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Geomatics Technology


Location(s):  Moose Jaw   

Geomatics Technology is a diploma program. It provides knowledge and skill development in using science and technology for collecting and using geographically referenced data. The Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists' (CCTT) Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) accredits the program at the Technologist level.

Note

Applications to the Geomatics Technology program are suspended, effective April 2010.

Geomatics involves the location and mapping of natural and man-made physical features, and property and other boundaries. This information is required for resource development, infrastructure projects (such as roads and pipelines) and all types of industrial, commercial, public and private construction projects.

The term "geomatics" includes the more traditional and well known fields of surveying and mapping, and a number of topics related to collecting and managing geographic data that are based on new technologies. Data is now collected in the field using electronic survey instruments and satellite receivers, derived from aerial photographs and satellite imagery, transferred electronically, manipulated in computers using specialized software and displayed with Geographic Information Systems and as digital maps.

After two years of suitable industrial experience, graduates are eligible for membership in the Saskatchewan Applied Science Technologists and Technicians (SASTT).

Length: 82 weeks

Five academic semesters and two paid Co-operative Education work terms

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Career Opportunities

Initial employment after graduation is most often as a field surveyor in an urban environment or in remote locations. Graduates may also work in an office setting using field data and aerial photographs or satellite imagery to create computer based maps and drawings, develop Geographic Information Systems or perform surveying related calculations.

Typical employers include surveying, mapping and geomatics companies, engineering consulting companies, all levels of government and industries requiring maps (such as the resource sector)

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

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Admission Requirements


*Revised Mathematics Curriculum Requirement
(Effective July 1, 2013)

  • Pre-Calculus 30
    (replacing Math A30, B30 and C30 above)

  • All other admission requirements remain unchanged



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. You must review the details and program specific documentation concerning Special Admission.


The majority of SIAST programs have established ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post-Secondary Success Requirements. Depending on the program, additional specific admission requirements may still need to be met.


ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

85Arithmetic
40College Level Math
80Elementary Algebra
75Reading
75Sentence
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies plus 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.

Tuition and Fees

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

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
    • Surveying Field Camps
      Co-operative Education
    • Co-operative Education is mandatory.
      Home Study
      Online
      Shop/Lab

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

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 and Future Study Options


  • Graduates may be granted admission into the post diploma degree program in Geographical Information Science at the University of Lethbridge. This enables graduates to obtain a degree with two years of additional study.

  • Graduates may be granted admission into the Geomatics Degree Program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT).

  • Graduates are eligible for admission to the Bachelor of Technology Program offered at the Memorial University of Newfoundland. Graduates will be required to complete 13 courses (39 credit hours) to fulfill the degree requirements. The courses are available through distance delivery using Internet-based technology.




Semester 1
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  • CADD 120  Computer Aided Drafting

    • This course provides an introduction to computer aided drafting (CAD) using current industry-standard software. Two-dimensional geometric construction, dimensioning and drawing output will be emphasized. You will develop the CAD skills needed for DRFT 106 (Drafting).

    2.0 Credit Units
    32.0 Other hours

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

    Corequisites:   COAP 110    DRFT 106   

  • COAP 110  Computer Applications

    • You will receive an introduction to microcomputers, networks, system and application software (including an office suite which includes word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software). You will also discuss the Internet and software to access it.

    2.0 Credit Units
    32.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Equivalent Course(s):   COAP 129    COMP 120   

  • DRFT 106  Drafting

    • You will receive an introduction to orthographic drawing. The course content includes sketching, geometric construction, orthographic projections, dimensioning, sectional views and descriptive geometry. You will acquire these skills through a combination of practical exercises, projects and exams.

    4.0 Credit Units
    64.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   CADD 120    COAP 110   

    Equivalent Course(s):   DRFT 121   

  • GMTC 121  Mapping Fundamentals

    • You will receive a general introduction to the creation, use and analysis of maps. The course content includes interpreting and measuring data presented on maps, examining land reference systems, terrain representation, topographic features associated with maps, the characteristics of map features and an introduction to air photos and remote sensing.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   GMTC 120   

  • MAT_ 120  Mathematics for Construction Engineering Technologies

    • You will gain a basic background in trigonometry and algebra that is needed to do problem solving in applied areas and to advance to a study of calculus. You will study measurement, computations, algebraic operations, simplifications and solutions, trigonometry, graphing, exponents and logarithms. This course is intended to meet your needs in the construction stream of engineering technologies.

