Building Engineering Technology (Optional Co-op)

CampusStart DateTuition/Fees
Fredericton September 2025 (Blended Delivery) Domestic | International
MonctonSeptember 2025 (Blended Delivery)
 
Domestic | International

Program Overview

The Building Engineering Technology Co-op program is designed to train students in the analysis, design, drawing, detailing, and presentation of commercial building projects. The first year of training covers engineering technology basics such as engineering science, materials technology, surveying, and computer-aided drafting. Many courses are common with other technology programs and may be used for credit transfer. In the second year, students specialize in subjects that relate more specifically to building engineering.

Throughout the program, students will learn and apply the knowledge and skills in a real, practical, and simulated environment through lectures, extensive hands-on activities, and individual or team projects.


Duration

The requirements for this diploma program may be achieved with two years of full-time study.


Admission Requirements

    Profile C

  • High School Diploma or Adult High School Diploma or GED Diploma of High School Equivalency or Essential Skills Achievement Pathway: Post-Secondary Entry High School Diploma
    • Foundations of Mathematics 110
      or
      Geometry and Applications in Mathematics 112 and Functions and Relations 112
      • Total of two (2) sciences, including at least one (1) from the following:
        • Biology 112 or 122
        • Chemistry 112 or 122
        • Physics 112 or 122 (recommended)

      NB Francophone High School Math Equivalencies
      International Student Admission Equivalencies


      Career Possibilities

      When you understand every step that goes into designing, constructing, and maintaining buildings, you’ve got the foundation for building a great engineering career. Construction drives our economy, and it never stops, which means the demand for qualified building professionals never stops. Whether it’s specializing in a specific area such as site surveying, drafting architectural plans, facility management, or inspecting buildings to ensure safety and regulatory compliance, the broad nature of our business presents a wide choice of paths.

      Our graduates find positions with construction, architectural and engineering firms, as well as inspection and advisory roles with municipal, provincial, and federal government departments and services. Project design, project management, costing and estimating are just a few of areas you’ll find NBCC graduates working in. It’s also not uncommon for graduates to use their Engineering Technology Diploma as the stepping stone to earn a university degree in engineering or architecture.

      With older workers retiring, and more “cranes in the air” every day, the market is ready and waiting for the next generation to step in, fill the jobs, and build the future.



      Specific Considerations

      Local campuses can provide information on courses that are the prerequisites for technology programs at New Brunswick Community College. Many universities give credits for courses completed in this program; however, assessment is normally completed on an individual basis.

      Important Note: Immediately following second term, students must complete a one-week surveying fieldwork course.

      Technology Requirements
      NBCC is a connected learning environment. All programs require a minimum specification, including access to the internet and a laptop. Your computer should meet your program technology requirements to ensure the software required for your program operates effectively. Free wifi is provided on all campuses.


      Areas of Study

      • Analysis, Design, Drawing, Detailing, and Presentation
      • Building Materials and Methods
      • Steel and Reinforced Concrete design
      • Building Systems
      • Sustainability
      • Quality Assurance and Control
      • Project Management
      • Contract Law
      • Codes, Bylaws, and Regulations
      • Mathematics
      • Physical and Natural Science
      • Technical Writing and Reports
      • Software Applications
      • Surveying
      • Health and Safety
      • Quantity Surveying


      Program Courses

      Courses are subject to change.

      This course provides the basic theoretical concepts of electrical and mechanical systems. Students interpret various codes and standards within building system drawings. Students gain the knowledge and skill to evaluate the components and operations of electrical and mechanical systems.

      Prerequisites:

      • SAAL1863B

      This course introduces students to common practices during construction stages. Students acquire knowledge in building materials used in buildings and infrastructures at beginning stages of construction. Students explore the influences of planning, designing and implementation to excavation and construction projects.

      This course introduces students to common practices during construction stages. Students acquire knowledge in building materials used in light wood framed commercial buildings at all stages of construction. Students explore the influences of planning, designing and implementation to construction projects.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1027B

      This course is designed to introduce students to aggregates used in the construction industry. Students will learn the basics of aggregate testing and assessment of aggregate properties as it relates to PC concrete, asphalt concrete, and subgrade improvement (roadway base/subbase). Learning is achieved through in class activities and hands on experience in a lab setting.

