Construction Engineering Technician (Co-op and Non Co-op Version)
Build a solid foundation for your career in residential or commercial construction.
- The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) recognizes this program as meeting certification requirements for a Certified Technician
- All classes are taught in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE) facility which is fully outfitted with the most up-to-date equipment and tools
- Strong ties to the construction industry allows you to network and make connections during your studies - direct pathway to work in the field of site supervision
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
International
Availability
Competitive?
Spring 2026
No
Fall 2026
No
Winter 2027
No
Spring 2027
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Delivery
Program Code
Area of Interest
School
Campus
Work Integrated Learning
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
CIP Code(s): 15.1001
The two-year Construction Engineering Technician Ontario College Diploma program introduces you to a wide range of knowledge and skills to work in the construction industry. This program combines both hands-on application and theory to help you secure a career in the residential and commercial construction industries.
The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) recognizes this program as meeting all of the academic requirements for certification in the Certified Technician Category. Using state-of-the-art facilities in Algonquin's ACCE building, you build a solid foundation for your future career....(read more)
Overview
Build a solid foundation for your career in residential or commercial construction.
The two-year Construction Engineering Technician Ontario College Diploma program introduces you to a wide range of knowledge and skills to work in the construction industry. This program combines both hands-on application and theory to help you secure a career in the residential and commercial construction industries.
The Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) recognizes this program as meeting all of the academic requirements for certification in the Certified Technician Category. Using state-of-the-art facilities in Algonquin's ACCE building, you build a solid foundation for your future career.
Take courses in surveying, construction materials, estimating and construction, building code and structural design documentation. Learn about health and safety relating to the field, hydraulics, geographic information systems and AutoCAD. Experience hands-on learning and participate in field trips.
This program has strong ties to the construction industry and may help you build contacts throughout your time at Algonquin College.
Students also have the option to gain real-world experience through a paid co-operative education (co-op) work term (see Additional Information for more details). Please note that places in the co-op work term are subject to availability and academic eligibility. Please note admission to the co-op program does not guarantee a co-op placement.
Graduates of this program have the ability to work in a number of sectors within the construction industry. You may find opportunities in:
- cost estimating
- residential, commercial and civil projects
- surveying
- project management
- building inspection
- materials testing and quality control
- construction inspection
- AutoCAD
After you complete this program, you may choose to take an extra year of study in order to receive an Ontario College Advanced Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology.
Courses
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Code:
CON8101
Course Name:
Residential Building/Estimating
Course Description:
The principles of residential building and estimating are essential tools for the modern workplace. Plan reading and construction methods fo... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CON8411
Course Name:
Construction Materials I
Course Description:
Grounding in the physical characteristics and standard testing methods of materials, such as soils and aggregates, is essential to students ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1004
Course Name:
Professional Communication Essentials
Course Description:
Communication remains a fundamental skill regardless of discipline or field of study. Using an applied approach, students focus on writing, ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MAT8050
Course Name:
Geometry and Trigonometry
Course Description:
Students study the manipulation of algebraic expressions as a foundation for advanced mathematical concepts and solve a variety of measureme... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SAF8408
Course Name:
Health and Safety
Course Description:
Knowledge of occupational health and safety is increasingly important as a means of maintaining the functionality of a well-educated and hig... + Read More
Hours:
14.0
Code:
SUR8411
Course Name:
Construction Surveying I
Course Description:
The use of tapes, levels, transits/theodolites, and total stations to determine distances, angles, and elevations for survey applications, s... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CON8102
Course Name:
Commercial Building/Estimating
Course Description:
The principles of commercial building and estimating are essential tools for the modern workplace. Plan reading and construction methods for... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
CON8412
Course Name:
Construction Materials II
Course Description:
A grounding in the physical characteristics and standard testing methods of materials, such as concrete, asphalt, steel and wood are essenti... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
ENG8101
Course Name:
Statics
Course Description:
Statics is the study of bodies at rest, or of forces in equilibrium. Students explore the physics of forces acting on simple structures, suc... + Read More
Hours:
56.0
Code:
GEP1001
Course Name:
Cooperative Education and Job Readiness
Course Description:
Students are guided through a series of activities that prepare them to conduct a professional job search and succeed in the workplace. Thro... + Read More
Hours:
21.0
Code:
MAT8051
Course Name:
Algebra
Course Description:
