Engineering Technology: CAD/CAM Engineering Technology - Diploma

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Program Overview

Location(s):
  • SIAST Kelsey Campus, Saskatoon
Length: 74 weeks: 

Year 1 - 37 weeks; Year 2 - 37 weeks

Overview

CAD/CAM Engineering Technology is a diploma program. It provides knowledge and skill development in applying computer and scientific principles related to solving engineering and manufacturing problems. You will develop an understanding of engineering design and learn how to provide technical assistance in managing CAD/CAM systems.

The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists' (CCTT) Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) accredits the program at the Engineering Technologist level.

You will receive training in:

  • CAD/CAM related engineering disciplines
  • CAD/CAM hardware, software and computer networking
  • operating machine tools (including CNC equipment)
  • quality assurance
  • concurrent engineering
  • rapid prototyping

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for employment in traditional and computer-aided engineering fields. They may find employment in manufacturing plants (in engineering design, drafting, production quality control and programming/operating numerical control machines), consulting engineering offices (in engineering design and drafting) or research and design offices (in product design, prototype development, solid modeling and advanced stress analysis).

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

Program Details

Start Date(s): August

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Admission Information

Admission Requirements

 

*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted: 

  • Minimum of 60% in Math B30 and C30

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post Secondary Success Requirements for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

  • 85 Arithmetic
  • 40 College Level Math
  • 80 Elementary Algebra
  • 75 Reading
  • 75 Sentence

Post-Secondary Success

One year post-secondary studies plus a minimum of 60% in Physics 30, and in the mathematics requirement (or SIAST MAT 120)

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST 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.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Factsheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.


Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.

 


Transfer credit options vary over time; this information is subject to change. Transfer credit options for this program include:

  • admission eligibility to the Bachelor of Technology program, Memorial University, Newfoundland (13 courses, totalling 39 credit hours, are required to fulfill the degree requirements; courses are available online)
  • advanced standing toward an engineering degree, Lakehead University (post-diploma programs typically consist of transition courses followed by two years of full-time study)

Courses

Year 1 - Semester 1

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CAD 191

CAD Systems and Networking

You will be presented with background theory and math as necessary to support a comprehensive understanding of networking fundamentals. You will examine ethernet technology in relation to its dominance in industry. You will discuss the OSI and TCP/IP models are discussed, beginning with physical cabling and working up through devices (such as repeaters/hubs, bridges/switches and to routers). At the completion of the course you will be able to create and test Local Area Network (LAN) cables, physically cable a LAN, select devices, plan and implement subnets, configure networking parameters and connect computers into a high speed LAN. You will also complete requirements for Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) Semester 1.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
COMP 106

Spreadsheets for Engineering Technology

You will gain an intermediate knowledge of electronic spreadsheets. You will determine when to use a spreadsheet and when to use a database.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 25

Equivalent Course(s): COAP 197

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
DRFT 290

Basic Drafting

You will integrate non-CAD computer software with CAD software. You will practice the basic concepts of engineering graphics. You will sketch and use AutoCAD. You will use orthographic and isometric projection for shape description. You will draw sectional, auxiliary and partial views. You will develop skill in dimensioning and tolerancing using engineering drawing.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): DRFT 390

Equivalent Course(s): DRFT 181, GRPH 190

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
DRFT 390

CAD Drafting 1

You will study the basic concepts of computer assisted drafting. You will learn how to use the AutoCAD user interface as it pertains to two dimensional CAD drawings. The course content includes drawing set-up, coordinate systems, drawing tools, editing commands, display options, layers, colors, line types, text, basic dimensioning and plot commands.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard

2
DRFT 391

CAD Drafting 2

You will study advanced concepts of computer assisted drafting. The course content includes blocks, XREF's, plotting, dimensioning, advanced editing and drawing techniques and an introduction to 3D drafting.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): DRFT 390

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard

2
ELTR 287

Computer Hardware

Your studies will focus on gaining knowledge of computer operation. You will perform computer component installation. You will learn computer maintenance techniques. Classroom and lab experiences will help you analyze failed computer systems. The course content includes returning a failed computer to operational status. You will be able to communicate with others about computer systems and related hardware.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): COHS 190

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
ENGM 191

Applied Mechanics: Statics

You will learn how to use basic algebra and trigonometry to determine the forces in stationary machine and equipment members. The course content includes force systems, center of gravity, static friction and moment of inertia, and the application of these principles to engineering problems.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 77

Prerequisites(s): MATH 182, MATH 193

Corequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 190, MECA 120

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard

5
MATH 193

Technical Mathematics and Differential Calculus

Your studies will cover logarithmic, algebraic and trigonometric functions, and trigonometric identities. You will also receive an introduction to differential calculus of algebraic functions.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 80

