Overview
Part of the Electrical and Computing Engineering Technology program, the two-year diploma in Telecommunications and Networks offers students the option to complete paid co-operative education terms. Students may apply to continue on to complete the BCIT Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering and other advanced credentials.
About the program
Building on the knowledge and skills gained in the first year of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology program, students learn the principles required to design, develop, manufacture, and test telecommunication systems and networks. The program covers land mobile radio systems, digital data transmission, fibre optic and microwave technology, satellite communications, radio frequency (RF) design, local and wide area networks (LANs and WANs), wireless networks, internet engineering technology, digital signal processing (DSP) techniques and the application of microcontrollers. Students will also complete a student-initiated or industry-sponsored project.
Who it’s for
The Telecommunications and Networks option is part of the specialty diploma in Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology.
Graduates of this option may obtain a dual diploma in another Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology option by completing all the additional required courses for that option. Entry to this second option is competitive and priority is given to students completing their first option.
What grads can do
Graduates of this program may find careers in the design, development, testing, commissioning, installation and maintenance of telecommunications and networking circuits and systems. With experience, many graduates move into supervisory and technical management positions. The graduates might work in an environment either alone or as part of a team to prepare engineering designs, provide technical services, commission systems involving the application of wired and wireless networks, provide technical sales services, resolve technical problems, or research new technologies.
Employers for the graduates of this program include commercial companies, government agencies and educational institutes. Please see the graduating and jobs link for a list of employers.
Entrance Requirements
Spend-A-Day with us
Want to learn more about our program before you apply? Come spend-a-day with us. You’ll meet students and instructors, and get a hands-on feel for what the program is about.
If you have questions regarding the entrance requirements or the application process, read Common First Year [PDF] and then visit Admission & Registration.
If you want to discuss the program in more detail, contact the Program Head, Ed Casas or call 604-432-8936.
Application processing
This program is open to applications beginning:
- February 1st* for the January intake
- October 1st* for the September intake
*or next business day
All students must complete the first year of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology program before continuing to one of the two-year technologist diploma options (Automation, Telecom, or Power) or the four-year Bachelor of Engineering degree program.
Entrance requirements
Applicants must meet all entrance requirements and will be accepted on a first qualified basis as long as space remains.
- English language proficiency: Category 2 – English Studies 12 (67%) or equivalent
- Math: one of the following:
- Pre-Calculus 12 (73%) or
- Other acceptable BC and Yukon courses or
- MATH 0001 - Technical Mathematics (73%)
- Chemistry 11 (67%)
- Physics: one of the following:
- Physics 12 (67%) or
- PHYS 0312 - Technology Entry Physics 2 (67%)
Continuation requirements
Midway through the second term of first year, students select their first and second choice for the next year(s) of the program:
- Degree (three additional years)
- Diploma (one additional year), options are:
Entry to each of the diploma options and to the BEng degree is competitive by GPA. Where space issues arise, students may get their alternate choice.
International applicants
This program is available to international applicants. A valid study permit is required prior to starting the program.
Students enrolled in this program must complete the mandatory work component to qualify for graduation. A co-op work permit is required prior to starting the work component.
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another post-secondary school?
Transfer credit may be granted for courses completed at another post-secondary institution where the learning outcomes duplicate those of the BCIT course. The Electrical and Computer Engineering department reserves the right to determine the granting of credit where appropriate.
To apply for transfer credit, submit a Course Credit/Exemption form [PDF] and official transcript to BCIT Student Records 14 days prior to term start. A maximum of two courses per level are eligible for credit.
If you would like to transfer a larger number of credits prior to admission, you can apply for advanced placement in this program.
Apply to program
The Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology diploma program options share a common first year. The second year focuses on specialized options. Option selection is a competitive process, undertaken after successful completion of the first year.
To submit your application:
- Include proof of meeting all entrance requirements.
- Convert all transcripts and supporting documents to PDF files.
- Have a credit card ready to pay the application fee.
Apply Now
Scheduled Intakes
September each year.Technology entry
The Technology Entry (TE) program is a full-time, day school program which provides academic upgrading to students wishing to enroll in Computing, Engineering, Electronic, and Health Sciences programs at BCIT.
The TE program provides courses in chemistry, communication, mathematics, and physics that meet program prerequisites for selected programs at BCIT. The TE program also includes an introductory course in computer applications and a learning skills course. The program is supportive to those who require English-language training.
myCommunication
Within two business days of submitting your completed application, BCIT will send a message to your personal and myBCIT email addresses. All correspondence regarding your application will be posted to your online myCommunication account at my.bcit.ca. We will send you an email when a new message is posted. It is important to watch for these emails or regularly check your account online.
