Automotive Service Technology

Credential:: diploma More info on program credentials
Program length:: 2 years Learn more about program length
Location:: In person (Main Campus) More info on program location
International applicants:: Accepted Not PGWP eligible Learn more about international applicant eligibility
Faculty:: School of Transportation

Credit credentials

A credit credential includes courses with post-secondary credit applied.

These credits will be used towards your specific program and may be accepted towards a credential at SAIT or a different post-secondary institution.

The credit credentials include a bachelor's degree, applied degree, diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate.

Bachelor Degree

SAIT has bachelor's degree programs in business, construction, and hospitality and tourism management.

Bachelor's degrees are generally four-year programs, but you have up to 10 academic years to complete your courses.

Applied Degree

SAIT's full-time applied degree programs involve one year of study through classes and lab work followed by one year of directed studies in a workplace setting. This builds on the completion of a recognized two-year diploma, which you must have to be admitted to an applied degree program.

You then have seven academic years to finish your applied degree, starting from the day you begin the first course in that program.

Diploma

At SAIT, over 40 full-time diploma programs cover a broad range of areas, from aircraft maintenance to travel and tourism.

Most diploma programs are completed in two years, though you can take up to seven academic years to complete the requirements.

Certificate

SAIT has several certificate programs in the sciences, health and trades.

These programs provide the essential skills to start a career but are shorter in length than SAIT's diploma programs - usually a year or less. However, you have up to five years to complete your program.

Post-Diploma Certificate

These programs build on skills developed through a diploma or degree program and combine classroom instruction with a workplace practicum.

They are often completed in a year or less.

Journeyperson

A certified journeyperson is recognized as a qualified and skilled person in a trade and is entitled to the wages and benefits associated with that trade. You must complete all apprenticeship periods and pass the exams to earn a journeyperson designation.

Non-credit credentials

A non-credit credential comprises courses and programs designed for professional or personal development.

Because these do not have post-secondary credits attached, they cannot be used towards any of the credentials above. We also cannot guarantee an external institute will accept these courses or credentials for transfer credit.

SAIT's non-credit certificates of achievement and completion are offered through Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

Certificate of Achievement

Certificates of achievement recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 144 (required and elective) course hours.

Certificates of achievement typically develop broader, complex skill sets. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began these programs before July 1, 2022, you still have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Certificate of Completion

Certificates of completion recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 30 to a maximum of 143 course hours.

These certificates are shorter in duration than certificates of achievement and offer a focused education program. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began before July 1, 2022, you will have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Professional Certificate

Program certificates recognize completion of a program that includes the formal evaluation of performance, and that is a minimum of one year in length.

These certificates have program-specific admission requirements.

Micro-credential

A micro-credential recognizes the completion of a non-credit course that includes a formal performance evaluation and verifies you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Micro-credentials focus on the mastery of specific skills. You receive a digital, shareable badge upon completing a SAIT micro-credential (SAITMicro).

Overview

If you're passionate about cars and want to build a rewarding career in the automotive industry, this two-year diploma program will set you up for success.

Through our industry-experienced instructors, you will:

learn automotive vehicle maintenance, diagnosis and repairs
study manufacturer specifications
gain customer service and communication skills
work on actual cars and gain real-world experience.

Once you graduate, you'll have various career options, including working as an apprentice or service advisor in a general or specialty automotive shop. Many of our graduates choose to continue their training through an apprenticeship. Graduates are eligible to challenge the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) Automotive Service Technician periods one through four exams, a big step towards becoming a journeyperson certified automotive service technician.

As a journeyperson technician, you can specialize in engines, driveability, electrical systems, chassis systems, wheel alignment and automatic transmissions. You'll also have the potential to advance beyond mechanics into management positions like shop foreman or service manager.

With a high demand for automotive service technicians, you'll have a great chance of finding a job in the trade.

Those working as automotive service technicians tend to be objective, innovative and methodical.

You need:

an Alberta driver's license
good hearing, eyesight and manual dexterity
mechanical aptitude and interest
a working knowledge of electricity, electronics and computers
customer service skills.

You should enjoy performing tasks that require precision, working with your hands and working independently.

This program aligns with the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) curriculum for Automotive Service Technicians, periods one through four.