Equivalent Course(s): MATH 182

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

5
SEM 101

Technology Seminars

You will receive an orientation to your program and learn where and how the technician/technologist fits into the workplace and society. You will become familiar with the role of technicians/technologists in society, study and time management skills, increasing diversity in the workplace, principles of sustainability, the impact of technology on society and workplace safety requirements.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 16

Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 181, ETHC 183, ORTN 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

1
TCOM 102

Communication in Technology

Your studies will focus on the basic skills required of the technologist in the workplace. You will examine the communication process and interpersonal and workplace communication techniques. The course content includes technical writing and job search skills.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 48

Equivalent Course(s): COMM 191, JOBS 190, JOBS 288, JOBS 290, TCOM 120, TMGT 180

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Learn Linc, Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard

3

Year 1 - Semester 2

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CAD 297

CAD Customization

You will learn how to produce user functions to automatically generate geometry (based on user specified input). You will develop programs and functions in both LISP and VBA.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 35

Prerequisites(s): DRFT 391

Corequisites(s): COSC 193

Equivalent Course(s): CAD 192

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
CALC 190

Integral Calculus

Building on the knowledge you acquired in MATH 193 (Mathematics), you will study the differentiation and integration of algebraic and transcendental functions, and applications of these concepts to max/min problems, related rates, root solutions, areas, centroids and moments of inertia.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 72

Prerequisites(s): MATH 193

Equivalent Course(s): CALC 181, MAT 246

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

5
COSC 193

Programming and Numerical Methods

You will gain an understanding of computer programming by developing your basic programming skills and knowledge, and applying them to the structured solution of engineering problems. Developing good programming habits, flowcharts/ algorithms and structured, modular programs that are well documented and tested will be emphasized. You will use Graphical User Interfaces to provide high-quality presentations of program data and results, and to conform to the high standards and expectations of today's users.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): CDBM 190

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
DRFT 291

Advanced Drafting

Your Semester 1 introductory drafting skills will serve as a foundation for this course. You will learn how to prepare a complete set of working drawings on the CAD system. You will become familiar with standard drafting practices and symbols used in a number of different engineering fields.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): DRFT 290, DRFT 391

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
ENG 192

Strength of Materials

Your studies will focus on the relationship between external applied loads and the induced internal stresses in various structural members. You will discuss design and analysis techniques of axial and torsionally loaded members, beams, columns and joints. You will also investigate how materials behave under complex stress states.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): ENGM 191

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
ENGM 180

Materials of Engineering

You will gain practical knowledge of the fundamental structure, properties (physical, mechanical, chemical) and supplied form of common engineering materials. This knowledge will assist in the evaluation and selection of materials suitable for given design and/or manufacturing processes. Major focus will be directed towards iron and iron alloys (steels), with additional examination of non-iron metals and alloys (aluminum, copper, etc), ceramics, polymers, and composite materials. Your studies will also include areas such as material corrosion and non-destructive examination.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 77

Equivalent Course(s): ENG 191, ENGM 288

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
HYDR 285

Fluid Mechanics

You will study fluid properties, the behaviours of fluids either at rest or in motion, Bernoulli's equation, fluid forces and buoyancy. Design problems will involve pipe sizing, calculating head loss, friction factors, power requirements and selecting pumps and motors. Your lab work will include performing experiments on pressure measurement, fluid friction losses and piping systems.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4
MACH 191

Machine Shop Technology

You will gain an understanding of machine shop principles and practices. This course will serve as a foundation for further studies in manufacturing. In addition to lectures and demonstrations, you will receive extensive hands-on experience.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Corequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): MACH 120

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2
SHOP 186

Mechanical Components and Systems Lab

You will have an opportunity to widen your exposure to mechanical components and systems. The knowledge you acquire will serve as a foundation for upper level courses. Your studies will focus on the application and operation of the components and systems rather than their use in the design process. You will work with and disassemble or assemble some of the components (others will be demonstrated for you). Some of the items you will investigate include bearings, shafts, chain belt and gear drives, hydraulic pumps, motors and cylinders, pneumatic systems, conveyors, and pneumatic and hydraulic flow and pressure control valves.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 24

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
TCOM 103

Workplace Communication

Building on the skills you developed in TCOM 102 (Communication in Technology), you will apply basic research skills to create workplace documents. Your studies will focus on the workplace skills of creating effective client relations, conducting meetings and giving presentations.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): TCOM 102

