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Thompson Rivers University
Engineering and IT Programs

Contact Information:
Thompson Rivers University
PO Box 3010
Kamloops, British Columbia V2C 5N3 Canada


Phone: 1-250-828-5006
Fax: 1-250-828-5159

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Thompson Rivers University
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   College Profile   Program Overview
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) offers students a range of options in engineering and information technology, including undergraduate degrees and two-year diplomas.
The Engineering Transfer Program prepares participants to apply for admission as transfer students to any one of the five major engineering schools in Western Canada: University of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, University of Alberta or University of Calgary. The program is limited to 40 spaces annually so admission is selective.

The Bachelor of Technology in Applied Computing Science (BTACS) program is designed for individuals seeking to design, implement, maintain and upgrade information technology systems. The program combines theory with technical, communication and business skills and a co-op component. There are three options for admission to the BTACS degree: first year entry, directly from high school; transferring up to 60 academic credits from other colleges or universities; or laddering credits from two-year computer technology diploma programs.

Adults with extensive industry experience and some postsecondary training will also be considered for admission, usually through a prior learning assessment. Students transferring or laddering credits may also need to complete specific lower level computing course requirements.

For those interested in focusing on the Information Technology field, the joint BTACS/BBA degree allows students to complete both degrees in five years of study, and both programs have co-op education options. Two new technology degrees allow diploma graduates to complete their studies through distance education while they are employed. The Bachelor of Technology (Computing) degree is for graduates of recognized computing science diplomas, while the Bachelor of Technology (Technology Management) has a business focus, and is open to graduates of most two-year technology diploma programs.

TRU also offers traditional four-year BSc major degree programs in computing science and mathematical sciences. The Computing Science Program has a co-op education option.

The Computer Systems - Operations and Management Program is a two-year diploma with a co-op education option that prepares graduates for the workforce or for admission to the BTACS program. Emphasis is placed on developing problem-solving skills and acquiring proficiency on the most popular kinds of hardware and software. CSOM is accredited by the Canadian Information Processing Society.

The Engineering Design and Drafting Technology diploma provides graduates with the knowledge and technical skills necessary for building technologists or civil and mechanical technicians. The diploma can be completed in two years (four semesters) but students normally can also spread the heavy workload of this demanding program over six semesters. The program is accredited by the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of British Columbia.

The Electronics Department offers three two-year diploma programs. Students must complete core electronics in their first year, then choose one of the three specialty options, computer automated systems technician, computer systems technician or telecommunications technician. These programs prepare graduates for employment in the technical side of the telecommunications industry and focus on the practical aspects of electronics.

The Computerized Manufacturing Technology Diploma program focuses on the automated processes used in the plastics, metal and secondary wood manufacturing industries. Graduates will be able to troubleshoot hardware and use a range of sofware.

Graduates of most technology and computing science diploma programs from recognized colleges and institutes in Canada and the U.S. can enter third year of several TRU degrees, including a General Studies degree in the approval stages, the BTACS degree, and the two B.Tech degrees which allow students the flexibility of study by distance.

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   College Profile   Highlights
  • Engineering transfer program
  • Four-year degree and career diploma programs
  • Cooperative education option available for many programs
  • Classrooms and labs are designed for smaller classes
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   College Profile   Facts
Year Program Founded 1970
Program Length 2 - 4 yrs
Degrees Offered B.B.A./BTACS; B.Sc., B.Tech.
Postgraduate Opportunities no
Calendar Year:
fall semester (Sept - Dec)
winter semester (Jan - Apr)
summer session (May - Jul)

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   College Profile   Study Options
co-op/internship

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   College Profile   Disciplines
Engineering Transfer program; Computing Science; Engineering Design & Drafting; Telecommunications Technician; Computer/ Computer Automated Systems Technician; Computerized Manufacturing Technology, Information Technology

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   College Profile   Recognition
  • Association of Universities and Colleges (AUCC)
  • Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC)
  • Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS)
  • Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC)
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   College Profile   Buildings and Facilities
TRU sits on a 94-hectare campus located in the heart of Kamloops and offers students a range of classrooms, computer labs, studios, recreation and student support facilities. Most buildings and facilities were built within the last 10 years.

The university's library contains over 200,000 volumes and 1,000 periodical subscriptions and features access to numerous databases of journals offering the full text of selected articles. Across the campus, classrooms and labs are designed for smaller classes, providing frequent access to professors. Among the many outstanding classroom facilities is the new International Building.

