-Destructive Testing Foundations Labs shines a light on industry tools and parts.
Admission requirements
Program requirements
Completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- at least 60% in Math 30-1, or at least 75% in Math 30-2, AND,
- at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, AND,
- at least 60% in Physics 20 and Chemistry 20, or at least 60% in Science 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. SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.
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 ma.info@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 |
---|---|---|
Winter 2023 | Jan. 9, 2023 | Aug. 18, 2023 |
Fall 2023 | Sept. 5, 2023 | April 26, 2024 |
Fall 2023 (On-Campus Evening Weekend) | Sept. 5, 2023 | April 26, 2024 |
Winter 2024 | Jan. 8, 2024 | Aug. 16, 2024 |
Courses
Program outline
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
Students will follow the below program outline if they are enrolled in daytime courses. This stream is two years in length.
Semester 1 – Common
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
COMP-213 | Computing for Engineering Technology | 3.0 |
MATH-238 | Math for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
MECH-200 | Mechanical Engineering Technology Concepts | 3.0 |
MECH-205 | Electro-Mechanical Systems | 3.0 |
STCS-255 | Engineering Statics | 1.5 |
THRM-200 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 1.5 |
Semester 1 Total | 15.0 |
Semester 2 - Common
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
DYNA-265 | Dynamics | 1.5 |
EMTL-250 | Engineering Materials | 3.0 |
ENGD-250 | Technical Modeling | 3.0 |
MATH-288 | Math for Engineering and Technology II | 3.0 |
MECH-202 | Technology and Society | 1.5 |
MNFG-290 | Manufacturing Processes | 3.0 |
Semester 2 Total | 15.0 | |
First year Total | 30.0 |
Daytime classroom: Second year (Design and Analysis major)
Semester 3
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
COMM-256 | Professional Communications and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
EMTL-300 | Mechanics of Materials | 3.0 |
FLDS-350 | Fluid Mechanics | 1.5 |
MACH-380 | Machine Dynamics | 1.5 |
MNFG-310 | Advanced Manufacturing | 3.0 |
THRM-320 | Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer | 3.0 |
Semester 3 Total - Design and Analysis Major - Total | 15.0 |
Semester 4
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
DSGN-303 | Mechanical Systems Design | 3.0 |
DSGN-380 | Machine Design | 3.0 |
ECON-209 | Engineering Economics | 1.5 |
FLDS-320 | Fluid Power | 1.5 |
PROJ-375 | Capstone Project | 3.0 |
STAT-245 | Statistics for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
Semester 4 Total - Design and Analysis Major - Total | 15.0 | |
Second Year Total - Design and Analysis Major - Total | 30.0 | |
Program Total - Design and Analysis Major - Total | 60.0 |
Daytime classroom: Second year (Design and Automation major)
Semester 3
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
CNTR-300 | Control Systems | 3.0 |
COMM-256 | Professional Communications and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
EMSI-300 | Modern Automation Integration | 1.5 |
EMSI-320 | Robots and Robotics | 1.5 |
EMTL-300 | Mechanics of Materials | 3.0 |
MNFG-310 | Advanced Manufacturing | 3.0 |
Semester 3 Total - Design and Automation Major | 15.0 |
Semester 4
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
DSGN-380 | Machine Design | 3.0 |
ECON-209 | Engineering Economics | 1.5 |
EMSI-360 | Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers | 3.0 |
FLDS-320 | Fluid Power | 1.5 |
PROJ-375 | Capstone Project | 3.0 |
STAT-245 | Statistics for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
Semester 4 Total - Design and Automation Major | 15.0 | |
Second Year Total - Design and Automation Major | 30.0 | |
Program - Design and Automation Major - Total | 60.0 |
Daytime classroom: Second year (Design and Development major)
Semester 3
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
COMM-256 | Professional Communications and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
EMTL-300 | Mechanics of Materials | 3.0 |
MNFG-310 | Advanced Manufacturing | 3.0 |
PRDT-300 | Product Development | 3.0 |
PRDT-305 | Model Making and Prototyping | 1.5 |
PRDT-310 | Applied Product Development | 1.5 |
Semester 3 Total - Design and Development Major | 15.0 |
Semester 4
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
DSGN-380 | Machine Design | 3.0 |
ECON-209 | Engineering Economics | 1.5 |
FLDS-320 | Fluid Power | 1.5 |
PRDT-320 | Product Analysis | 3.0 |
PROJ-375 | Capstone Project | 3.0 |
STAT-245 | Statistics for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
Semester 4 Total- Design and Development Major | 15.0 | |
Second Year Total - Design and Development Major | 30.0 | |
Program Total - Design and Development Major | 60.0 |
The evening stream of this program is three (3) years in length and is ideal for students who wish to work full-time while completing the program.
