Joseph A. Remai School of Construction

Architectural Technologies

Diploma

Program Overview

Architectural technologists are involved at every stage of building design and construction, from blueprints to building codes and from interior design to space planning. It’s a great career for detail-oriented, visual thinkers who enjoy working in a technology-driven environment. You’ll be able to work in residential, commercial and institutional design and construction.

Architectural Technologies is a three-year diploma offered full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Moose Jaw campus. It includes five academic semesters and three four-month Co-operative Education work terms. The program offers two areas of concentration: Building Sciences and Interior Design. The first three semesters are common to both areas. You’ll focus on residential design and wood frame construction (National Building Code - Part 9), and build knowledge and skills in:

  • properties and function of construction materials
  • criteria and methods of building construction and design
  • preparation of construction documents
  • construction contract administration

In your fourth and fifth semesters, you’ll focus in on your chosen area. In Building Science, you’ll receive an introduction to commercial and institutional building construction with emphasis on construction detailing and methods, structural systems, environmental controls and the building envelope (National Building Code - Parts 3 and 4).

In Interior Design, you’ll receive an introduction to commercial and institutional interior construction with an emphasis on interior finishes, detailing and methods, space planning, lighting design and material selection (National Building Code - Parts 3 and 4).

Your co-operative work term counts as courses. You pay tuition and receive credit, but you also get paid. It’s a great way to gain valuable experience while earning a salary.

The Co-op Work Term Advantage

Co-operative work terms are paid, so you'll earn while you learn. Saskatchewan Polytechnic arranges your interviews; it's up to you to shine. It's also a chance to develop important "soft skills" in job interviewing, professional attitude, interpersonal communication and more.

Many of our co-op employers require both a valid Saskatchewan Driver's License and a clean Driver's Abstract. For international students, it can take up to 12 months to obtain a Driver's license; therefore, it is to your advantage to come with a Driver's License from your home country if possible.

Diploma to Degree

Use your Architectural Technologies diploma to ladder into the Bachelor of Construction Management right here at Saskatchewan Polytechnic or as a stepping stone to the Bachelor of Interior Design degree program at RCC Institute of Technology or the Bachelor of Technology degree program at Memorial University in Newfoundland.

Learning Environment

  • 42 students are accepted each year.
  • Students will experience studio and project work, lectures and co-operative work terms. 
  • Class hours are 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily. Students are expected to complete 30-40 hours of homework each week outside of class time.
  • There are many group projects that require coordination.
  • It is very important that students take initiative and manage their work time effectively.
  • Students select their specialization after successfully completing the third semester

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Graduates are prepared for a variety of careers in the building design construction industry. Many graduates are self-employed consultants in the home building industry while others work for architects, engineers, interior designers, home designers, facility managers, developers, contractors or construction specialty companies.

Do you need help deciding if these careers could be a good fit for you? Contact Career Counselling Services.

Do you already know this is the program you want to take but need more detailed information or help applying?  Connect with a Recruitment Advisor.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Construction Estimator/Project ManagerConstruction Estimators (2234)$45,800 - $94,000
Architectural/Interior DesignerArchitectural Technologists and Technicians (2251)$26,100 - $93,900
Technical Sales/Specification WriterTechnical Sales Specialists - Wholesale Trade (6221)$31,200 - $104,000

What's the Work Like?

  • Read and analyze building codes, by-laws, space requirements, site requirements and other technical documents and reports
  • Prepare manual and computer-assisted design drawings, specifications, cost estimates and listings of quantities of material from drawings and instructions
  • Build architectural and display models, and 3-D virtual models of architectural designs
  • Prepare contracts and bidding documents
  • Assist in the development of architectural designs
  • Estimate costs and materials required and may advise on leasing, real estate and marketing
  • Prepare plans and specifications for the final interior designs in accordance with current practices and codes
  • Develop detailed plans and 3-D models showing arrangement of walls, dividers, displays, lighting and other fixtures using computer-assisted design (CAD) software and graphics software
  • Develop plans, elevations, cross sections and detailed drawings, and advise on selection of colours, finishes and materials, floor and wall coverings, window treatments, interior and exterior lighting, furniture and other items,
  • supervise drafters, technicians and technologists on the architectural team
  • supervise construction projects and co-ordinate, monitor and inspect work done by others.
  • Communicate with clients to determine needs, preferences, safety requirements and purpose of space
  • direct site work crews and subcontractors.

