| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Power Engineering Techniques – Fourth Class
Program Overview
Fourth class power engineers operate and maintain industrial boilers, refrigeration systems, and auxiliary equipment used for heating, cooling and power applications in large facilities such as hospitals and schools, as well as industrial plants and power stations.
Accredited by the Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA), the Power Engineering Techniques – Fourth Class program at Durham College introduces students to the theoretical and practical aspects of power generation and plant operation.
In this power engineering program, you learn the relevant theory in the classroom, and then apply that theory in Durham College’s state-of-the-art registered Power Plant. The opportunity to apply theory helps solidify what you learn in the classroom—this advantage makes Durham College’s power engineering program among the finest in the country.
We also combine virtual reality technology with electrical labs, allowing students to gain practical experience and develop critical skills in a dynamic and engaging way. With the support of our expert faculty, students emerge from the 4th Class Power Engineering program take the next step toward TSSA certification.
Students who successfully complete the program may be eligible for a nine-month reduction of qualifying experience time (steam time). After successfully completing TSSA testing and acquiring three months of industry experience, graduates can qualify for their Fourth-Class Operating Engineer Certificate of Qualification.
Intakes and Availability
- September 2025: Waitlisted (Domestic), Open (International)
Program Highlights
- Resources:
- 2025 Program Guide
- Attend a DC Information Webinar
- Financial Aid Information
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 12 Mathematics (C, M or U)
- Recommended:
- Grade 12 Physics (C or U)
- Grade 12 Chemistry (C or U)
Are you missing admission requirements? We are here to help.
- Durham College (DC) offers pre-admission assessment testing to mature domestic applicants to meet admission requirements in English and/or math.
- DC also offers Academic Upgrading. Courses are FREE and designed to help you meet the admissions requirements for this program.
Tuition
- Year one domestic: $2,722 (CAD)
- Year one international: $15,309 (CAD)
Semester 1 Courses
- Practical 1 - Electrical/Instrumentation (ELEC 1114)
- Math (MATH 1115)
- Practical 1 - Mechanical (MECH 1114)
- Boilers - Design and Construction (PETN 1104)
- Chemistry and Water Treatment (PETN 1106)
- Electricity, Instrumentation and Control (PETN 1108)
- Power Technician Administration (PETN 1110)
- Applied Science (PETN 1112)
Career Options
- Fourth class operating engineer
- Chemical technician
- Nuclear operator
- Oil field specialist
- Boiler Operator
- Plant Operator
- Stationary Engineer
- Facility Operator
- Operations Technician
- Maintenance Engineer
- HVAC Technician
- Refrigeration Plant Operator
- Building Operator
Tech Requirements
- Processor: i7
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Professional or Education x64 SP1
- Internet Browser: Internet Explorer 11 or Google Chrome (newest version) or Firefox (newest version)
- Network Adapter: 802.11ac 2.4/5 GHz wireless adapter
- Camera: Webcam/built-in camera
- Internet connection
Meet Your Faculty Experts
- David Beals
- Lino Iantomasi
- Ralph Trauzzi
See Your Space
Take a 360-degree virtual tour of our power plant, where students in the Power Engineering program get hands-on experience with the operation and maintenance of the boiler and associated power plant equipment.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon completing the Power Engineering Techniques Fourth Class program, you can expect to understand and be able to do the following:
- Identify and explain operation of components according to industry specifications.
- Select and use a variety of troubleshooting techniques, problem-solving skills, and test.
- Apply knowledge of electrical calculations, applied mechanics, thermodynamics, and applied science to ensure safe and efficient operation of the facility.
- Communicate information to effectively and accurately document projects and perform daily operations in a power operating environment under the supervision of a qualified person.
- Conduct modifications to quality control procedures under the supervision of a qualified person.
- Develop and use strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance performance.
- Complete all assigned work in compliance with Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) regulations, occupational, environmental, health, and fire safety procedures, practices, and laws applicable to the power industry.
Course Delivery
- In person: Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements.
