Despite the fast development in the field of automobile engineering, more people want to become automobile engineers today. Many of them, however, are usually indecisive regarding which school to attend.
If you’re like this, then you’re in the right place for sure. In this article, we will give you detailed information on the best automotive engineering in Canada and how to earn them.
The automotive industry is one that has been around for many years and continues to grow. The technology within the industry is changing and improving, adapting to the demands of the consumers.
The sector looks very different from what it was 20 or 30 years ago, despite the rapid technological developments in the automotive industry.
Therefore, this article will give you detailed information on the best automotive engineering in Canada. In addition, you will learn more about who an automotive engineer really is, how to become one, as well as, the salaries and job outlook.
Table of contents
- Why Canada?
- What Is Automotive Engineering?
- Who Is An Automotive Engineer?
- What Does An Automotive Engineer Do?
- How Can I Become An Automotive Engineer
- Why Are The Educational Requirements For Automotive Engineers? | Automotive Engineering Degrees
- Why Do I Need To Attend An Automotive Engineering School?
- How Much Does It Cost To Earn An Automotive Engineering Degree?
- What Are The Best Automotive Engineering Schools In Canada?
- FAQs On Best Automotive Engineering Schools In The World
- Conclusion
- References
Why Canada?
With high measurements in quality of life and education, Canada has been ranked by the UN as one of the best places to live in the world. It is a developed country with a high-income economy and a successful government, making it a fantastic place to live and study in!
Canada provides you with a brilliant education as well as a cultural experience. There are more than 350,000 international students choosing to study in Canada each year, adding to the diversity of higher education institutions. You’ll be able to study for degrees at the traditional three levels. These are bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate. The duration of your course will depend on your institution of choice.
What Is Automotive Engineering?
Automotive engineering is an offshoot of mechanical engineering. It is also a branch of vehicle engineering just like aerospace engineering and naval architecture. It deals with the design, manufacture, and operation of motorcycles, automobiles, and trucks and their respective engineering subsystems.
Basically, the automotive engineering field covers the production, development, and manufacturing of automobiles by incorporating elements of mechanical, electrical, electronic, software, and safety engineering.
Who Is An Automotive Engineer?
An automotive engineer design the systems and mechanisms of cars. Automotive engineers are professionals who ensure that automotive designs and systems conform to budgeted quality and cost specifications.
What Are The Qualities Of Automotive Engineers?
- Creativity
- Communication skills
- Mechanical skills
- Mathematical skills
- Problem-solving skills
Basically, automotive engineers design the system and mechanisms of a car. In order to carry out this function effectively, you need to have a creative mind.
Generally, the whole automotive engineering process involves teamwork. Therefore, to work effectively as or with a team, you need to communicate well.
In addition, you have to listen and also analyze different approaches made by your team members, and other experts to complete the task at hand.
This skill helps you to apply basic engineering concepts and mechanical processes to the design of automobiles.
Just like every other engineer, automotive engineers use the principles of calculus, statistics, as well as other advanced mathematical subjects for analyzing, designing, and troubleshooting in their work.
Automotive engineers need good problem-solving skills to use scientific principles and discoveries to design and build automobiles.
What Does An Automotive Engineer Do?
Apart from the basic responsibility of being in charge of the development of passenger cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, or off-road vehicles, an automotive engineer also perform other duties.
Other responsibilities of the automotive engineer can cover any of the following:
- Research, design, development, and production of vehicles and components.
- Preparation of cost estimates and design specifications.
- Prepare plans and drawings.
- Analysis of energy, environmental and safety aspects of the proposed project.
- Predict vehicle or component behavior under different conditions using computer models.
- Development of test procedures.
- Investigate product failures.
- Analysis, interpretation, and condensation of technical data in reports or presentations.
- Supervise the technical staff.
- Work closely with other types of engineers, such as civil, electrical, aerospace, chemical and industrial.
- Work with professionals from other professional fields, such as marketing and legal.
How Can I Become An Automotive Engineer
To become an automotive engineer, you have to follow the steps below:
- Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program
- Participate in an Internship
- Look for Employment Opportunities
- Participate in Continuing Education Opportunities
- Become Licensed
- Consider a Master’s Degree
Enroll in a Bachelor’s Degree Program
Currently, very few universities offer a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering. However, as an aspiring automotive engineer, you earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from a school that has a concentration in automotive engineering.
Participate In An Internship
Basically, an automotive engineering internship gives students experience in the field. It also provides an opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to professional situations.
Internships are usually offered by automotive suppliers or manufacturers and sometimes come with opportunities for students to specialize in a specific area.
These specializations include but not limited to robotics, simulation software, and infrastructure.
Look For Employment Opportunities
As an automotive engineer, you can work in all aspects of an automobile’s design and performance.
For instance, some automotive engineers are in charge of designing prototype cars. On the other hand, some may be responsible for improving fuel system performance or finding more cost-effective materials to use.
Daily duties may include using computer-aided design programs to review projects and test features.