Semester 1
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
MATH-238 | Math for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
MECH-200 | Mechanical Engineering Technology Concepts | 3.0 |
MECH-202* |
Technology and Society | 1.5 |
COMP-213 | Computing for Engineering Technology | 3.0 |
*MECH-202 – every second Saturday, six hours each.
Semester 2
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
MATH-288 | Math for Engineering and Technology II | 3.0 |
STCS-255 | Engineering Statics | 1.5 |
THRM-200 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 1.5 |
MECH-205* | Electro-Mechanical Systems | 3.0 |
*MECH 205 Labs – every second Saturday, six hours each
Semester 3
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
DYNA-265* | Dynamics | 1.5 |
STAT-245 | Statistics for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
EMTL-250* | Engineering Materials | 3.0 |
ENGD-250 | Technical Modeling | 3.0 |
*DYNA-265 (4 hrs.) and EMTL-250 Labs (2 hrs.) – four Saturdays per semester, six hours each.
Semester 4
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
EMTL-300 | Mechanics of Materials | 3.0 |
*MNFG-290 | Manufacturing Processes
|
3.0 |
FLDS-350 | Fluid Mechanics | 1.5 |
THRM-200 | Introduction to Thermodynamics | 1.5 |
*MNFG-290 Machining Lab – every Saturday, four hours each.
Semester 5
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
FLDS-320 | Fluid Power | 1.5 |
DSGN-303 | Mechanical Systems Design | 3.0 |
COMM-256 | Professional Communications and Presentation Skills | 3.0 |
ECON-209 | Engineering Economics | 1.5 |
Semester 6
Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
---|---|---|
MACH-380 | Machine Dynamics | 1.5 |
*PROJ-375 | Capstone Project | 3.0 |
DSGN-380 | Machine Design | 3.0 |
MNFG-310 | Advanced Manufacturing | 3.0 |
*PROJ-375 Lab – every Saturday, four hours each.
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.
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: $190
Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | $5,700 | $916 | $553 | $7,169 |
2 | 2 | $5,700 | $916 | $553 | $7,169 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $594.83
Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | $17,844.90 | $916 | $553 | $19,313.90 |
2 | 2 | $17,844.90 | $916 | $553 | $19,313.90 |
*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.
Books and supplies*
Books and supplies are approximately $1,500 per 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 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 | $6,270 | $948 | $622 | $7,840 |
2 | 2 | $6,270 | $948 | $622 | $7,840 |
International students
Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2 | $18,558.60 | $948 | $622 | $20,128.60 |
2 | 2 | $18,558.60 | $948 | $622 | $20,128.60 |
*For a detailed breakdown of tuition costs per course, visit the domestic and international fee tables.
What your SAIT fees pay for
Student support fee: supports student services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including services such as Career Advancement Services, and Student Development and Counselling.
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance the student experience.
Campus recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, student events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of student engagement initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.
Upass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Ineligible students are not required to pay this fee. Learn more about eligibility requirements.
Lab and materials fees: ensures SAIT labs and living classrooms have the required equipment and materials to support the necessary training for students.
Laundry fee: covers the cost of laundering the required uniforms. Applicable only to certain programs and apprenticeships.
Saitsa fees: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of a variety of student services, activities, and programming.
Health and dental fees: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt out. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits.
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** | $16.22/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*
Books and supplies are approximately $1,500 per 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 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
Program orientation for students beginning in Winter 2023 will take place on SAIT campus on Friday, Jan. 6. Look for ORNT 118 in your schedule in mySAIT for the time and exact location.*
You can also prepare by attending Big SAIT Welcome, online information sessions, international or Indigenous orientation, and completing the preparation courses below.
*If your orientation takes place on the first day of classes, you will not see a separate ORNT 118 in your schedule. Students registering in classes via open registration will need to enroll themselves in ORNT 118.
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 custom hardware and software requirement. Learn more about additional technology requirements on our computers and laptops page.
The preferred hardware requirements for this program are as follows:
Standards | |
---|---|
Processor | Intel i7 (gen 7 or newer or AMD Ryzen 7 |
RAM (memory) | 16 GB RAM or greater |
Hard drive storage | 1 TB or greater |
Video card | Nvidia Quadro or AMD Radeon Pro |
Operating system | Windows 10 PC (build 1906 or higher) |
Software | SolidWorks |
You will be using some industry-standard software during your Mechanical Engineering Technology (MET) course and, although the minimum specification will work, we recommend the best computer that you can afford.
Required equipment/tools
The required tools will be provided.
Required personal protective equipment (PPE)
Safety glasses are required on the first day of class.
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
Phone: 403.284.8641
Email: ma.info@sait.ca
Academic Chair
Olga Malikova, Academic Chair
Email: olga.malikova@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.
Have questions about this program?
Your journey starts here
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