Overview
Courses in power theory, thermodynamics and extensive lab training prepare you to take responsibility for complex power systems working as a plant operator or design, research or development assistant in industries like petroleum, petrochemical and refining.
Our Power Engineering Technology diploma arms you with the skills to become a third-class power engineer responsible for controlling large, complex power and process systems and performing production work in the operation and development of large-scale energy projects.
SAIT also offers flexible continuing education training for fifth to first-class to prepare you for your ABSA exams, or you can pursue a bachelor’s degree with our transfer options.
In Canada, power engineering certification progresses from fifth to first-class (most advanced) and the ABSA is the pressure equipment safety authority for Alberta.
Is this the right fit for me?
Manual dexterity and mechanical ability are helpful.
A minimum of 80% attendance is a requirement to successfully complete the program.
Successful students will have the ability to gather technical information and use it to troubleshoot large electromechanical systems.
Accreditation
This program is nationally accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC).
Credentials
After successfully completing this program, graduates will receive a SAIT diploma in Power Engineering Technology.
Learn more about our energy and environmental programs
Career opportunities
Graduates can pursue job opportunities as a(n):
- plant operator
- design assistant
- research and development assistant
- process operator
Related careers include:
- field and design
- mechanical or industrial sales
Tuition and fees per year*
Domestic
- Year 1: $6,683
- Year 2: $6,951
International
- Year 1: $20,999
- Year 2: $22,965
*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 are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Applications for fall 2022 open on Oct. 6, 2021.
- Applications for winter 2023 open on March 30, 2022.
| Classes begin | Year start date | Year-end date |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Sept. 6, 2022 | April 28, 2023 |
| Winter 2023 | Jan. 9, 2023 | Aug. 18, 2023 |
International student leader awarded for building community
Yatenra Solanki has made a big impact on the SAIT community since his arrival in 2018.
Admission requirements
Application dates
Applications are accepted until the program start date but are subject to change.
- Fall 2022 start: applications are open Oct. 6, 2021.
- Winter 2023 start: applications are open March 30, 2022.
Program 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 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 Power 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.
Reserved seats
Eight 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
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
*This program is being reviewed and could undergo changes.
SAIT students are offered an opportunity to develop lifelong learning skills in an online environment. One or more courses in the program are offered fully or partially online.
Looking for course descriptions and requisites? Visit the course catalogue
First year
Semester 1
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMP-261 | Microsoft Office: An Introduction | 1.5 |
| ELCT-254 | Electrical and Controls I | 1.5 |
| PENG-201 | Power Theory I | 3.0 |
| PENG-203 | Power Lab I | 3.0 |
| SFTY-215 | Safety and Environment | 1.5 |
| THRM-208 | Thermodynamics I Theory | 3.0 |
| Semester 1 Total | 13.5 | |
Semester 2
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM-238 | Technical Communications I | 3.0 |
| MATH-238 | Mathematics for Engineering and Technology I | 3.0 |
| PENG-251 | Power Theory II | 3.0 |
| PENG-253 | Power Lab II | 3.0 |
| PWEN-282 | Unit Operations | 1.5 |
| THRM-258 | Thermodynamics II Theory | 3.0 |
| Semester 2 Total | 16.5 | |
| First Year Total |
30.0 | |
Second year
Semester 3
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| AMEC-306 | Applied Mechanics I | 3.0 |
| ELCT-304 | Electrical & Controls II | 3.0 |
| MATH-288 | Mathematics for Engineering and Technology ll | 3.0 |
| PENG-301 | Power Theory III | 3.0 |
| THRM-317 | Thermodynamics III Theory | 3.0 |
| THRM-319 | Thermodynamics I Lab | 1.5 |
| Semester 3 Total | 16.5 | |
Semester 4
| Course Code | Course Name | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| AMEC-356 | Applied Mechanics II | 3.0 |
| ELCT-354 | Electrical & Controls III | 1.5 |
| PROJ-351 | Power Engineering Technology Capstone Project | 3.0 |
| PENG-351 | Power Theory IV | 3.0 |
| THRM-359 | Thermodynamics II Lab | 1.5 |
| THRM-357 | Thermodynamics IV Theory | 3.0 |
| Semester 4 Total | 15.0 | |
| Second Year Total | 31.5 | |
| 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 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 | $5,350 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,683 |
| 2 | $5,618 | $793.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $6,951 |
International tuition and fees*
| Year | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees | Health and dental plan | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $19,666 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $20,999 |
| 2 | $21,637 | $1,045.20 | $287.77 | $252 | $22,965 |
*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*
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: $191
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $5,730 | $916 | $553 | $7,199 |
| 2 | 2 | $6,016.50 | $916 | $553 | $7,485.50 |
International tuition and fees
Cost per credit: $673.57
| Year | Number of semesters | Tuition fees | SAIT fees | Saitsa fees* | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | $20,207.10 | $916 | $553 | $21,676.10 |
| 2 | 2 | $21,217.46 | $916 | $553 | $22,686.46 |
*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: $553
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.
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 2022
Orientation
Your program orientation will take place online. You will receive further details shortly from your academic chair or program coordinator.
Learn more about your orientation.
We are expecting to meet you at student orientation. Important program information is discussed to ensure you are prepared to begin classes that begin on day one. Orientation is a mandatory part of your learning experience to ensure student success.
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.
We recommend you wear CSA-approved (green triangle, above ankles) protective footwear in our labs. A hard hat and safety glasses will be provided to you.
Required equipment/tools
You'll require a scientific calculator capable of performing linear regression.
Preparation courses
To support your success, you’ll be automatically registered in two short courses to prepare you for the academic year:
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: 403.284.8543
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.
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