Below is a list of skills (with examples) that are important in this line of work. This section is based on the Essential Skills Profiles developed and available through the Government of Canada.


  • Specifications manuals for building projects.
  • Emails on a variety of topics from clients, architects, engineers, designers and other technicians and technologists.
  • Building codes, zoning regulations, energy consumption regulations, by-laws and other national, provincial and municipal regulations.
  • Referring to tables included in building codes, by-laws and best practice guides to verify structural design requirements. 
  • Reviewing architectural drawings to ensure that design criteria have been satisfied and specifications have been respected.
  • Completing extensive development and building permit application forms 
  • Writing emails to co-workers, colleagues and clients to schedule or confirm meetings.
  • Writing minutes of project meetings using established formats.
  • May prepare comprehensive building specifications. These specifications comprise detailed descriptions of tasks to be performed, materials, products, accessories, standards and processes to be used, procedures for changes to contract and other contract requirements.
  • Totaling clients' bills, multiplying the numbers of hours worked on projects by hourly rates, add extra charges for courier fees and permits and calculate applicable taxes.
  • Calculating areas and volumes of complex shapes. For example, the volume of kidney-shaped swimming pool.
  • Estimating the number of project hours which should be assigned for various design tasks. 
  • Speaking with interior designers, engineering technologists and structural, mechanical, electrical and civil engineers to coordinate design and construction processes.
  • Questioning clients to identify their intentions for buildings and interior spaces, their budgets and timeframes and their aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.
  • Thinking example 1:  If an technologist experienced difficulties getting building or development permits approved they may discuss the difficulties with co-workers and consultants, review building codes, zoning regulations, by-laws and other relevant documents to ensure that architectural designs are compliant with rules and regulations.
  • Thinking example 2:  Decide which contractors to select or recommend for construction work after reviewing various tenders to determine which contractors offer the best prices and most feasible work plans. 
  • Using communication software to exchange emails and attached documents with clients, contractors and members on their design teams.
  • Using spreadsheets to track client .space and site requirements, analyze data and prepare detailed cost estimates.
  • Using computer-assisted design to prepare two-dimensional drawings and three-dimensional models of proposed architectural designs. 

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s):

September



Length: 76 weeks
There are five academic semesters and three mandatory four-month paid Co-operative Education work terms. Semesters and co-op work term time patterns are listed in Courses below.

View latest program status info

Locations

  • Moose Jaw

Admissions

Admission Requirements

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted: 

  • Minimum combined average of 70% in Math A30, B30, and C30

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 245 Advanced Algebra and Functions
  • 258 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra, and Statistics
  • 256 Reading
  • 250 Writing

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake. 

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year. 

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2020/21 Academic Year

Year 1 - $9,085
Year 2 - $11,325
Year 3 - $4,520

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.  See links below to more information about PLAR and detailed PLAR candidate guides for courses in this program.


Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit to Sask Polytech or to another college or university.


Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

potential transfer credit toward Bachelor and Master's degrees in interior design, architecture and construction management.
Graduates of this program may be eligible to receive 30 block credits and 3 credits each for ENGL 255, COMP 210, ARCH 200 and APST 230 for a total of 42 credit units toward a Bachelor of Science-Architecture Post Diploma.
Graduates of this program may be eligible for block transfer into Bachelor of Technology Degree with 39 credit hours (13 courses) to be completed, including a technical project and report
Graduates of this program may be accepted into and may receive up to 81 transfer credits in the Bachelor of Interior Design degree program.
Graduates of this program (Interior Technologies major) may receive up to 84 transfer credits (2018 Sask Polytech curriculum) or up to 81 transfer credits (2016 Sask Polytech curriculum) in the Bachelor Interior Design degree program.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Accreditation

American Council for Construction Education (ACCE); Technologies Accreditation Canada (TAC)

The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists’ (CCTT) Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) accredits the program at the Technologist level. The American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) also accredits the program as an International Associate Degree Program.

The educational unit shall demonstrate accountable behavior by providing information about its accredited degree programs to the general public.

Institutions shall broadly and accurately publish the objectives of the degree program, admission requirements, degree program assessment measures employed, the information obtained through these assessment measures and actions taken as a result of the feedback, student achievement, the rate and types of employment of graduates and any data supporting the qualitative claims made by the degree program.