Participate in Continuing Education Opportunities
There are several continuing education options for automotive engineers. For example, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) offers continuing education opportunities for professionals in the field. They are available both online and in a classroom.
Typically, most continuing education opportunities cover many areas in the automotive engineering field such as:
- bodies and structures
- fuels and energy sources
- vehicles and performance and safety
Become Licensed
If you really want to advance in your career as an automotive engineer, then, you should consider becoming professionally licensed. Basically, getting a license sets one apart from unlicensed engineers. It allows you to bid for government contracts, carry out consulting services and also provide services to the public.
Although most states set their own requirements, the path to getting licensure is a bit different. Typically, it involves the following:
- Graduating from an ABET-accredited program
- Passing two exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying
- As well as gaining the appropriate amount of work experience.
Consider A Master’s Degree
Unlike the bachelor’s degree, there are many universities that offer master’s degrees in automotive engineering.
Earning a master’s degree in automotive engineering provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in the field. However, it is not required to work in the field as one can start a career with a bachelor’s degree.
Notwithstanding, students learn about innovative designs and systems in a master’s degree program. In addition, the program provides them with research opportunities and can also, lead to career advancement.
Why Are The Educational Requirements For Automotive Engineers? | Automotive Engineering Degrees
Basically, the entry requirement for a career in automotive engineering is a bachelor’s degree. However, to advance or get an edge over others, you can earn a master’s degree.
Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering
As said earlier, most schools do not offer a bachelor’s degree program in automotive engineering. Therefore, a good number of automotive students enter a mechanical engineering program with an automotive concentration.
Typical coursework in a bachelor in automotive engineering program will cover:
- Automobile dynamics
- Automotive electronics
- Fuel cell systems
- Powertrain dynamics
- Engine parts
- Diesel engine theory
- Alternative energy sources
Basically, a bachelor’s degree program in automotive engineering can be completed in 4 years.
Furthermore, during the last semester, most programs cover senior design projects and internships in automotive work experience. These programs, in turn, contribute to securing a full-time position shortly after graduation.
Master of Science in Automotive Engineering
A master’s degree program offers students an opportunity to focus on a particular aspect of automotive engineering. Common specialization tracks include manufacturing processes, electrical and computer systems, mechanical systems, and materials science.
Typical master’s degrees in automotive engineering include:
- Design and manufacturing
- Energy and environment
- Materials
- Noise and vibration
- Electronics and computer software
- Ergonomics
- Powertrain
- Dynamics and control
Basically, it takes about two years to complete a master’s degree in an automotive engineering program.
In addition, students must present a final project or thesis paper in order to complete the degree.
Would you like to study in the USA? See the Best Automotive Design School in the USA HERE
Why Do I Need To Attend An Automotive Engineering School?
Generally, engineering students must choose a college or university recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).
Reason being that when evaluating an applicant for an automotive engineer position, some employers consider the reputation of the engineering school that the student attended more than any other factor.
How Much Does It Cost To Earn An Automotive Engineering Degree?
According to CollegeCalc, the average annual out-of-state cost for a bachelor’s program in Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician is $31,798.
In other words, an estimated average of four years to complete the program will cost a total amount of $127,192.
What Are The Best Automotive Engineering Schools In Canada?
In selecting our best automotive engineering schools, we will be considering several factors. They include:
- Accreditation
- Number of programs
- Acceptance Rate
Accreditation
This shows whether the program is approved by the right accrediting body. It also lets the student know if they can pursue the program in the school or not.
Number of Programs
Here the student gets to know the number of degree programs the school offers.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate of the school shows the student how competitive the school is in terms of admission.
The higher the acceptance rate, the higher a student’s chance of getting admitted. However, the lower the acceptance rate, the lower the chances of getting admitted.
For instance, schools like MIT have a very low acceptance rate because of its global ranking.
List of The Best Universities In Automotive Engineering In Canada
In no particular order, here are 13 best schools where you can earn a degree in automotive engineering:
- Fanshawe College
- Ontario Tech University
- Mohawk College
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic
- Northern College
- Centennial College
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
- Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
- Sault College
- Coast Mountain College
1. Fanshawe College
Fanshawe College is located in London, Ontario, Canada, just two hours from Toronto and Niagara Falls, and Detroit in the United States. Known as “Forrest City”, London is surrounded by beautiful gardens and lakes, as well as being a vibrant commercial and cultural center.
There are currently 21,000 full-time students at Fanshawe College, including 6,500 international students from 100 different countries.
As one of Ontario’s largest colleges, with additional campuses in Simcoe, St. Thomas, and Woodstock, as well as campuses in downtown London and London South, Fanshawe offers more than 200 programs at degree, diploma, and certificate levels.
2. Ontario Tech University
Ontario Tech teaches a variety of undergraduate programs, covering business, engineering, science, education, information technology, humanities, energy systems, and more.
Founded in 2002 with fewer than 1,000 students, it now houses more than 10,000 students with approximately 600 students from 65 countries.