Costs
- Semester 1:
- Tuition: $1,361.02
- Program Fee: $62.5
- Ancillary Fee: $493.77
- DCSA Ancillary Fee: $430
- Total: $2,347.29
- Semester 2:
- Tuition: $1,361.02
- Program Fee: $0
- Ancillary Fee: $493.77
- DCSA Ancillary Fee: $120
- Total: $1,974.79
Scholarships Available
- Canerector Scholarships – 10 valued at up to $5,000 each
- Schulich Builders Scholarships – 10 valued at up to $40,000 each
Land Acknowledgement
Durham College is situated on the traditional lands of the First Peoples of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. These lands are covered under the Williams Treaties and rest within the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. We offer our gratitude to the Indigenous Peoples who care for and, through the treaty process, share the lands on which we live, learn, teach, and prosper today.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Power Engineering Techniques – Fourth Class program at Durham College provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge in power generation and plant operation. Accredited by the Technical Standards & Safety Authority (TSSA) as a Fourth Class Power Engineering program, graduates are eligible to challenge the 4A and 4B TSSA exams and potentially obtain a nine-month reduction of qualifying experience time. By successfully completing three months of industry experience, students can qualify for their Fourth Class Operating Engineer certificate.
Outline:
Semester 1:
- Practical 1 - Electrical/Instrumentation (ELEC 1114)
- Math (MATH 1115)
- Practical 1 - Mechanical (MECH 1114)
- Boilers - Design and Construction (PETN 1104)
- Chemistry and Water Treatment (PETN 1106)
- Electricity, Instrumentation and Control (PETN 1108)
- Power Technician Administration (PETN 1110)
- Applied Science (PETN 1112)
Semester 2:
- Communication Foundations (COMM 1100)
- Practical 2 - Mechanical (MECH 1214)
- Pumping Systems (PETN 1204)
- Building Systems (PETN 1206)
- Heating, Ventilation, AIr Conditioning and Refrigeration (PETN 1208)
- Boiler Operations, Maintenance and Safety (PETN 1210)
- Practical 2 - Power Plant (PETN 1215)
Careers:
Graduates with a Fourth Class Operating Engineer certificate may find employment as:
- Fourth class operating engineers
- Chemical technicians
- Nuclear operators
- Oil field specialists
Durham College
Overview:
Durham College is a public college located in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It offers a wide range of full-time and part-time programs, including diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, and apprenticeships. The college is known for its focus on experiential learning and its commitment to providing students with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Durham College provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) offers tutoring, workshops, and other resources to help students succeed academically.Career Development:
The Career Development Centre assists students with career planning, job searching, and resume writing.Co-operative Education:
Many programs offer co-op opportunities, allowing students to gain practical work experience in their field.Financial Aid:
Durham College offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards to help students finance their education.Health and Wellness:
The Campus Health and Wellness Centre provides a range of services, including counselling, health education, and fitness programs.Housing:
Durham College offers on-campus housing options for students.Library:
The college library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Student Association:
The Durham College Student Association (DCSA) represents the interests of students and provides a variety of social and recreational activities.Campus Safety:
Durham College has a dedicated Campus Safety department that provides security services and emergency response.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Durham College offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including:
Athletics:
Durham College has a competitive varsity sports program, as well as intramural and extramural sports.Esports:
The college has an Esports Gaming Arena where students can compete in various video games.Student Events:
Durham College hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and guest speakers.Social Media Hub:
The college has a dedicated Social Media Hub where students can connect with each other and stay up-to-date on campus news.Key Reasons to Study There:
Experiential Learning:
Durham College emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with real-world experience in their chosen field.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs that are designed to prepare students for specific careers.Strong Industry Connections:
Durham College has strong relationships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships and job placements.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and welcoming environment for students, with a variety of resources and services available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Durham College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Full-time Programs:
Diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, and apprenticeships in a variety of fields, including business, technology, health care, and the arts.Part-time Programs:
Professional and part-time learning opportunities for individuals looking to upgrade their skills or pursue a new career.Online Learning:
A variety of online programs and courses available for students who prefer to learn remotely.Other:
- Durham College has two campuses: Oshawa and Whitby.
- The college is committed to diversity and inclusion, with a dedicated Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
- Durham College is a smoke-free campus.
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The college has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact.
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Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages of studying at Durham College, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to choose this institution.Entry Requirements:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status AND Grade 12 English (C or U) Grade 12 Mathematics (C, M or U) Recommended Grade 12 Physics (C or U) Grade 12 Chemistry (C or U)
