Computer Engineering Technology

Diploma

Apply Now

Need more info? Learn how to apply.

Computers play a role in every segment of modern society. Growing demand and advances in miniature, solid-state microprocessor technology have sparked the development of smaller, less expensive and more powerful computers, and increased the need for well-trained technical personnel.

In the 2-year Computer Engineering Technology diploma program, you'll design, build and program computers, gain skills in the hardware and software aspects of microcomputers and their applications, and receive extensive hands-on training.

Upcoming Intakes

Select your preferred intake to see relevant program information. Program details, including tuition and course information, may vary by intake.

Selection Start Date Delivery Mode Time Campus Length Domestic Status International Status
Sep. 02, 2025 (Fall) In-person Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Open Open
  Jan. 08, 2026 (Winter) In-person Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Open Open
 
             
 

Swipe table to view more information for each intake.

Delivery Mode

  • In-person - All your class activity will be delivered in person, on campus.
  • Online - All your class activity will be delivered online.
  • Hybrid - Your classes will be a mixture of in person and online learning. You must be able to come to campus and participate remotely online.
  • Your choice - Your program offers a variety of class delivery options (in person, online, or a mixture of both) and you can select which type of classes to take. If you wish, you can complete your entire program either in-person or online.
  • HyFlex - All your classes are delivered for simultaneous participation in person and online. You can choose daily to attend your classes in person or join remotely online.

Time

  • Your choice - You can select class times and days that fit your schedule. There are a variety of class options for you to choose from including daytime, evening, weekdays or weekends.
  • No set time - No set class days or times, content is access on-demand. You can complete your studies on your own schedule within the scheduled class dates; may have set due dates and deadlines.
  • Evenings & Weekends - Classes are scheduled after 5 p.m. on weekdays or anytime on weekends.
  • Weekdays - Daytime - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start before 6 p.m.
  • Weekdays - Evening - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start after 6 p.m.
  • Weekends - Classes are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays.

Campus

Any in-person components of your courses will be delivered at this campus location.

View Campus Map

Length

  • Full-Time - This is the standard length to complete the program, with a full course load per term.
  • Part-Time - Students follow a structured schedule of classes so they can progress in their studies part-time while balancing everyday life.

Domestic Status

The program availability status for domestic applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

International Status

The program availability status for international applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Limited - For international applicants, the program intake is now only available if you already have a valid study permit.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

Credit programs that accept international applicants also meet the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, including programs with a Hybrid delivery mode. Each student is responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.

Hands-on, industry-relevant skills

In Computer Engineering Technology, you'll be trained in both computer hardware and software, including concepts related to computer architecture fundamentals, industrial electronics and embedded controllers using analog and digital integration. You'll become fluent in the programming of micro-controllers, advanced programming languages such as C#, Windows application development, database concepts and dynamic web development. 

Our hands-on learning environment and industry focus will provide you with the skills and knowledge you'll need to secure a rewarding career as a computer engineering technologist. 

In this program, you'll learn about:

  • Computer programming, including C#, SQL, HTML5+, CSS3, PHP, ASP.NET Core, JavaScript, AJAX, jQuery and ladder logic on PLCs to monitor and control industrial equipment
  • System analysis and design
  • Electronic circuit design, implementation, debugging, simulation and measurement
  • Embedded system implementation
  • Interfacing sensors, actuators and other electronic devices to computer platforms
  • Hardware design and interfacing
  • Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Oral and written communication skills
  • Interpersonal and teamwork skills
  • Time management and other professional skills
Computer Engineering Technology student

Co-op option

This program has a co-op option that will be available to you once you've completed at least 2 academic terms. This hands-on work experience will provide career development training, enabling you to build advanced job readiness skills. 

Acceptance into the co-op program is based on successful completion of all coursework with a minimum GPA of 3.0

For information, contact the program at compeng@nait.ca or 780.378.5207.

Is this program for you?

Computer Engineering Technology is a demanding program that will require your full commitment. You can expect to spend approximately 30 hours per week in lectures or labs and you should expect to complete 25-30 hours of work per week at home. Attendance is extremely important and it is not advised that you work while taking courses.

