Power Engineering Technology

Diploma

Program Overview

The world runs on power. Power engineering technologists are in charge of operating and maintaining the complex systems used to operate industrial boilers, pumps, air conditioning and refrigeration systems. Demand for skilled power engineers is growing, opening the door to good jobs in the oil patch, mining, manufacturing, power generation utilities and more.

Power Engineering Technology is a two-year diploma program offered full time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon campus. You’ll gain knowledge and skills in the operation of power (steam) plants and industrial processes, including:

  • air conditioning and refrigeration
  • boiler operations (high and low pressure)
  • communications
  • computer monitoring of plant operations
  • controls and instrumentation
  • environmental (pollution) management
  • equipment checks and maintenance
  • plant safety
  • pump operations
  • water treatment systems

The program combines classroom learning with hands-on labs, power labs, computer simulations and industry work experiences. Graduates are productive on the job from day one—something employers look for when hiring and promoting.

Certification Opportunities

Power engineering is divided into levels of skill and training called classes (First Class is the highest level). You progress from one class to another through a combination of work experience, course completions and rigorous interprovincial exams.

After completing Year 1, you will earn one year of Fourth Class qualifying time credit from the Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan (TSASK), and be prepared to challenge:

  • TSASK  Fourth Class exams, and
  • TSASK  Refrigeration Engineers exams

After completing semester 3 and 4, you are prepared to challenge TSASK Third Class exams.

Upon successful completion of the diploma program, 9 months of credit will be granted towards work experience for your TSASK 3rd Class. Students who have successfully challenged all TSASK 3rd class exams and are enrolled in semester 5 will be eligible to challenge the TSASK 2nd Class Part A exams.

TSASK certificates are recognized across the country.

Personal study is recommended before you write any industry certification exam.

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) of Ontario website includes a video that provides information about the power engineering industry and training that may be helpful in determining whether this career is right for you. (The program and students shown are not from Saskatchewan Polytechnic).

Provincial certification (TSASK) is required to work in the industry. TSASK test writing fees are not included in tuition.

The TSASK examination fees are:

Fourth Class - (Year 1) - Two exams at $108 per exam
Third Class - (Year 2) - Four exams at $108 per exam
Second Class - (Year 2) - Three exams at $216 per exam
(3 additional second class exams [Part B] are required after course completion)
Refrigeration Engineers (Year 1) - One exam at $108

Diploma to Degree

Use your diploma to ladder into a mining engineering technology degree at Queen’s University in Ontario.

Bachelor of Applied Management

Ladder your diploma into the Bachelor of Applied Management degree at Saskatchewan Polytechnic with only two years of additional study. Remote classes and part-time options are available.

Refer to Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.

Get a Global Learning Experience

As a student in this program, you can sharpen your intercultural skills. You may have an opportunity to study and learn abroad. Learn more about global learning experiences at Sask Polytech.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Power engineering technologists work with large, complex power systems. You could work as a power engineer or process operator in utility (power) plants, refineries, pulp and paper mills, breweries, mines, gas processing plants, heavy oil upgraders, fertilizer plants or chemical plants. You could be responsible for heating, air-conditioning, ventilation and refrigeration systems in commercial, institutional or residential complexes. You can also put your knowledge to work in industrial and mechanical design and sales.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Steam EngineerPower Engineers and Power Systems Operators (9241)$56,200 - $121,700
Steam Plant OperatorPower Engineers and Power Systems Operators (9241)$56,200 - $121,700
Panel OperatorPower Engineers and Power Systems Operators (9241)$56,200 - $121,700

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s):

September


Length: 72 weeks

(includes two work experiences)

Locations

  • Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

 

Note

  • Prior to starting lab courses in Year 2 of this program, students must present their 4th Class Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan (TSASK) certificate and license.
  • Chemistry and Physics are not admission requirements; however, they would be extremely helpful to your success in the program and may be required by some employers as a condition of employment.
  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of a current 2015 WHMIS Globally Harmonized System (GHS) certification within the first month of the program start date. Recertification will be required every three years to remain current. The cost of WHMIS certification is your responsibility.

