Engineering Technology: Instrumentation Engineering Technology - Diploma

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Program Overview

Location(s):
  • SIAST Palliser Campus, Moose Jaw
Length: 76 weeks: 

There are five academic semesters and three mandatory four-month paid Co-operative Education work terms

Overview

Instrumentation Engineering Technology is a diploma program.

It provides knowledge and skill development in understanding and applying the instrumentation used to measure, record and control process variables (such as flow, temperature, level and pressure). The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists' (CCTT) Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) accredits the program at the Engineering Technologist level.

Note

International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this program.

Graduates also receive advance credit standing for apprenticeship training in the Industrial Instrument Mechanic trade. 

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared to work in the pulp and paper industry, engineering firms, petrochemical plants, mining industry, sales and service companies, oil refineries, gas plants or consulting firms.

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

Program Details

Start Date(s): September

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

Note

  • Colour blindness may hinder laboratory performance and certain employment opportunities.

 

*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 with Physics 30 and a minimum of 60% in the mathematics requirement

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.


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)

Courses

Year 1 - Semester 1

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
ELTR 117

Basic Electronics

Your studies will focus on the principles of electronic circuits. You will study DC and AC circuits, and solid state devices. Circuit analysis techniques will be emphasized throughout the course.


Credit Units: 4

Lecture Hours: 64

Corequisites(s): ELTR 118, MAT 100

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

4
ELTR 118

Basic Electronics Lab

Using laboratory experiments and practice, you will illustrate and verify the electrical theory learned in ELTR 117 (Electronics Theory).


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 64

Corequisites(s): ELTR 117

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

4
INST 102

Instrument Measurement Theory

You will study the principles and measurement of pressure, level, temperature and flow. The theory presented will be reinforced by practical applications in INST 103 (Instrument Measurement Lab).


Credit Units: 4

Lecture Hours: 64

Corequisites(s): INST 103, MACH 106, MAT 100, PHYS 120

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

4
INST 103

Instrument Measurement Labs

You will apply the principles studied in INST 102 (Instrument Measurement Theory) to the operation, selection, sizing and specification of primary sensors and secondary instruments.


Credit Units: 4

Lab Hours: 64

Corequisites(s): INST 102, MACH 106, MAT 100, PHYS 120

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

4
MACH 106

Machine Shop

You will learn how to use basic hand and power tools. Your studies will include layout, threading, precision measurement and operating oxy-acetylene equipment.


Credit Units: 2

Other Hours: 32

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

2
MAT 100

Mathematics for Instrumentation Engineering Technology

You will learn basic algebra and trigonometry from the technical perspective. Your studies will focus on instrumentation standards and specifications, and algebraic and transcendental mathematics that are the foundation of a variety of instrumentation applications.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 80

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

5
PHYS 120

Physics 1

You will study the principles of fluid mechanics, thermometry and calorimetry, thermal properties of matter and vector addition.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s):

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
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
CHEM 221

Chemistry 1

Your studies will focus on the structure of the atom, mole relationship, nomenclature, stoichiometry and gases. Laboratory exercises will provide you an opportunity to practice theoretical concepts.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 48

Learning Method(s): Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Lab

3
COAP 122

Computer Applications

You will be introduced to microcomputer concepts and components. Your studies will cover Windows workstation operating system software, network operating system software, system and data file management and maintenance, and various applications software. The applications software includes word processing, workbook processing (spreadsheet), database, presentation and Internet navigation. You will integrate the various applications software to demonstrate the ideas of document-centric and object-based solutions.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 44

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
DGTL 225

Digital Logic

You will study the principles of digital logic and digital logic components (such as logic gates and flip-flops). Using number systems, truth tables and Karnaugh maps, you will design and analyze basic logic circuits.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): ELTR 117, ELTR 118

Corequisites(s): DGTL 226

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
DGTL 226

Digital Logic Lab

You will illustrate and verify the principles of digital logic that are covered in the theory component of DGTL 225 (Digital Logic).


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): ELTR 117, ELTR 118

Corequisites(s): DGTL 225

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
ENG 120

Codes and Standards

You will study codes and standards related to industrial process measurement and control. You will also study design and construction practices.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): ELTR 117, ELTR 118, INST 102, INST 103

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
INST 221

Final Control Elements

You will study control valves and pressure relief devices. Evaluating, selecting, sizing, specifying and testing final control elements will be emphasized. Laboratory experiments will provide opportunities for you to verify theory concepts and practice maintaining, calibrating and installing control valves.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): INST 102, INST 103, MACH 106, PHYS 120

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
MAT 221

Differential Calculus for Instrumentation Engineering Technology

You will study analytical geometry, derivatives of algebraic and transcendental functions, integrals of algebraic functions and areas under curves. The application of the principles and techniques of differential and integral calculus to relevant problems in the instrumentation engineering field will be emphasized.