For more information on what to expect from the program and strategies for success, please contact the program at compeng@nait.ca or 780.378.5207.

Career Outcomes

Industries

  • Data communication system support
  • Software development and support
  • Instrumentation and data acquisition
  • Process control hardware and software
  • Sales and support
  • Embedded system design
  • Programmable logic design
  • Database programming
  • Web development
  • Application development

Median Starting Salary

The expected starting salary for individuals with a(n) Computer Engineering Technology Diploma is $51,453.
This salary information was based on graduate data from the past 3 years and reflects annual salaries for graduates who claimed they were working more than 30 hours per week. Graduates who quoted salaries below $10,000 and above $200,000 per year have been excluded. Note that NAIT publishes the median salary instead of the average to minimize the potential of outlying salaries distorting the mean. Data represented here may differ from other data sources due to differences in definition or differences in timing.

Grad Employment Rate

Employment rates are reported by NAIT alumni, are for information purposes, and do not guarantee future employment opportunities. Please note that data for newer programs may not be included within this report.

Download report

Take your career planning to the next level

This program can be used as a step toward earning higher credentials and/or certifications.

Further education at NAIT
Certification(s)

While enrolled in the program, you'll be eligible for student membership in the following professional associations:

Post-secondary articulation agreements within Alberta are approved by the Alberta Council on Admissions and Transfer (ACAT). To view the details of specific agreements, please visit transferalberta.ca or contact articulations@nait.ca For questions regarding transfer agreements or to obtain a course description/outline that is no longer available on our website, please contact articulations@nait.ca.

Build your resume before you even graduate

Explore work experience opportunities that help grads get hired even sooner.

View Work Integrated Learning

Work Experience Placements

Students in this program gain valuable work experience with Work Integrated Learning (WIL). WIL is a form of experiential learning that integrates academic studies with relevant work-based learning. The WIL placement in this program is a Co-op.

Co-op

A Co-op provides experience in a workplace setting related to the student's field of study. The number of required work terms varies by program; however, the time spent in work terms must be at least 30% of the time spent in academic study for programs over 2 years in length, and 25% of time for programs 2 years and shorter in length.

Duration 15 weeks
Compensation Yes
International Students Co-op Work Permit required
Placement Identified By Student - Submits resume to employers to apply for WIL positions.
Student Interview Required Yes
Benefits of a Co-op
  • Understand more about career opportunities, expectations and requirements of the professional field
  • Gain the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world environment
  • Create networking opportunities in your chosen industry
  • Develop and improve communication, interpersonal and employment skills
  • Gain confidence in your professional skills
  • Practice job placement skills including job search, resume preparation, interviewing
  • Explore career options and program specialization within the industry
  • Improve application for future positions by gaining industry experience and increasing your employability
  • Possibility of employment after graduation
  • Potential financial benefits if the placement is paid
Finding a placement
  • Create a profile on NAIT's job board, Career Connect
  • Create and maintain a current resume, cover letter and list of references
  • Apply for positions on Career Connect
  • Prepare for, and attend, employer interviews
  • Coordinate and communicate with your WIL Coordinator
  • Be flexible, professional, and participate fully in the recruitment process
  • Be aware of the anticipated outcomes of the placement
  • Notify the coordinator for your program once you have an employment offer and sign a WIL Agreement

Courses and Advanced Credit

Current and recently admitted students can find information and updates about their program on their My Program page in the MyNAIT Portal. To monitor your course progress and the courses still needed to graduate, visit your Academic Progress Report.

Advanced Credit

You may apply for advanced credit once you have been accepted into the program. Advanced credit can be Transfer Credit (for completed post-secondary courses) or PLAR (Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition).

Transfer Credit

In addition to the common guidelines outlined on the Transfer and Credit Options section, your program has other advanced credit requirements that are applied to each request including:

  • You must have completed the course or program no more than 4 year(s) ago unless a formalized articulation agreement is in place
  • You must have a minimum mark of A- in the course(s) or program

Read more about advanced credit or contact us about applying for credit for this program.

