Engineering Design and Drafting Technology

Program Overview

Engineering Design and Drafting Technologists participate in multi-discipline engineering projects. As technologists in this dynamic role, we use industry-standard software to collaborate, design, model, draft, coordinate and document projects in many disciplines, such as construction, mining and manufacturing.

The Engineering Design & Drafting Technology program is a three-year diploma offered full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Moose Jaw Campus. You’ll take five academic semesters and three Co-operative Education work terms. You’ll be trained in:

computer aided drafting (CAD)
- 2D drafting
- 3D modeling
- cadastral survey drafting
- digital mapping
- civil, mechanical and structural drafting
building information modeling (BIM)
geographic information systems (GIS)
cadastral surveying
civil, mechanical and structural design
computer programming
engineering materials
applied mechanics
fluid mechanics applications
project management

Practical experience includes using current industry standard CAD software to design and produce engineering projects in 2D and 3D environments. You’ll complete a major project using Building Information Modeling (BIM) Technology by integrating civil, mechanical piping systems and structural design, applying the concepts of project management and carrying out an applied capstone research project.

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. Some opportunities require a Criminal Record Check and/or drug and alcohol testing.

Diploma to Degree

Use your diploma to ladder into a construction management degree at Sask Polytech or a mining engineering technology degree at Queen’s University in Ontario.

Learning Environment

24 students are accepted each year
Students will experience computer based assignments and project work, lectures, and co-operative work terms
Class hours are 8:30am – 4:30pm Monday to Friday
Students are expected to complete an average of 20 hours of homework per week, outside of class time, time management is important

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Saskatchewan Polytechnic graduates are sought after as computer-aided draftspersons. Potential employers include engineering firms, construction companies, land surveyors, mining, manufacturing and fabrication companies, utilities and all levels of government. Your work could involve electrical, mechanical and structural design of buildings and other structures, land development or infrastructure projects such as sewer and water facilities.

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
CAD Technologist	Drafting Technologists and Technicians (2253)	$42,700 - $83,200
Design and Drafting Technologist	Drafting Technologists and Technicians (2253)	$42,700 - $83,200
Project Manager	Engineering Managers (211)	$43,800 - $167,100

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.

Locations

Moose Jaw

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12 with Pre-Calculus 30*
English Language Requirement

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

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©

85 Arithmetic
40 College Level Math
80 Elementary Algebra
75 Reading
75 Sentence

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 books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Year 1 - $7,000
Year 2 - $7,300
Year 3 - $2,400

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

The program follows this academic and co-operative education schedule. Courses are outlined below by semester.

	Sept - Dec	Jan - Apr	May - Aug
Year 1	Semester 1	Semester 2	Work term 1
Year 2	Semester 3	Work term 2	Semester 4
Year 3	Work term 3	Semester 5

Expand All +

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CADD 120

Computer Aided Drafting 1

You will develop fundamental computer aided drafting (CAD) skills using industry-standard software. Your studies will focus on two-dimensional geometric construction, dimensioning and drawing output.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): DRFT 106
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Lab, Online

COMP 105

Introduction to Computer Applications

Your studies will focus on an introduction to the basic hardware and software. You will learn about current hardware technologies, computer communications and basic security issues. You will be introduced to report writing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software as well as file and data management techniques.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 172
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DRFT 106

Drafting Fundamentals

You will be introduced to orthographic drawing. You will practice sketching, geometric construction, orthographic projections, dimensioning, sectional views and descriptive geometry.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): CADD 120
Equivalent Course(s): DRFT 121
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GEOM 100

Introduction to Maps and Navigation

You will become familiar with fundamental mapping concepts and learn about map use in Canada. You will study the history of maps, map creation and use, map projections, the importance of map reference systems, terrain analysis using contours and an introduction to map scale and errors. You will also develop basic navigation skills through the use of instrumentation and topographic maps.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MAT 101

Applied Technical Mathematics

You will gain a basic background in trigonometry and algebra that is needed to do problem solving in applied areas and to advance to a study of calculus. You will study measurement, computations, algebraic operations, simplifications and solutions, trigonometry, graphing, exponents and logarithms. This course is intended to meet your needs in the construction stream of engineering technologies.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 75.0
Equivalent Course(s): MAT 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