Students review the manipulation of algebraic expressions as a foundation for advanced mathematical concepts. Students solve 2x2 and 3x3 sys... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SUR8412
Course Name:
Construction Surveying II
Course Description:
Students demonstrate the practical application of survey theory and skills to the civil engineering field. Topics include horizontal, vertic... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
DSN2001
Course Name:
History of Design
Course Description:
Visual communications and graphic design have played a key role in the evolution of communication through a number of historical and social ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL1726
Course Name:
Symbols, Text and Meaning
Course Description:
Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols and how we use them to create meaning. It examine how certain things?words, images, sounds, gest... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENV0002
Course Name:
Environmental Citizenship
Course Description:
Environmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global envir... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
FIN2300
Course Name:
Introduction to Personal Finance
Course Description:
Establishing and maintaining healthy personal financial affairs are important steps towards autonomy and agency. Students discover how finan... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0021
Course Name:
Disability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity
Course Description:
All forms of art have a powerful influence on our perceptions. Students describe and explore through case studies a range of disabilities an... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0022
Course Name:
Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being
Course Description:
While fulfillment and well-being mark some people's lives, many others remain dissatisfied with life. Positive Psychology is concerned with ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED2200
Course Name:
Free Speech and the Challenge of Social Media
Course Description:
This course will allow students to explore social media and its effects on free speech and public discourse in contemporary society. It will... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5002
Course Name:
Victimology
Course Description:
An increased awareness of the ripple effect of crime has given rise to victimology as a significant field of study. Students investigate vic... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5005
Course Name:
Greek Mythology
Course Description:
Students explore intriguing characters, important places and famous myths of Classical Greece. By examining a variety of popular myths, stud... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5006
Course Name:
World Religions
Course Description:
In Canada, society embraces people from many cultures of the world. By exploring different religious beliefs about the world, the individual... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5007
Course Name:
Transatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition
Course Description:
The effects of transatlantic slavery, which began in the 15th century and was not abolished until the 19th, are still present in contemporar... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5200
Course Name:
Supporting Learning Differences in Society
Course Description:
Students gain an awareness of learning differences in various contexts including social, educational, and work settings. The field of learni... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED5301
Course Name:
On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)
Course Description:
Though death is an immutable consequence of life, society's attitudes and reactions to it have been ever-changing. The viewpoint that life i... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED6022
Course Name:
A Sense of Humour
Course Description:
Humour is a universal tool of communication and social influence. Students survey the development, use, and value of humour in Canadian visu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN1001
Course Name:
Ethics: What Is the Big Deal?
Course Description:
In today's society there is increasingly more attention focused on questions of right or wrong, good or evil. Ethical issues relating to a w... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN1957
Course Name:
Science Fiction
Course Description:
Science fiction is both a major genre of popular entertainment and an effective mode of social commentary. Students explore the formal conve... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN2003
Course Name:
Healthy Lifestyle
Course Description:
Are you eating healthy foods? Do you exercise regularly? Do you know how to prevent injuries and disease? These are some of the skills neces... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEN2007
Course Name:
Community Service
Course Description:
Volunteerism not only benefits a community; it can broaden the worldview of the volunteer. Students who give their time and energy to an app... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HIS0001
Course Name:
Saints and Heroes: Shining a Spotlight on the 'Dark Ages', Europe A.D. 410-1096
Course Description:
When the mighty Roman Empire began to collapse, it was attacked from all directions by Barbarian armies. The resulting turmoil caused Europe... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HOS2228
Course Name:
Wine, Food and Culture
Course Description:
An understanding of culture can be discovered by exploring eating and drinking customs. Students experience a virtual global tour, exploring... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
HOS2288
Course Name:
The Dinner Party
Course Description:
Table manners are as unique to a culture as the foods they eat - how people eat varies widely from country to country. Participants in this ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
LIB1982
Course Name:
Reading for Recreation
Course Description:
Reading gives us knowledge and new ideas to draw from in the future. It tones the mind in ways similar to the way exercise tones the body. A... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MGT7330
Course Name:
Trends in Today's Workplace
Course Description:
In today's culture of work, every employee needs to be knowledgeable about current trends and issues in the workplace. Students explore emer... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