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:

  • Math B30 

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.



ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 254 Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra and Statistics
  • 250 Reading
  • 245 Writing

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

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.

 

2022/23 Academic Year

Year 1 - $9,978
Year 2 - $6,475

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Year 1 - Semester 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
COMP 172
Introduction to Microsoft Word and Excel
1
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You will learn the purpose and uses of a word processor and electronic spreadsheet. You will develop the basic skills of creating, editing and formatting documents and spreadsheets.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): COAP 120, COAP 172, COAP 381, COMP 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Print Distance Group, Prior Learning
ELEC 188
Basic Electricity 1
2
Show course details
You will be introduced to the basics of alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) circuits and machines. You will use electrical metering devices, perform electrical calculations as well as describe the operation of transformers and electrical distribution systems.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Corequisites(s):
Equivalent Course(s): ELEC 288, PHYS 224
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
ENGP 179
Applied Mechanics (Fourth Class)
2
Show course details
You will solve many types of introductory problems related to the study of motion. You will learn about forces and applications of force such as work and pressure.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): PHYS 121
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
ENGP 180
Power Lab 1
3
Show course details
You will learn the major components of a steam plant and participate in the operation of the equipment which is similar to that used in industry.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): PROP 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
ENGP 181
Plant Maintenance 1
2
Show course details
You will study piping, valves, materials and welding. You will use safe practices to perform maintenance tasks using common hand tools.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
ENGP 190
Boiler and Boiler Systems
3
Show course details
You will be introduced to boiler terminology, design, and operation. You will study the theory of combustion and feedwater control.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
INST 182
Instrumentation
3
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You will study plant instrumentation and control systems. You will be introduced to various measuring devices as well as transmitters, recorders, controllers and actuators. You will describe the operation and maintenance of programmable controls and control systems. Your studies will also include interpreting various industrial drawings. You will be introduced to the operation of Distributed Control System (DCS) used to operate plant equipment using simulation software.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Corequisites(s):
Equivalent Course(s): INST 220
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
MATH 299
Intermediate Algebra and Basic Trigonometry
2
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You will use the principles of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry to solve basic problems in the power engineering field. You will apply these principles to practical problems involving percentages, ratio and proportion, mixtures, speeds, rates, practical problems involving simultaneous equations, and vectors.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): MAT 120, MAT 122, MATH 182, TSYH 120
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
SFTY 172
Safety, Legislation and Codes
3
Show course details
You will study general safety information related to power engineering. You will study the basic principles of personal protective equipment (PPE), fire safety and WHMIS. You will study environmental pollutants and their methods of control. You will review the various provincial, Canadian and American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) legislation and codes related to the construction and operation of boilers, pressure vessels and refrigeration plants.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
TCOM 105
Communications for Technicians
2
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You will learn and practice written, oral and interpersonal communication for the workplace. You will apply these skills as team members and in short presentations. You will also develop effective job search strategies.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): COMM 127, TCOM 102
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
THER 185
Thermodynamics (4th Class)
2
Show course details
You will solve introductory problems related to the study of matter, thermodynamics, and chemistry. You will study heat and the modes, methods, and effects of heat transfer.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
Total semester credits: 25

