Campus
Duration
4 Semesters (2 Years)
Credential Awarded
Ontario College Diploma

Program and course delivery

This program is offered in Seneca's hybrid delivery format with some courses available in Seneca's flexible delivery format. Some coursework is online and some must be completed in person. Students will need to come on campus to complete in-person learning requirements. For courses offered in the flexible delivery format, professors use innovative learning spaces and technology to teach students in a classroom or lab and broadcast in real time to students attending remotely. In flexible courses, students have the choice of coming on campus or learning online.

About the Program

Are you looking to make your mark on the world? Gain the hands-on experience required to make a difference, while learning how to manage buildings successfully and sustainably in a multitude of sectors. The Building Systems Engineering Technician program is a two-year diploma program that prepares you with the skills and knowledge required to work in the building systems industry. Throughout this two-year program, you will learn to use various software tools, including AutoCAD and Revit, to model and design building systems. You will also be introduced to energy modelling software which is used to analyze building energy performance and efficiency.

In addition to practical skills, you will also learn about heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, air handling and control systems. You will gain an understanding of the principles of energy efficiency, including how to recommend energy-efficient solutions, as well as the exploration of emerging renewable energy technologies, which are a key component of the program.

Upon completion of the program, you will be equipped with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in the field of building systems engineering and be prepared for a variety of career paths in the industry.

Computer Requirements

This program has a bring your own device policy. While laptops are not a mandatory purchase, it is recommended that all students have access to a laptop prior to their course start date in order to effectively complete the course materials.

Skills

Throughout this program you will develop the following skills:

  • Energy efficiency principles
  • Renewable energy technologies
  • Building design software including AutoCAD, Revit
  • Building control systems
  • Instrumentation and troubleshooting
  • Critical thinking
  • Communication skills
  • Building systems operations management

Work Experience

Optional Work Term

Students meeting all academic requirements may have the opportunity to complete an optional work term(s) in a formal work environment. The work term(s) is similar in length to an academic semester and typically involves full-time work hours that may be paid or unpaid. In programs with limited work term opportunities, additional academic requirements and a passing grade on a communication assessment may be required for eligibility. Eligibility for participation does not guarantee a work position will be secured. Additional fees are required for those participating in the optional work term stream regardless of success in securing a work position.

Work-Integrated Learning Model Starting January
Year Winter Summer Fall
Year 1 Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3
Year 2 Semester 4 Work Term  
Work-Integrated Learning Model Starting September
Year Fall Winter Summer
Year 1 Semester 1 Semester 2 Work Term
Year 2 Semester 3 Semester 4  

Your Career

Graduates of the program can explore the following career options:

  • Energy systems operator
  • Energy efficiency technician
  • Sustainable energy technician
  • Revit and building CAD specialist
  • Building operator
  • Building systems engineering technician
  • Facility maintenance technician
  • HVAC technician
  • Building automation systems technician
  • Building commissioning agent
  • Building systems water treatment technician

Professional Certifications

You will be eligible to pursue certificates in:

  • Building Environmental System (BES™) Operator Class II
  • BES™ Operator Class I

In one of the following areas:

  • Pipe system design
  • Air system design
  • Hospital building systems

These certificates are recognized by the Toronto Building Managers and Operators Association (TBMOA). The Operator Class I certificate is recognized by the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA).

The program is accredited by Technology Accreditation Canada (TAC)

Global Learning and Engagement Opportunity

Global Learning and Engagement Opportunity

As a student in this program you have the chance to explore global learning opportunities through Global Learning and Engagement. Gain a global perspective and develop new skills for personal, professional, and academic growth – at Seneca or abroad.

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