You can expect to receive communication concerning the status of your application within four weeks.
Advanced Placement
Conditions
You may be eligible to apply to an advanced level of the program through either re-admission or direct entry. Please note that applications are considered based on:
- Complete applications: you must show proof that you have completed (or are registered in) all requirements to be considered.
- Competitive entry: if the number of applicants exceeds available seats, BCIT will accept those deemed to have the best opportunity for success.
- Seat availability: confirmation may not be available until approximately one week before the term begins.
International students are not eligible for direct entry and must apply to Level 1.
Re-admission
You can apply for re-admission if you:
- were previously admitted to this program and completed part of it at BCIT and
- want to re-enter the program at an advanced level.
Submit the Technology Re-admission Form [PDF] with your application.
Applications are accepted throughout the year.
Ready to submit your application? Apply now.
Direct entry
You can apply for direct entry if you:
- are a new applicant to this program but already completed an equivalent part of it at BCIT or elsewhere and
- want to apply to an advanced level.
BCIT accepts complete applications until:
- March 1st* for the Fall (September) intake
- October 1st* for the Winter (January) intake
*or next business day
Submit the following four items with your online application:
- Proof of meeting all general entrance requirements
- Course-by-Course Self-Assessment Form [PDF] showing that you have completed (or are registered in) all level 1 courses (applicants to level 2 or 3) and all level 2 courses (applicants to level 3 only) or equivalents*
- Official transcripts and course outlines for all previous education
Applicants who completed post-secondary studies outside of Canada, United States, United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand will require a comprehensive evaluation of their credentials by the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES). Credential evaluation reports from other Canadian services may be considered. These reports must include course-by-course evaluations and GPA calculations. - A resume outlining previous education and work experience
Notice regarding equivalent courses:
Details provided for equivalent courses must outline course descriptions, learning outcomes, and topics covered. Generally, to qualify for credit, the equivalent course(s) must:
- have been completed within five (5) years,
- cover 80% or more of the same topics at a level that is comparable or higher,
- have been completed with a grade of 65% or higher.
You may be required to complete Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) exams to assess your competence, as determined by the ECET department. Applicants with a suitable post-secondary background will be identified and contacted by the program area. Faculty will determine which courses need to be taken or tested in. Students who are offered the opportunity to write PLAR exams will be responsible for the cost of the exams.
Ready to submit your application? Apply now.
The application process
| Submit Online Application: Self-declare your entrance requirements and the level you are applying for. Attach your supporting documents including transcripts, resume, course-by-course self-assessment form, and ICES report (if required). ___ |
||||
| First Assessment: Your application will be assessed by Admissions for any required documents, prerequisites, and English language proficiency. ___ |
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| Second Assessment: The ECET department will assess your application for transfer credit and/or PLAR exams and will notify you of the outcome by email.* This occurs after the application deadline; you will be contacted around the time of your start date. Note: Transfer credit requires equivalent learning outcomes. If eligible, you may be required to write PLAR exams. ___ |
||||
| Option 1: If you choose to start from level 1, you must re-apply. Seats are offered on a first come, first served basis. |
or | Option 2: If eligible, you may write PLAR exams and, if successful, join a waitlist for seat availability. Notification of exam dates and results will occur via communication with the Program Administrator. ___ |
or | Option 3: If you are awarded transfer credits, you may choose to join a waitlist for seat availability. |
| Options 2 and 3: If a seat is available, you will be contacted by the Program Administrator when the term begins (possibly a few days before). | ||||
*You have 10 days to accept or appeal (in writing) the 'Second Assessment' that you receive by email.
Direct entry FAQs
- When should I apply?
- What if I don’t receive credit for all courses in the preceding term?
- Can I appeal the assessment of equivalency?
- What will happen if I cannot complete all required courses before the term starts?
- When will I be accepted?
- When will I get my timetable?
- When can I buy my books?
It is recommended that you apply when you have met, or are registered in, all of the entrance requirements. If you are currently registered in a course(s), please indicate this on the self-assessment form and submit proof of registration with your application.
The program may suggest BCIT flexible learning (part-time studies) courses that need to be completed prior to term start. In some circumstances, the program may identify courses that can be taken concurrently. Most students are required to make up one or more courses.
You may appeal in writing. Be prepared to supply addition information or clarification to your original submission. You have 10 days to accept or appeal (in writing) the ‘Second Assessment’ that you receive by email.