Year 1 - Semester 2

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
ENGP 178
Heating Systems
2
Show course details
You will be introduced to heating boiler terminology, design, operation and government regulations. You will study various heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and the importance of building ventilation. You will study lighting, water supply and sanitary drainage systems.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 183
Prime Movers
2
Show course details
You will study basics of steam and gas turbine construction and operation. You will study internal combustion engines and steam engines used in industry.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 186
Pumps, Compressors, and Lubrication
2
Show course details
You will be introduced to the characteristics and operation of pumps and compressors. You will study lubrication properties, methods of application and importance to efficient equipment operation.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 187
Power Lab 2
4
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You will produce steam and operate turbines, heat exchangers, pumps and auxiliary fuel systems in a functioning high pressure steam lab.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
ENGP 188
Plant Operation and Maintenance
4
Show course details
You will study the safe and efficient operational procedures for boilers and boiler systems. You will perform plant maintenance tasks including shaft alignment and rigging procedures.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 181
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
ENGP 191
Boiler Controls and Safety Devices
2
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You will study boiler and fittings code requirements. You will study the design and operation of boiler controls and safety devices.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PROP 198
Plant and Process Operations
2
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You will learn about industrial processes used to produce a variety of products. You will study the equipment used in these industrial processes.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
RFRG 183
Air Conditioning
2
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You will be introduced to theory and equipment used in air conditioning systems. You will study humidification, ventilation, air filters as well as duct design and various types of air conditioning coils.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): AIR 288
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
RFRG 195
Refrigeration (4th Class)
3
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You will be introduced to the principles of refrigeration used in power plants including operation and maintenance procedures. Common refrigerants and their environmental effects will be reviewed. You will practice refrigeration calculations and become familiar with CSA B52, Mechanical Refrigeration Code.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): THER 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
WTER 182
Water Treatment (4th Class)
2
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You will study the basic methods utilized to prepare and maintain the water used in steam generation and its auxiliary equipment.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
Total semester credits: 25

Year 1 - Semester 3

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
CLTR 200
Culture and Diversity
2
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Your studies will focus on the many dimensions of culture and approaches to promoting inclusion and innovation. You will explore culture in Canadian society as it pertains to Indigenous and immigrant populations. You will also examine the correlation between culture and diversity.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
ENGP 284
Applied Mechanics (3rd Class)
3
Show course details
You will apply the theory of mechanics to problems in the power engineering field. You will solve problems involving mass, vectors, force, motion, work, energy, power, stress, and fluids.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 179
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 296
Chemistry, Metallurgy and Drawings
2
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You will study the principles of chemistry and corrosion in industrial operations and how these processes will effect metallurgy and materials. You will analyze and interpret industrial drawings to understand plant processes.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): INST 182, WTER 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
MATH 390
Technical Mathematics for Engineering Calculations
1
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You will use trigonometry to solve problems involving oblique triangles and radian measures. You will solve problems involving exponential and logarithmic equations. You will apply these concepts to solve introductory problems in the fields of applied mechanics and thermodynamics.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): MATH 299
Equivalent Course(s): CALC 181, MAT 246, MATH 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
THER 281
Thermodynamics (3rd Class)
3
Show course details
You will solve intermediate problems involving thermal equilibrium, thermal expansion, heat transfer and heat power, steam properties and production, boiler formulae, perfect gas properties and work production.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): THER 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
WORK 185
Work Experience 1
0
Show course details
You will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the operation at the plant site. You will investigate the impact of shift work on personal health and wellness. Your studies will be enhanced by real world experience. Your work experience will assist you in building networking opportunities within industry.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): SFTY 172
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Work Experience - Group
Total semester credits: 11