Program Objectives, Assessment and Quality Improvement Plan

Mission Statement

The Architectural Technologies program provides students with the highest quality preparation for employment and leadership in all aspects of Saskatchewan’s building design and construction industry.

Goals

We endeavour to become…

  • the school of first choice for premier high school graduates and highly motivated university transfers.
  • a program that challenges students to discover abilities and performance levels beyond their expectations.
  • industry’s first choice for hiring students and grads.

We endeavour to provide…

  • complete preparation to work in all aspects of residential design and construction.
  • a comprehensive general introduction to all aspects of design and construction for commercial building types.
  • the highest level of architectural drafting skills.
  • specialized knowledge in residential, commercial and institutional building code, construction detailing and project management.
  • leadership in sustainable construction practices.

Measurable Objectives

  • Program Design: documented learning outcomes validated by industry.
  • Student Evaluation: valid assessment of each student and learning outcome
  • Program Delivery: active learning on the part of students.
  • Student Intake: a full complement of new students each September.
  • Student Progression: a high rate of student retention each semester.
  • Learning Resources: a rich diversity of learning activities and resources.
  • Student Support: students are able to make informed and intelligent decisions.
  • Employment: full training-related co-op and graduate employment.
  • Industry Relations: program grads become successful employers.

American Council for Construction Education-Student Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation from this ACCE Accredited program, a graduate shall be able to:
1. Demonstrate effective communication, both orally and in writing.
2. Demonstrate the ability to estimate quantities and costs for the bidding process in a construction project.
3. Demonstrate the ability to schedule a basic construction project.
4. Demonstrate the ability to use current technology related to the construction process.
5. Interpret construction documents (contracts, specifications, and drawings) used in managing a construction project.
6. Apply basic principles of construction accounting.
7. Use basic surveying techniques used in building layout.
8. Discuss basic principles of ethics in the construction industry.
9. Identify the fundamentals of contracts, codes, and regulations that govern a construction project.
10. Recognize basic construction methods, materials and equipment.
11. Recognize basic safety hazards on a construction site and standard prevention measures.
12. Recognize the basic principles of structural design.
13. Recognize the basic principles of mechanical, electrical and piping systems.

In addition, upon graduation from this program, a graduate shall also be able to:
14. Design NBC Part 9 residential buildings
15. Participate in the design of NBC Part 3 commercial buildings.

Technology Accreditation Canada- General Outcomes

Upon Graduation from this TAC Accredited program, a graduate shall be able to:

  • GC01 Technology Report: Research, analyze, prepare, document, submit, and defend a Technology Report (Capstone Project) relating to a significant technology-related issue.
  • GC02 Mathematics: Resolve engineering technology/applied science problems applying algebra, matrix manipulation and introductory calculus.
  • GC03 Project Management: Apply the current practices of project management to applied science and engineering technology projects consistent with the discipline requirements.
  • GC04 Physical and Natural Sciences: Resolve technical problems applying the principles of physical and natural science.
  • GC05 Ethics, Sustainability, Contracts, and Codes: Resolve engineering technology and applied science problems applying business/management principles, ethics, sustainability, contract law, codes and standards.
  • GC06 Communications: Analyze, access and document data preparing charts and reports and present to stakeholders.
  • GC07 Computer Knowledge: Use a variety of appropriate computer hardware and software necessary to the performance of tasks within the discipline.
  • GC08 Health and Safety: Health and Safety Standards, to minimize exposure to unsafe conditions and ensure a safe working environment for oneself and co-workers.


Technology Accreditation Canada- Program Discipline Outcomes

Upon Graduation from this TAC Accredited program, a graduate shall be able to:

  • ARCTY01 Architectural Drawings: Create compete sets of architectural drawings for residential/commercial construction/renovation projects.
  • ARCTY02 Building Design: Apply basic architectural principles in building design or detailing. Interior Design Option Only.
  • ARCTY05 Building Science: Assess, design and detail construction projects applying principles of building science and construction engineering. Building Science option only.
  • ARCTY09 Codes, Bylaws and Regulations: Interpret and apply applicable codes, bylaws and regulations.
  • ARCTY10 Renovation/Restoration: Evaluate existing buildings and prepare renovation/restoration proposals.
  • ARCTY13 Project Management: Plan, schedule and monitor architectural and construction projects.

Average number of applicants over the past five years: 90

Program capacity in first semester: 42

We recommend that prospective students apply in the fall of their final year of high school. Please verify admission requirements with the registration office.