All courses must be completed prior to term start unless the program has identified a course that can be taken concurrently or that can be deferred until a later term.
Once your application has been assessed and has been approved for direct entry, a seat must become available in the program you have selected. The Admissions department must wait until the current students obtain their final grades in either December, May, or August to determine how many seats will become available for direct entry applicants.
Print your timetable one day prior to class start by logging into my.bcit.ca and going to Student Self-Service. You must be registered in your courses in order to access this feature.
It is recommended that you wait until the first week of classes before buying textbooks. Your instructors will tell you which books to buy.
To register for a Flexible Learning (Part-time Studies) course, visit Register for Flexible Learning courses or contact Student Information and Enrolment Services.
Still have questions? Review the Admissions FAQ or contact Program Advising.
Costs & Supplies
The information below will help you determine the cost of taking the program and assist you in developing a budget for your two years of study.
Tuition fees
Use our tuition estimator to find tuition and fees for this program.
For more information on full-time tuition and fees, visit:
Books & supplies
Level 1: $1,520; Level 2: $540; Level 3: $550; Level 4: $450
(general estimated cost, subject to change)
Ownership of a personal computer is required and not included in the above costs.
Recommendations for student PC hardware
Minimum requirements
- 64-bit AMD64 (x86-64) 1.8 GHz CPU
- 4 GB RAM
- 20 GB free disk space
- 1280x768 display resolution
- One free USB 2.0 port
- Earphones and microphone or headset
- Webcam (built-in or external)
- Hardware must meet requirements for installing Windows 10.
- An internet connection of at least 2 Mb/s down, 320 kb/s up. Please note that streaming lectures can result in significant total Internet use (20-100 GB/month down).
Recommended specifications
- Multi-core, 2 GHz or faster CPU
- 8 GB or more RAM
- 80 GB or more free disk space
- 1920x1080 or higher display resolution
Other notes
- “Minimum” hardware meets software vendors’ minimum requirements for software that students will have to run on their own computers (Firefox or Chrome, Digilent Waveforms, Intel Quartus Prime, and TI Code Composer). It may not provide the best user experience.
- “Recommended” hardware meets software vendors’ recommendations for software many students will want to run on their computers.
- Many students find laptops useful because they allow working away from home.
- Internet connectivity at BCIT requires a WiFi adapter.
- Most software, including Windows 10, is available through BCIT.
Financial assistance
Financial assistance may be available for this program. For more information, please contact Student Financial Aid and Awards.
Courses
Program matrix
September intake:Level 1 (15 weeks) |
Credits | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| COMM 1143 | Technical Communications 1 for Electrical and Computer Engineering | 3.0 | |
| ELEX 0304 | Learning Skills for Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology | ||
| ELEX 1105 | Circuit Analysis 1 | 6.0 | |
| ELEX 1113 | Electronic Fabrication Tools and Techniques | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 1117 | Digital Techniques 1 | 5.0 | |
| MATH 1431 | Technical Mathematics for Electronics | 6.0 | |
| PHYS 1143 | Physics for Electronics 1 | 5.0 | |
| Level 2 (19 weeks) | Credits | ||
| Term A (15 weeks) | |||
| ELEX 2105 | Circuit Analysis 2 | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 2117 | Digital Techniques 2 | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 2120 | Electronic Circuits 1 | 6.0 | |
| ELEX 2125 | C Programming for Electronics | 4.0 | |
| MATH 2431 | Calculus for Electronics | 5.0 | |
| PHYS 2143 | Physics for Electronics 2 | 5.0 | |
| and | |||
| Term B (4 weeks) | |||
| COMM 1243 | Technical Documentation | 1.0 | |
| ELEX 1101 | Introduction to Codes and Standards | 1.0 | |
| ELEX 1103 | Introductory Networking | 2.0 | |
| ELEX 1104 | Engineering Spreadsheets | 1.5 | |
| Level 3 (15 weeks) | Credits | ||
| ELEX 3130 | Signal Processing and Power Electronics | 6.0 | |
| ELEX 3305 | Microcontroller Systems | 6.0 | |
| ELEX 3430 | PLCs, VFDs and Industrial Control | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 3521 | Analog and Digital Communications | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 3525 | Data Communications | 5.0 | |
| MATH 3433 | Transform Calculus and Statistics for Electronics | 4.0 | |
| Level 4 (19 weeks) | Credits | ||
| Term A (15 weeks) | |||
| COMM 2443 | Technical Communication 2 for Electrical and Computer Engineering | 3.0 | |
| ELEX 0404 | Technologist Code of Ethics | ||
| ELEX 4525 | Radio Frequency Circuit Design | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 4540 | Local Area Networks | 6.0 | |
