Overview

Assiniboine’s two-year Communications Engineering Technology diploma provides graduates with the skills to create, manufacture, install and analyze different types of communication technologies. Graduates are prepared to support the design, development and repair of communication systems, such as voice, video, data, fiber optics, wi-fi and Bluetooth. 

Graduates are prepared for careers as engineering technologists in the communications industry in areas such as computer-aided design, electronic design and repair, computer programming, network design, communication systems installation or design or project management. 

The program culminates with students partnering with an industry representative to work through a problem identified by industry, bringing real world practical experience to the student and strengthening their networks for future career opportunities. 

With two years of technical experience, graduates may pursue certification with The Certified Technicians & Technologists Association of Manitoba.  

Graduates are employed by electrical utilities, communications companies, manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment, consulting firms, and in governments and a wide range of manufacturing, processing and transportation industries. 

Program Learning Outcomes 

  • Analyze, interpret, modify, design and produce electrical and electronics drawings, layouts and reports. 
  • Analyze and solve technical problems related to electronics engineering by applying principles of advanced mathematics and science. 
  • Apply appropriate troubleshooting techniques to electronic circuits or systems and generate and perform test procedures. 
  • Design, build, test and troubleshoot electronic circuits, equipment, systems  and subsystems in accordance with job requirements, functional specifications and relevant standards. 
  • Modify, maintain, repair and recommend electronic equipment and systems in accordance with relevant operational guidelines. 
  • Determine, select, recommend and justify the purchase of electronic equipment, components and systems in accordance with code, standards and job requirements and functional specifications. 
  • Design, modify, analyze and troubleshoot logic and digital circuits, and embedded microprocessor-based and microcontroller-based systems, including assembly and high-level language programs. 
  • Design, analyze and troubleshoot circuits consisting of passive components by applying appropriate measurement techniques. 
  • Design, analyze and troubleshoot circuits consisting of low power, high power, active and electromechanical components, and analog integrated circuits. 
  • Design, analyze and troubleshoot control systems. 
  • Design, analyze, troubleshoot and repair analog and digital communication systems. 
  • Apply relevant shop practices in compliance with safety policies and current regulations for electronics engineering workplaces. 
  • Collaborate in selecting, co-ordinating and conducting quality control and quality assurance programs and procedures. 
  • Complete work in compliance with relevant legislation, established standards, policies, procedures and regulations, and ethical principles. 
  • Contribute to the planning, implementation, management and evaluation of team projects by applying project management principles. 

Examples of what communication engineering technician graduates can do: 

  • Assist in the design, development and testing of electrical and electronic components, equipment, and systems. 
  • Assist in inspection, testing, adjusting and evaluation of incoming electrical, electro-mechanical and electronic components and assemblies to ensure conformance with product specifications and tolerances 
  • Assist in building and testing prototypes to specifications. 
  • Installation of cable and fiber optic commercial and household systems. 
  • Carry out a limited range of technical functions in support of research in electrical and electronic engineering and physics. 
  • Install, operate and maintain electrical and electronic equipment and systems. 
  • Calibrate electrical or electronic equipment and instruments according to technical manuals and written instructions. 

Success Factors 

You might be a good fit for this program if you have: 

  • An interest in circuitry, electrical systems, and electronic components 
  • Strong attention to detail 
  • Solving complex problems that require analytical thinking and troubleshooting abilities 
  • Enjoy learning how electronic components and systems work 
  • Are curious about wireless communications, the use of sensors and how communication systems are integrated into most everything we use today. 
  • Have heard about the Internet of Things (IoT) and would like to understand more about it 
  • Enjoy building electronic devices, soldering, wiring, and the development of robotic features. 

The industry and program environment often requires individuals to: 

  • Adhere to safety protocols and promote a safe working environment 
  • Be adaptable to changes and have a willingness to learn and update knowledge 
  • Be meticulous, employ patience and pay close attention to details 
  • Convey technical information clearly, document procedures, and explain complex concepts in a concise and understandable manner 
  • Work as part of a team 
  • Enjoy working with computers 

Admissions

  • A complete Manitoba Grade 12 or equivalent
  • English 40G/40S or equivalent
  • Pre-calculus or Applied Mathematics 40S or equivalent

Applicants who have Mathematics 40G, Mathematics 301 or Consumer/ Essential Mathematics 40S will be required to write a mathematics assessment test to assess their eligibility for admission.