Graduates are eligible to challenge the technical training exams.

Upon passing, you can register as an apprentice and complete the on-the-job training hours to earn your journeyperson designation. Graduates are eligible to receive a 156-hour, on-the-job training credit towards each of the four periods of the Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship.

In the second year of this program, you'll participate in a capstone project where you'll work in teams to complete research, collect and analyze data and produce a project proposal.

Your team will then execute your proposal, develop progress reports, and a final report and present your outcomes and findings.

Upon successfully completing this program, you'll be awarded a SAIT Automotive Service Technology diploma.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Each year, SAIT conducts a survey between February and April to determine the employment rate, salary and satisfaction of our newest SAIT alumni.

people icon 100% graduate employment rate

salary icon $40,000 average starting salary

Find out more about our graduate employment statistics >

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 72020, 72410, 72411, 72422, 72423, 74203.

Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Services and workshops

Courses

The Automotive Service Technology program requires 60 credits (20 courses) to complete.

The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

Year 1

Semester 1

Course code	Course name	Credit
ELTR 217	Electrical I	1.5
MATH 266	Applied Mathematics for Technicians	1.5
MOTR 219	Safety, Materials and Tools	1.5
MOTR 242	Suspension and Steering	6.0
MOTR 243	Brake Systems	3.0
MOTR 244	Basic Maintenance and Welding	1.5
Semester 1 total		15.0

Semester 2

Course code	Course name	Credit
COMM 267	Professional Communications Skills	1.5
ELTR 273	Electrical II	3.0
MOTR 252	Engines	6.0
MOTR 253	Manual Transmission Transaxles and Clutches	3.0
MOTR 255	Transfer Cases	1.5
MOTR 257	Drive Axle Assemblies	1.5
Semester 2 total		15.0
Year 1 total		30.0

Year 2

Semester 3

Course code	Course name	Credit
AMAT 203	Mathematical Applications for Technicians	1.5
ELTR 304	Electrical III	3.0
MOTR 305	Ignition Systems	3.0
MOTR 306	Fuel Systems	3.0
MOTR 307	Emission Control Systems	1.5
MOTR 308	Electrical System Diagnosis	3.0
Semester 3 total		15.0

Semester 4

Course code	Course name	Credit
ELTR 348	Hybrid Electric Vehicle Systems	3.0
MOTR 362	Automatic Transmissions Transaxles	6.0
MOTR 363	Diesel Fuel Systems	1.5
MOTR 364	HVAC Systems	1.5
MOTR 366	Vehicle Systems Management, Integration and Vehicle Networks	1.5
MOTR 367	Workplace Coaching and Red Seal Standards	1.5
Semester 4 total		15.0
Year 2 total		30.0
Program total		60.0