      This course provides students with the basic knowledge and skills required to properly use portland cement concrete. Students are applying industry standards on plastic and hardened portland cement concrete. Learning is achieved through the theory and hands on practices in a lab environment.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1029A

      This course is designed to provide fundamental information required for the manufacture, construction and maintenance of asphalt concrete pavements. Students are going to conduct standard tests used by industry for the quality control and acceptance of asphalt concrete. Students will use PCI to evaluate pavement surface conditions. Learning is achieved through in class activities and hands on experience in a lab setting.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1029A

      This course introduces students to soils as a basic construction material used in civil engineering design and construction. Emphasis is on soil formation, soil exploration, laboratory tests, index properties, and classification systems. In the lab setting, students conduct standard industry soil tests and report their test findings. Learning is achieved through in class activities and hands on experience in a lab setting.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1029A

      This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to evaluate the stages of construction and construction materials for light wood-framed buildings. In conjunction with the National Building Codes course, students apply rules and regulations to detail construction drawings in an advanced CAD environment.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1028B
      • SAAL1847A
      • BTTB1035B

      This course provides students with knowledge of building science and building envelope construction. Topics include air, water, vapour and thermal controls. Students will be identifying various controls incorporated into construction details of building assemblies.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1033B

      This course provides students with the knowledge and skills to examine design requirements and materials from a given light wood frame construction building. An emphasis is placed on applying rules and regulations that adhere to the National Building Code of Canada, Part 9. This course is taught in conjunction with the Light Wood Framing Buildings & CAD Detailing course where students apply construction drawings for a light wood-frame construction building.

      Prerequisites:

      • LEGL1104A
      • BTTB1033B

      This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skill to prepare quantity surveys and cost estimates for light residential and commercial construction projects. Through the analysis of contract drawings and specifications, students learn to establish a project’s construction requirements, associated activities, and costs as it pertains to the MasterFormat Divisions; Div. 03 Concrete, Div. 04 Masonry, and Div.06 Wood, Plastics and Composites.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1028B

      This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skill to prepare quantity surveys and cost estimates for light residential and commercial construction projects. Through the analysis of contract drawings and specifications, students learn to establish a project’s construction requirements, associated activities, and costs as it pertains to the MasterFormat Divisions; Div. 01-General Requirements; Div. 07-Thermal and Moisture Protection; Div. 08-Openings; Div. 09-Finishes, and Div. 10-Specialties.

      Prerequisites:

      • CNST1025B

      This course is designed to help students strengthen their fundamental skills in writing clear, effective sentences and paragraphs, and enable them to create organized, unified and coherent documents. The writing process is introduced. Students will recognize the importance of writing for the intended purpose and audience.

      This course introduces students to the fundamentals of technical writing and research. Students will learn how to write a variety of technical documents and business correspondence suitable to a specific audience and purpose as well as learn how to conduct research and document sources.

      Prerequisites:

      • COMM1264A

      This course is designed for students to learn how to quickly make sketches and notes. Emphasis is on recognizing the important details and getting them clearly sketched and/or written down. Accuracy, neatness, and legibility are stressed throughout.  

      Learning is achieved through hands-on class activities and assignments. 

      This course examines sustainable building construction practices, including mitigating environmental impacts, green building concepts and techniques, and awareness of green building certification programs. Students will gain the skills needed to assess design and construct buildings that are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

      Prerequisites:

      • BTTB1034A

      This course introduces students to ethical principles and codes of conduct applicable to Professional Engineering Technology practice. It prepares students for being engineering technology professionals by exploring critical thinking, ethical behavior, and the legal and professional accountabilities that apply in the workplace. The industry's code(s) of ethics and practical case studies are used as the learning focus.

      Learning is achieved through lectures, case studies, and team projects.

      The overall program goal of the co-op experience is to complement academic studies with related work experience.  Co-op students can gain enriched understandings of their academic program through practical application. Moreover, the co-op experience can motivate students to further education as well as lead to relevant employment after graduation.  Through their work experiences, students will develop and refine employability skills, gain an understanding of career opportunities in their field, and realities of the workplace.  Students are required to follow guidelines as stipulated in the “NBCC Co-op Education” process.