English is the language of instruction at Assiniboine. All applicants educated outside of Canada or in a country not on the test exempt list are expected to meet the English language proficiency requirement. See assiniboine.net/elp for more information. 

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, please read our Helpful Information for International Applicants prior to applying to this program. 

 

Careers & Connections

Career Opportunities

  • Computer-aided design
  • Remote control technology
  • Wireless and fiber optics
  • Imbedded programming
  • Electronic design and repair
  • Computer programming
  • Network design
  • Communication systems installation
  • Project management

Additionally, you may gain real-world experience by participating in applied research projects. Assiniboine is an academic partner with TRLABS, the largest ICT Research and Development consortium in Canada.  Assiniboine also offers this program accredited by the Canadian Forces for the Navy Subsidized Education Plan (NSEP) program. After being accepted into our program, you can apply to join the Navy and take your Naval Electronic Technician training with us for two years.

For more details contact the local Canadian Forces recruiting office or visit www.forces.gc.ca.

Connections

Assiniboine has a number of agreements with other colleges, universities and professional organizations, making it possible to apply credit taken at Assiniboine to programs at other institutions. For up-to-date information on agreements, visit the Articulation Agreements page.

Tools & Supplies

Lectures and design classes are done in our modern classroom/labs. All are equipped with high-end computers running demanding industry-standard simulation and design software.

Once students have worked through theory and simulations, they will experiment with different technologies and software during the lab assignments in our newly established Communications lab. Students are provided with an ID card and have 24/7 access to this facility. Alumni of the program may also make arrangements to use this facility for upgrading or collaboration with current students on design and research projects. Students do their computer network and routing training in the Cisco Network Academy Lab using CCNA curriculum that we are licensed to deliver through our partnerships with Cisco Systems Inc. 

The program uses project-based learning throughout most of its courses. These projects align with real-world situations. During these assignments, students will start to develop their soft skills such as; communications, project management and teamwork. Through the ACC IEEE Student Branch, students are also encouraged to participate in national design challenges and other collaboration projects outside of the classroom.

The highlight of this program is the Applied Research Project course. For this course, students will develop and demonstrate their skills by designing, prototyping and testing a communications solution. This capstone project is developed over the final 4 months of the program and may include hardware design, programming and system integration. These industry-driven and sponsored projects provide our grads with the skills and confidence needed to enter the fast-paced field of information and communications technology (ICT). 

Textbooks, supplies and uniforms for all of our programs and courses may be purchased at the Assiniboine Bookstore at the Victoria Avenue East Campus. Booklists are available from your school office 30 days prior to the start date of your program. Visit the Bookstore website to learn more.

Our classrooms, labs and shops are equipped with the necessary equipment that you need to make the most of your experience. However, there are some tools and supplies that you will need to purchase for personal use to help you with your studies. Much of what you purchase you’ll be able to use after you graduate and begin your career. Tool and supply lists are available from the school office 30 days prior to the start date of the program. 

Program Checklist, Textbooks & Supplies

Technology Requirements

Students in this program are loaned a laptop for use in this program. Students will use this laptop to complete their coursework and are responsible for the condition of the device when it is returned at the end of the spring term. Refer to assiniboine.net/tech for detailed information.

Courses & Costs

Costs

Estimated Program Costs (Domestic students)
  Credits Tuition Course fees Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) Estimated textbooks, tools and supplies
Communications Engineering Technology (YR 1) 72 $4,130 $2,820 $520 $1,730
Communications Engineering Technology (YR 2) 72 $4,080 $3,130 $510 $1,610

All fees are estimated and subject to change without notice.

