New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) with strands in Fitting and Machining and General Engineering
Course details
| NZQF Level | 4 |
|---|
About the course
Get qualified while you work. Apply now and build your future in mechanical engineering.
NMIT has a specialised engineering workshop with all the machinery you need to boost your skills.
NMIT apprenticeships are built around the real-world needs of learners and employers. Our approach gives apprentices access to high-quality training and facilities while keeping them connected to their workplace.
With dedicated support, flexible night classes, and block courses focused on skills that can’t always be learned on the job, this programme sets learners up for long-term success in the mechanical engineering industry.
This hands-on, employer-led apprenticeship programme is ideal for learners wanting to become qualified mechanical engineers while earning and working in the industry. Whether you're welding, building structures, repairing vessels, working in farming, forestry, mining, vineyard, or transport equipment, this programme gives you the foundation to become a qualified tradesperson.
The New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) incorporates foundational Level 3 learning and builds on these core skills to develop full trade competency, providing a structured progression of skills and knowledge. It is delivered over four years through on-the-job training and tutor-supported learning.
Unlike other providers, NMIT’s model keeps the apprentice employed directly by their company, with wraparound academic and pastoral support from experienced tutors.
Programme structure
- Enter into a training agreement between yourself, your employer, and NMIT
- One two-week block course per year at the Nelson Campus (no block course in Year 4)
- Weekly night classes across the Top of the South
- Regular workplace visits by apprentice tutors – flexible drop-in sessions to support portfolio work and hands-on skill development
- Regular site visits – tutors visit learners on the job every three months or more often if needed.
Strand options
- General Engineering – for those working across a broad range of engineering areas, including maintenance and repair, welding and assembly, machining and installation.
- Fitting and Machining – focused on creating, modifying, or repairing mechanical parts and components, assembly and fitting, maintenance and repair, machining and fabrication.
Both strands lead to the same qualification but allow you to deepen your skills in the area that matches your workplace and career goals. Your employer and tutor will help guide you to the right strand based on the work you do.
What you’ll study
- Year 1: Courses CME301–CME308 – core mechanical engineering skills
- Year 2: Courses CME401–CME407 – intermediate engineering and workshop skills
- Year 3: Courses CME408–CME417 – advanced engineering skills - strand specific
- Year 4: Courses CME418–CME428 – trade engineering skills - strand specific
Entry requirements
Academic requirements
40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy credits and 10 numeracy credits,
OR
you may have completed the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 2) [Ref: 1220] or the Level 3 New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (NZQA Ref: 2715)
Special entry
Skills for tertiary study (including literacy and numeracy) may be acquired through study, work and/or life experience. If you who can demonstrate these skills you may be approved for alternative entry. Literacy and numeracy assessments are available.
Additional requirements
To successfully complete this programme of study, candidates must be employed in the mechanical engineering industry at time of study.
You must enter into a 3-way training agreement between yourself, your employer and NMIT.
English requirements
If English is not your first language you will be required to show evidence of language competency, issued withing the last two years. If you have no evidence of your English language skills and are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, contact us for an assessment.
IELTS 5.5 Academic score (no lower than 5.5 in any subtest). For acceptable alternatives refer to the [English Proficiency Outcomes Chart](https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/about-us/rules-fees-policies/nzqa-rules/approval-recognition-and-accreditation/#:~:text=2022%20are%20revoked.-,Appendix%201%3A%20Internationally%20Recognised%20English%20Proficiency%20Outcomes%20for%20International%20Students,-Rule%2022.2(d "English Proficiency Outcomes chart").
Students who have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance requirements are not required to provide evidence of English Language Skills.
About the provider
At NMIT, our goal is to ensure you graduate work-ready and confident in your knowledge and skills to step into a successful career. Our wrap-around support services guide you through the process of learning, teaching you skills for life and ensuring your well-being is supported so you can focus on achieving your goals.
NMIT strives to make meaningful and positive change to the businesses and members in our community. For nearly 120 years, we have stood strong as a cornerstone for high-quality tertiary education and community engagement Te Tauihu (the Top of the South).
This means when you join NMIT, you become connected to a network of industry partners and employment opportunities that can open doors for you. Our passionate tutors across multiple study areas are highly regarded and influential in their chosen fields.
Whatever path you wish to pursue, we'll do what we can to help you reach your goal. Our internationally recognised qualifications are yours for the taking, and the journey to get them can be a rewarding and uplifting experience.