PHYS 104

Physics for Engineering Design and Drafting Technology

You will study vector applications of Newton’s three laws and the conservation of momentum involving free-body and vector diagrams on coordinate reference frames. You will perform an experiment demonstrating Newton’s laws to determine the coefficient of friction between a moving object and its contact surface. You will also study the conservation of energy in the work, power and energy section as well as the static and dynamic properties of fluids.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

SEM 101

Technology Seminars

Your orientation will include discussions regarding the role of technicians/technologists in the workplace and society. You will study time management skills, diversity in the workplace, principles of sustainability and safety requirements.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 181, ETHC 183, ORTN 120, SEM 104
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

SRVY 104

Survey Data Interpretation for Design Drafting

You will be introduced to the basics of surveying and the use of 2D and 3D coordinate systems in surveying. You will relate survey data to engineering design, including an introduction to levelling, total stations, Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and 3D Scanning. Your studies will focus on current surveying techniques and equipment.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

TCOM 102

Workplace Communication

You will examine the employability skills required in the workplace. You will discuss the communication process, and practice effective interpersonal communication techniques and conflict resolution. You will use workplace writing and job search skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 127, COMM 191, JOBS 190, JOBS 288, JOBS 290, TCOM 102CE, TCOM 120, TCOM 140, TMGT 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Learn Linc, Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

BIM 100

Introduction to Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technology

You will study the terminology associated with the process of Building Information Modeling (BIM) as a technology. You will discuss the BIM cycle from execution plans through to model handoff. As well, you will define BIM processes and standards in relation to software uses.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CADD 211

Computer Aided Drafting 2

Building on your computer aided drafting (CAD) skills, your studies will focus on intermediate and advanced 2D CAD drafting. You will develop drawing sets and produce annotative objects.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): CADD 120
Corequisites(s): CADD 212, DRFT 205, DRFT 209
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CADD 212

Integrated CADD Projects

You will be introduced to specialized computer aided drafting (CAD) software that is currently being used in industry. This course will help prepare you for your co-operative education placement(s). You will be introduced to at least three different specialized software packages that use 3D technology and Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology. You will complete required template driven assignments in each software package and be expected to complete one final project using one of the software packages.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s): CADD 211
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online

CADD 221

CADD Customization

As a power user, you will study advanced topics in computer aided drafting using industry-standard software. Software customization, software enhancement and automation will be emphasized.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): CADD 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DRFT 205

Mechanical Drafting Fundamentals

You will be introduced to mechanical drafting and apply the skills and tools you learned in previous computer aided drafting (CAD) courses. You will practice dimensioning and develop sectional views. You will create 2-D part and assembly drawings. As well, you will use sketching and precision measuring instruments to produce a full set of mechanical drawing sets. You will use 3D modelling tools and documentation methods in your project.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): DRFT 106
Corequisites(s): CADD 211
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DRFT 209

Building Service Drafting

You will continue to develop your drafting skills to create 2D drawings. You will be introduced to the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC). Your drafting assignments will focus on architectural elevations, building layouts, utility layouts, wiring diagrams and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control schematics.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s): CADD 211
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

ENG 100

Applied Theory of Structures

You will build on your knowledge of physics to solve problems involving work and the equilibrium of cantilevers, trusses and frames. Your studies will lead to your basic understanding of frame analysis.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PHYS 104
Corequisites(s): MAT 226
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MAT 226

Technical Mathematics and Differential Calculus

You will learn how to solve technical problems using basic algebraic skills and the differential calculus. You will become familiar with basic definitions and the fundamental concepts of mathematics and elementary derivatives.
Credit Units: 5
Course Hours: 75.0
Prerequisites(s): MAT 101 or (MAT 102, MAT 103)
Equivalent Course(s): MAT 225
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

Co-operative Work Term 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COOP 101

Co-operative Work Term

Your co-operative education term will provide you with the opportunity to consolidate theoretical and practical concepts learned in the classroom and gain valuable experience in a work setting.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 640.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Coop Education Work Term, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COAP 127