Estimated Program Costs (International students)
  Credits Tuition Course Fees Students' Association fees (Inc Health Premium) Required Health Insurance Textbooks, Tools, & Supplies
Communications Engineering Technology (YR 1) 72 $18,580 $2,820 $520 $750 $1,730
Communications Engineering Technology (YR 2) 72 $18,330 $3,130 $510 $750 $1,610

All fees are estimated and are subject to change without notice. All international students must purchase health insurance. The college adds this fee to your student account and then sends your name and fee to the insurance provider on your behalf.

Courses

To graduate with a Communications Engineering Technology diploma, students must successfully complete 144 academic credits. Students may choose to exit after year one with an Electronic Technician certificate if they successfully complete 72 academic credits. The minimum passing grade for each course is indicated on the course outline. Course offerings are subject to change and may vary by intake.

 

Year One Courses
Title Credits/CEUs Elective Distance PLAR
Cabling and Installation (ELTE-0077)

Technicians working in communications require the skills needed for installing and terminating various media used to interconnect equipment. Technicians also need to understand the basics of the planning and physical installation of the equipment. Even in the wireless systems, cabling is an important and dynamic subsystem. This course provides students with the necessary background, knowledge and skills required to design, install, terminate, test and update communication wiring. Training includes information on codes, standards and regulations, as well as electrical protection. Students learn the importance of planning equipment layout and providing and maintaining environmental control and power back-up systems.

3 credit(s) No No No
College Foundations (PEDV-0356)

This course improves students’ ability to navigate the college experience and environment, including student's rights, roles, and responsibilities. In this course, students reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and develop learning strategies to help them to become successful, resilient, and self-directed learners. The course covers topics such as success in online learning, time management strategies, learning strategies, assessment taking strategies, academic integrity, information and digital literacy, and wellness, among others. It integrates elements of student orientation.

0 credit(s) No No No
Communication Circuits (ELTE-0087)

This course introduces Radio Frequency (RF) communication systems and theory. Students learn the electromagnetic and frequency spectrum, elements of a communications channel, basic building blocks of an RF system, modulation and demodulation techniques, absolute and relative decibel (dB) measurements and readings and develop a basic RF Communications lexicon. Through lab activities, students assemble, test, trouble shoot and align an Amplitude Modulated (AM) and Frequency Modulated (FM) broadcast receiver.

3 credit(s) No No No
Computer Programming 1 (COMP-0439)

This course introduces students to computer programming. Students are expected to demonstrate proper techniques in program design and the applications of the various program control structures and data structures. This course is designed to support the Micro-Controller Systems course.

3 credit(s) No No No
Computer Programming 2 (COMP-0440)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0052 Digital Circuits
This course builds on the programming concepts and skills developed in Computer Programming 1 to enhance students' problem solving and program design abilities. Students are introduced to languages that are used to develop applications for wireless devices and embedded systems.

3 credit(s) No No No
Digital Circuits (ELTE-0052)

This course provides students with a thorough background in digital devices and systems. Students examine different numbering systems and Boolean concepts used in digital logic circuits. Logic gate circuits are discussed and their truth tables and Boolean output equations generated. Combinational logic circuits are analyzed and simplified using Boolean identities, theorems and Karnaugh mapping techniques. Flip-flops are explored and their applications to counters, registers and memory devices, encoders, decoders, multiplexers and de-multiplexers. The electrical characteristics and specifications of various integrated circuit logic families are also studied. Finally, students select and use programmable logic devices to implement solutions to digital logic problems.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Electric Circuits 1 (ELTE-0053)

