Smart Grid Systems and Technologies 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 Master of Engineering in Smart Grid Systems and Technologies (MEng SGST) is a distinctive graduate program designed to equip students with the essential skills to research, plan, design, implement, maintain, commission, and operate Smart Grid systems within the electric utility sector and related fields. This program is delivered in a blended format, combining both on-campus and online learning experiences. Students will gain hands-on knowledge of foundational concepts in Smart Grid technologies, focusing on applications in renewable energy, green transportation, and smart cities. The program is tailored for professionals currently working in the industry, allowing them to enhance their expertise without disrupting their careers.

Program Structure

The MEng SGST program is structured to be completed in a maximum of five years, offering both full-time and part-time options. The total credit requirement for the program is 33 credits, which includes:

Coursework: 27 credits
Capstone project or elective courses: 6 credits

The program is delivered through a blended learning approach, with less than 50% of lectures conducted online. Students will engage in a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning activities, team-based projects, and hands-on laboratory experiences. The program includes:

Core coursework covering various aspects of Smart Grid technologies.
A capstone project that allows students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.
Elective options for further specialization.

This structure ensures that students not only learn theoretical concepts but also gain practical experience that is crucial for their future careers in the Smart Grid sector.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on Project Work: Students will engage in practical projects that reinforce theoretical knowledge.
Capstone Project: An independent applied research project that can be conducted on campus or in collaboration with industry partners.
Blended Learning: A combination of on-campus and online learning, providing flexibility for working professionals.
Living Laboratories: Utilization of BCIT’s smart microgrid as a demonstration center for real-world applications.
Team-Based Projects: Collaborative projects that enhance teamwork and communication skills.

Career Options

Graduates of the MEng in Smart Grid Systems and Technologies can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Smart Grid Engineer: Design and implement smart grid technologies to enhance energy efficiency and reliability.
Energy Consultant: Advise organizations on energy management strategies and sustainable practices.
Project Manager: Oversee projects related to smart grid implementation and renewable energy systems.
Utility Manager: Manage operations within electric utility companies, focusing on integrating smart technologies.
Research and Development Specialist: Conduct research on emerging technologies in the energy sector to drive innovation.

These roles are critical in supporting the transition to a carbon-constrained economy and addressing the challenges faced by the utility industry today.

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

Visit British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-07-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the Master of Engineering in Smart Grid Systems and Technologies (MEng SGST) program are as follows:

Competitive Entry: Two-step process

Step 1: Meet the following entrance requirements

Entry options: One of the following:
- Option 1: Standard entry
  - Post-secondary education: Bachelor’s degree in electrical or electronics engineering, with a minimum GPA of 2.4 out of 4.0 (60%) based on the entire program.
- Option 2: Alternate entry

For applicants who do not have a bachelor's degree in electrical or electronic engineering and may need to take bridging courses before being accepted to the program. Applicants are required to have the following:

Post-secondary education: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 2.4 out of 4.0 (60%) in a relevant discipline, such as software engineering, computer engineering, computer science, physics, mathematics, information, or communications technology.

Applicants who have completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, or New Zealand will require a comprehensive evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Step 2: Department Review

All complete applications will be reviewed by the Graduate Selection Committee and ranked on a competitive basis. Applicants who are best suited for success in the program will be offered acceptance.

International applicants:

The full-time option is available to international applicants. The part-time option is not available to international applicants.

Study permit: A valid BCIT study permit is required prior to starting the full-time program.

Students are responsible for meeting all Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) PGWP eligibility requirements. Final PGWP approval is at the discretion of IRCC.

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

Language Requirements

To apply for the Smart Grid Systems and Technologies program at BCIT, you must demonstrate a satisfactory level of English proficiency. The Language Requirements for this program, which falls under Graduate Studies, are as follows:

International English Language Testing System (IELTS): Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): Overall score of 60 with no skill score less than 60
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT): Overall score of 86 with no section score less than 20
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test: Overall band score of 70 with no component below 60
Duolingo English Test: Overall score of 120 with no integrated subscore less than 95
Cambridge Assessment English: B2 First or C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a minimum overall score of 176

All 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!