Courses

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

Expand each course below to see details about credits, requisites, scheduling, and more.

Term 1

CMPE1000Basic Electricity
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program.
  • Course Equivalencies: CNT1000
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

In order to work with electronic systems students need to have a basic working knowledge of electrical circuits. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to construct, test, analyze, design, and document direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) circuits.

CMPE1100Workplace Skills and Safety
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Working in a safe and professional manner is a requirement at all worksites. Fundamental skills and knowledge expected of all computer engineering technologists will also be explored. Participants will learn and demonstrate skills in workplace safety, soldering, prototyping, basic computer and networking components, and introduction to virtualization.

CMPE1300Fundamentals of Programming
  • Open Studies: Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Fundamental skills in programming are critical to many of the tasks IT professionals perform. Students will create programs that use looping, decision-making, and methods to implement algorithms and analyze, debug, and troubleshoot programs.

CMPE1550Digital Logic
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Digital logic is foundational to an understanding of computing systems. Upon completion of this course students will be able to design, build, simulate, and analyze logic circuits.

COMM1000Technical Communications
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in Computer Network Administrator, Computer Engineering Technology or the Network Engineering Technology program.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

This course will place an emphasis on developing professional communication skills to enable students to be successful members of a team in a work environment. The course concentrates on skills in writing, reading, speaking, researching, and critical thinking, within the context of technical communications in the workplace.

MATH1106Technical Mathematics, Calculus I and Statistics
  • Requisites: This course is not available to Open Studies students.
  • Course Equivalencies: MATH1106
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

This course is for Computer Engineering Technology students. In order to analyze electric circuits students need to be able to use algebraic and transcendental functions. This course also introduces the student to statistics and statistical methods, as well as differential calculus which are commonly used in technical analysis.

Term 2

CMPE1250Embedded System Fundamentals
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE1100, CMPE1300, CMPE1550.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Dedicated embedded controllers exist in vehicles, appliances, and electronic systems. A foundation in embedded controllers is essential for building and programming these systems. Students will learn to program an embedded controller and interface it to a variety of input and output devices.

CMPE1400Semiconductors
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Prerequisite: CMPE1000, CMPE1100.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

In order to work with electronics, students need to have a basic working knowledge of semiconductor circuits. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to analyze, design, construct, and test linear and digital switching semiconductor circuits.

CMPE1666Intermediate Programming
  • Requisites: This course is available to Open Studies students. Pre-Requisite: CMPE1300.
  • Open Studies: Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Windows and the .NET Framework provide an infrastructure for the rapid creation of rich interactive programs. This course introduces students to user-interface design and event-driven programming, where they will create responsive applications that use standard controls, components, and resources. Students will also refine skills in troubleshooting, algorithm implementation, and program analysis.

CMPE2000Web Technologies
  • Requisites: Prerequisite: CMPE1300.
  • Open Studies: Available
  • Credits: 3.00

The Internet plays an increasingly important role in all industries. This course introduces website design using current HTML and CSS standards. Interactive web interfaces will be developed using JavaScript and JQuery, including web service consumption, and functionality will be further enhanced using external JavaScript libraries.

CMPE2400Databases
  • Requisites: Prerequisite: CMPE1300.
  • Open Studies: Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Efficient organization and retrieval of information is critical to all aspects of computing. This course introduces transactional relational database programming using SQL. Students will create queries that retrieve and manipulate data. Students will also design, implement, and operate normalized databases.

MATH1200Calculus II
  • Requisites: Prerequisite: MATH1106 or equivalent.
  • Course Equivalencies: MATH1200
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

This course is for Computer Engineering Technology students. In order to analyze frequency content in the data acquisition context series approximations will be studied. In addition, students will analyze physical systems using Integral Calculus and Laplace Transforms.

