Saskatchewan Polytechnic and University of Saskatchewan expand learning pathways for mining engineering technology students

Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Sask Polytech and USask partnership enables students to complete both a diploma and degree within five years

August 22, 2019 –  Saskatchewan Polytechnic and the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have signed an agreement that enables graduates of the Sask Polytech Mining Engineering Technology diploma program to transfer into the Bachelor of Science in Engineering – Geological Engineering program at USask.

This means students can graduate with both a Sask Polytech diploma and a USask degree after only five years of study.

The Sask Polytech School of Mining, Energy and Manufacturing and the USask College of Engineering are dedicated to providing mining engineering students with a top-quality, Saskatchewan-based education.

“We’re committed to diversifying and growing our enrolment, so that our students bring a variety of experiences and perspectives into the classroom. This agreement helps us do that,” said Suzanne Kresta, dean of the USask College of Engineering. “We’re happy we could work with Sask Polytech to benefit students and our schools.”

“We are providing pathways where students benefit from the practical and hands-on education that our Mining Engineering Technology diploma offers, and can then go on to complete their Bachelor of Science in Engineering,” said Jamie Hilts, dean of the School of Mining, Energy and Manufacturing and School of Natural Resources and Built Environment. “We are proud to collaborate with the University of Saskatchewan through agreements like this that reinforce our strong academic partnership and dedication to student success.”

Students must meet USask admission requirements to transfer into the four-year Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree.

This partnership is a one-year pilot that will benefit students pursuing a mining career in Saskatchewan. It equips mining engineering students with flexible education options and provides employers with skilled employees ready to support the province’s mining industry.

Sask Polytech has negotiated credit transfer options, including entry into degree programs, with a number of universities and colleges across Canada. USask has secured, and continues to pursue, transfer articulation agreements with domestic and international post-secondary institutions, allowing transfer students more options and flexibility.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Saskatchewan Polytechnic serves students through applied learning opportunities on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 Territories and the homeland of the Métis. Learning takes place at campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon and through extensive distance education opportunities. Programs serve every economic and public service sector. As a polytechnic, the organization provides the depth of learning appropriate to employer and student need, including certificate, diploma and degree programs, and apprenticeship training. Saskatchewan Polytechnic engages in applied research, drawing on faculty expertise to support innovation by employers, and providing students the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills.

University of Saskatchewan College of Engineering
Established in 1912, the USask College of Engineering has a long history of excellence. We offer accredited undergraduate programs in eight different engineering disciplines, including a Mineral Processing Option in our Chemical Engineering program and a Mining Option in both the Mechanical and Geological Engineering programs. The college and the university are committed to First Nations, Métis and Inuit student success and to welcoming diverse perspectives and ways of knowing, both from across Saskatchewan and around the world. Our graduates are known for their work ethic, resourcefulness and willingness to roll up their sleeves to get a job done.


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