Machinist Foundation at British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Program Overview

The Machinist Foundation Certificate program at BCIT is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to enter the machinist trade. This program provides a solid foundation for those looking to pursue a career in manufacturing. Graduates of the program are eligible for credit towards the first level of machinist apprenticeship, allowing them to advance their careers in this field. The program is delivered in person, ensuring that students receive hands-on experience alongside their studies.

Program Structure

The Machinist Foundation program spans a duration of 25 weeks and is offered on a full-time basis. The program structure includes:

Approximately 50% theory and 50% practical hands-on learning.
Class hours from 12:30 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
A two-week break during the winter.
A total of 50 credits required for completion.

Upon completion, students will receive credit for 500 work-based training hours and the ITA Machinist Apprenticeship Level 1 technical training. This program is delivered on the Burnaby Campus, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on practice in a machine shop environment.
Training in safe work practices and hazardous materials handling.
Opportunities to work with various machine tools, including lathes and milling machines.
Capstone project that allows students to apply their skills in a real-world scenario.
Eligibility for credit towards apprenticeship training upon successful completion.

Career Options

Graduates of the Machinist Foundation program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

Machinist: Set up and operate machine tools to produce precision parts and components.
CNC Operator: Operate computer numerical control machines to manufacture parts according to specifications.
Tool and Die Maker: Design and create tools, dies, and special guiding and holding devices for manufacturing processes.
Manufacturing Technician: Assist in the production process, ensuring quality control and efficiency in manufacturing operations.
Quality Control Inspector: Inspect and test materials and products to ensure they meet required specifications and standards.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Machinist Foundation Certificate program, applicants must meet the following entrance requirements:

English language proficiency: One of the following:
- Category 3 – English Studies 12 (50%) or equivalent
- BCIT English Trades Entry Assessment
Math: One of the following:
- Pre-Calculus 11 (50%)
- Foundations of Math 11 (60%)
- Workplace Math 11 (67%)
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses
- BCIT Math Trades Entry Assessment

Applicants should also be aware of the following:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
It is recommended that potential students complete any applicable Trades Entry Assessments before applying if they are uncertain or do not meet the requirements.
International applicants are welcome to apply for this program.
International students are not eligible to continue to an apprenticeship training program.
A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the program.
While this program currently meets the eligible field of study requirement (CIP) to apply for a Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP), it is not eligible for a PGWP due to other criteria not being met.

For any clarification and support regarding the Academic Requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Machinist Foundation program, which is a Certificate level program, you must demonstrate proficiency in English. The following English Language Proficiency assessments are accepted:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Overall score 6.0, no band less than 5.0
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test - 60 overall band score with no component below 50
Duolingo English Test - 105 overall, no integrated subscore less than 80
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) - Overall score 52, no skill score less than 50
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT) - Overall score 82, no section score less than 19

Test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program you’re applying to.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!