    6.0 Credit Units
    96.0 Lecture hours

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

    Equivalent Course(s):   MAT 100    MAT 121   

  • MECA 120  Applied Mechanics

    • You will learn the basic principles of statics. The course content includes forces, the components of a force, the moment of a force, free body diagrams, friction and the equilibrium of pulleys, beams and mechanisms.

    4.0 Credit Units
    64.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Corequisites:   MAT 120   

  • 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.

    1.0 Credit Units
    16.0 Lecture hours

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

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

  • SRVY 120  Surveying 1

    • You will receive an introduction to the basics of surveying. The course content includes horizontal measurements, levelling, angle and direction measurement, computations, traverses and drafting plans.

    5.0 Credit Units
    80.0 Other hours

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

  • 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.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

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

    Equivalent Course(s):   JOBS 288    JOBS 290    TCOM 120    TMGT 180   

    Semester 2

  • CADD 124  Computer Aided Drafting

    • Building on the skills developed in CADD 120 (Computer Aided Drafting), your studies will focus on intermediate and advanced 2D CAD drafting, and improving your efficiency with AutoCAD.

    3.0 Credit Units
    42.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    CADD 120 Minimum Grade of 60 and COAP 110 Minimum Grade of 60 and DRFT 106 Minimum Grade of 60 and ( DRFT 200 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) or DRFT 205 Minimum Grade of 60) (concurrent)

  • CAMP 220  Survey Field Camp 1

    • You will apply the knowledge gained in previous surveying and drafting courses. You will use various instruments to gather data and use this data to produce a topographic plan of your survey.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 120 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 220 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) and ( DRFT 200 Minimum Grade of 60 (concurrent) or DRFT 205 Minimum Grade of 60) (concurrent)

  • COAP 127  Computer Programming

    • You will receive an introduction to programming using Visual Basic.NET. You will develop object-based event-driven applications with a graphical user interface for the Windows environment.

    3.0 Credit Units
    42.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    COAP 110 Minimum Grade of 60

  • DRFT 200  Civil Drafting

    • You will apply CAD drafting skills and surveying and engineering fundamentals to produce civil engineering drawings. You will use current civil design CAD software to produce your drawings.

    4.0 Credit Units
    54.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   CADD 124   

    Prerequisites:
    CADD 120 Minimum Grade of 60 and DRFT 106 Minimum Grade of 60

  • MAT_ 226  Technical Mathematics and Differential Calculus

    • You will build on the skills developed in MAT 120 (Mathematics) and learn how to solve technical problems using basic algebraic skills and the differential calculus. You will become familiar with basic definitions and the fundamental concepts of mathematics and elementary derivatives.


    5.0 Credit Units
    70.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Equivalent Course(s):   MAT 225   

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 120 Minimum Grade of 60

  • PHYS 200  Physics for Geomatics

    • You will be introduced to basic concepts in gravity, light, and optics that are relevant to applications in Geomatics. Some emphasis will be placed on calculation management and scientific documentation.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 120 Minimum Grade of 60

  • SRVY 200  Route Surveying

    • Your studies will focus on computations and procedures that are typical of route surveys. You will undertake the process of manual calculations, programming of computational procedures and the use of software. The course content includes the elements of work safety.

    4.0 Credit Units
    54.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   SRVY 220   

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 120 Minimum Grade of 60

  • SRVY 220  Surveying 2

    • Building on the knowledge gained in SRVY 120 (Surveying 1), you will study intersections, electronic surveying, topographic surveys, vertical alignment, areas and volumes by various methods, introductory GIS, introductory aerial surveys and introductory control surveys.