Credit Units: 5

Lecture Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): MAT 100

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

5
PHYS 221

Physics 2

Your studies will focus on the principles of linear and curvilinear motion, accelerated motion, work, energy and power, translational and rotational equilibrium, torques, friction, electric forces, electric fields, electric potential and magnetism.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): PHYS 120

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
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

Co-operative Work Term 1

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
COOP 101

Co-operative Work Term

Your co-operative education term will provide you with the opportunity to consolidate theoretical and practical concepts learned in the classroom and gain valuable experience in a work setting.


Credit Units: 0

Other Hours: 0

Learning Method(s): Coop Education Work Term

0

Year 2 - Semester 3

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CADD 222

Computer Aided Drafting

You will use computer aided drafting software to draw various instrument diagrams (such as loop, and installation). You will apply the industrial process symbols you studied in ENG 120 Codes and Standards.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): ENG 120, INST 221

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CHEM 222

Chemistry 2

You will study solution chemistry, equilibrium and acid-base chemistry. Through laboratory experiments you will apply basic principles to solve industry-related situations.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): CHEM 221

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
COAP 136

Visual Basic Programming

The course focuses on problem solving using the computer. You will study computer program logic and problem solving through program design and documentation using flowcharts. You will implement problem solutions using the logical structures, data types and objects in Visual Basic.NET. Programming techniques and practices you may encounter in instrumentation technology will be emphasized.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): COAP 122

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

3
ENGE 224

Logic Control

You will study the operation and applications of electro-mechanical relays. Your studies will focus on the concepts of normally open, normally closed, instantaneous and time-delay relay contacts and coils. As an introduction to programmable logic controllers (PLCs), you will design logic control circuits using electro-mechanical relays and mini PLCs.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): DGTL 225, DGTL 226, ENG 120, INST 221

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
INST 220

Instrument Control

You will study the principles and applications of process control algorithms, cascade control, ratio control and feed-forward control. The course content includes the analysis of open loop responses to PID controllers, the analysis of effects of non-linear control elements and the selection and application of controller tuning techniques.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): ENG 120, INST 221

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
INST 224

Instrument Measurement

You will study the conventional electronic and smart instruments used to measure process variables, as well as the software and communicators designed for configuration and diagnostics. You will practice operating, evaluating, sizing, installing, and wiring. Your studies will include developing electrical loop wiring diagrams and practical lab exercises.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 80

Prerequisites(s): ENG 120, INST 221, MAT 221, PHYS 221, TCOM 103

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
MAT 229

Integral Calculus for Instrumentation Engineering Technology

You will review the rules of the differentiation and integration of algebraic functions and then apply them to linear motion, areas, volumes, moments, work, fluid pressure, average value, arc length and surface area. You will study the integration of transcendental functions, techniques of integration and their applications in areas of interest to instrumentation engineering.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): MAT 221

Learning Method(s): Independent Study, Lecture/Theory

3
PHYS 225

Physics 3

You will examine uniform circular motion, rotation of rigid bodies, simple machines, simple harmonic motion, wave motion, elasticity, reflection and refraction of light.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): MAT 221, PHYS 221

Corequisites(s): MAT 229

Learning Method(s): Print Distance Individual, Lecture/Theory

2

Co-operative Work Term 2

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
COOP 201

Co-operative Work Term

Your second co-operative education term will build on the experience gained during your first work placement and provide you with additional opportunities to develop skills and techniques related to your field of studies in a real work setting.


Credit Units: 0

Other Hours: 0

Learning Method(s): Coop Education Work Term

0

Year 2 - Semester 4

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CHEM 223

Chemistry 3

You will study buffers, electrochemistry, nuclear chemistry and organic chemistry. Through laboratory experiments you will develop an understanding of chemistry principles and apply them to problem solving situations.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): CHEM 222

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CIRC 222

Automation Circuits

You will study the analysis, design and trouble-shooting of automation equipment. You will gain insight into microprocessor applications in industrial measurement and control.


Credit Units: 5

Other Hours: 72

Prerequisites(s): DGTL 225, DGTL 226, ENGE 224, INST 220

Corequisites(s): INST 240

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

5
INST 228

Instrument Measurement

You will examine the operational theories of various microprocessor-based instruments and their applications in industry. Your studies will include practical lab exercises where you will configure and calibrate highway addressable remote transducer (HART) and Foundation Fieldbus smart instruments used for the measurement of flow, level, temperature and pressure.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 60

Prerequisites(s): CADD 222, COAP 136, INST 220, INST 224

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
INST 230

Analytical Instruments 1

You will study the implementation and purpose of analytical measurement systems. Given specifications, you will operate and calibrate pH, oxidation-reduction potential, conductivity, humidity, mass spectrometers and density analysers.