The primary purpose of program review is to ensure that Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs reflect current and emerging practices in business and industry. The program review process examines the viability and sustainability of programs in fostering the skills, knowledge, and practices to meet the needs of business and industry and the provincial economy. View the complete program review policy.


Annual Program Assessment: Accountability
The annual program assessment review will use summary data gathered by Institutional Research and Analysis (IR&A) and IR&A will be prepared annually for base programs. IR&A will prepare a program summary review report based on the key factors and performance indicators that have readily available quantifiable data. This report will include an assessment of the program's results based on the benchmark for each performance indicator. The data are primarily a numerical consolidation of annual program metrics including:

  • application trends
  • enrolment trends
  • graduate trends
  • withdrawal trends and main reasons
  • equity participation rates
  • graduation and withdrawal rates by cohort


The report will also contain results from the most recent graduate employment and student surveys, including:

  • graduate employment rates
  • student satisfaction
  • graduate satisfaction
  • market demand for graduates

The annual program assessment will be provided to the Provost and Vice President Academic, deans and program head/chairs. The program head/chairs and division deans will meet to discuss program performance using the data to inform future planning. The discussion will also include any feedback from program advisory committee meetings.

Annual Program Assessment Support: Program Vitality Index Decision Making Matrix
The annual program assessment will be complemented by an examination of critical criteria from the institutional Program Vitality Index Decision Making Matrix/Rubric. The program vitality index provides information that facilitates determining the viability of program offerings and in developing program performance measures. IR&A will prepare an annual report which scores each program on four (4) critical criteria that focus on the demonstration of a critical mass of students, appropriate graduation rates and evidence of sufficient employment opportunities:

  • number of qualified applicants to capacity
  • number of enrolments to capacity
  • graduate employment rate in training-related occupation (within 6 months of graduation)
  • graduates (per cohort)


Programs are expected to score 60% or greater to be deemed viable and not require further examination. Programs scoring less than 60% will undergo further examination using established secondary criteria. The Program Vitality Index Decision Making Matrix/Rubric report for each program will be provided annually to the Provost and Vice President Academic and division deans who will provide results and discuss the outcomes and future program direction with their program head/chairs.

Program Review Sustainability
The program review will occur for all base programs and will consist of the Saskatchewan Polytechnic education framework analysis, including a gap analysis. The Saskatchewan Polytechnic education framework analysis will examine the following key areas:

  • program design
  • student evaluation
  • program delivery
  • student intakes
  • student progression
  • learning activities and resources
  • student support

Participation in the education framework gap analysis will include the school's program development consultant, program head/chair and the dean or associate dean as well as program faculty as needed. The review will identify strengths and opportunities for improvement in each of the key areas and will outline a plan to meet any deficiencies. Following each education framework review, results will be discussed with the program advisory committee or trade board. Results of the program review will be acted upon as per the Academic Authorities' Grid.

External Accreditation and Program Approval
Many programs are accredited by an external agency or approved by a professional association. Accreditation and professional association approval usually provides a comprehensive examination of curriculum and other key program components and elements based on approved up-to-date fixed standards. Preparation for accreditation or approval is the responsibility of the program and will be conducted per accrediting body timelines. Accredited and approved programs may also choose to have optional research done. This will supplement the accreditation or approval findings by providing information in any areas that the accreditation or approval process did not cover.

External Processes

  • The Architectural Technologies program is accredited by the Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC). The most recent accreditation site visit was in 2018.
  • The Architectural Technologies program is accredited by the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE). The program was reaccredited for the 2015-2021 period.
  • The Architectural Technologies program has articulation agreements with Athabasca University (Architecture) and Yorkville University (Interior Design).
  • Graduates routinely receive transfer credit to the architectural degree program at Montana State University and the Syllabus Program of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada.