MVM8800
Course Name:
The Impact of the Car on North American Culture
Course Description:
Students explore the social, economic, political, and environmental impact of the automobile on North American lives. Through a combination ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
PSI0003
Course Name:
Globalization and Sustainability
Course Description:
The rapid growth of the global economy raises fundamental questions: How do trade and politics affect development and the environment? What ... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
RAD2001
Course Name:
Popular Culture
Course Description:
One dictionary definition of popular culture is the "totality of socially transmitted behaviour patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and a... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
SOC2003
Course Name:
Understanding Human Sexuality
Course Description:
Students study human sexuality through an interdisciplinary approach. Students gain a basic understanding of human sexuality through an inve... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0190
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CAD8400
Course Name:
AutoCAD I
Course Description:
Students are introduced to computer-aided drafting using AutoCAD. Focus is placed on the drawing and editing commands required to produce t... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8404
Course Name:
Civil Estimating
Course Description:
The principles of estimating civil engineering projects allow planners and contractors to accurately predict the costs and the impact of the... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8436
Course Name:
Building Systems
Course Description:
A building is a complex structure, made up of many systems that must work in harmony to produce a working environment. Students are introduc... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENG8102
Course Name:
Strength of Materials
Course Description:
Students learn about the importance of understanding how materials react to the environment in which they are used. This introductory theory... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENG8411
Course Name:
Structural Analysis
Course Description:
It is important to understand how human-made structures react to the environment in which they are used. Students are introduced to the rela... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENG8454
Course Name:
Geotechnical Materials
Course Description:
Knowledge of the properties and qualities of earthen material is a key element of construction engineering proficiency. Students learn about... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GEP2001
Course Name:
Co-Op Job Search 1
Course Description:
Students are guided through a self-directed co-op job search using Algonquin's web-based resource centre, HireAC, as well as independent res... + Read More
Hours:
10.0
Code:
MGT8400
Course Name:
Project Administration
Course Description:
The quality of planning, preparation, and oversight is a key factor in the success or failure of construction projects. Students are introdu... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
WKT2101C
Course Name:
Construction Work Term 1
Course Description:
This course includes a work placement, a weekly recording of the activities done in a journal and a final summary report of the overall expe... + Read More
Hours:
0.0
Code:
CAD8405
Course Name:
AutoCAD II
Course Description:
Building on the basic AutoCAD skills acquired in the pre-requisite course, students learn how to produce professional two-dimensional drawin... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8413
Course Name:
Construction Building Code
Course Description:
An understanding of the standards and legal responsibilities associated with planning and building is essential to working successfully in O... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
CON8476
Course Name:
Business Principles
Course Description:
Students learn the fundamentals of business strategy and innovation, business creation, financing, costing, marketing, management, safety, l... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENG8328
Course Name:
Hydraulics
Course Description:
Hydraulics is the study and the practical application of fluids in motion. Students become familiar with the principles of hydrostatic force... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENG8404
Course Name:
Introduction to Structural Design
Course Description:
An understanding of structural design is essential to creating buildings that are safe, economical and aesthetically interesting. This intro... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
ENL2019T
Course Name:
Communicating Technical Information
Course Description:
The ability to communicate effectively in a technically-oriented interdisciplinary workplace is a foundational skill in an innovation-driven... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Code:
GED0190
Course Name:
General Education Elective
Course Description:
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S... + Read More
Hours:
42.0
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment in many areas of the construction industry, including cost estimating of residential, commercial, and civil projects, surveying, project management, building inspection, materials testing and quality control and construction inspection.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop and use strategies to enhance professional growth and ongoing learning in the construction engineering field.
- Comply with workplace health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
- Complete duties in compliance with contractual obligations, applicable laws, standards, bylaws, codes and ethical practices in the construction engineering field.
- Carry out sustainability practices in accordance with contract documents, industry standards and environmental legislative requirements.
- Collaborate with and facilitate communication among project stakeholders to support construction projects.
- Collect, process and interpret technical data to produce written and graphical project-related documents.
- Contribute to the collecting, interpreting and applying of survey/geomatics and layout information to implement construction projects.