Equivalent Course(s): COMM 181, COMM 190, TCOM 123, TCOM 190

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory, Web CT/Blackboard

3
WELD 387

Welding for Technologists

You will observe and perform welding, thermal cutting and metal forming operations. You will develop an understanding of processes rather than skill. Supervised hands-on training will help you develop an understanding of Shielded Metal Arc Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, Flux Cored Arc Welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, Oxy-Fuel Welding and Submerged Arc Welding. Your metal cutting activities will include Oxy-fuel Cutting and Plasma Arc Cutting. You will perform metal forming activities on a plate roll, press brake and structural roll.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s):

Corequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): WELD 102

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

2

Year 2 - Semester 3

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CAD 283

Advanced CAD Modeling

You will develop an understanding of 3-Dimensional CAD through a study of wire frame, surface and solid model construction methods. You will learn techniques for documenting 3D models using the traditional 2D views and dimensioning associated with working drawings. You will also select a project (assembly or mechanism) and create a 3D parametric solid model that will be used as a starting point for CAD 295 (Virtual and Rapid Prototyping).


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): DRFT 291

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CAD 287

Computer Aided Manufacturing 1

Your studies will focus on the methods of using computers to help create a code of instructions to manufacture a part on a computer numerical machine. You will solve practical manufacturing problems using traditional CNC techniques. You will gain hands-on experience using industrial CNC equipment and modern controllers. You will also set up raw stock and configure tooling with different machine set-ups, configurations and machine metal parts.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): COSC 193, WELD 387

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
DSGN 280

Mechanical Design 1

You will learn the techniques of design, analysis and selecting various machine components (including belt and chain drive components, wire rope, fasteners, bolted connections, welded joints and combined stresses). You will also learn traditional design methods and then use computer solutions extensively to augment the design process.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): ENG 192, ENGM 180, SHOP 186

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
ELEC 279

Basic Electricity

You will be provided an introduction to the fundamentals of DC and AC measurement and circuitry (including Ohm's Law, power and series and parallel circuits). A laboratory program is an integral part of this course.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Equivalent Course(s): ELEC 190

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
ENGM 290

Dynamics

You will study dynamics theory and principles in this course. You will solve kinematics and kinetics problems using principles of relative velocity and Newton's laws of motion. You will analyze forces and motion of mechanical systems using principles of work, energy, and energy conservation. You will study the principles of momentum. You will analyze machine element linkages and vibrations using manual methods and computer software.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): ENG 192

Corequisites(s):

Equivalent Course(s): ENGM 289

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
MANU 280

Production Management

You will learn the concepts involved in growing a manufacturing-based company from a small business to a large operation. You will learn about facility analysis, ordering processes and dealing with suppliers.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 32

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
MANU 290

Manufacturing

You will gain an understanding of the merits and limitations of the manufacturing and fabrication industry. You will study the use of engineering principles to solve manufacturing and fabrication problems. Your studies will concentrate on the metal industry but you will tour several manufacturing operations to gain a broad view of the different types of manufacturing. You will gain an understanding of surface finishes and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. You will also learn how to apply them to engineering drawings.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): DRFT 291, ENG 192, ENGM 180, MACH 191, WELD 387

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

5
THER 283

Thermodynamics

You will study the basic laws of thermodynamics as applied to energy conversion devices and the fundamentals of heat transfer. You will apply these principles to mechanical equipment (such as internal combustion engines, compressors, steam plants, refrigeration systems and heat exchangers). Performing experiments in the lab will provide you with hands-on experience. You will gain a working knowledge of the broad subject areas of thermodynamics.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab

4

Year 2 - Semester 4

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CAD 285

Industry Design Project

You will complete an industrial project (acquired from a local company) that will involve a significant component of design, analysis and/or manufacturing technology. You will select, define and assess the problem, prepare and coordinate the results, and present the results to your client. The project will demonstrate your capacity to apply the knowledge you have acquired from several previous and concurrent courses to solving a "real life" problem in a practical way. You will present your project in the form of a written technical report and an oral presentation.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 52

Prerequisites(s): CAD 283, CAD 287, DSGN 280, ELEC 279, ENGM 290, MANU 280, MANU 290, THER 283

Corequisites(s): CAD 288, CAD 295, CAD 298, DSGN 282, DSGN 283, ENG 291, ENG 292, MANU 291, MANU 293, PROJ 287, TCOM 104

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
CAD 288

Computer Aided Manufacturing 2

Building on the skills you developed in CAD 287 (Computer Aided Manufacturing 1) and using CAD/CAM systems, you will learn how to generate CNC code to operate machine tools. You will study methods of creating and importing geometry as wire frame, freeform surfaces or solids. You will then use the CAM software to create CNC code to cut the part.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): CAD 287

