FAQ

How do I apply for the Mechanical Engineering Program?
Applicants are encouraged to apply online at okanagan.bc.ca/admissions  Application forms may be obtained in person, or by mail, from any OC office, and should be submitted along with the application fee, well in advance of the desired entry date to:

        Admissions
        Office of the Registrar
        1000 KLO Road
        Kelowna, BC
        V1Y 4X8
        Tel: (250) 762-5445

I completed the program entrance requirements some time ago.  Should I upgrade them before starting classes?
If you have been out of school for a number of years, we strongly recommend that you take Principles of Math 12 as well as Physics 11 before entering first semester.  This eases the transition into studying and gives you an advantage for the math components in the courses.

How much homework should I expect?
To begin with, there are 7 courses each semester and a total of about 30 hours of classroom time each week.  The average student should expect about 30 to 45 hours of homework each week in addition to the classroom time.

Do I need a computer at home?
It is recommended that you have access to a computer.  Computers are available at OC and most courses require some form of computer work.

What is the tuition cost for each year of the two-year program?
Click on this link to view the 2010-11 Tuition Cost Schedule for first year and second year of the Mechanical Engineering Technology program.

How can I apply for a student loan?
You can apply online at StudentAidBC for student assistance (student loans and grants), to check the status of your application, or to request a paper application be mailed to you.  For more information and assistance, click on the link Financial Aid and Awards at Okanagan College or call the Financial Aid and Awards department at (250) 862-5419.


What is Cooperative Education?
Co-op Education is an option at OC and allows students to integrate academic studies with practical work experience. Co-op students alternate semesters of classroom study with paid employment within their field of study. Click on the link Student, Grad and Co-op Employment, or call the Co-op Education department at (250) 862-5412 for more information.

Can I get a Co-op job in the Okanagan Valley?
Based on current economic conditions, about 50% of the students can obtain co-op jobs in the Okanagan Valley.  This varies from year to year depending on the needs of industry.  In regards to the availability of co-op jobs, industry demand far exceeds the supply of skilled Mechanical Engineering students.  That is, there are more jobs available throughout Western Canada than there are Mechanical Engineering students to fill them.  If you are willing to move, there is much more choice in co-op work.

How much am I going to get paid during my Co-op work term?
On average, in 2007, about $16 to $18/hour depending on past work experience and location.  If you are willing to move for co-op work in B.C. or Alberta, you can obtain a higher wage rate.

How much am I going to get paid after I graduate from the Mechanical Engineering Technology program?
It can vary considerably depending on job responsibility level, previous work experience, work experience obtained during co-op, and job location (as well as luck!)  Based on the ASTTBC Compensation Survey published in 2007, a graduate Mechanical Engineering Technologist can start at about $40,000 to $50,000 per year.  After 3 to 5 years experience, this can increase to about $60,000 to $70,000 per year.  For more information, click on the link to ASTTBC Compensation Survey 2008 or contact ASTTBC at (604) 585-2788.


Can I obtain a degree after completing this program?
Yes, you can and a few graduates from the program each year go on and complete a degree.  You can complete a bridging program (two to six months duration) and then start third year Mechanical Engineering at UVic or Lakehead University.  After two years at UVic or Lakehead, you should have an engineering degree.  You can also bridge to a Business Administration degree at Okanagan College.  Click on the link to Mechanical Engineering Bridge Programs for more information.


Who do I contact for further information about Mechanical Engineering Technology?
Please contact Iain Cameron by email or (250) 762-5445, ext. 4357.