      This course prepares learners to complete a capstone project and/or report on an applied technical topic. Learners conduct preliminary research necessary for selecting a project related to their field of study. They are introduced to the structure of the senior technical report and are guided through a project approval process, culminating with a well-defined and approved project topic, and a solid, research-based foundation for completing it. Projects may be completed individually or in teams, depending on factors such as complexity, stakeholder requirements, and available resources.

      The Senior Technical Project represents the culmination of learners’ technology program, providing them with the opportunity to apply their technical knowledge and skills in a comprehensive capstone project. This course is designed to bridge theoretical learning and practical implementation, enabling students to demonstrate their proficiency in various engineering and technical competencies. Learning is facilitated through lectures, guided independent study, and support from a project advisor and communications instructor. Projects may be completed individually or in teams, depending on factors such as complexity, stakeholder requirements, and available resources.

      The Senior Technical Project represents the culmination of learners’ technology program, providing them with the opportunity to apply their technical knowledge and skills in a comprehensive capstone project. This course is a continuation of the senior technical project. Learners evaluate their progress on previously proposed and developed project, complete their project work as required, and prepare a formal project report. Finally they present and defend their findings to instructors, peers, and other stakeholders. Learning is facilitated through lectures, guided independent study, and support from a project advisor and communications instructor.

      This course presents an overview of the building codes and standards, laws, regulations, and acts, etc. that govern building and infrastructure planning, design and construction in Canada. Students will examine major standards, acts and regulations including roles and responsibilities for various building regulatory systems at various levels of government. Students will learn how those regulatory systems serve to create a framework for establishing and maintaining a built environment that is safe, resilient, sustainable and efficient. They will understand the importance of complying with the applicable national, provincial, municipal building codes, standards, regulations, and acts, etc., in construction projects.

      This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge of Canadian laws and contract law. Students are introduced to industry construction contracts developed by the Canadian Construction Documents Committee (CCDC). This course addresses the legal precedents influencing construction contracts, and examines tenders and liabilities, as they relate to construction technology.

      Prerequisites:

      • LEGL1104A

      This course forms the foundations of technical mathematics. Topics covered include fundamental numerical calculations, manipulation of algebraic expressions, and solving equations, system of equations, and word problems. Learning is achieved through lectures, classroom examples and working out problems.

      This course is designed for students to learn more advanced algebra, trigonometry, and geometry. Topics include quadratic equations, trigonometry, logarithms, and vectors.

      Learning will be achieved through lectures and classroom examples and work. Learning is achieved through lectures and in-class activities.

      Prerequisites:

      • MATH1271B

      This course introduces students to advanced technical math required to solve applied problems in Engineering Technology. Topics include complex numbers, matrices, plane analytic geometry, graphs of trigonometric functions and trigonometric equations. Limits, as required for calculus, is also introduced. 
       
      Students will be able to apply the advanced technical math to solve technical problems and evaluate limits. Learning is achieved through lectures and in-class activities.

      Prerequisites:

      • MATH1272B

      This course introduces students to calculus with derivatives and integration of algebraic functions. Applications include equations of tangents and normal, Newton’s method for solving equations, curvilinear motion, related rates, and areas under curves. Learning is achieved through lectures and in-class activities.

      Prerequisites:

      • MATH1273A

      This course is built on the course, Introductory Calculus. The course covers applied technical problems in integration, derivatives, and integration of transcendental functions. Learning is achieved through lectures and in-class activities.

      Prerequisites:

      • MATH1274A

      This course provides an introduction to the meaning of community service.  Students learn how community service can enhance a student’s educational experience, personal growth, employability, and civic responsibility. Students participate in one day of volunteering to enhance their understanding of civic responsibility and to help the New Brunswick Community College realize its vision of transforming lives and communities.

      This workshop introduces students to the process of finding employment. It explores the various strategies and resources available, and examines the role of social media.