    5.0 Credit Units
    70.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 120 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 120 Minimum Grade of 60

  • 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.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online/Blackboard

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

    Prerequisites:
    TCOM 102 Minimum Grade of 60

    Co-operative Education Paid Work Term

    Semester 3

  • CADA 120  Cadastral Studies

    • You will receive an introduction to real property law, land registrations systems and boundary concepts. The course thoroughly covers the Professional Surveyor, Dominion Land Survey Systems and the Saskatchewan Land Surveys Act as related to restoring and re-establishing lost or obliterated survey monuments and descriptions.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

  • COMP 242  Information Systems

    • You will receive an introduction to computer systems, database management and database design. You will complete a project that includes developing and using a relational database to store and access information.

    2.0 Credit Units
    32.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    COAP 110 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GEOD 223  Fundamentals of Geodesy

    • This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of geodesy. The course content includes the gravity field of the Earth and the systems of natural and derived coordinates (including the geoid, ellipsoid and surface geometry, celestial coordinates, time and rotation of the Earth and their relationships).

    4.0 Credit Units
    66.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 220 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GEOD 224  Digital Mapping

    • You will examine the methods, software and hardware used to collect, store and display digital mapping data. You will learn how to display grid and irregularly spaced data. You will use cadastral surveying applications as a working example of digital mapping.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   GIS 122   

  • GIS_ 122  Geographic Information Systems 1

    • This course provides an introduction to the principles and applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the components of GIS. You will study spatial databases (including raster and vector databases). You will learn how to input, manipulate and store spatial data. You will determine the requirements for a municipal GIS. You will develop a municipal base map.

    4.0 Credit Units
    66.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   COMP 242    GEOD 224   

  • INST 226  Survey Instruments

    • You will examine the various aspects of surveying instrumentation. This includes the history, purpose, construction, theory, care, errors, calibration, setup, operation, observation recording and reduction (manual and electronic), onboard processes and optimal observational procedures. You will also examine the interfacing of devices and structuring and passing of data to further applications.

    4.0 Credit Units
    56.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 220 Minimum Grade of 60

  • MAT_ 235  Technical Mathematics and Integral Calculus for Geomatics

    • You will build on the knowledge gained in MAT 226 (Mathematics) and study matrices, linear systems and extended topics in trigonometry and analytical geometry. You will also receive an introduction to calculus involving only algebraic and regular trigonometric functions.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 226 Minimum Grade of 60

  • SRVY 223  Construction Surveys

    • Your studies will cover the methodologies used for engineering and construction surveys. The course content includes specifications and survey procedures for roads, pipelines, sewers, bridges, lots and buildings. You will become proficient with field procedures. Practical exercises and lectures will help you prepare plans that meet Canadian Geometric Standards.

    4.0 Credit Units
    56.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 220 Minimum Grade of 60

  • STAT 220  Statistics for Geomatics

    • You will be introduced to basic statistics and probability as required in surveying computations (including mean, standard deviation, variance and random errors). This course briefly covers some inferential statistics of estimation and testing, and regression and correlation analysis.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 120 Minimum Grade of 60

    Semester 4

  • CAMP 222  Survey Field Camp 2

    • This course provides for practical field experience with electronic surveying instruments and GPS, applying knowledge gained in other classes.

    6.0 Credit Units
    90.0 Lab hours

    Learning Method(s): Lab/Practical

    Corequisites:   SRVY 224   

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 223 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GEOD 220  Geodesy - Map Projections

    • You will receive an introduction to the analysis, mathematics and construction of map projections. You will discuss the geometry of the plane, sphere and ellipsoid, and the limitations of map projections and their inherent distortions will be quantified. Conformal mapping (in particular, the Universal Transverse Mercator system of mapping) will be emphasized. You will also learn procedures to reduce surveying observations to the mapping plane.


    3.0 Credit Units
    52.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 235 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GEOD 222  Global Positioning Systems

    • This course provides an introduction to the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System. Its use in surveying, mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications will be emphasized.

    3.0 Credit Units
    52.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   SRVY 224   

    Prerequisites:
    GEOD 223 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GIS_ 222  Geographic Information Systems 2

    • This course provides a step-by-step approach to municipal infrastructure mapping. Using the base map developed in GIS 122, you will map a section of a city. You will learn how to develop reference specifications, collect infrastructure and property data, geo-reference infrastructure data and collect attribute data. You will practice designing and analyzing queries and creating a series of maps.

