Become an Engineer - Join the growing number of engineering students

New Zealand needs more engineers, and in response the Government has set a goal of increasing engineering graduates by 500 per year. In particular we need to almost double the number of graduates with a New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6) or a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Level 7).

Engineering is a great career option for all young people. Contrary to public beliefs and stereotypes, engineering is a vibrant and creative profession. It is no longer male dominated and all about hard hats, but includes a diverse mix of people from all walks of life.

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New Zealand Diploma in Engineering for week of engineering

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering

Level 6
2 years full-time study or cadetship

The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE) is a great option if you want a qualification pathway that combines applied academic study with practical skills, and only takes two years to prepare you for employment in the engineering industry.

The NZDE qualifies you to work in a variety of engineering jobs, for example, computer assisted design (CAD) drafting, managing construction sites, designing improvements to machinery, and developing high tech electronics equipment.

NZDEP image for week of engineering

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering Practice

Level 6
2-4 years of work-based assessment

The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering Practice (NZDEP) is a structured, work based, competency qualification that is assessed on the job through an Industry Training Organisation. You’ll develop practical skills to become an engineering technician.

An NZDE or equivalent is a prerequisite and can be completed before, or at the same time as working towards a NZDEP.

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Bachelor of Engineering Technology

Level 7
3 years full-time study

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) includes practical and project work, with a strong emphasis on hands-on engineering.

BEngTech graduates work in a wide range of roles in industries from construction to air traffic navigation, high tech electronics, and telecommunications. They often work in teams alongside other engineers and surveyors, environmental scientists, and IT professionals.

Female-Engineer study a Bachelor of Engineering week of engineering

Bachelor of Engineering

Level 8
4 years full-time study

The Bachelor of Engineering (BE) is a four-year degree that may be awarded with Honours. The degree includes practical work and team projects, but has a strong focus on theoretical knowledge and will suit students who are interested in the engineering design and theory.

The BE qualifies you to work in a variety of engineering roles including geotechnical, air navigation systems technician, transportation, property risk, environmental, and civil engineering.