Internal Processes

  • The Architectural Technologies program is subject to the same continuous internal reviews and program vitality studies as all other programs. This has included employer focus groups and curriculum validations.
  • In addition, the Industry Advisory Committee reviews the program annually.
  • School policy requires that each program must be reviewed every six years. A formal review of the Architectural Technologies program was conducted in July 2014, including student, graduate and employer surveys.
  • This was followed by a GAP Analysis in August 2015 and Advisory Committee recommendations in September 2015, leading to adoption of the New Curriculum Model in fall 2017.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENT 1. PROGRAM DESIGN

  • Information Obtained: Some English-Second-Language students have difficulty keeping up with lectures.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Will recommend to Dean that a bridging program be created to teach construction terminology to ESL applicants.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Saskatchewan Polytechnic has created the position of Intercultural Services Language Instructor to assist ESL students.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) As Saskatchewan Polytechnic deals with this at the institute level, this matter is considered closed.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENT 2. STUDENT EVALUATION

  • Information Obtained: Assessment documents have not been completed. This is useful for standardized marking, student information and succession planning.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) All assessment documents will be completed as part of the new academic model.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Aligned with new academic model. Syllabi, rubrics, and online gradebooks are being phased in and included on Brightspace. Online gradebooks being phased in.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) We continue to build the data base on Brightspace. Brightspace is now used to provide course information, rubrics and feedback to students.
  • Information Obtained: Students not well informed about how they will be evaluated.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) All syllabi now show percentage breakdown of grades within one year. Rubrics to be prepared for all assignments.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) All syllabi now show percentage breakdown of grades. Rubrics and online gradebooks are being phased in and included on Brightspace.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) Brightspace is now used to provide course information, rubrics and feedback to students. Students have responded positively.
  • Information Obtained: There is no mechanism for partial students to pick up out-of-sequence courses.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Extension courses have been created to permit out-of-sequence instruction/evaluation.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) This is an ongoing matter. Certain courses may be made available as part of the Bachelor degree program.
  • Information Obtained: Instructors don't always provide timely feedback.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) New rubrics and web-based assessment have improved both timeliness and quality.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Use more learner-to-learner feedback in classroom.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Increased formative feedback at intermediate stages.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Online grading has been fully developed for PROJ 228 and is being phased in for other courses. For assignments, the goal will be to return marked work within five working days. For large projects, timelines may be longer.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) Online grading has been extended to most courses.
  • Information Obtained: Students perceive a shortage of computers.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) More computers have been installed.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Instruction in computer lab has been reduced. Computers now available during certain assigned tutorial classes.
  • Information Obtained: (2017) Perceived shortage of computers persists but degree of concern has been reduced.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) This matter is considered closed, but the situation is being monitored.

CUSTOMIZED ELEMENT 3. PROGRAM DELIVERY

  • Information Obtained: Course information is inconsistent.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) We now use standardized course management software in all courses.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Staff and students have responded well to Brightspace.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) Information on Brightspace is improved with each course offering.
  • Information Obtained: Part-time instructors do not provide consistent documentation.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) New assessment documents, rubrics and course management software will be made available to part-time staff.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Faculty Certificate training will be recommended for part-time staff.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Part-time faculty will take New Instructor Orientation training as offered by Instructional and Leadership Development (ILDC)
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) Part-time staff are adapting to use of Brightspace.


CUSTOMIZED ELEMENT 4. STUDENT INTAKES

  • Information Obtained: Students drop off waiting list.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Meet with accepted students 3 months prior to first semester.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Increase participation in high school career fairs.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Accept more students than program capacity.
  • Information Obtained: (2017) Program is full. Wait list is longer.
  • Information Obtained: (2018) Students on wait list wait a full year rather than fill empty seats.


CUSTOMIZED ELEMENT 5. STUDENT PROGRESSION

  • Information Obtained: Student workload is an issue.
  • Actions Resulting: All courses have been reviewed to remove redundant work.
  • Information Obtained: (2017) Fewer students consider workload an issue.
  • Actions Resulting: This matter is considered closed. We are however monitoring effect of new supplemental policy.


CUSTOMIZED ELEMENT 6. LEARNING ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

  • Information Obtained: Lab and study space for unstructured time is limited.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Will try to provide more access to computers.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Instruction in computer lab has been reduced. Computers now available during certain assigned tutorial classes.
  • Information Obtained: (2018) Perceived shortage of computers persists but degree of concern has been reduced.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) New furniture has been ordered for computer lab.
  • Information Obtained: Purchased text books are not all "needed.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Will ask instructors to consider "recommended" texts and e-books.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Some instructors using custom textbooks from publisher.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) Some material available on line. Will need to monitor situation.


SUPPORTIVE ELEMENT 7. STUDENT SUPPORT

  • Information Obtained: Some students are unprepared for the workload and time commitment.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Mandatory classroom time has be reduced. More personal tutorial time has been introduced.
  • Information Obtained: (2017) Fewer students consider workload an issue
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) This matter is considered closed.