This course introduces principles used in the analysis of direct current (DC) resistive circuits. Introductory topics cover charge, current, voltage, resistance, energy and power. Series, parallel and series-parallel circuits are analyzed using Ohm's Law, power law and Kirchhoff's voltage and current laws. Advanced methods of analysis are used for more complex networks that include mesh (loop), nodal, superposition, Thevenins and Nortons theorem. Theory is supported with laboratory activities that include both real and computer simulations of DC circuits.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Electric Circuits 2 (ELTE-0054)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0053 Electric Circuits 1
This course introduces the behaviour of electrical circuits and networks when driven by a single-phase alternating current (AC) sine-wave source. Topics covered include sine-wave peak, average and effective values, power and power factor, resistance, capacitance and inductance as elements in single-phase AC circuits, phasor diagrams, impedance, admittance, voltage, current and power diagrams, analysis of AC circuits with complex algebra, resonance and resonant circuits, high and low-pass filters, and the application of circuit laws and theorems to single phase AC circuits. Theory is supported with laboratory activities that include both real and computer simulations of AC circuits.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Electronic Circuits 1 (ELTE-0073)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0053 Electric Circuits 1
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of semiconductor theory, devices and solid-state circuits. Students are able to analyze, design and build simple diode rectifier circuits, zener diode circuits and bipolar and field effect transistor-biasing networks.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Electronic Circuits 2 (ELTE-0056)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0073 Electronic Circuits 1
This course introduces the amplifier as an ideal and non-ideal gain block. Using a feedback model, the various characteristics of an amplifier are studied. Integrated circuit operational amplifiers (Op-amps) are used as a practical gain block to verify the feedback theory. Additional topics cover inverting and non-inverting configurations, coupling methods, frequency response and bandwidth including Bode plots. The Op-amps are then used to design and implement various amplifier, active filters and oscillator circuits.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Instruments and Measurements 1 (ELTE-0058)

This course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the electronics laboratory environment. Topics include electrical safety, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), and the proper operation and application of key electrical test equipment such as power supplies, digital multi-meters, function generators and analog and digital oscilloscopes. Students learn various measurement techniques and understand how instrument precision and accuracy influences their readings.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Manufacturing Techniques (ELTE-0088)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0073 Electronic Circuits 1
Students use the electrical and drafting concepts acquired in previous courses to generate printed circuit board (PCB) layouts using Computer Aided Design software. Basic single and double-sided through the hole and Surface Mount Technology PCB are designed. Students will also learn to generate the required files and documents required to have the board manufactured. In-house manufacturing is then done on our Rapid Prototype CNC machine. This course provides training, as well as proper soldering, desoldering and techniques based on current industry standards and best practices.

3 credit(s) No No No
Micro-Controller Systems (ELTE-0059)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0052 Digital Circuits, ELTE-0073 Electronic Circuits 1, COMP-0439 Computer Programming 1
This course gives students an overview of architecture, instruction set and input/output (I/O) capabilities of a micro-controller based system. Flowcharting and assembly language programming are discussed along with the support hardware and memory mapping required for the micro-controller to operate. Simple I/O routines are written to control various devices such as motors, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), speakers, and Analog to Digital (A/D) converters. I/O interfacing using interrupts, counters and timing operations are presented. Students finish by using the 'C' programming language to program their I/O operations.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Network Fundamentals (COMP-0410)

This course follows the Cisco Networking Academy (CCNA) 1 curriculum. Students will be introduced to basic networking concepts and principles. Students will learn the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model and other industry standards, network technologies, basic network design and cabling techniques. Students will also be introduces to Cisco Router operation and configuration.

6 credit(s) No No No
Network Routing (COMP-0441)

Prerequisite: COMP-0410 Network Fundamentals
Students learn Cisco router configurations, Access Lists, routed and routing protocols and are introduced to switches. This course follows the Cisco Networking Academy (CCNA) 2 curriculum.

6 credit(s) No No No
Technical Math (MATH-0063)

This course provides students with a review of set theory and numbering systems. It also provides students with a review of the properties, graphing and manipulation of linear, quadratic, logarithmic, exponential, polynomial and rational functions. Students are able to solve and graph equations and inequalities that involve a variety of function groups. Trigonometric functions and identities as well as rectangular and polar conversions are introduced in this course. Students are introduced to complex variables and functions of complex variables.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Technical Writing (COMM-0178)