TRU students receive computer accounts with Internet access, emails and direct access to the library from home, or from any of the 30 computer labs with over 500 workstations on campus. TRU online provides direct access for students to many different services and includes both online application and course registrations.

Among the many student support facilities on campus are the expanded Campus Activity Centre, Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Hillside Stadium and Student Street, where many student service offices, including a health clinic, are located. Full daycare facilities are available to both students and staff.

The new 580-bed student residence, opened in 2006, offers high quality accommodation on campus. The cost of these fully furnished residences includes private bedrooms with double beds, televisions, all services (TV, phone, internet) and light housekeeping service. Smaller and less expensive residence options are also available on campus. The International Centre, opened in 2005, is home to the Study Abroad office and TRU now offers over 300 different exchange and international study abroad opportunities around the world.

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   College Profile   Admissions
The minimum requirement for admission to TRU's Engineering and IT Programs is BC grade 12, or equivalent, including English 12 with a C+ average and specific high school math and science requirements for each program. Math 12, physics 11, at least one science 12 course and computer or technology courses are strongly recommended. Entry into the BTACS degree from high school requires British Columbia grade 12 or its equivalent, including English 12 and math 12 (C+ minimums) and a demonstrated experience with computers. Applicants are strongly recommended to complete high school courses in computers, technology and physics. Entry is also open to graduates of two-year computer technology diplomas and students with up to 60 university transfer credits in arts who successfully completed the required computer courses.

Students from all provinces in Canada can apply on an equal basis and domestic tuition fees are the same for all Canadians. Students from the US pay international student fees, but may apply while in their final year of high school and are evaluated individually based on their high school marks.

International students whose first language is not English require a TOEFL score of 570, an IELTS score of 6.5 or the completion of level 5 of the ESL program for direct entry into academic programs. Students who cannot meet these requirements can enter the ESL program at a level that is appropriate to their TOEFL or IELTS score. All students normally take an English Placement Test (EPT) upon arrival at the university and are placed in the appropriate level of English language study, if they do not have a TOEFL or other test scores.

Late applications will be considered if space is available.

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   College Profile   Support for International Students
TRU offers many services for international students, both on and off campus. International Student Advisers provide information and assistance and two International Admissions Officers assist students with admission and registration. International Academic Advisers help students plan their program of study, while the International Student Activity program staff plans outings and activities throughout the Kamloops region.

TRU World provides two handbooks to assist students with their educational experience in Canada. The Pre-Departure Handbook contains detailed information for students on immigration, health insurance, travel tips and keeping in touch with friends and family. The Guide to Student Life includes academic, financial and social information to help students from other countries adjust to life in Canada.

Programs for international students include several English as a Second Language (ESL) options and a homestay program for those who wish to live off campus in a Canadian family environment.

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   College Profile   Admissions at a Glance
Application Fee: $25 (dom), $100 (int'l)
Minimum Academic Requirements:
completion of grade 12, including English 12, or equivalent, with minimum 73% and specific program prerequisites

Minimum English Requirements:
TOEFL 570/IELTS 6.5 with no bands below 6.0 or completion of TRU ESL level 5

Domestic Student Application Deadlines:
Mar 1 (early admission)
Jun 30 (late admission)

International Student Application Deadlines:
May 31 (fall semester)
Oct 15 (winter semester)
Feb 15 (summer semester)

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   College Profile   Student Profile
Students Applied/yr 550
Students Accepted/yr 250
Students Enrolled/yr 230
Total Program Enrolment 400
Class Sizes:
Junior Level 20 - 30
Senior Level 20 - 30
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   College Profile   Annual Expenses (in C$)
Domestic Tuition $3,335 - $3,470
Int'l Student Tuition $13,800
Int'l Student Fees $510
Co-op Term Fees $350 - $2,400/sem
Total Tuition for Degree:
Domestic Students $13,340 - $13,880
International Students $48,000
Books $1,500 - $1,800
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   College Profile   International Students
Institutional Enrolment 850
Program Enrolment
% of Program Enrolment
Admitted/yr to Program
Countries of Origin:
International students at TRU come from 50 countries, including the US, South Korea, Denmark, Taiwan, Mexico, Brazil, China, France and Japan.

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   College Profile   Spotlight Text
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) offers students a range of options in engineering and information technology, including undergraduate degrees and two-year diplomas.
The Engineering Transfer Program prepares participants to apply for admission as transfer students to any one of the five major engineering schools in Western Canada: University of British Columbia, University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, University of Alberta or University of Calgary. The program is limited to 40 spaces annually so admission is selective.


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