SUPPORTIVE ELEMENT 8. EMPLOYMENT

  • Information Obtained: No current issues.
  • Actions Resulting: None.


SUPPORTIVE ELEMENT 9. INDUSTRY RELATIONS

  • Information Obtained: Under-utilization of alumni as a resource.
  • Actions Resulting: (2016) Will try to develop social network.
  • Actions Resulting: (2017) Need to involve graduates in routine focus groups and fundraising for specific activities.
  • Actions Resulting: (2018) Alumni association is being formed.

 

 

Student Awards
Students in the Architectural Technologies program have recently won Academic Achievement and Centennial Merit awards for overall average as well as specific awards for achievement in individual courses.

The Saskatchewan Association of Architects, the Interior Designers Association of Saskatchewan, Construction Specifications Canada, and the Saskatchewan Applied Science Technologists and Technicians all offer student awards.

Skills Canada
The Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) is the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country.

Every year, more than 500 young people from all regions of Canada come to SCNC to participate in over 40 skilled trade and technology contests.

Each year, the Architectural Technologies program sends a graduate to compete at the national competition. Competing against the best representatives from all across Canada, we routinely do better than any other school, winning a medal every year, usually a gold medal, since 2000.

Applied Research Awards
The Architectural Technologies program often participates in applied research with industry partners. The Architectural Technologies program has won five awards from the Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development for a series of small projects including studies of a green roof, community gardens, 100-mile house and a project in Thailand which involved students travelling to Thailand to build a school using local-sustainable materials.

In addition, the program won a federal NSERC grant for a study of energy consumption in commercial buildings.

Co-operative Employment Program

All students are required to work three paid work terms with local employers. When a graduate seeks employment, they are looking for their fourth job, not their first. Typically, the construction industry has been doing well and we have placed all students each semester.

During temporary economic downturns pertaining to resource prices, it sometimes takes longer to find employment. Our students and graduates have an edge over those without formal construction education.
Typical co-op employment over three semesters.

  • Architectural firms (19)
  • Construction companies (21)
  • Residential and homebuilders (9)
  • Provincial government (17)
  • Engineering companies (6)
  • Federal government (2)
  • Project management (2)
  • Other (9)

In Regina: 37 placements
In Saskatoon: 35 placements
Other locations: 13 placements

Graduate Employment
In recent years all graduates seeking employment have been employed in the building industry. Many return to a previous co-op employer. Others seek new opportunities. Some continue with their education.
Graduates may be employed in design offices, by homebuilders, by heavy construction companies, by property managers and by construction material suppliers.

Self-Employment
It is not unusual for a graduate with a few years' experience to open their own design or construction management firm, usually in the residential sector.

There is no better way to assess the program than to speak with former grads who now work in the construction industry. Contact the program and you will be put in touch with several grads.

Aggregate data is available on the school web site. Program specific data may be obtained from the Dean's office.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic routinely surveys students, graduates and employers. These are incorporated in the formal internal quality assessment process. Following are some recent (2016-17) survey results:

Students (percentage agreeing with the statement)

  • Overall, I am satisfied with this program. 100%
  • I would recommend this program to others. 80%
  • Scope of program is well explained. 90%
  • The instructors treat students with respect. 100%
  • Satisfied with quality of instruction. 80%
  • Students are informed of how they will be evaluated. 85%
  • Student assessments focused on what was learned. 100%
  • The amount of hands-on experience is adequate. 90%
  • Student learning activities are effectively scheduled. 90%
  • The student workload is manageable. 65%
  • The shop/lab facilities are appropriate. 90%


Graduates (percentage agreeing with the statement)

  • Overall, I am satisfied with this program. 91%
  • I would recommend this program to others. 95%
  • The instructors treat students with respect. 95%
  • Students are informed of how they will be evaluated. 78%
  • Student assessments focused on what was learned. 91%
  • The amount of hands-on experience is adequate. 91%
  • Student learning activities are effectively scheduled. 55%
  • The student workload is manageable. 50%
  • The shop/lab facilities are appropriate. 82%


Employers of recent graduates (percentage agreeing with the statement)

  • Preparation for employment is adequate. 100%
  • Graduate has job related knowledge. 100%
  • Satisfaction with skills of graduate. 100%
  •  Would hire a Sask Polytech grad in the future. 100%

 

Additional Information

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