Engineering Technology and Applied Technology Programs In Canada

Quick Facts

Credential
· Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT)
· Associate of Science (ASc)
· Diploma/ Certificate

Program Length
· 4 years for applied degree
· 2 years for associate's degree
· 2-3 years for diploma
· 12 - 52 weeks for certificate

Entry
· Applied degree - direct entry
· Associate's degree - direct entry; entry after prior diploma or university transfer study
· Diploma/ Certificate - direct entry

Areas of Study
· General engineering technology
· Specialization areas include architectural and building technology, environmental technology, electrical engineering/ automated systems, marine engineering technology, marine technology- navigation, mechanical engineering technology, mechanical techniques, chemical sciences technology, control systems, civil engineering technology, technology foundations.

Special Features
· Specialized research labs
· Opportunities to participate in specialized competitions
· co-op/ work placement/ industry internships

Technology is necessary to make and maintain what we live in, work and even play with. Engineering technology and applied technology is therefore a huge field rich in opportunities for study and employment.

Entering direct from high school into a community college, you can take a four-year Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT), a two-year Associate of Science degree (ASc), or a two-year diploma program incorporating co-op or internship terms in addition to traditional classroom learning. Some associate's degrees require prior study, such as a diploma or university transfer courses. Some of the possible specializations in the field of engineering technology and applied technology include architectural and building technology, environmental technology, electrical engineering/ automated systems, marine engineering technology, control systems, marine technology- navigation, mechanical engineering technology, mechanical techniques, chemical sciences technology, and technology foundations. Within a branch there may be further specialization options. For example, within civil engineering technology one can take options in construction materials, geotechnical, highway design, subdivision planning, survey, traffic and transportation.

Some private career colleges provide training for specific engineering technology and applied technology careers based on industry demand. These programs typically last between 12 and 52 weeks. As well, some career colleges teaching courses in a variety of disciplines may also offer engineering technology and applied technology, so it's important to search thoroughly. Career colleges emphasize hands-on training and workplace skills while exposing students to important industry connections. In fact, industry internships may be part of the curriculum.

Study generally combines classroom theory and learning with practical computer lab work. Co-ops and industry partnerships/ internships are often part of the curriculum, and a number of program-specific scholarships are available.