| ELEX 4545 | Transmission Devices | 5.0 | |
| ELEX 4550 | Wide Area Networks | 6.0 | |
| ELEX 4560 | Telecom and Networks Projects | 5.0 | |
| and | |||
| Term B (4 weeks) | |||
| ELEX 3404 | Industrial Networking and Smart Grids | 2.5 | |
| ELEX 3511 | Special Topics in Telecommunications and Networking | 1.5 | |
| ELEX 4640 | Internet of Things | 1.5 | |
| ELEX 4653 | Introduction to Python | 1.5 | |
| Co-op Work Term Courses (Optional) | Credits | ||
| ELEX 2992 | Cooperative Education Workterm 1 | 20.0 | |
| or | |||
| ELEX 2993 | Cooperative Education Workterm 1 | 15.0 | |
| ELEX 3992 | Cooperative Education Workterm 2 | 20.0 | |
| or | |||
| ELEX 3993 | Cooperative Education Workterm 2 | 15.0 | |
| ELEX 4992 | Cooperative Education Workterm 3 | 20.0 | |
| or | |||
| ELEX 4993 | Cooperative Education Workterm 3 | 15.0 | |
| ELEX 5992 | Cooperative Education Workterm 4 | 20.0 | |
| or | |||
| ELEX 5993 | Cooperative Education Workterm 4 | 15.0 | |
| Total Credits: | 133.5 | ||
Transfer credit
Do you have credits from another BC/Yukon post-secondary school? Do you want to know if they transfer to courses here at BCIT? Check out BCIT's Transfer Equivalency Database to find out.
Program Details
In all of our technology diploma programs you will spend an average of 30 hours per week in lectures and labs, split approximately 50/50. This balanced approach gives you time to apply the theory in a practical lab environment. In addition, you should expect an additional 30 hours per week preparing for labs, completing assignments and studying. If you need to work while going to school, the majority of our courses are offered in both the September and January terms so that you can tailor your school workload to your other commitments.
We have 21 well equipped labs to support the practical aspect of your education. In almost every lab each student has their own individual work station.
In the fourth term of the program, you will work in teams to build your own network and also complete a wireless communications project.
Program length
Two years, full-time, beginning in September and January each year.
This program is designed to be completed over 2 years in 4 terms. However, BCIT recognizes that not all students will be successful taking a full courseload and will accommodate students by guiding them through a modified registration path once accepted into the program. A modified path will impact the program length and increase the overall cost of the program.
Accreditation
Students may apply for student membership with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC). Graduates may apply to ASTTBC for registration as an Applied Science Technologist (AScT).
Program delivery
In person: This program is delivered on campus.
The Telecommunications and Networks option has one intake per year, in September.Program location
Burnaby Campus
3700 Willingdon Avenue
Burnaby, BC
Continue your education
Graduates of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology (ECET) program may pursue the following degrees at BCIT:
- Bachelor of Technology in Electronics: This part-time degree program is designed for ECET diploma graduates who wish to pursue a degree while working full-time in the electrical, electronics, automation and telecommunications industries.
- Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering: This full-time degree program shares a common first year with the ECET diploma program.
ECET diploma graduates can also explore external bridging programs, which allow graduates to enter the third-year of engineering programs at the University of Victoria or Lakehead University. Alternatively, transfer credit to UBC and SFU degree programs is available on an individual basis.
Co-operative education
Co-operative education is an optional part of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology programs. Students who successfully complete a minimum of two co-op terms receive a co-operative education designation on their diploma.
During a co-op term, you will have a full-time paid position with an employer in the electronics industry for a period of 15 to 20 weeks. You must complete Level 2 of the program before taking a co-op term, and co-op terms may be taken consecutively.
The industrial experience you will gain in the co-op component of the program will give you an added advantage in securing a position after graduation. You are encouraged, but not required, to participate in co-operative education.
For more information, please visit the Centre for Workplace Education – BCIT.
Graduating & Jobs
An edge in the job market
A BCIT diploma shows potential employers that you are accomplished, focused, and serious about your chosen career path. Our programs and courses provide both fundamental theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills to help you “hit the ground running” in a new job. Graduates say that BCIT helped them fully prepare for employment.
