New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)

About the programme

Want to know how mechanical things work and why? Get into a career in mechanical engineering.

If you've often peeked inside something and had a desire to have a go at making it yourself, then you're exactly the kind of person we're looking for to study Mechanical Engineering and mechatronics. 

Embrace the chance to have a go at projects you’ve only been thinking about until now!

During this hands-on programme, you'll do a small amount of maths and science and learn how to design, create 3D models, and program controls (Otago Polytechnic Engineering uses RoboDK (robodk.com) for simulation and offline programming of industrial robots).

You'll gain great knowledge, understanding, and practical appreciation of mechanical engineering processes and theory by developing your ability to apply learning in a practical and innovative way. There are a variety of exciting, hands-on projects throughout this programme that you'll get involved in such as building a full-size, two-seater airplane; battery-powered skateboard, or an electric car. 

This industry is growing fast and there is high demand for Engineering Technicians with training like this. Many of our graduates secure employment before they even finish their qualification. Or, you could move into our Bachelor of Engineering Technology to deepen your learning and widen your career options.

Accredited by Engineering New Zealand, this practical programme meets the standards required for the Dublin and Sydney international Engineering accords - meaning it's highly respected and recognised nationally, and internationally.  

Studying part-time

We know full-time study isn't always possible. You can study this programme part-time over four years (this can be flexible) and can start in February or July. It may also be possible to start the full-time programme in July if you have previous engineering experience, have done prior engineering study or with approval from the Head of School. Please email [email protected] to see if this pathway would be right for you.

Entry

Skills you'll need to work in this area

• Practical thinking
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good computer skills
• Planning and organisational ability
• Excellent communication skills.

Entry requirements

• NCEA Level 2 including a minimum 10 literacy credits at Level 1 or above (for those who achieved NCEA Level 2 before 2013) and
• Minimum 48 NCEA Level 2 credits in four subjects including at least 12 credits in Maths (preferably algebra, calculus or trigonometry) or equivalent.
• If English is not your first language, you must provide:
  • New Zealand University Entrance OR
  • Overall Academic IELTS 6.0 with no individual band score lower than 5.5 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
  • Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for a list of recognised proficiency tests).

If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.

Don't meet the entry criteria? Don't worry!

If you don't meet any of the entry requirements for this qualification or have been out of learning for a while, enrol in the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 3) with a focus on Engineering and get entry into this diploma.

If you don't meet the maths entry requirement for this qualification but meet all of the other criteria, enrol in our great Engineering Maths summer school and upskill so you can apply.

Selection process

Applicants are accepted using the entry criteria on a first-come, first-in basis with places limited to 32 per year. Should the number of applicants exceed the available places, applicants will be placed on a waiting list in order of the date they applied. All applicants will be interviewed.

Want your existing skills recognised?

If you have extensive knowledge and skills due to practical experience in this area, please ask us about our recognition of prior learning process. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification and could achieve it in a shorter timeframe. Please email [email protected] or call 0800 762 786.