This course emphasizes clear, correct and concise technical writing in the electronics field. Students learn how to organize technical information, illustrate documents, define and describe technical objects and processes, write routine letters, memos and instructions, laboratory reports and an operating manual. Students also write a resume and an application letter for the co-op work placement, and give short, informative presentations to small groups.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Year Two Courses
Title Credits/CEUs Elective Distance PLAR
Antennas & Transmission Lines (ELTE-0061)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0063 Communications Theory, MATH-0061 Calculus, ELTE-0065 Instruments and Measurements 2, ELTE-0077 Cabling and Installation
In this course, students study a variety of devices and transmission media used to guide, transmit and receive electromagnetic radiation. A variety of antenna designs and their properties are studied along with their characteristics including gain, directional gain, 3dB beamwidth and bandwidth, polar and rectangular radiation plots. The properties of various wired transmission media are studied and their effects on the signals they carry, including loss, pulse spreading, crosstalk and Electromagnetic Interface (EMI). As well, the characteristics of Radio Frequency (RF) and microwave links are examined and link equations developed. Laboratory activities include antenna radiation pattern plots, forward and reflected power and Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) measurements, and communications link performance evaluation using a spectrum analyzer. Students also construct a Time Domain Reflectometer using a pulse generator and an oscilloscope and use it to locate and determine fault types along a transmission line. The course also includes fundamentals of network cabling.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Applied Research Project (ELTE-0090)

Prerequisites: ELTE-0061 Antennas & Transmission Lines, ELTE-0063 Communications Theory, ELTE-0062 Broadband Systems, ELTE-0080 Communication Systems, ELTE-0078 Embedded Systems
Corequisite: ELTE-0085 Wireless Data Systems
In this course, students research, design and develop a wireless telecommunications related project. These projects are sponsored by industry partners and are the capstone projects for students in this program. Students prepare a formal report, documenting the design and testing process. This course is supported by the Project Management and Report Writing courses and showcases the technical knowledge and abilities students have acquired over the length of the program.

9 credit(s) No No No
Broadband Systems (ELTE-0062)

Prerequisite: COMP-0410 Network Fundamentals
This course provides students with a strong background in the operation, design and testing of a variety of broadband communication systems. Studies include systems used for satellite communications, terrestrial microwave transmission and broadband cable systems. Students also compare technologies used for fixed and nomadic broadband wireless access systems.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Calculus (MATH-0061)

Prerequisite: MATH-0063 Technical Math
Students in this course are introduced to the concepts of limits and continuity and the principles and rules of differentiation and integrations as applied to various families of functions. It emphasizes the applications of integrations and differentiations in electronics through examining their geometrical interpretation. The course also covers matrix theory and application in solving systems of linear equations.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Communications Systems (ELTE-0080)

Prerequisites: ELTE-0063 Communications Theory, ELTE-0065 Instruments and Measurements 2, MATH-0061 Calculus, SCIE-0072 Physics, MATH-0063 Technical Math, COMP-0410 Network Fundamentals
This course examines the key components of telecommunication infrastructure. Students study voice, data and video distribution systems as they gain knowledge in the architecture, carrier systems, hardware and signalling used for both analog and digital communication systems in copper telephone systems (PSTN). The function and operation of various fibre optic equipment and topologies is also examined. Students become familiar with network management systems used to monitor network devices. Protocols that are studied include Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).

6 credit(s) No No No
Communications Theory (ELTE-0063)

Prerequisites: ELTE-0087 Communication Circuits, MATH-0061 Calculus
This course introduces digital and analog communication theory. Through simulations, laboratory work and case studies, students learn the characterization of signals and spectra, modulation and demodulation techniques, AM and FM systems, base band pulse and digital signalling, band pass signalling principles and circuits, spectral analysis, and performance of communication systems corrupted by noise. Fundamental building blocks of receivers, transmitters and related circuits are studied including Automatic Gain Control (AGC) circuits, mixers, phase lock loops, frequency synthesizers, balanced modulators and demodulators, limiters and squelch circuits.

6 credit(s) No No Yes
Embedded Systems (ELTE-0078)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0059 Micro-Controller Systems, COMP-0439 Computer Programming 1
Through the use of project based learning, students develop embedded systems using microcontrollers. This course builds on the skills acquired in the Micro-Controller Systems and Programming courses and teaches students how to apply C language to create embedded microcontroller designs. Students learn to interface a microcontroller with real-world I/O devices such as sensors and displays. These embedded systems will also support interrupts and ability to communicate through various media such as serial, TCP/IP and wireless.

