Programs & Courses

Power Engineering Technology

DIPLOMA

About the Program

Power engineering is a challenging field of study that supports the supervision, operation and maintenance of machinery and systems.

From boilers and turbines to generators and pressure vessels, power engineers are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the equipment and related controls that provide power, heat, refrigeration and other utility services to industrial and commercial facilities.

If you enjoy controlling and operating manual and automated systems, analyzing information and solving problems, and having clear rules and organized methods for your work, power engineering may be a good fit for you. People drawn to this field tend to have a mechanical and electrical aptitude, good eye-hand co-ordination and an ability to work well with others in a team environment.

With MHC’s modern, state-of-the-art lab with an actual plant environment and small class sizes, you’ll gain ample operating time and relevant industry experience.

Upon completion of our two-year diploma program, graduates achieve second class level and are able to write the first part of their second class exams.


High School

High school diploma and a minimum 60% standing in

  • ELA 30-1
  • Math 30-1 or Math 30-2 
  • Physics 30

Mature Student

  • ELA 30-1
  • Math 30-1 or Math 30-2 
  • Physics 30
Even though a high school diploma is not required for program admission, some employers may require it.

FIRST YEAR

Block 1 (September - November)

PLAC 111*
Field Placement
PLAB 116  First Lab
POWE 161  Introductory Mechanics & Thermodynamics, Legislation and Safety
POWE 162
Introductory Electricity and Instrumentation, Materials, Welding and Safety
POWE 163
Introduction to Boilers, Environment, Communication

* Students are responsible for the cost of obtaining safety certification in Standard First Aid with CPR and WHMIS before being eligible for PLAC 111 (Field Placement). Copies of these safety certificates must be on file with the PLAC 111 instructor by the date stated in the course outline.

Block 2 (December - February)
PLAB 117 
Second Lab
POWE 166  Lubrication, Pumps, Compressor, Boiler Safety and Operation
POWE 167
Maintenance, Water Treatment, Prime Movers/Engines and Auxiliary Building Systems
POWE 168
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning and Types of Plants
Block 3 (February - May)
PLAB 118 
Third Lab
POWE 151  Intermediate Mechanics & Thermodynamics
POWE 152
Metallurgy
POWE 153 Codes & Drawings
POWE 154 Intermediate Electricity & Instrumentation

SECOND YEAR

Block 4 (September - December)
PLAB 219 Fourth Lab
POWE 260 Intermediate Boilers
POWE 261 Intermediate Prime Movers
POWE 262  Water Treatment & Special Equipment
Block 5 (January - April)
POWE 265 Advanced Boilers
POWE 266 Advanced Pumps & Water Treatment
POWE 270 Advanced Codes
POWE 271 Plant Installation & Management
POWE 272  Advanced Mechanics
POWE 280   Advanced Thermodynamics
POWE 281
 Advanced Metallurgy

VIEW COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Graduates of this program will find employment opportunities with: 

  • Building Complexes 
  • Gas Plants 
  • Oil Refineries 
  • Petrochemical Processing Plants 
  • Fertilizer Production 
  • Power Generating Plants

What is your education going to cost?

Our TUITION and FEES page provides a total cost estimate for your program including books and supplies and related expenses.

Looking for ways to help fund your education?

There are lots of options like student loans, scholarships, bursaries and emergency funding available.
Check out our FINANCIAL AID page for more information.

Many programs offered at Medicine Hat College qualify for transfer credits to other institutions. In some cases, you must transfer to another institution to complete your program and gain your credential.

The ACADEMIC CALENDAR has official information on transfer options for each program.
Please consult the calendar or meet with an academic advisor for more information.

At MHC, we care about students and want to help you succeed.

As a student, there may be times when you require support. Our SERVICES page provides you with links to a number of campus supports including academic success, counselling and care, health and wellness, and many other resources.

Have you always wanted to study abroad?

Enhance your education, share in cultural diversity and embrace new experiences. Visit the INTERNATIONAL MOBILITY PROGRAM section to find out more.