College Diploma - Engineering Design Technology at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-05-14

Program overview

Program Overview

The Engineering Design Technology program at NAIT is designed to equip students with essential skills in engineering drawing, 3D modeling, and computer-aided design and drafting. This program serves as a solid foundation for a rewarding career as an engineering designer. Students will engage in both theoretical and practical education, focusing on the fundamental principles of engineering design and the application of computer technologies across various engineering disciplines. If you have a keen eye for design, enjoy working with computers, and possess strong math and physics skills, this program could be an excellent fit for you!

Program Structure

The Engineering Design Technology program is structured to be completed in 2 years on a full-time basis. The program is delivered in-person, allowing students to engage directly with instructors and peers. Key features of the program structure include:

In-person classes scheduled on weekdays during daytime hours.
A comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical concepts and practical applications.
Opportunities for hands-on learning through projects and assignments.
Focus on developing strong physics and mathematical skills necessary for engineering design.
Exposure to industry-standard computer-aided design (CAD) software.

Students will also have the chance to learn traditional drafting concepts, which, while less common in industry today, are crucial for understanding modern practices. This blend of learning methods prepares graduates for various roles in the engineering field.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on experience with major CAD software packages, including AutoCAD and MicroStation.
Technical drafting skills development through both traditional and modern methods.
Field surveying and calculations, providing practical insights into engineering projects.
Project management training to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges.
Collaboration with peers on projects that simulate industry conditions.

Career Options

Graduates of the Engineering Design Technology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Engineering Designer: Create and develop engineering drawings and specifications for various projects.
CAD Technician: Utilize computer-aided design software to produce detailed technical drawings and models.
Project Coordinator: Assist in managing engineering projects, ensuring timelines and budgets are met.
Field Surveyor: Conduct surveys and prepare legal survey plans for construction and land development.
Technical Draftsperson: Prepare and interpret design and working drawings for mechanical and structural components.

The program boasts a high graduate placement rate, with many graduates reporting competitive salaries and opportunities for rapid career advancement in the engineering sector.

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

Visit Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-05-14

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the College Diploma - Engineering Design Technology program are designed to ensure that applicants have the necessary academic background to succeed in their studies. Below are the specific requirements you need to meet:

Grade 12 Language Arts (English 30-2)
Grade 12 Mathematics (Math 30-2)*
Grade 11 Physics (Physics 20) or Grade 12 Science (Science 30)*

*See Recommended Courses for more information.

Additional requirements & considerations

If you are missing one or more of the minimum entrance requirements, you may be eligible for an alternative entrance pathway. For any pathway listed below, English language proficiency is also a requirement.

Successful completion of a minimum of 24 post-secondary credits or 8 post-secondary courses within an accredited or recognized degree or diploma in a related field (engineering or engineering technology) with an Admission GPA of 2.0 based on the most recently completed 24 post-secondary credits.
Completion of a Canadian Journeyperson Certificate in an approved trade. Approved trades include:
- Boilermaker
- Cabinetmaker
- Carpenter
- Electrician
- Gasfitter (Class A)
- Glazier
- Ironworker (without a specialty, or both structural and reinforcing)
- Plumber
- Powerline Technician
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
- Sheet Metal Worker
- Steamfitter-Pipefitter
- Welder

The Journeyperson alternative entrance pathway can be used to satisfy both the minimum and competitive requirements for the program. While this pathway exists to provide alternative entry into the program, it is important that applicants take note of the minimum and competitive entrance requirements. Entrance requirements are in place to ensure applicants have an understanding of concepts which may be covered in these classes and built upon within their chosen area of study. Please review these requirements to ensure your future success.

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

Important Dates

International applications open on August 01, 2024 and the deadline for international applications is once the program is full. It is highly recommended to apply as soon as possible to secure your spot.

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

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at NAIT. To satisfy the English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirement when applying to a NAIT program, you can demonstrate your proficiency in one of the following ways:

NAIT accepts the following English language proficiency tests:

IELTS Academic - Minimum score of 6.0 in each section
NAIT’s ELP Exam - Minimum score of 73% or “B” in each section
Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLB) - Minimum score of 8.0 in each section
CAEL - Minimum overall score of 60
Cambridge English Language Assessment - Minimum score of 169 in each section for B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency
TOEFL iBT - Minimum score of 20 in each section; effective Fall 2025: 70 overall score, with a minimum score of 17 in each section
Duolingo - Minimum overall score of 115, with a minimum score of 100 in each integrated subscore
Michigan English Test (MET) - Minimum overall score of 59
PTE Academic - Minimum overall score of 58
LanguageCert B2 Communicator Test - Minimum score of 38 in each section

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!