Term 3

CMPE2100Hardware Interfacing
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Prerequisites: CMPE1250, CMPE1400, MATH1200.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

In order to manage industrial and commercial systems, one must interface with and process real-world physical quantities. Students will design and build circuits to interface sensors with computers and computers with actuators. Students will create programs to automate this process and create human machine interfaces (HMI).

CMPE2150Practical Electronics
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE1250, CMPE1400.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Designing and building electronic systems requires practical application of theory. Declarative problems in electronics will be solved through typical applications in project work. Topics covered include AC control, digital filtering, motor control, interface circuits, and printed circuit board design for manufacture.

CMPE2250Embedded System Applications
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE1250.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Embedded controllers typically interface with other devices for acquisition of data and control. More advanced features such as interrupts, non-blocking code, efficient code architecture will be explored. Participants will operate on-chip modules and interface with external devices.

CMPE2300Object-Oriented Programming
  • Requisites: Prerequisite: CMPE1666.
  • Open Studies: Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Creating sophisticated programs requires advanced techniques in programming, including object-oriented concepts. Students will create class hierarchies that employ inheritance, polymorphism, and interfaces.

CMPE2550Web Applications
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE2000, CMPE2400.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Web users expect a dynamic, interactive, and personalized experience from websites. This course introduces server-centric web application development. Students will create dynamic web applications and web services that use server-side databases.

CMPE2600Process Automation
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Prerequisite: CMPE1250, CMPE1400.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are used to control industrial plants and processes. Students will design, program, troubleshoot, and document the automation of industrial applications using a PLC.

Term 4

CMPE2700Communication and Networking
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE2100, CMPE2150, CMPE2250, CMPE2600.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Devices in a computer based system need to communicate efficiently and accurately. Participants will implement and troubleshoot communications between a variety of devices, using several different protocols. Participants will explore principles of data communication using serial connections and TCP/IP networking. This course includes Internet of Things (IoT) / Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) communication.

CMPE2750Embedded System Design
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE1666, CMPE2100, CMPE2150, CMPE2250.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

The course involves the design and construction of a simple microcontroller-based that responds to data collected from a chosen sensor. Participants will be guided in the selection and integration of components for a working prototype. All stages of implementation will be performed by the student including board design, component selection, population, and programming.

CMPE2800Advanced Programming
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Prerequisite: CMPE2300.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Software developers must be prepared to create professional and maintainable applications. Participants will employ reusable and extensible code, multi-tier considerations, runtime performance, dynamic typing, and advanced application patterns.

CMPE2850Programming Languages
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE2300, CMPE2550.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 3.00

Programmers must be capable of choosing the most appropriate technology to implement a software solution given a specific set of criteria. Participants will implement and compare software designs from a relevant candidate language.

CMPE2965Technical Project
  • Requisites: This course is available to students in the Computer Engineering Technology program. Pre-Requisites: CMPE2100, CMPE2150, CMPE2250, CMPE2300, CMPE2550, CMPE2600, COMM1000.
  • Open Studies: Not Available
  • Credits: 6.00

Computer engineering technology solutions require the synthesis of skills obtained in a variety of disciplines throughout the program. Student teams will apply project management skills and professional practices to their solutions. Participants will conceive and research a project idea, propose a solution, design and build a prototype, and document and present their results.

Tuition & Fees

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

The tuition and fee amounts are estimates based on current academic year's rates. For financial planning purposes, please use these totals as an approximate estimate of your costs. Actual fees may vary by term and enrolment activities. Please refer to the tuition and fees page for more detailed information.

Tuition

Cost Per Credit: $162.00

View international tuition for upcoming intakes

How much does first year cost?
Domestic cost estimate
International cost estimate

Books, Supplies & Program Fees (est.)

Level 1 Term 1: $1,750
Level 1 Term 2: $350
Level 2 Term 1: $150
Level 2 Term 2: $400


Scholarships & Awards

NAIT awards over $6 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 4,000 students each year, with the support of donors and the government. A variety of awards are available, including ones for academics, community involvement, equity/diversity grants, bursaries for financial need, program-specific awards and more!