Computer Programming

You will be introduced to computer programming using the .NET framework. You will develop object–based, event-driven applications with a graphical user interface for the Windows environment. You will also create Autodesk add-ons.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

CVEN 198

Civil Engineering Fundamentals

You will apply CAD drafting skills and engineering design fundamentals to produce civil engineering drawings. You will be introduced to civil design theories, municipal as well as provincial guidelines and regulations. You will use current civil design CAD software to produce your drawings.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): CADD 211
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

ENG 200

Applied Fluid Mechanics

Building on your skills gained in applied physics, you will study the steady flow energy equation. Your studies will include open channel design, pipe sizing considerations, pump selection as well as open and closed loop piping system. You will analyze pumping requirements for series and parallel piping systems using computer software.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENG 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

ENG 201

Applied Mechanics of Materials

You will study the concept of stress and strain, properties and behaviour of various materials. Your studies will focus on stress and deformation resulting from axial loads, direct shear and torsional loads, shear force and bending moment diagrams, as well as bending stress and transverse shear stress. You will be introduced to basic concepts pertaining to various jointed connections including thin walled cylinders in the design of domestic tanks.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ENG 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MAT 201

Technical Mathematics and Integral Calculus for EDD Technology

You will build on your knowledge and skills developed in Technical Mathematics and Differential Calculus to become familiar with the basic definitions, fundamental concepts and uses of integral calculus as related to engineering design and drafting.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): MAT 226
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Print Distance Individual

MECH 200

Industrial Mechanical and Piping Drafting 1

You will be introduced to cross-discipline design and drafting for industrial mechanical and piping samples. Your studies will focus on best practices for industrial mechanical and piping industries for drafting, modelling, assemblies and documentation. Your applied exercises will include your producing industrial mechanical drawings.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): DRFT 205
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

STRU 104

Structural Drafting

You will apply CAD drafting best practices and engineering design fundamentals to produce structural steel drawings. You will study to Canadian Standards Association (CSA), Canadian Institute of Steel Standards (CISC), and Resources Information Standards Committee (RISC) standards. You will prepare engineering design drawings, shop drawings, steel reinforcement placement drawings and structural timber drawings. You will apply building information modelling (BIM) software and techniques to your assignments and project.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DRFT 205
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Co-operative Work Term 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COOP 201

Co-operative Work Term

Your second co-operative education term will build on the experience gained during your first work placement and provide you with additional opportunities to develop skills and techniques related to your field of studies in a real work setting.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 640.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Coop Education Work Term, Prior Learning

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CVEN 199

Civil Design 2

You will become familiar with planning and designing municipal infrastructures. Your studies will include site grading and servicing developed areas with storm water, sanitary sewer and potable water delivery.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): CVEN 198
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

CVEN 200

Civil Applications

You will apply computer aided drafting (CAD) skills and engineering design fundamentals to develop civil and municipal works. Your studies will focus on site planning, layout, grading, drainage and municipal services.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Corequisites(s): CVEN 199
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GMTC 202

Geospatial Information Systems

You will be introduced to geospatial information systems (GIS) principles and techniques. You will learn how to use vector and raster data structures and topology to model and manage geospatial databases. You will become familiar with SQL queries and apply cartographic design principles to create thematic maps. You will be introduced to spatial modeling and analysis, network representation and analysis, spatial interpolation and surface modelling. You will design, execute and present a GIS project.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MECH 201

Industrial Mechanical and Piping Drafting 2

You will develop cross-discipline solutions by applying best practices in CAD design, drafting, modelling, assemblies and documentation. You will design and interpret authentic design problems while developing and expanding your parametric modeling skills. You will select appropriate information from catalogues and charts.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MECH 200
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MECH 210

Elements of Applied Mechanical Drafting

You will apply codes and standards pertaining to storage tanks, pumps and boiler design and selection. You will learn how to analyze and apply process flow to mechanical equipment based on your preliminary design and system layouts. You will also learn how to design complimentary elements including pipe supports, walkways and stairs in an industrial setting.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ENG 200, ENG 201
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PROJ 287