Job opportunities
A great future awaits you when you complete your Diploma of Technology in Telecommunications and Networks. As a nationally accredited technologist you will have a real edge in the job market working for a broad range of excellent employers. Some of the companies that have hired our grads in the past are:
Graduate employment outcomes
The BCIT student outcomes report presents summary findings from the annual survey of former students administered by BC Stats one to two years after graduation. These reports combine the last three years of available results for the 2021-2023 BCIT Outcomes Surveys of 2020-2022 graduates and for Degree 2019-2021 graduates. The reports are organized into three-page summaries containing information on graduates’ labour market experiences and opinions regarding their education. More detailed information can be accessed at the BC Student Outcomes website.
To view these results, you may need to have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed in your Web browser.
Faculty, Advisors & Staff
Electrical and Computer Engineering grad celebrated at BCIT!
It’s hard to keep track of all our students once they have left BCIT, but instructors are always delighted to reconnect with graduates and see that they have successfully applied their learning towards a wonderful career.
The Telecommunications and Networks program is supported by a team of committed educators, staff and industry advisors who work hard for students’ success.
Faculty
Bob Gill, MEng, P.Eng.
Program Head, Telecommunications and Networks
Tel: 604-412-7582
Email: Bob_Gill@bcit.ca
Sadegh Abbasian, PhD
Tel: 604-456-1033
Email: Sadegh_Abbasian@bcit.ca
Rajveer Singh Brar, PhD.
Tel: 778-331-1380
Email: Rajveer_Singh_Brar@bcit.ca
Ed Casas, PhD, P.Eng.
Tel: 604-432-8936
Email: Eduardo_Casas@bcit.ca
John Dian, PhD, P.Eng.
Tel: 604-432-8219
Email: John_Dian@bcit.ca
Afrooz Haghbin, PhD.
Email: Afrooz_Haghbin@bcit.ca
Chamandeep Kaur, PhD.
Tel: 604-454-2291
Email: Chamandeep_Kaur@bcit.ca
Joselito Laguio, MEng, P.Eng.
Tel: 604-453-4046
Email: Joselito_Laguio@bcit.ca
Ron Stewart, DipIT, MEng
Tel: 604-432-8933
Email: rstewart67@bcit.ca
Chris Siu, MSEE, P.Eng.
Tel: 604-456-8013
Email: christopher_siu@bcit.ca
Robert Trost, MEng, P.Eng.
Tel: 604-432-8933
Email: Robert_Trost@bcit.ca
Reza Vahidnia, PhD, P.Eng. (on leave)
David Verner, MEng
Tel: 604-412-7589
Email: David_Verner@bcit.ca
William Zhang, BSEE
Tel: 604-412-7581
Email: wzhang79@bcit.ca
Assistant instructors
Steven A. McClain, BTech, SMIEEE
Tel: 604-412-7591
Email: smcclain@bcit.ca
Behrouz Sattari, MEng
Tel: 604-412-7588
Email: bsattari@bcit.ca
Abhirami Senthilkumaran, MSc, MA Ed
Tel: 604-432-8669
Email: abhirami_s@bcit.ca
Rudymar Tolentino, BSc
Tel: 604-432-8251
Email: Rudymar_Tolentino@bcit.ca
Gary Wan, BTech, DipT
Tel: 604-412-7440
Email: gwan1@bcit.ca
Jessica Wilson, BA
Program Head, First Year
Tel: 604-412-7692
Email: Jessica_Wilson@bcit.ca
Technical staff
William Han, BEng (on leave)
Ramon Vicencio, BEng
Tel: 604-456-8104
Email: Ramon_Vicencio@bcit.ca
Staff
Roger Gale, BSc, MBA
Interim Associate Dean
Tel: 604-432-8976
Email: Roger_Gale@bcit.ca
Rosmin Gilani
Administrative Assistant
Tel: 604-432-8369
Email: rgilani@bcit.ca
Gundi Minato
Program Administrator
Tel: 604-451-6892
Email: Gundi_Minato@bcit.ca
Advisory committee
Johny Bassan
BCIT Centre for Applied Research & Innovation
Mark Kondo
BC Hydro
Sol Lancashire
BC Hydro
Hee Jin Moon
NAV Canada
Osman Naeem
Telus
Aldo Stefanon
NAV Canada
Peter Szabo
Telus
Contact Us
Spend-A-Day with us
Want to learn more about our program before you apply? Come spend-a-day with us. You’ll meet students and instructors, and get a hands-on feel for what the program is about.
If you have questions regarding the entrance requirements or the application process, visit Admission & Registration.
If you want to discuss the program in more detail, contact the Program Head, Bob Gill or call 604-412-7582.
Questions or comments?
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