All programs are focused on the profession, so students develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the professional world.
3. Mohawk College
Mohawk College is one of the largest public universities in Ontario, Canada, and has a large international population.
Based in the beautiful city of Hamilton on the shores of Lake Ontario, Mohawk College welcomes around 13,000 students each year, including more than 4,000 international students from more than 90 different countries.
Just 45 minutes from Toronto, students receive a dynamic and exciting learning experience with over 100 programs available to international students including certificates, diplomas, undergraduate courses, and apprenticeships.
4. Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Saskatchewan Polytechnic is located in Saskatchewan, a region which is often referred to as Canada’s ‘Land of Living Skies. International students from all over the globe study at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, either on-campus or online.
The institution has campuses in Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, and Regina. It has an Indigenous Student Success Strategy, and it is part of Polytechnics Canada along with 12 other research-intensive, industry-responsive institutions.
5. Northern College
Northern College is one of the foremost public institutions for applied arts and technology in the province of Ontario, Canada’s largest province.
Northern College’s success in delivering post-secondary education lies in its understanding that there are many routes to achieving professional success and academic excellence.
The college uses this approach to deliver a large range of unique academic and applied programs of study and training which fit the interests and requirements of any student, regardless of their lifestyle.
6. Centennial College
Centennial College has come a long way since its inception in 1966, blossoming from a local community college into an internationally-recognized institution that welcomes students from all over the globe.
Based in Toronto, students can use the campuses and the spectacular student accommodation, Centennial Place, as a base from which to explore the largest city in Canada. If students are struggling to adapt to their new surroundings, international advisors are on hand to ease any concerns they may have about their study abroad adventure.
7. Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), located in Edmonton, Alberta, is one of Canada’s largest and leading polytechnic schools.
NAIT offers degree, diploma, and certificate programs in business, science and technology, health and life sciences, and skilled trades.
The institution focuses on applied teaching and learning designed to meet the demands of the industry – graduates have the knowledge and skills employers want.
Students leave confident, prepared, and ready to work. 86% of NAIT graduates find employment within a few months of completing their studies.
Confused on what you can do with an Automotive Technology? See Career & Salary HERE
8. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) is a leading polytechnic institution in Canada and is the third-largest provider of post-secondary education in the state of Alberta.
SAIT is renowned for providing outstanding hands-on, industry-facing education and applied to learn that gives students the skills they require to excel in a transforming employment market.
SAIT is a global institution, hosting students from over 97 countries on an annual basis. SAIT’s focus is on providing an education of the highest quality, from a stunning campus in Calgary, Canada which is equipped with world-class facilities, amenities, and a supportive faculty.
9. Sault College
Salt College is a publicly funded college in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. It began in 1965 as the Ontario Vocational Centre.
Today, Sault College offers full-time and part-time opportunities for students in post-secondary, apprenticeship, adult retraining, continuing education, and contract training program categories. Sault College’s full-time and part-time enrollment totals about 4,500 registrants annually.
10. Coast Mountain College
Northwest Community College (NWCC), now renamed as Coast Mountain College is located in Terrace, British Columbia, Canada.
It is a post-secondary institution that offers certificate, diploma, university transfer, and associate degree programs.
It has nine campuses within British Columbia and serves 34 different communities with a focus on higher education for Aborigines.
What Do Automotive Engineers Earn?
According to Glassdoor, an automotive engineer earns a national average salary of $76,430 On the other hand, payscale reports that the average salary for an Automotive Engineer is $76,513.
Also from payscale, below are the popular employers of automotive engineers and their pay:
- Ford Motor Company – $91k
- General Motors Corporation – $85k
- FCA Corp – $77k
- Chrysler Group LLC. – $88k
Job Outlook Of Automotive Engineers
According to Chron, the employment rate of automotive engineers is expected to increase by 9 percent between now and 2026.
It also projects that in the USA, Texas, Michigan, and California provide the most positions for automotive engineers.
Automotive Engineering Resources
Below are some resources that will be useful to a prospective automotive engineer. These resources include accrediting body and associations. Do well to click on any of them for more information.
- Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
FAQs On Best Automotive Engineering Schools In The World
Typically, it takes about 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree in automotive engineering. On the other hand, it takes 2 years to get a master’s degree in automotive engineering.
Basically, the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET) is the body in charge of approving engineering programs in the world
Automotive engineers work as part of a team responsible for vehicle design, development, manufacture, and testing.
An automotive engineer earns a national average salary of $76,430 On the other hand, payscale reports that the average salary for an Automotive Engineer is $76,513.
Conclusion
There is a need for more automotive engineers as the automobile world continues to grow rapidly and advance in technology. However, these engineers must enroll in ABET-accredited universities and also obtain a license to advance their careers.
I hope the schools and guidelines provided above help you in your decision-making.
Good Luck And Success!!!
References
- AutomotiveEngineeringHq – The Best Automotive Engineering Schools
- ABET – Find Accredited Programs