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CAD 295

Virtual and Rapid Prototyping

Building on the skills developed in CAD 283 (Advanced CAD Modeling), you will use the 3D models you created in the major project to produce virtual prototypes using photo-realistic images and animated sequences. You will produce a one minute animated video of the model that shows the assembly of the components or the operation of a mechanism. Your animation will be created and used in the context of being an extremely valuable visualization tool for use in the engineering design process. You will also create a rapid prototype model of one of your components out of ABS plastic using a StrataSys FDM (fused deposition modeler) Rapid Prototyping machine.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): CAD 283

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
CAD 298

CAD Seminars

You will investigate advanced features of CAD software used in the program and in local industry. Where possible, local users with product expertise will be invited to present a seminar and share their expertise. Incremental upgrades to software that you have already learned will be presented as time permits. You will also receive an introduction to other relevant software that is not directly taught or used in other courses but may prove valuable when you are employed.


Credit Units: 1

Lecture Hours: 16

Equivalent Course(s): CAD 286

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

1
CAD 299

CAD/CAM Systems Management

You will study the basics of managing engineering documentation. You will learn to manage computer systems in an engineering environment. The course provides an introduction to the functions of a system operator/manager. You will learn the requirements to plan for, deploy and manage a system of computers in an engineering and manufacturing environment. Classroom and lab experiences will help you install a current networked operating system and set up and administrate users, groups, hardware and software.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): CAD 191, ELTR 287

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
DSGN 282

Mechanical Design 2

Building on the skills you developed in DSGN 280 (Mechanical Design 1), you will learn the techniques of design, analysis and selecting various machine components. You will study bearings, shafts, springs, couplings, gears, clutches, brakes and cams. You will examine traditional design methods and then use computer solutions extensively to augment the design process. The combined material from DSGN 280 (Mechanical Design 1) and this course will be directed toward CAD 285 (Industry Design Project).


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): DSGN 280

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
DSGN 283

Mechanical Design Project

You will learn how to develop and evaluate several components in the design of a machine. You will select and integrate bearings, shafts, springs, couplings, gears, clutches, brakes and cams based on the design knowledge you acquired in DSGN 280 (Mechanical Design 1) and DSGN 282 (Mechanical Design 2).


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Prerequisites(s): DSGN 282

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
ENG 291

Concurrent Engineering

You will learn how to take a design from concept to finished product. You will closely integrate and constantly check the integrity of the engineering design, design documentation, engineering analysis and manufacturability of the product. Your studies will focus on managing the continuous feedback among all aspects of the process, ensuring they are considered in parallel rather than sequential and ensuring they use common databases wherever possible.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 62

Prerequisites(s): CAD 283, CAD 295, DSGN 282, ENG 292, ENGM 290

Corequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
ENG 292

Finite Element Modeling

You will gain experience using FEM software by applying several programs to the solution of typical analysis problems. You will develop an appreciation of the power and limitations of FEM by comparing computer-produced results with experimentally derived data and alternative classical methods of stress analysis.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): CAD 283, ENG 192

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
MANU 291

Advanced Manufacturing

You will develop an understanding of flexible automation using robotics. You will discuss the technology, observe videotapes of several industrial applications and attend industry tours to observe robotic systems in industry. You will learn how to program an industrial robot to perform various tasks. To gain an overall understanding of robotics, you will investigate end-of-arm tooling, parts presentation and cost justification. You will receive an introduction to other related technology (including machine vision systems, industrial sensors, and data acquisition and control). You will integrate this knowledge into a design project where a fabricated metal part will be reverse engineered and taken from drawings to welded part. Your project will include part layout for laser cutting (where necessary), design and fabrication of jigs, robot programming and weld jobs.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 56

Prerequisites(s): ELTR 287, WELD 387

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
MANU 293

Quality Assurance and Manufacturing Management

Your studies will focus on quality assurance in a manufacturing environment. The importance of quality products and services will be emphasized. You will become familiar with the statistical sampling and analysis tools used to achieve and verify quality goals.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
PROJ 287

Project Management

You will be introduced to project management. You will examine the basic theory of project planning and control, from project initiation to project close out. You will apply research techniques and various tools to practice project management theory in a variety of projects. You will practice skills using project management software.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 30

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Lab, Web CT/Blackboard

2
TCOM 104

Applied Research in Technology

You will develop a technical proposal and apply advanced research skills to a technical problem. You will use the technical problem-solving process in an applied research project and present your research findings in a written report and oral presentation.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 34

Prerequisites(s): TCOM 103

Equivalent Course(s): COMM 115, COMM 182, COMM 290

Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Lecture/Theory

2

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SIAST is Saskatchewan's primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training, recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise and innovation. Through program and course registrations, SIAST serves 26,000 distinct students with programs that touch every sector of the economy. SIAST operates campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and provides a number of courses and programs through distance education.

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