Established in 1962, the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) is one of Canada’s leading polytechnics, offering a hands-on, technology-based education that is essential to the economy. NAIT’s applied education and technical training are designed to meet the evolving needs of industry, ensuring graduates possess the practical knowledge and skills employers seek globally. The institute is committed to innovation, delivering real-world solutions through applied research and partnerships with industry.
NAIT operates primarily in Edmonton, Alberta, and provides a vast range of credentials, including applied degrees, bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and certificates, along with extensive apprenticeship training. The institution fosters an inclusive and vibrant community, welcoming international students as important members of its student body. Graduates leave NAIT confident and prepared to make an immediate, positive impact in their chosen careers.
Among its peer group (research colleges), NAIT ranked 1st in research income for the 2023 fiscal year. This funding is primarily driven by contracts with industry partners seeking technological and process solutions.
The institute ranked 2nd for research intensity, which measures the amount of research income per researcher. This indicates a high level of productivity in its technology-focused applied research.
NAIT ranked 3rd nationally for the amount of research income received directly from industry, highlighting its strong, technology-driven partnerships and relevance to the economy.
NAIT is focused on providing career-focused education with practical connections at every step of the learning journey. Therefore, its curriculum is developed in close consultation with industry partners to ensure students learn the most relevant, in-demand skills. Consequently, this alignment guarantees that graduates are immediately job-ready and essential to the productivity of Alberta and beyond.
A remarkable 86% of graduates from full-time programs secure employment within nine months of finishing their studies. This high placement rate is a direct result of the institute's emphasis on hands-on, applied learning. Ultimately, this gives students tangible skills that are highly valued and ensures successful transition into rewarding careers.
The institute actively engages in applied research projects with industry partners to solve real-world problems. Furthermore, students often participate in these projects, allowing them to collaborate with faculty and experts. As a result, they gain invaluable practical experience in innovation, maximizing NAIT's positive impact on the community.
NAIT offers more than 120 credentials, including degrees, diplomas, and certificates, alongside comprehensive apprenticeship training. This diversity of programs provides flexible learning paths for students at every stage of their career. Moreover, options for upgrading, continuing education, and trades-to-degrees pathways are also available.
Students are welcomed into an inclusive campus community by the NAIT Students’ Association and Ooks Athletics. Specifically, the dedicated International and Intercultural Community Centre ensures a well-rounded and engaging student life. In addition, extensive support services are available for academic, health, and well-being needs.
NAIT invests in modern, industry-standard facilities and technology to create an authentic learning environment. These include specialized centres like the Productivity and Innovation Centre. Therefore, these facilities provide students with hands-on training using the same equipment found in the workplace, ensuring technical mastery.
Diverse and Engaging Campus Environments Designed to Foster Exceptional Learning and Personal Growth.
NAIT reports a high employment rate. Specifically, 86% of full-time program graduates find employment within nine months of graduation, consequently indicating strong career outcomes due to applied education.
NAIT’s polytechnic model provides extensive hands-on, applied learning in industry-standard labs and shops. Furthermore, many programs also offer co-op placements, practicums, and work-integrated learning opportunities.
The standard ELP requirement often includes an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0) or alternatively, a TOEFL iBT score of 80, though program requirements may vary.
Yes, NAIT offers several Applied Degree options, such as the Bachelor of Technology and Bachelor of Business Administration, which successfully build upon diploma education with a focus on advanced technical and management skills.
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