Year 2 - Semester 4

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
ELEC 291
Basic Electricity 2
2
Show course details
You will study the operation of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) electrical generators motors and components used for the safe distribution of electrical energy. You will calculate DC and AC system operating values.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ELEC 188
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
ENGP 280
Refrigeration (3rd Class)
1
Show course details
You will study industrial applications including multiple compressor arrangements, vapor compression, and absorption refrigeration. You will review auxiliaries, capacity controls and basic refrigeration calculations.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): RFRG 195
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 285
Power Lab 3
3
Show course details
You will use Distributed Control System (DCS) to manage the power lab equipment. You will assume multiple roles in the operation of a high pressure steam plant. You will develop your supervisory skills by assuming the role of shift lead in the power lab.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 187
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
ENGP 286
Codes and Calculations 1
1
Show course details
You will examine the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) codes, Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards and the Provincial Boiler Act and Regulations, that pertains to the design and operations of boilers.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Prerequisites(s): SFTY 172
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 290
Pumps and Compressors
2
Show course details
You will study the design and operation of various pumps You will solve pump head calculations. Your studies will involve air compression design, auxiliaries and system components.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 186
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 292
Prime Movers and Plant Auxiliaries
3
Show course details
You will study prime movers including steam turbines, gas turbines and internal combustion engines. You will study cogeneration systems, heat exchangers and fired heaters.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 297
Combustion, Piping and Plant Management
2
Show course details
Your studies will focus on fuels, combustion, piping and plant management. You will learn how to perform calculations and do flue gas analysis required for optimum efficiency in plant operation. You will learn piping design, valve and actuator application, steam trap systems and insulation. You will learn maintenance strategies, fire protection systems and review safety management programs.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
INST 280
Controls and Instrumentation
2
Show course details
You will study boiler controls and plant instrumentation. You will study the computer control systems used to monitor and control boiler firing.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): INST 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
PROP 280
Process Simulations 2
2
Show course details
You will operate and troubleshoot basic plant simulation models.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PROP 198
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
STEA 286
Steam Generation (3rd Class)
2
Show course details
Your studies will focus on larger steam generators found in industrial plants. You will study specialized boiler types, construction, auxiliaries, operating procedures, firing equipment, and control systems used for steam generation. You will study various welding procedures, inspection methods and pressure vessels.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 190, ENGP 191
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
WORK 186
Work Experience 2
0
Show course details
You will have the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of a steam plant. With this additional experience you will gain more insight into the different boilers and equipment. You will expand your work contact base during this work term.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): WORK 185
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Work Experience - Group
WTER 280
Water Treatment (3rd Class)
2
Show course details
You will study internal and external water treatment processes. You will examine external treating process to gain an understanding of wastewater treatment.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): WTER 182
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
Total semester credits: 22

Year 2 - Semester 5

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
ADMN 288
Industrial Administration and Plant Management
2
Show course details
You will study the factors and legislation governing plant design. You will study the engineering and administration involved in plant construction or modifications. Your studies will include management techniques related to personnel, planning, plant maintenance and safety programs.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 297
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 189
Codes and Calculations 2
2
Show course details
You will learn to use the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Section I and VIII codes. You will learn to solve calculations needed for repairs and construction of boilers and pressure vessels.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 286
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 288
Applied Mechanics (2nd Class)
4
Show course details
You will solve complex problems involving forces, inertia, acceleration, and energy in translational and rotational motion. You will solve complex problems involving the structure and behaviours of materials in the solid and liquid states.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 284
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
ENGP 289
Power Lab 4
3
Show course details
You will assume 2nd class power engineer responsibilities in the control and management of a power plant. You will learn to conduct various efficiency tests. You will produce power using a steam turbine driven generator.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): ENGP 285
Potential Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical, Online
ENGP 295
Metallurgy and Testing of Materials
2
Show course details
You will study the structure of various metals and their alloys, heat treatments and the application of these metals in power plants. You will identify the various material defects and the destructive and non-destructive tests used to detect them.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory
PROP 290
Process Simulations 3
2
Show course details
You will operate and troubleshoot a complex simulation model.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): PROP 280
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
STEA 287
Steam Generation (Second Class)
2
Show course details
You will learn the design factors of various steam generators and their components. You will study the specialized designs of boilers and their operations and the maintenance and inspection techniques required to operate them safely. You will learn to install and operate large centrifugal pumps in large power plants.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): STEA 286
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
THER 282
Thermodynamics (2nd Class)
4
Show course details
You will expand your understanding of the behaviours of gases and vapours in relation to steam production and use, and power generation. You will solve complex problems involving gases, steam and mixtures, heat and work transfers to and from gases and steam, and practical thermodynamic cycles.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): THER 281
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
WTER 282
Water Treatment (2nd Class)
2
Show course details
You will learn about the need for and the methods used to treat water in large power plants. You will learn to use instruments in order to detect problems, take samples and measure chemical levels. You will study treatment and testing methods for cooling water, industrial waste treatment and potable water.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): WTER 280
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online
Total semester credits: 23

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 link(s) below to get more information about PLAR.


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.

Graduates of this program with a minimum Cumulative GPA of 3.0 (75%) may qualify for admission to Queen's University's BTech (Mining) Degree Program. Block transfer of 72 units less the required Customized Bridge Course units will be granted upon admission. Students must pass each prescribed bridge course with a minimum C- in order to progress to Year 3 of the BTech (Mining) Program. 

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