This program is designed primarily for recent high school graduates. If you have post-secondary coursework, you may be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
The University Transfer: Bachelor of Science in Engineering Program at Keyano College offers students the opportunity to complete Year 1 of the University of Alberta’s engineering degree right here in Fort McMurray. Through a formal transfer agreement, students seamlessly transition into Year 2 at the University of Alberta, where they choose a specialization and continue toward their Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
All first-year engineering students complete a common curriculum before selecting a discipline in second year.
What You’ll Learn
By the end of this transfer program (and following graduation from a BSc in Engineering), students will be able to:
- Apply core knowledge in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science
- Use technical and analytical skills to solve complex engineering problems
- Work collaboratively on team-based projects and designs
- Communicate engineering concepts to diverse audiences
- Meet the academic requirements for professional licensure in Alberta and beyond
Learning Outcomes (Post-Grad)
After transfer and graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Engineering program, students will:
✔️ Apply core concepts in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science
✔️ Develop discipline-specific technical skills and problem-solving approaches
✔️ Work effectively in teams and communicate complex technical ideas
✔️ Be prepared for licensure and careers in engineering industries ranging from oil and gas to environmental, infrastructure, and technology sectors
Career Pathways
Graduates of a Bachelor of Science in Engineering program are highly sought after across a range of industries. Once you've completed your studies at the University of Alberta (or another institution), you'll be eligible to pursue careers in both traditional and emerging fields of engineering. Many graduates also go on to become licensed Professional Engineers (P.Eng.) in Alberta and Canada.
Sample Career Paths by Specialization
Chemical Engineering
- Process Engineer
- Environmental Consultant
- Energy Systems Analyst
- Water Treatment Specialist
Civil Engineering
- Structural Engineer
- Transportation Planner
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Construction Project Manager
Computer Engineering
- Embedded Systems Developer
- Hardware Engineer
- AI/ML Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
Electrical Engineering
- Power Systems Engineer
- Telecommunications Engineer
- Control Systems Designer
- Robotics Engineer
Engineering Physics
- Research Engineer
- Quantum Systems Developer
- Optical Systems Engineer
- High-tech Product Designer
Materials Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineer
- Failure Analysis Specialist
- Materials Research Scientist
- Manufacturing Engineer
Mechanical Engineering
- HVAC Systems Engineer
- Automotive Engineer
- Aerospace Design Engineer
- Product Development Engineer
Mining Engineering
- Mine Planner
- Rock Mechanics Engineer
- Operations Manager
- Health & Safety Specialist
Petroleum Engineering
- Reservoir Engineer
- Drilling Engineer
- Production Optimization Analyst
- Energy Sector Consultant
Additional Pathways
- Postgraduate Studies in Engineering, Applied Science, or Business
- Professional Licensure (P.Eng.) through APEGA (Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta)
- Leadership and Management Roles in industry, government, or entrepreneurship
- Interdisciplinary Fields such as renewable energy, sustainability, biomedical engineering, and data science
Sample Program Structure
All engineering transfer students must complete a full course load each term. Courses align with the common first-year curriculum of the University of Alberta’s engineering program. Academic performance (GPA) in these courses impacts your ability to transfer and access your preferred specialization.
A sample structure includes:
Fall Semester
- MATH 100 – Calculus I
- PHYS 130 – Waves, Optics and Sound
- ENGG 130 – Engineering Mechanics
- CHEM 103 – Introductory University Chemistry I
- ENGL 199 – English for Engineering Students
Winter Semester
- MATH 101 – Calculus II
- PHYS 131 – Mechanics
- ENPH 131 – Electricity and Magnetism
- CHEM 105 – Introductory University Chemistry II
- ENGG 160 – Engineering Profession
Note: Course names may differ slightly; confirm with your Program Registration Guide.
Admission Requirements
High School Admission
Applicants must present a minimum overall average of 70%, with no mark below 60% in English, across the following courses:
- English 30-1
- Math 30-1
- Mathematics 31
- Chemistry 30
- Physics 30
Competitive Admission Notes
- Applications are accepted October 1 – June 15
- Early applicants with an 80% average in three core Grade 12 subjects may receive conditional offers
- All applicants must submit transcripts and pay an admissions deposit to confirm their offer
- Applicants with a minimum 70% average may be placed in a qualified pool for consideration, space permitting
English Language Proficiency
Applicants whose first language is not English must meet one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: 86 (no score below 21)
- IELTS: 6.5 (no band below 5.0)
- CAEL: 70
- MELAB: 85
- Duolingo: 115
- PTE Academic: 58
Refer to the Credit Calendar for additional options.
(See the Credit Calendar for course groupings and major-specific notes)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with previous post-secondary credits?
Do I need to take a full course load?
Yes. Students must enroll in a full-time schedule for both Fall and Winter terms to be eligible for transfer.
When do I choose my engineering specialization?
Specialization occurs in Year 2, after transferring to the University of Alberta. Year 1 is a general engineering curriculum for all students.
Can I transfer to another university (e.g., University of Calgary)?
Yes, but it is your responsibility to ensure your Keyano courses align with that institution’s requirements. Speak with a Student Advisor early in your planning.
What careers can this lead to?
Graduates may work in fields such as:
-
Petroleum & mining
-
Construction & infrastructure
-
Software & computer engineering
-
Renewable energy
-
Environmental engineering
-
Manufacturing & robotics
Ready to Begin?
Start your path to becoming a professional engineer by completing Year 1 at Keyano College.
Benefit from small class sizes and hands-on support while preparing to transfer to one of Canada’s top engineering schools.