      This course introduces students to scientific data, units of measurements and the relationships of angles and sides of angles. Students solve problems by learning the proper methodology of translating information and applying it to formulas. Learning will be achieved through in class lectures, class activities and assignments.  

      Prerequisites:

      • MATH1271B

      This course introduces students to basic physics concepts including the introduction to fluids. Students apply mathematical skills to solve problems through the application of real-world engineering situations. Learning will be achieved through in class lectures, class activities and assignments.  

      Prerequisites:

      • PHYS1138A

      This course is designed to strengthen students problem-solving skills through the application of physics and statics to solve real-world engineering situations. Students apply principles of forces and learn methods to quantify internal and external forces between bodies. Learning will be achieved through in class lectures, class activities and assignments.

      Prerequisites:

      • PHYS1139A

      This course provides students with basic principles, tools, and techniques to manage an engineering project from its initiation phase, through planning, execution, control, and closeout.
       
      As part of the course, students will apply the knowledge gained to create a project management plan for a simulated engineering project in a team effort or on an individual basis. Learning is achieved through lectures and hands-on class activities.

      This course introduces students to basic computer applications and tools that are integral to all engineering disciplines, including word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, and electronic file management and data sharing.

      Students learn how to select and use appropriate computer applications to perform tasks such as research, data analysis, data presentation and sharing, and preparation of technical documents and reports within their discipline. An emphasis is placed on the data security, and safe use and management of files in a collaborative networked environment. Learning is achieved through practical application of skills during hands-on class activities and assignments.

      This course introduces students to the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) tools that are integral to all engineering disciplines for making and annotating basic engineering drawings. Students will learn the application interface, options, and commands for producing basic engineering drawings. Learning is achieved through practical, hands-on activities while using the CAD software.

      The course is designed to build upon the Intro to CAD course to further enhance and apply the use of computer-aided drafting. Students become more proficient in producing engineering construction drawings for various fields of construction. Learning is achieved through in-class activities and hands-on experience with CAD software.

      Prerequisites:

      • SAAL1836A

      This course is designed to introduce students to BIM software. Students apply 3D modeling techniques to produce a structural/architectural commercial building. Students gain the knowledge and skill to generate construction drawings with BIM software.

      This course examines the workflow required to process, capture, and export point cloud data obtained from laser scanning into a 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM) model.  Students will learn the fundamentals of capturing data using both a mobile and terrestrial scanner for a portion of an existing commercial building.

      Prerequisites:

      • SAAL1861A

      This course is designed to advance the students’ knowledge and skill for Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. Students use BIM software to produce 3D models and construction drawings of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems using an existing architectural/structural building model.

      Prerequisites:

      • BSSI1065A
      • SAAL1861A

      A safe and healthy workplace is the responsibility of the employer and the employee. This course introduces students to the importance of working safely and addresses how employers and employees can control the hazards and risks associated with the workplace. Students will also learn about the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders including WorkSafeNB, the employer and the employee in ensuring workplaces are safe.

      This course provides students with an understanding of statistical principles and methods.  Students will learn how to collect, organize and report statistical data using elementary statistical techniques such as construction of frequency distributions, histograms and scatterplots. They will also learn how to use descriptive statistics such as central tendency (mean, mode, median, midrange), variation (range, variable, standard deviation), and position (percentile rank, quartile rank) to analyze the data and solve problems.

      Prerequisites:

      • MATH1272B

      This course introduces inferential statistics for engineering technologists. Topics Include calculating statistics values, calculating confidence intervals, simple probability and predicting events, calculating linear regression, and hypothesis testing for linear correlation coefficients. Students learn statistical techniques and apply them to engineering-related technology problems.

      Prerequisites:

      • STAT1039A

      This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skill to perform basic strength calculations in the analysis of structures for shear, bending moment and deflection, as required to facilitate beam design.

      Prerequisites:

      • STRC1039A

      Students are introduced to strength of materials. Students learn how structural materials are subject to stresses and strains and how it reacts to loads. With the examination of material shapes and the reaction of loads, students analyze and select materials that can resist forces.  Learning will be achieved through in class lectures, class activities and assignments.  