Course	Credits
In this course the learner will study the following concepts: arithmetic, practical measurement, algebra, trigonometry and mathematical physics.	1.5
Learners will gain an understanding of the strategies and skills required for effective communication in a professional environment. Topics include active listening, conflict resolution, writing industry specific reports and documents, developing interview skills, and giving and receiving feedback.	1.5
In this course you will explain basic electrical principles and the principles of magnetism. You will perform electrical circuit measurements. You will diagnose and service batteries. You will diagnose and repair simple electrical circuits. You will use generic, manufacturer-specific or laptop-based scan tools and software.	1.5
In this course you will use electrical terms, formulas and meters. You will determine electrical values in a circuit. You will diagnose: electrical systems; charging systems; and starting systems. You will describe the operation of a charging system and of a starter motor. Pre-requisites: ELTR 217	3
In this course you will use electrical diagnostic aids and test procedures. You will describe and test input and output devices. You will describe the operation of automotive control modules and of vehicle networks. You will interpret wiring diagrams and related information to evaluate advanced circuit operation. Pre-requisites: ELTR 273	3
As the automotive industry undergoes a transformative shift towards sustainable transportation, the demand for skilled professionals capable of servicing electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly increasing. This comprehensive course is designed to equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to excel in the field of hybrid and electric vehicle service, repair, and maintenance. Topics covered include high voltage safety procedures, high voltage vehicles, electric motors, battery systems, inverters and control systems, charging systems, HVAC systems specific to high voltage vehicles and autonomous vehicles. Pre-requisites: ELTR 304	3
This course introduces you to the fundamental mathematical principles that you will need to meet the requirements of your program. You'll explore the trade applications of whole numbers, fractions and decimals, as well as metric and imperial conversion and geometric problems. You'll perform algebraic operations and use ratios, proportions and percentages to solve trade-related problems.	1.5
In this course you will apply: legislation, regulations and practices ensuring safe work in this trade, as well as industry standard practices for hazardous materials and fire protection in this trade. You will use: industry standard practices for climbing, lifting, rigging and hoisting in this trade; specialty hand tools common to the trade; and electronic service information from various sources when diagnosing, servicing or repairing vehicles. You will communicate with customers and related trades people using industry standard terms and units for parts and operations. You will measure components using tools common to the trade. You will assemble components using fasteners, adhesives and sealers common to the trade. You will perform metal cutting and heating operations using oxyacetylene equipment.	1.5
In this course you will identify automotive frame damage. You will describe components and operation of suspension and steering systems, as well as steering angles and how each affects vehicle handling. You will diagnose and service wheels, tires and wheel bearings. You will diagnose and repair: electrically-assisted steering gear; hydraulic assist steering systems; steering columns and related safety devices; suspension systems and steering linkages; and drive shafts, universal joints and constant velocity joints. You will perform a wheel alignment.	6
In this course you will describe brake system principles and operation. You will diagnose and repair: brake system hydraulic components; drum brake systems; disc brake systems; and power brakes. You will diagnose and service brake systems.	3
In this course you will describe basic maintenance routines for vehicles and service procedures for light utility trailers.	1.5
In this course you will describe: the operation of internal combustion engines; crankshaft and friction bearing function, design and construction; the function of pistons and related components; camshaft and valve train operation; and the operation and function of cylinder head assemblies. You will determine the serviceability of an engine block. You will inspect and measure: a crankshaft, friction bearings and related components; pistons and related components; and cylinder heads and related components. You will diagnose camshafts and valve train components, as well as engine mechanical problems. You will diagnose and repair: air induction systems and related components; exhaust systems; lubricating systems; and cooling systems and related components. You will disassemble and assemble engines and attached components.	6
In this course you will describe the operating principles of a manual transmission. You will diagnose a manual transmission and a manual transaxle. You will diagnose and repair automotive clutches.	1.5
In this course you will diagnose: manual transfer cases; electronic transfer cases; AWD transfer cases; and 4WD engagement controls.	1.5
In this course you will service axle shafts and bearings. You will describe the operation of differentials as well as the design and operation of final drive gear sets. You will assemble a final drive gear set. You will diagnose and repair drive axle assemblies.	1.5
In this course you will describe the operation of an ignition system and of electronic ignition systems. You will diagnose ignition systems.	3
In this course you will explain fuel properties and handling practices. You will describe: the combustion process and resulting emissions; the operation of fuel injection systems; and the operation of alternate fuel (compressed gas) systems. You will diagnose and repair fuel tanks and supply systems, as well as fuel injection systems.	3
In this course you will diagnose and repair: exhaust gas recirculation systems; air injection systems; catalytic converter systems; and evaporative emission control systems.	1.5
In this course you will diagnose and repair: instrument panel circuits and warning systems; vehicle lighting systems; wiper and washer systems; power accessories; heated systems; vehicle speed control systems; vehicle networks; and occupant restraint systems. You will diagnose: information and entertainment systems; factory installed vehicle safety and security systems; and problems related to anti-lock brake systems.	3
In this course you will diagnose: planetary gear sets; torque converters; problems related to the circuits in an electronically-controlled automatic transmission; and problems related to electronically-controlled automatic transmission operation. You will describe operating principles of an automatic transmission. You will explain the operation of electronically-controlled automatic transmissions and the operation of CVTs. You will diagnose and repair: oil pumps; clutches, bands and servos; hydraulic valves; and shift valves. You will test an automatic transmission and repair automatic transmissions.	6
In this course you will diagnose and repair electronically-controlled diesel fuel injection systems. You will describe diesel engine emission controls.	1.5
In this course you will explain the operation of HVAC systems. You will diagnose HVAC controls. You will diagnose and repair HVAC systems.	1.5
In this course you will diagnose problems associated with integrated vehicle systems.	1.5
In this course you will use coaching skills when training an apprentice, and use Red Seal products to prepare for an inter-provincial examination.	1.5

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Explore your options!