    3.0 Credit Units
    39.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    GIS 122 Minimum Grade of 60 and COMP 242 Minimum Grade of 60

  • MAT_ 200  Advanced Mathematics for Geomatics

    • You will build on the knowledge gained in MAT 235 (Mathematics and Calculus) and study some series mathematics, linear algebra and additional statistics. The course content includes eigenvalues and eigenvectors, statistics and matrix methods which serve as a basis for understanding the geometry of errors of measurement in two or three dimensions. Some computer programming is used to reinforce and apply the mathematical concepts.

    4.0 Credit Units
    65.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

    Prerequisites:
    MAT 235 Minimum Grade of 60 and STAT 220 Minimum Grade of 60

  • SRVY 224  Control Surveys

    • You will become familiar with the concept, types, design, implementation, analysis and utilization of survey control.

    5.0 Credit Units
    78.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    INST 226 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 223 Minimum Grade of 60

  • TERR 220  Terrain Analysis and Photogrammetry

    • You will receive an introduction to modern digital photogrammetry and image interpretation as applied to mapping. You will discuss photogrammetric principles that apply to the measurement of distances and elevations, the preparation of topographic maps. You will study image data collection, the processing and analysis of remote sensed images along with the application of images to mapping.

    3.0 Credit Units
    39.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Co-operative Education Paid Work Term

    Semester 5

  • ECON 225  Engineering Law and Economics

    • You will receive basic information about economics and engineering law. The course content includes time-value of money, interest and financing. It also includes an introduction to project control, cost estimation, project scheduling, personnel management and provincial labor laws.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

  • GEOD 221  Geodesy

    • You will carry out field survey projects integrating and applying knowledge learned in other courses. The surveys you complete in this course will be used as a basis for mapping carried out in a GMTC 200 Geomatics Applications.


    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    CADA 120 Minimum Grade of 60 and GEOD 220 Minimum Grade of 60 and GEOD 222 Minimum Grade of 60 and SRVY 224 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GMTC 200  Geomatics Applications

    • You will develop a complete Geomatics project. You will receive project data (including existing plans, drawings, digital base maps and project specifications). From this data you will prepare a project cost and schedule chart, complete all required field work and calculations and input your data into a computer to produce a digital map product.

    6.0 Credit Units
    96.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Corequisites:   ECON 225   

    Prerequisites:
    DRFT 200 Minimum Grade of 60 and MAT 200 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GMTC 201  Global Navigation Satellite Systems Applications

    • You will explore the use of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) while conducting typical Geomatics industry projects. Your studies will focus on the hardware required to perform a variety of GNSS projects, processing techniques of GNSS data using software, troubleshooting GNSS hardware and software, as well as planning and executing projects to meet a predefined set of specifications.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    CADA 120 Minimum Grade of 60 and GEOD 222 Minimum Grade of 60

  • GMTC 221  Geomatics Programming

    • You will explore the use of VBA language with an Object-Based Programming approach to solving geomatics industry problems. Your studies will focus on the fundamentals of creating applications using VBA language to analyze and implement both graphical and non-graphical solution. You will create applications in CAD, spreadsheet and database software.


    4.0 Credit Units
    64.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    COAP 127 Minimum Grade of 60

  • SRVY 225  Data Analysis and Adjustments

    • You will review statistical concepts. The course content includes the propagation of variances and covariances, least squares adjustment of problems in surveying, analysis of the results of the mathematical model and the formulation of solutions.

    5.0 Credit Units
    80.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab

    Prerequisites:
    SRVY 224 Minimum Grade of 60

  • 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.

    2.0 Credit Units
    34.0 Lecture hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory

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

    Prerequisites:
    TCOM 103 Minimum Grade of 60


    Year1
  • Semester 1 - September to December
  • Semester 2 - January to April
  • Work term - May to August

    Year 2
  • Semester 3 - October to December
  • Semester 4 - January to April
  • Work Term - May to December

    Year 3
  • Semester 5 - January to April

    • More Information


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