Sustainable Energy Technology Diploma

2024-25 Tuition and fees

Remember that studying includes other expenses than tuition and fees - you should also be budgeting for your accommodation and living expenses. Alberta student loan guidelines recommends $1,153/month.

Course materials are included in these fees and will be mailed out to you so you have them before the courses start. So, it's important that you register at least 2 weeks before each course start date.

You need to know

• We recommend you start with RC 200 Basic Energy Principles.
• There are optional entry points - courses - where you can start the program.
• You may take the program part-time or full-time.
• Expect to spend 10 - 15 hours per week per course. We recommend only taking 2 courses at one time.
• There's an optional 40-hour work integrated learning practicum placement course (RC 329).

Important registration notes:

• Course registration is on Lakeland's continuing education registration platform. Please contact the program coordinator if you plan on taking the certificate or diploma.
• You must register at least 2 weeks before a class starts so that you can get your textbook(s) and materials in time.
• If you are an international student, you should register at least 4 weeks before the start of your class.

Please note:

• We recommend you limit registration to 2 courses per term if you are also working.
• Fees are due in full at time of registration.
• International students should register one month before the course start date to guarantee delivery of textbooks and resource materials.
• Dates are subject to change. We recommend you check here regularly for updates.

Course Information:

1. Tuition fees are due in full at time of course registration.
2. Last day to drop an online course is 7 calendar days after the course start date.
3. If you withdraw in the first week, you will receive a full refund less $200 per course administration fee. Exceptions apply.
4. Last day to withdraw from the course with a W or to change from credit to audit - 35 days after the course start date.
5. Course schedule is subject to change due to enrolment demand and other factors.
6. RC 431 On-site lab: Students who withdraw from this course at least five business days before the start date will receive a full refund minus a $200 administration fee. No refunds after the class starts or if you are a no-show.  

Lakeland Option

Turn your certificate into a diploma by continuing with this program.

Apply credits toward a degree

Apply up to 30 credits of your diploma credits (after you graduate) towards a Bachelor of Science degree at Athabasca University. The options are:

• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Science - human sciences major
• Bachelor of Science - applied mathematics major
• Bachelor of Science - computing and information systems major

Industry Certifications

Courses prepare you to pursue industry certifications from organization such as: 

• North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) - Lakeland College is a registered training provider for the NABCEP's  Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Associate as well as PV Installation Professional  & PV Commissioning and Maintenance Specialist exams. Our RC 205 Introduction to Solar Energy and RC 325 Solar Photovolatic Systems courses are gateways to NABCEP certification. Take the courses as part of the diploma or in a sustainable energy microcredential stream.
• Canadian Green Building Council (LEED Green Associate)

Other options

You may also want to look at short courses to add installation skills. Check with organizations such as the Solar Energy Society of Alberta for other educational opportunities.

As well, this diploma and related journeyperson trades certification is a powerful combination of skills and knowledge.

Depending on any other previous education, you may want to pursue a diploma or degree in a related discipline.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)

Completion on this diploma meets entrance requirements for NAIT's Bachelor of Technology program.

Athabasca University (AU)

You can receive credit towards the Bachelor of Science Post Diploma program in the following majors:

• Applied Mathematics
• Computer & Information Systems
• Human Science