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 52

Prerequisites(s): CHEM 222, INST 224, PHYS 221

Corequisites(s): CHEM 223

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
INST 240

Instrument Control

Configuration software and process simulation will be used to help you learn how to design, analyze and evaluate various control strategies. The course content includes various process control applications (such as boiler, distillation column, compressor and heat exchanger controls).


Credit Units: 3

Other Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): ENGE 224, INST 220, INST 224

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

3
PROJ 227

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.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 24

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
STAT 200

Statistics for Instrumentation Engineering Technology

Your studies will focus on the basic statistical concepts and techniques used in engineering technology. The course content includes the collection, presentation, analysis and interpretation of data, frequency distributions, measures of central tendency and dispersion, probability, probability distributions, normal distribution, samples and sampling distributions, prediction, simple linear regression and correlation, and tolerance and control charts.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 36

Prerequisites(s): MAT 100

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2

Co-operative Work Term 3

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
COOP 301

Co-operative Work Term

Your third co-operative education work term will round out the work term experience by adding related work knowledge through the application of theories and practices relevant to your field of studies.


Credit Units: 0

Other Hours: 0

Learning Method(s): Coop Education Work Term

0

Year 2 - Semester 5

CodeCourse Name/DescriptionCredits
CNTR 225

Process Applications

You will analyze the interrelationships and interdependencies of plant or process operations and their associated instrumentation components and systems. An integral part of your studies will include tours to industries such as power plants, potash operations, pipeline systems, pulp and paper industry, refineries and chemical plants.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): INST 228, INST 230, INST 240

Corequisites(s): CNTR 227, INST 234, INST 236, TCOM 104

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
CNTR 227

Logic Control Systems

You will study the design and implementation of logic control systems using microprocessor-based programmable logic controllers (PLCs). The course content includes using graphical programming languages. You will configure, select and study the installation of PLCs. Practical lab applications will include programming timers, counters, math instructions and other advanced techniques.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): ENGE 224, INST 220, INST 228, INST 240

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
CNTR 229

Advanced Controls

Your studies will focus on feedback control systems, basic tools and yardsticks that a technologist uses to design and analyze control systems. You will learn how to mathematically model a process, select best applications of field devices and control hardware to fit the applications.


Credit Units: 2

Lecture Hours: 32

Prerequisites(s): INST 240, PHYS 225

Corequisites(s): MAT 247

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

2
COMP 238

Data Communications and Networks

You will design, analyze, install and evaluate digital data communication systems. The course content includes digital communication concepts, industrial networks, local area networks and wide area networks. The laboratory components will provide practical experience.


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): CIRC 222, COAP 122, ENGE 224, INST 228

Corequisites(s): CNTR 227, INST 236

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
INST 234

Analytical Instruments 2

Building on the knowledge gained in INST 230 (Analytical Instruments 1), you will study other analytical devices (such as sampling systems, gas chromatographs, dissolved oxygen, humidity, turbidity, IR and UV spectroscopic analyzers, combustibles and toxic gas measurements).


Credit Units: 4

Other Hours: 64

Prerequisites(s): CHEM 223, INST 230, PHYS 225

Corequisites(s): CNTR 225

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

4
INST 236

Distributed Systems

You will configure a distributed control system (including graphics displays to provide for the manual or automatic sequence operation of a process incorporating HART field devices). The course content includes PID (proportional, integral, derivative), cascade, feedforward, output tracking, discrete and sequence function tables.


Credit Units: 6

Other Hours: 96

Prerequisites(s): CIRC 222, COAP 136, INST 228, INST 240

Corequisites(s): COMP 238

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

6
MAT 247

DEs and Transforms for Instrumentation Engineering Technology

You will investigate first-order and second-order differential equations as models for mechanical, electrical, thermal and fluid physical systems. You will learn how to formulate those models and solve them using LaPlace transformation theory.


Credit Units: 3

Lecture Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): MAT 229

Equivalent Course(s): MAT 237

Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

3
PROJ 225

Applied Research Project

You will use project management software to develop an entire project. Working in small groups you will research, plan, design, cost and construct a prototype. Your final step of the project will be to prepare a manual.


Credit Units: 3

Lab Hours: 48

Prerequisites(s): INST 228, INST 230, INST 240, PROJ 227

Corequisites(s): CNTR 227, INST 234, INST 236, TCOM 104

Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

3
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

  • Semester 1 - September to December
  • Semester 2 - January to April
  • Work Term - May to August
  • Semester 3 - September to December
  • Semester 4 - May to July
  • Work Term - September to December
  • Semester 5 - January to April

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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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