Pre-Technology - Accelerated

The Accelerated Pre-technology program is for students who have a minimal high-school background in math, science and English. It is a condensed 17-week adult upgrading program commencing in January. This program requires the student's full attention. Part-time studies are discouraged but are available. See Program Details for more information.

Most students completing NAIT's upgrading programs enter subsequent programs at NAIT. The Alberta Transfer Guide lists the NAIT upgrading courses which are accepted as prerequisites at other colleges, technical institutes and universities in Alberta.

We recommend that every adult considering upgrading at NAIT speak with a program advisor well in advance of the program startup. Refer to the individual program web pages for program-specific information.

FAQs

What is so important about taking a full load of courses?
Many NAIT programs are nationally accredited and require 30-32 hours per week of classes. This means a lot of material is covered in a short time period. Missing even one day of classes is like missing an entire week of course material. Students who upgrade by taking one or two courses at a time may not be properly prepared for the demands of a typical diploma program.

How do I learn to manage the workload?
Students in the Accelerated Pre-technology program spend 30 hours in classes each week. To be successful, students may need to adjust family commitments, social commitments and their outlook towards school. Past students have said that being part of an informal study group and learning to work effectively in a team are both very important steps to managing the workload.

What impact will this have on my activities?
The program is very demanding, and students need to be very organized, especially if they need to work part-time while going to school. You will need to make decisions to balance family, school, work and social activities in order to achieve your goals.

Are courses recognized at other educational institutions?
Colleges in Alberta accept the courses listed below for admission purposes:

• ASE291 in lieu of English 33
• ASM103 in lieu of Math 30
• ASP296 in lieu of Physics 30

Check out the Alberta Transfer Guide website for more information.

Will I feel comfortable in the NAIT environment?
Yes. While attending NAIT, you will have access to lots of resources such as the Tutor Centre, Counselling and Career Placement Centre, Health Services, the Project Factory and Library and the Physical and Leisure Education facilities. In addition, as a member of the Students' Association, you will also participate in the Extended Health and Dental Benefits Plan.

Does the program cover a lot of new material every day?
Yes, and daily attendance is essential for success. All homework, assignments and lab write-ups need to be completed daily. You should get into the habit of regularly reviewing previous material weekly. This will save you from cramming for final exams.

Have I been away from the books too long?
If you have been out of school for more than three years, the regular Pre-technology program may be a better choice for you.

Which programs am I eligible for?
Students who achieve the required grade levels in the prerequisite courses generally go on to enter programs at NAIT. Accelerated Pre-technology courses satisfy the prerequisite requirements for over 40 engineering technology programs at NAIT.

What if I need additional prerequisites after completing Accelerated Pre-technology?
Students enrolling in the January semester will be able to take additional courses in May. However, some classes my be full due to course popularity.