Learn how to apply for awards

Admission Requirements

This content is specific to the selected Sep 02, 2025 intake.

Minimum entrance requirements

 

The specific academic requirements you must meet to be considered for admission. Where applicable, the minimum accepted Alberta high school courses are listed in round brackets ( ). Equivalent or higher-level courses are also accepted.

  • 63 % in each of:
    • Grade 12 Language Arts (English 30-2)
    • Grade 12 Mathematics (Math 30-1)
    • Grade 12 Chemistry (Chemistry 30) or Grade 12 Physics (Physics 30)
  • Proof of English Language Proficiency

Additional requirements & considerations

Post-admission requirements

 

Although not required for admission, you must meet the following requirement(s) in order to progress in your program.

  • Computer Literacy - Basic

Basic computer literacy is required for a successful progression in this course. This comprises, but is not limited to, possessing fluency in basic word processing, spreadsheet creation, and an understanding of email and web best practices.

  • Computer Requirement:

Students are required to have either a desktop (preferred) or laptop computer for the duration of their studies at NAIT. It is strongly recommended that a student look at getting a desktop PC, as this will be cheaper than buying an equivalent laptop, with these minimum specifications.

  • Minimum i5 processor generation 10 or equivalent AMD (Intel i7 generation 10 with minimum 8 cores recommended)
  • Minimum 32 GB of RAM
  • Minimum 1 TB SSD hard drive
  • Windows 10 or 11 required. This operating system will be provided if all other computer specifications listed are met
  • Mobile (not built-in) 1080p webcam required. Alternately, a mounted smartphone with at least 3 megapixel video camera is adequate
  • Headset with a microphone
  • Minimum 25 Mbps internet download speed and 10 Mbps upload speed if taking courses online. These speeds must be higher if there are multiple users at your location streaming content at the same time
  • Electronic Equipment Requirement

Students are required to purchase a standard CNT Starter Kit of electronic equipment from the NAIT bookstore as part of their supplies, used to support the students' learning at home, and for in-person lab work within eleven courses in the program.

The current contents of the kit and its cost may be found by completing a materials search on the Shop at NAIT website for any of the following 1st term Computer Engineering Technology courses: CMPE1000, CMPE1100, and CMPE1550.

Not sure if you meet the requirements?

Learn more about how NAIT evaluates applications, and find resources on how to satisfy admissions criteria.

How applications are evaluated Submitting required documents

Additional options

This program has courses that are available for Open Studies. Open Studies allows you to explore credit courses without applying to a program. It is an opportunity to get a feel for school and what program you want to be in.

Learn more about Open Studies

Dates & Deadlines

 
International
Applications Open:

Aug 01, 2024

 
International
Applications Deadline:

Once the program is full

 
Domestic
Applications Open:

Oct 01, 2024
 
Application Deadline:
Once the program is full
 
Term Start Date:
Sep 02, 2025

Seats are limited - Apply early! Applications will remain open for at least one month from the open date. If the program/waitlist fill after that date, applications will close.

International Applicants

This program accepts international students.

PGWP Eligibility

Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), following Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements. Students must still meet all other PGWP eligibility requirements, including full-time and in-person study requirements.

Co-Op Work Permit

Optional Co-op: Students in this program can choose to move into a co-op pathway, which includes a mandatory co-op work practicum. International students who plan to participate in this option must apply for a co-op work permit and get approval before starting the work placement.

Learn more about PGWP and explore eligible NAIT programs.

Want to learn more about this program?

Thank you for your interest! We want to get you in contact with the right person to answer your questions. If you are a current or recently admitted student you can find program and course information as well as contact details for your program on the My Program page on the MyNAIT Portal.








Hidden








Stay connected

Sign up to receive information about NAIT programs, services, and upcoming events.

Send me more info

Apply to NAIT

Start your application today! Many programs have limited availability, so applying early can improve your chances for admission.

Apply now How to apply guide

Visit us

Take an in-person or virtual campus tour to see all that NAIT has to offer.

See tour options

Shopping Cart Quick View
Open Shopping Cart