      Prerequisites:

      • PHYS1140A

      This course provides students with the knowledge and skill to design structural steel components for the gravity loads of simple steel building structures using Limit States Design (LSD) method. Students learn the selection of the steel deck and open-web steel joists (OWSJ) from manufacturer’s catalogues as well as the design of beams, girders and columns for gravity loads based on the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) Handbook of Steel Construction and the National Building Code of Canada, Part 4.

      Prerequisites:

      • STRC1038B

      This course examines concrete theory and provides students with the knowledge and skill to design reinforced concrete structural beams using Limit States Design (LSD) method. In the design process students reference industry standards such as the Cement Association of Canada Concrete Design Handbook and the National Building Code of Canada, Part 4.

      Prerequisites:

      • STRC1038B

      This course introduces students to complete conventional survey field operations, data collection and survey calculations. Working in groups, students learn the essential skills and practices required to perform surveying techniques in the field, reduce field measurements, produce an accuracy statement, and submit electronic results for a total station or an automatic level. Students will also learn how to work in a team and work safely. Learning is achieved through in-class activities and hands-on experience in a field setting.

      This course is designed to apply the fundamentals of how Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) positions are determined. Students plan a GNSS survey and identify types and categories of GNSS equipment. They will perform survey exercises using different categories of GNSS to collect 2D and 3D measurements. As part of the course, students will learn to setup and use a RTK GNSS system to collect, download and share precise survey results. Learning is achieved through in class activities and hands on experience.

      This course is designed to apply survey theory to perform coordinate calculations, adjust a closed traverse and a closed level loop. Students determine azimuths and bearings, apply map projections and geoid models, calculate earthworks areas and volumes, prepare CAD data for site grading. Students will learn to use survey software tools to support the workflow required to create, code, analyze, prepare, and complete standard survey construction tasks in a CAD environment. As part of the course, they will import and export raw measurements and 3D coordinate data from survey equipment and produce documentation for the results. Learning is achieved through in class activities and hands on experience.

      Prerequisites:

      • SVAR1044A
      • SVAR1045B

      This course is a one week hands on intensive fieldwork survey activity. Students apply survey theory, calculations, and procedures performed by a survey crew in an engineering construction environment. They will work in groups to complete advanced survey activities using a Total Station, GNSS, and Construction Level to collect, document, analyze, report field measurements, and perform basic instruments checks and calibrations tests. Survey activities will focus on the workflow required to use electronic survey equipment and software to measure, inspect, stake, grade, analyze and report features on a construction site. All activities will require product deliverables supported by the group fieldwork. Learning is achieved through in class activities and hands on experience in a field work environment.

      Prerequisites:

      • SVAR1046B

      This course introduces students to the fundamentals of effective, successful presentations. Students learn how to prepare and deliver online or in-person presentations of various lengths and purposes. They will discover how to prepare presentations around essential objectives, present key concepts and ideas, design and make effective visuals using presentation software, and apply techniques for polishing and mastering presentation delivery.

      As part of the learning, students will apply the appropriate tools and techniques to prepare the content, create visual aids using presentation software, and deliver one or more presentations to their peers in class.


      NOC Codes

      22210 - Architectural technologists and technicians
      22212 - Drafting technologists and technicians
      22213 - Land survey technologists and technicians
      22300 - Civil engineering technologists and technicians


      Articulation Agreements

      Institution: University of New Brunswick - Saint John
      Information: Bachelor of Technology.
      UNB agrees to recognize NBCC's Building Engineering Technology diploma program for transfer credit and entry into the Bachelor of Technology - Industrial Engineering program.


      External Certifications

      Building Engineering Technology (Co-op) graduates may have an opportunity to acquire the following external certifications upon meeting the external agencies certification requirements and paying any required fees to the external agency:

      Institution: NBSCETT - New Brunswick Society of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists
      External Certification: Certified Technician
      Information: Certification by the New Brunswick Society of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists.

       


      Disclaimer: This web copy provides guidance to prospective students, applicants, current students, faculty and staff. Although advice is readily available on request, the responsibility for program selection ultimately rests with the student. Programs, admission requirements and other related information is subject to change.

      Ask us