6 credit(s) No No No
Emerging Technologies (ELTE-0082)

Prerequisites: ELTE-0086 Wireless Systems, ELTE-0085 Wireless Data Systems
This course examines emerging technologies in communications that are not covered in other core courses of the Communications Engineering Technology program. These studies may include new techniques, protocols, software, hardware or design methodologies that have recently been adopted by industry. These solutions may be proprietary or based on new standards that are either in development or recently finalized. This course changes yearly based on industry trends and ensures that graduates of the program remain current.

6 credit(s) No No No
Environment, Ethics & Society (ENVR-0020)

Gain insight into the importance of sustainable development and the impact of technology and industry on the environment and society. This course will also discuss various moral theories and techniques that can be used to resolve ethical dilemmas. Professionalism is promoted through the examination of the EGM and CTTAM Code of Ethics and other documents that are the basis for the professional exam required for Engineering Technologists seeking certification in Manitoba.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Instruments and Measurements 2 (ELTE-0065)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0058 Instruments and Measurements 1
A key skill for any technologist is having the ability to properly measure signals and interference to detect and resolve issues with communication devices and systems. This course introduces students to specialized frequency domain test equipment used for the measurement and analysis of complex communications. Students will become proficient with several methods of testing communications equipment and devices using digital storage oscilloscopes (DSOs), radio frequency signal sources and communications analyzers.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Project Management (BUSN-0128)

In today's fast-paced world, and as competition rapidly becomes time and cost-based, organizations that practice sound project management methods gain a competitive advantage over others. In this course, the fundamentals of project management are taught. Students learn how to scope, plan and execute projects. Systematic methods and tools to help break down projects into a manageable structure that allows for efficient scheduling, control and evaluation processes are also taught. Students learn project control using earned value analysis, and how to manage, or be part of, a project team. New and state-of-the-art project structures and methods are studied including Six Sigma and LEAN principles.

3 credit(s) No No Yes
Report Writing (COMM-0270)

Prerequisite: COMM-0178 Technical Writing
Corequisite: ELTE-0084 Technical Project
In this course, students build on their written and oral communication skills principles learned in the Technical Writing course. Students develop formal report writing and professional presentation skills. These acquired skills are used by students as they write the reports for their capstone technical projects. These projects and reports are presented and defended to a group of peers, instructors and an industry panel.

3 credit(s) No No No
Voice Communications (ELTE-0089)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0087 Communication Circuits, COMP-0441 Network Routing
This course provides students with the fundamentals used in voice communication systems. Students learn voice and audio sampling theory, audio codecs, transmission fundamentals and protocols. Through lab activities, students build and test a small VoIP system.

3 credit(s) No No No
Wireless Data Systems (ELTE-0085)

Prerequisite: ELTE-0063 Communications Theory
This course provides students with the fundamentals of wireless data systems, transmission fundamentals, wireless communication networks, protocols, and principles of wireless networking. It also covers the basic of satellite communications, cellular networks, local loops, and mobile IP and wireless access protocols. The course looks into the specific architectures, protocols, and components of fixed and mobile data networks.

3 credit(s) No No No
Wireless Systems (ELTE-0086)

Prerequisites: ELTE-0063 Communications Theory, ELTE-0080 Communication Systems, ELTE-0061 Antennas & Transmission Lines
This course provides students with the background knowledge required to understand the propagation of radio and microwave frequencies both indoor and outdoor. These skills are then put to use in calculating and predicting signal levels and losses in various systems due to Free Space Loss (FSL), as well as other attenuating factors. Student will use industry standard software to design and analyze the performance of a point-to-point microwave link. Lab work for this course includes the configuration and commission of a microwave radio link using Industry Canada standards.

6 credit(s) No No No

Fast Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next program information session?

Program information sessions are completely free to attend, and we invite you to bring a guest along as well. It's a good idea to register in advance so we know you're coming.

To find the complete schedule for our program information sessions and to RSVP, visit the program information session page.