Project Management

You will be introduced to project management. You will examine the basic theory of project planning and control, from project initiation to project close out. You will apply research techniques and various tools to practice project management theory in a variety of projects. You will practice skills using project management software.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): MGMT 222
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

STRU 200

Structural Design 1

You will apply Canadian codes and standards to the design of basic steel structures. You will learn how to calculate loads using limit states design principles. You will also learn how to design steel beams and columns, detail basic steel connections.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENG 201
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

TCOM 103

Technical Communication

You will use research skills to find technical information and cite it correctly. You will conduct effective meetings and produce supporting documents. As well, you will discuss technical report purposes and formats, write short technical reports and present technical information.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): TCOM 102
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 181, COMM 190, TCOM 103CE, TCOM 106, TCOM 123, TCOM 141, TCOM 190
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

Co-operative Work Term 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COOP 301

Co-operative Work Term

Your third co-operative education work term will round out the work term experience by adding related work knowledge through the application of theories and practices relevant to your field of studies.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 640.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Coop Education Work Term, Prior Learning

Year 3 - Semester 5

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CVEN 201

Civil Design Project

You will apply computer aided drafting (CAD) skills and engineering design fundamentals to complete a civil design project. You will focus on site planning and design, and interpreting, analyzing and applying design and drafting standards. You will use current civil design CAD software to produce a set of engineering drawings.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): CVEN 199, CVEN 200
Corequisites(s): MECH 202, MGMT 207, STRU 201, STRU 202
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MECH 202

Industrial Mechanical and Piping Project

You will use the expertise and knowledge you acquired in previous courses to develop, design and draft a piping system and layout using Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technology. You will generate all aspects of the piping design from modeling, collaborating, estimating and drafting using appropriate BIM software. You will produce the piping and facility layout section of the design project which will be coordinated with the civil and structural designs. Your studies will focus on Implementing and applying design and drafting standards.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): MECH 201, MECH 210
Corequisites(s):
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MGMT 207

Project Management Applications

You will apply your project management skills to develop all required aspects of a project proposal for a building site and a building. You will develop all aspects of the project team, contracts, delivery, estimating, scheduling and control in conjunction with the proposal using appropriate software.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PROJ 287
Corequisites(s): CVEN 201, MECH 202, STRU 201, STRU 202
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PROJ 206

Capstone Project

You will apply the engineering concepts and principles to develop a significant initiative or project. Working individually or in small groups, you will use interpersonal, problem solving, and project management skills to propose, conceptualize, design, and demonstrate an engineering project that is both significant and relevant to your field of practice. You will manage and schedule the project with minimal direction. You will develop a presentation appropriate for an industry client and demonstrate the communication skills necessary to defend the technical specifications and the relevance of project in relation to the initial engineering problem.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Lab, Online

STRU 201

Structural Design 2

You will apply Canadian codes and standards to the design of timber and concrete members. You will learn how to calculate loads using limit states design principles. You will also learn how to detail timber connections, and detail concrete beams and footings.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): STRU 200
Corequisites(s): CVEN 201, MECH 202, MGMT 207, STRU 202
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

STRU 202

Structural Design Project

You will use the expertise and knowledge you acquired in previous semesters to develop, design and draft a building structure using Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technology. You will generate all aspects of the structural design from modeling, collaborating, estimating and drafting appropriate BIM software. Implementing and applying design and drafting standards will be a major part of the course content.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): STRU 104, STRU 200
Corequisites(s): CVEN 201, MECH 202, MGMT 207, STRU 201
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

TCOM 104

Applied Research in Technology

You will develop a technical proposal and apply advanced research skills to a technical problem. You will use the technical problem-solving process in an applied research project and present your research findings in a written report and oral presentation.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): TCOM 103 or ENGL 101
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 115, COMM 182, COMM 290, TCOM 239
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

More about PLAR

Transfer Credit

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

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

admission eligibility to the Bachelor of Construction Management, Sask Polytech
admission eligibility to the Bachelor of Mining Engineering Technology, Queen’s University, Ontario

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. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. 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

Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB)

The Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) accredits the program at the Engineering Technologist level, which allows you to work across Canada.