- Identify and use industry-specific electronic and digital technologies to support the design and construction of projects.
- Contribute to the resolution of technical problems related to the design and implementation of construction projects by applying engineering concepts, basic technical mathematics and building science.
- Assist in the scheduling and monitoring of the progression of construction projects by applying principles of construction project management.
- Assist in the preparation of accurate estimates of time, cost, quality and quantity, tenders and bids.
- Perform quality control testing and monitoring of equipment, materials and methods involved in the implementation and completion of construction projects.
- Apply teamwork, leadership and interpersonal skills when working individually or within multidisciplinary teams to complete work on construction projects.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.
2026/2027 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
- Books and supplies cost approximately $1200 per year and can be purchased from the campus store. For more information visit www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials
- Students are expected to purchase CSA-approved safety footwear and safety glasses, which are required at the start of the term.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent;
- Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.
Program Eligibility
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent) or Grade 11 (MCF3M or equivalent.
- A background in science (especially physics and chemistry) is recommended.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken prior to January 21, 2026 overall 88, with a minimum in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR TOEFL Internet-based (iBT) tests taken after January 21, 2026 overall 4.5, with a minimum in each component: Reading 4.5; Listening 4.5; Speaking 4.5; Writing 4.5; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.
Application Information
CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN
Program Code 0190X03FWO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application
process information: https://algonquincollege.my.site.com/myac360/s/
For further information on the admissions process, please visit:
Admissions - Registrar's Office https://algonquincollege.com/ro/admissions/
Additional Information
Program Resources
CO-OP INFORMATION
All applicants apply to the co-op version of the program through OntarioColleges.ca or our International Application Portal. After admission, students who do not wish to pursue the co-op option may opt out before the first scheduled co-op work term.
Co-operative education (Co-op) provides students with the opportunity to integrate classroom learning with real-world experience through paid, program-related work terms. Two academic terms before their first co-op work term, students must actively participate in and complete a self-directed co-op preparation course, including required readiness activities and workshops.
Students are responsible for conducting a guided, self-directed job search and securing approved, paid co-op employment related to their program of study. Co-op students compete for positions alongside students from Algonquin College and other Canadian and international colleges and universities. While Algonquin College's Co-op Career Centre supports students by developing co-op opportunities and providing guidance throughout the process, employment is not guaranteed.
Co-op work opportunities may require students to relocate. All costs associated with participation-including travel, accommodation, work permits, visa applications, and other related expenses-are the responsibility of the student.
Co-op work terms are typically 14 weeks in duration and are completed during academic terms when students are not enrolled in classes. For details about the number and timing of co-op work terms in your program, please refer to the Courses tab on your program's webpage.
International students are responsible for ensuring they meet all co-op work permit requirements before participating in a co-op work term. Additional information is available at: www.algonquincollege.com/international/student-handouts
For more information about co-op programs, expectations, and general and program-specific co-op eligibility criteria, visit: www.algonquincollege.com/coop-career-centre
With departmental approval, students who maintain a college-prescribed Academic Standing may take part in a co-operative placement. The Co-op Work Term is at the end of Level 03.
Degree pathways allow graduates to use their college education towards the completion of a degree in partnership with a university. View current articulation agreements at: https://www.algonquincollege.com/degree-pathways/list
OACETT (Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists) recognizes the Construction Engineering Technician program as meeting all the academic requirements for certification in the Certified Technician (CTech) category and recognizes the Civil Engineering Technology program as meeting all of the academic requirements for certification in the Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) or Applied Science Technologist (AScT) category. Graduates and final year students are immediately eligible to be registered as Associate members of OACETT upon submission of the Graduate Application form available through the Placement Office or OACETT. Additional requirements to become fully certified (work experience, the OACETT
Professional Practice Examination, peer references, etc.) will be requested once the application has been received. Requirements for certification are the jurisdiction of OACETT.
Students who begin Level 01 in January take Level 02 in the Spring term.
Note: Students who are not successful in SUR8411-Construction Surveying 1 and/or CON8411-Construction Materials 1 and/or MAT8050-Geometry and Trigonometry will be withdrawn from the program and must reapply to Level 01 through OntarioColleges.ca.
