Course Overview
This course provides a broad overview of the legal principles and regulations relevant to the practice of engineering in Canada. Topics include the Canadian legal system, regulation of the engineering profession, contracts and torts, intellectual property, employment law, workplace safety, privacy, and indigenous law. The approach of the course is practical; it involves the review of case and law issues related to the practice of engineering. Critical thinking will be encouraged as engineers must be prepared to face legal challenges and make informed decisions to ensure projects are compliant and successful. This course is designed for internationally trained engineers who intend to apply for registration as a professional engineer. It is also suitable for those preparing to write the National Professional Practice Examination (NPPE).
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
3.0
Domestic fees
$1,265.94
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Explain the structure of the Canadian legal system.
- Describe the regulation of the engineering profession in Canada.
- Differentiate between legislation and common law.
- Evaluate different business structures as they apply to the engineering profession.
- Explain the basic legal principles that inform professional law for engineers.
- Explain the concepts of liability and professional negligence as they apply to tort law.
- Apply the principles of contract law for engineering work.
- Recognize the legal responsibilities of engineers concerning sustainable and environmentally sound design and practice.
- Discuss intellectual property rights, such as patents, copyrights, and trademarks, in the context of engineering innovations.
- Interpret laws and regulations related to privacy, and securities as applied to engineering.
- Discuss the legal obligations of engineers regarding indigenous rights and reconciliation in the Canadian context.
- Identify legal issues related to the practice of engineering.
- Describe the roles of employees, supervisors, and employers with regards to workplace safety.
- Analyze real-world engineering law cases specific to Canada and identify related laws.
- Engage in discussions to enhance critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Effective as of Winter 2024
Related Programs
Canadian Engineering Practical Law (ENGR 4000) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
School of Energy
- Canadian Engineering Professional Practice
Microcredential Part-time
Course Offerings
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of ENGR 4000 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 69322
Dates
Apr 08 - Jun 24 Loading
- CRN 69322
- $1265.94 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 08 - Jun 24 | Wed | 18:30 - 21:30 | Online |
Duration
12 weeks
Instructor
TBD
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- For questions related to this course, please email Erika Ekeli at soepts@bcit.ca and include your BCIT ID (if you have one). Note: BCIT reserves the right to cancel courses. In the event of a part-time studies course cancellation, you will be notified at least two business days prior to the course start. Please ensure that your contact information is current.
Confirmation
Required
To proceed with registration and add this course to the cart, please confirm:
Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.