Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Engineering Foundations Certificate
Overview
This program offers the same skills and knowledge as the first year of a university degree with smaller class sizes and more one-on-one instruction, plus the option for part-time study.
Requirements and Courses
Admission Requirements
- C+ in Pre-Calculus 12 or MAT 060 or equivalent or successful Math assessment.
- C+ in English 12 or equivalent or successful English assessment.
- Some courses within the Engineering Foundation Certificate have chemistry and physics prerequisites that will also need to be met (C+ in Chemistry 12 or equivalent, and C+ in Physics 12 or equivalent). Students can take any needed upgrading courses to achieve those prerequisites before or after admission into the Engineering Foundation Certificate.
Course Requirements
- CHE - 152 Engineering Chemistry 1
- CPS - 102 Computer Programming with C++
- CPS - 101 Computer Programming II
- PHY - 170 Engineering Mechanics 1: Statics and Dynamics
- ENR - 100 Introduction to Engineering I
- ENR - 101 Introduction to Engineering II
- MAT - 133 Matrix Algebra
- MAT - 181 Calculus I
- MAT - 182 Calculus II
- PHY - 120 Principles of Physics I
- PHY - 121 Principles of Physics II
- ENG - 115 Essay Writing and Critical Analysis
- ENG - 116 Essay Writing & Indigenous Perspectives
- ENG - 160 Effective Organizational Writing
- ENG - 166 Effective Organizational Communications
- University Transfer Elective
Optional:
- ENR - 190 Engineering Work Term I
Notes:
- CHE 110 may be taken in place of CHE 152. Some receiving schools may require CHE 110 and CHE 111 to be taken to be exempt from CHE 152. Students should check with their receiving school before making this substitution.
- Students transferring to UVic for software engineering should take CHE 152, CPS 102, CPS 101, ENG 115, ENG 160, ENR 100, ENR 101, MAT 133, MAT 181, MAT 182, PHY 120, PHY 121. They may also take PHY 170, which would transfer to UVic as an elective.
- Students transferring into all other engineering disciplines at UVic should take CHE 152, CPS 102, ENG 115 or ENG 116, ENG 160 or ENG 166, ENR 100, ENR 101, MAT 133, MAT 181, MAT 182, PHY 120, PHY 121, and PHY 170. They may also take CPS 101, but this would normally be taken in second year at UVic.
- Students transferring to UBC should take CHE 152, CPS 102, ENG 115 or ENG 116, ENR 100, ENR 101, MAT 133, MAT 181, MAT 182, PHY 120, PHY 121, PHY 170, and a complimentary studies elective (see UBC calendar and the BC Transfer Guide for options).
- ENR 100 and ENR 101 together replace ENR-110. Students who already have ENR-110 can substitute it for both ENR 100 and ENR 101.
- CPS 100 or CPS 114 may be substituted for CPS 102, but some receiving schools may not accept it for transfer. Students should check with their receiving school before making this substitution.
Completion Requirements
- Students must achieve an overall average grade of C+ or better calculated on all courses counting toward the Engineering Foundations Certificate.
Careers
The career paths for engineers are vast, varying on your specialization choices. The five main branches of engineering include civil, mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineering.
Titles include:
- Mechanical engineers
- Civil engineers
- Electrical engineers
- Biomedical engineers
- Chemical engineers
- Aerospace engineers
- Industrial engineers
- Computer engineers
- Agricultural engineers
- Environmental engineers
- Automotive engineers
- Geological engineers
- Structural engineers
- Food engineers
Costs
Domestic
- Tuition: $3,780
- Lab: $215
- Student Union: $235
- Learner Resource: $200
- Health and Dental: $285
- Total: $4,715
International
- Tuition: $16,895
- Lab: $215
- Student Union: $235
- Learner Resource: $200
- Health and Dental: $285
- Student Services Fee: $1,045
- Total: $18,875
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go into any field of Engineering with this program?
You can use this program to start your path in Engineering, but the field you can go into depends on the courses you take and the university you transfer to. Make sure to check the requirements for the Engineering program you’re interested in—some have specific prerequisites. An educational advisor can help you pick the right courses to match your goals.
Does the program include practical Engineering projects?
Yes! The program isn’t just theoretical—it’s hands-on too. You’ll work on physical projects individually, in groups, and even for the community, giving you real-world experience.
What makes this Engineering program unique?
This program ladders into the second year of university Engineering programs, with the option to apply for dual admission to UVic from the start. It offers hands-on learning with 3D printers, community projects, small class sizes, and guidance from highly experienced instructors, giving you valuable skills and a strong foundation for your Engineering career.
Can I take this program part-time?
Yes, students have the option to complete the program part-time, giving you the flexibility to balance your studies with other commitments while still working toward your goals in Engineering.
North Island College (NIC)
Overview:
North Island College (NIC) is a public post-secondary institution located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It offers a range of programs and services to students, including diploma, certificate, and degree programs, as well as continuing education courses. NIC is known for its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education in stunning campus locations.
Services Offered:
NIC offers a variety of services to students, including:
Academic advising:
Guidance on program selection, course registration, and academic planning.Financial aid and awards:
Support for students facing financial challenges.Student life and support services:
Resources for student well-being, including counselling, health services, and career development.Library and learning commons:
Access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.Teaching and learning supports:
Assistance with academic skills, such as writing, research, and study strategies.CareerCentral:
A platform for students to explore career options, search for jobs, and connect with employers.Student Life and Campus Experience:
NIC provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:
Five stunning campus locations:
Port Hardy, Campbell River, Comox Valley, Port Alberni, and Ucluelet, each offering unique experiences and access to natural beauty.Vibrant communities:
Opportunities to engage with local communities and participate in various events and activities.Sprawling beaches and adventure:
Access to outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, kayaking, and surfing.Key Reasons to Study There:
Accessible and affordable education:
NIC strives to make education accessible to all, with affordable tuition rates and financial aid options.Stunning campus locations:
Studying in beautiful and inspiring environments enhances the learning experience.Vibrant communities:
Opportunities to connect with local communities and gain valuable real-world experience.Commitment to Indigenous-led learning:
NIC prioritizes reconciliation, Indigenization, and decolonization through action.Academic Programs:
NIC offers a wide range of academic programs, including: