Applied Science and Technology Fundamentals

Program Description

If you’re a high school graduate or mature student, the Applied Science and Technology Fundamentals program can help you earn the mathematics and science credits you need to gain entry into a science or technology-based program. Alternatively, if you’d like to improve your mathematical, technical or communication skills before studying at the diploma level, AST will provide the essential learning you need.

This intensive two-semester certificate program is designed to give you a strong foundation in communication, mathematics, and science and technology in order to be successful at diploma level study to support technically demanding science and technology sectors. You’ll study mathematics, basic sciences and technology, and benefit from a laboratory-based component to develop and fine-tune your skills. Your courses will expose you to different industry sectors, thus enhancing your opportunities for career exploration. Supporting courses in learning strategies, communication and general education provide additional opportunities for you to improve your time management, critical thinking and problem solving skills. In addition, this program will help you determine your suitability to work in a laboratory or field environment.

The AST program is designed to provide you with the skills necessary to enter the following two-year diploma programs:

• Aviation Operations
• Building Systems Engineering Technician
• Chemical Laboratory Technician
• Civil Engineering Technician
• Computer Networking and Technical Support
• Computer Programmer
• Electronics Engineering Technician
• Environmental Technician
• Fire Protection Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineering Technician

Admission Requirements

Program Eligibility:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma with a majority of senior credits at the University Preparation (U) or University/College Preparation (M) level or Mature Student Status (age 19 or older)
• Grade 12 English: ENG4(C) or ENG4(U)
• Grade 12 Mathematics: (C) or (U) or Grade 11 Mathematics (U) or (M)

Note: All applicants who are offered admission to programs in the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering Technology will have an English and Mathematics assessment. The assessments are used for academic placement in English and Mathematics courses that are appropriate to the student’s skill level. In the event a preparatory course is required before enrolling in the standard semester one English or Mathematics, students will automatically be timetabled into the appropriate preparatory course.

The Importance of Learning Skills:
Student success in college requires well developed learning skills (such as being able to work independently, participate in a team, be well-organized, develop good work habits, and show initiative). These skills are as important as prior academic achievement. While it is expected that applicants would have developed these skills through previous education and life experiences, Seneca offers support to assist students with further development of these important skills. Seminars, workshops and tutoring are available at Seneca's Learning Centres.

Your Career

A great foundation in applied science and technology can take you anywhere. As a student of the Applied Science and Technology Fundamentals program, you’ll take courses in applied science, mathematics, technology, general education and English that will enable you to be well prepared for further studies at the diploma level in the applied sciences (biotechnology, chemical technology), engineering technologies (electronics, computer, civil, environmental, building systems, fire protection, tool and die, tool design), aviation operations and computer studies.

Complete this two-semester program, and you’ll qualify for guaranteed entry into the first semester of Ontario college diploma (two-year) programs offered by the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering Technology and the School of Computer Studies, with the opportunity to transfer to Ontario college advanced diploma (three-year) programs upon demonstration of appropriate academic achievement in diploma level study. Quotas may apply.

Curriculum

The first year curriculum is common for two and three-year programs. Students who demonstrate appropriate academic achievement at the diploma level will be eligible to transfer to a three-year technology program and will be eligible to apply for admission to the cooperative education experience.

Note: This program does not prepare students for degree level study (Flight, Environmental Site Remediation, Control Systems Technology) or for the Pre-Service Fire Fighter Certificate program.

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