Some courses in this program are available through Open Studies. You can complete courses via Open Studies to get a head start on your education, reduce your course load once accepted into a credentialed program, or determine which career path best suits you before you fully commit.

You may also take courses for general interest or personal and professional development.

Available Open Studies courses

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:

at least 50% in Math 20-1 or 20-2 or 20-3, and
at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2, and
at least 50% in a Grade 11 science.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Transfer agreements

At SAIT, we evaluate post-secondary credit you have previously earned and apply it to your SAIT credential. Explore our formal transfer agreements available for this program.

We can evaluate your prior education, even if we don't have a formal agreement in place.

Submit a transfer credit application

There are no formal transfer agreements currently in place for this program.

Transfer options for graduates

Build on the knowledge you’ve learned at SAIT. The opportunity to advance your education at an accredited post-secondary institution may be available.

🔗 Visit Transfer Alberta search tool for all transfer agreements in Alberta (including UCalgary, MRU and BVC).

If there are transfer agreements with other institutions outside of Alberta, nationally or internationally, they will be listed below.

Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training

Program name: Automotive Service Technician Apprentice
Available credits:: n/a

Upon successfully completing your program at SAIT, you may continue your training and complete an Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship, including an Alberta Journeyman Certificate and inter-provincial standards red seal.

Diploma graduates are eligible for 16 months of credit upon employer approval.

In addition, you may be granted trade-related work experience between the first and second year of your apprenticeship. You are also eligible to write apprenticeship exams upon completion of training.

Available intakes

Winter 2025

Start dates:

Jan 06, 2025

Domestic students: Closed: Application deadline: Oct. 25, 2024
International students: Closed: Application deadline: Sept. 30, 2024

Spring 2025

Start dates:

May 05, 2025

Domestic students: Waitlisted: Application deadline: April 30, 2025
International students: Open: Application deadline: March 28, 2025

Fall 2025

Start dates:

Sep 02, 2025

Domestic students: Waitlisted: Application deadline: June 30, 2025
International students: Open: Application deadline: May 30, 2025

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2	$7,050	$1,608	$8,658
2	2	$7,050	$1,608	$8,658
Total cost:				$17,316

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2	$20,370	$1,608	$21,978
2	2	$20,370	$1,608	$21,978
Total cost:				$43,956

Books and supplies are approximately $450 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a standard computer hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can't find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they're still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

Required personal protective equipment (PPE)

The industry-approved PPE you'll need will be discussed during your first few days of classes.

You will need:

CSA-approved steel-toe boots and safety glasses
welding gloves
earplugs (supplied)
coveralls.

Service technician coveralls will be available for purchase at the start of the semester. Tools will be provided.

Required equipment/tools

Tools will be provided throughout your program.

A driver's license and the ability to maneuver a vehicle in tight spaces and drive a manual transmission vehicle are highly recommended to succeed in this program and industry.

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside the typical 15-week program.

2024/25 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

A breakdown of mandatory fees based on whether you are taking less than or more than nine credits per semester
SAIT fees	Less than 9 credits/semester	9 or more credits/semester
Campus athletic and recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.	$51.50	$103
Student support fee: supports services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including Career Advancement Services and Student Development and Counselling.	$53.75	$107.50
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance your experience.	$53.75	$107.50
UPass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Additional eligibility requirements apply to obtain a UPass.	n/a	$165
Saitsa fees
Saitsa fee: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of various student services, activities, and programming. Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.	$16.23/credit	$146 maximum
Health and dental plan: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits. In most cases, your fees are quoted based on paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt-out.	n/a	$91 for health $84 for dental

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

Learn how to apply

Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the transportation.info@sait.ca domain to your safe senders list or you risk missing critical email messages.

Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal.

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $175 for international applicants.

Apply now

Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Contact us

School of Transportation Advising

Phone: 403.284.8471
Email: transportation.info@sait.ca

International Student Advising

Phone: 403.284.8852
Email: international@sait.ca

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SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.

We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.

Visit Natoysopoyiis Resource Centre

Automotive Service Technology

On this page:

Overview