Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-09-01 | - |
2025-01-01 | - |
2025-09-01 | - |
2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Packaging Engineering Technician program equips students with the knowledge and skills to design, evaluate, and produce packaging solutions using various materials. Through hands-on learning, industry engagement, and an optional co-op stream, students gain practical experience and prepare for careers in the growing packaging industry. The program emphasizes sustainability, environmental impact mitigation, and the application of principles from chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering, and business.
Program Outline
Packaging Engineering Technician (Optional Co-op)
Degree Overview:
Overview:
This two-year program equips students with the knowledge and skills to design and evaluate packaging using various materials like metal, glass, plastic, paper, and corrugated boards. Students learn to combine principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, engineering, and business. They gain experience testing different packaging solutions using industry-grade equipment and may collaborate with industry partners on projects. The program also covers topics crucial to packaging systems, including product protection, durability, environmental impact mitigation, and sustainability.
Objectives:
- Master the fundamentals of packaging technology.
- Become part of the growing community of packaging professionals influencing societal and industry needs.
- Gain practical experience through hands-on learning and potential co-op opportunities.
- Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Students gain theoretical knowledge and practical skills through a combination of classroom learning, laboratory work, and industry engagement.
Optional Co-op Stream:
The program offers an optional co-op stream for students seeking real-world experience in the packaging industry. Students can participate in paid work terms, gaining valuable industry experience and building their professional network.
Note:
The co-op stream is only available with the September intake.
Outline:
Program Content:
- Packaging materials and their properties
- Packaging design principles
- Structural and functional packaging
- Sustainability and environmental impact of packaging
- Testing and quality control of packaging
- Manufacturing processes for packaging
- Package printing and graphics
- Regulatory compliance and safety standards
- Supply chain management for packaging
Program Structure:
The program consists of four semesters spread over two years. Each semester includes a mix of theoretical and practical learning activities. Students complete coursework, laboratory experiments, assignments, presentations, and projects.
Course Schedule:
The specific course schedule varies depending on the intake semester.
Individual Modules:
The program comprises various modules covering different aspects of packaging. Examples of modules include:
- Packaging Materials and Testing
- Structural Design of Packaging
- Functional Design of Packaging
- Sustainability in Packaging
- Manufacturing Processes for Packaging
- Package Printing and Graphics
- Regulatory Compliance for Packaging
- Supply Chain Management for Packaging
Module Descriptions:
Each module provides in-depth knowledge and skills in a specific area of packaging. Similarly, the "Sustainability in Packaging" module explores sustainable packaging practices, environmental impact assessment, and life cycle analysis.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Assignments and projects
- Quizzes and exams
- Laboratory reports and presentations
- Industry-based projects (co-op stream)
Assessment Criteria:
- Understanding of key concepts and principles
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Professionalism and work ethic
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Laboratory experiments
- Guest lectures from industry experts
- Group projects and presentations
- Case studies and simulations
Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of packaging. The faculty includes industry professionals and researchers who bring real-world knowledge and insights to the classroom.
Unique Approaches:
- The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory experiments and industry-based projects.
- Students gain access to industry-grade equipment and software for testing and designing packaging solutions.
- The optional co-op stream provides opportunities for students to gain real-world experience and build their professional network.
- The program fosters collaboration with industry partners on research and development projects.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Packaging engineer
- Packaging designer
- Packaging technologist
- Quality control technician
- Sales and marketing representative for packaging companies
- Research and development scientist
- Sustainability specialist
Career Opportunities:
Graduates can find employment in a variety of industries that use packaging, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, consumer goods, and e-commerce. They can work in various roles, including design, production, quality control, sales, marketing, and research and development.
Career Outcomes:
The program prepares graduates for successful careers in the packaging industry.
- Students can access various support services, including academic advising, career guidance, and financial assistance.
- The program has partnerships with industry leaders, providing opportunities for students to network and gain practical experience.
Conestoga College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning
Overview:
Conestoga College is an Ontario college offering full and part-time studies. It provides a wide range of programs and services to students, including full-time, continuing education, online, apprenticeship, and open programs. The college is known for its focus on applied learning and its commitment to preparing students for successful careers.
Services Offered:
Conestoga College offers a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Academic integrity resources, accessible learning services, bookstore, eConestoga online learning platform, global opportunities, library services, program technology requirements, student tech help, and tutoring & academic help.Student Support:
Counseling, Indigenous services, medical care clinic, remote service hours, student financial services, and student rights and responsibilities.Get Involved:
Athletics & Recreation, Co-Curricular Record (CCR), CSI - Student association, Orientation, and Student Engagement.Campus Services:
Child care centers, facilities management, food services, IT service desk, lockers, ONE Card, parking & transportation, printing services, safety & security, and student housing.Career & Employment:
Community Career Centre, Conestoga Entrepreneurship Collective, co-operative education, myCareer Services, and Talent Hub.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Conestoga College provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for students. Students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, clubs, and student government. The college also offers a range of social events and opportunities for students to connect with their peers and the wider community.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Applied Learning:
Conestoga College emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills development, preparing students for real-world careers.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs designed to meet the needs of employers and prepare students for specific career paths.Strong Industry Partnerships:
Conestoga College has strong relationships with industry partners, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and access to real-world experiences.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students, with a range of services and resources available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Conestoga College offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
- Applied Computer Science & Information Technology
- Business
- Community Services
- Creative Industries
- Engineering & Technology
- Health & Life Sciences
- Hospitality & Culinary Arts
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Trades & Apprenticeship
Other:
Conestoga College has multiple campuses and locations across Ontario, including Brantford, Cambridge, Guelph, Ingersoll, Kitchener, Milton, Stratford, and Waterloo. The college also offers a variety of online programs and courses.
Entry Requirements:
Canadian Applicants:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 12 Mathematics (C or U)
- Grade 12 Physics (C or U)
- Grade 12 Chemistry (C or U)
- A minimum overall average of 70%
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Interest in packaging and related technologies
International Applicants:
- Completion of secondary school education equivalent to the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Grade 12 English equivalent
- Grade 12 Mathematics equivalent
- Grade 12 Physics equivalent
- Grade 12 Chemistry equivalent
- A minimum overall average of 70%
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Interest in packaging and related technologies
- Proof of English language proficiency through one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: 88 overall with a minimum score of 20 in writing and 19 in each of the other sections
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in each individual band
- CAEL: 70 overall with a minimum score of 60 in each individual band
- PTE Academic: 61 overall with a minimum score of 59 in each communicative skill
- Duolingo English Test: 115 overall
Additional notes:
- Applicants with relevant industry experience or college/university transfer credits may be considered for advanced placement.
- Applicants who do not meet the minimum academic requirements may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- All applicants are required to submit a personal statement outlining their reasons for applying to the program and their career goals.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate their English language proficiency by achieving the minimum scores on one of the following tests:
- TOEFL iBT: 88 overall with a minimum score of 20 in writing and 19 in each of the other sections
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in each individual band
- CAEL: 70 overall with a minimum score of 60 in each individual band
- PTE Academic: 61 overall with a minimum score of 59 in each communicative skill
- Duolingo English Test: 115 overall