New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering
Course details
About the course
If you’re working in the industry or are ready to enter into a work arrangement with an employer, you can further your understanding of light automotive engineering with the New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering. At completion of this programme you’ll be able to safely and effectively diagnose and repair mechanical and electronic faults on various vehicles.
As a graduate of this qualification, you will be able to:
- Monitor the workplace and respond to issues as required to maintain a safe and effective workplace
- Apply the appropriate precautionary measures when servicing and repairing high-risk light automotive systems
- Diagnose and repair common faults in light vehicle engines and driveline systems
- Diagnose and repair common faults in light vehicle electrical and electronic systems
- Diagnose and repair common faults in light vehicle steering, suspension, and braking systems
Highlights
- Learn and work in Mataaho, our purpose-built trade facility. This includes multiple workshop spaces and the Giltrap (Volkswagen) sponsored lab with the latest emulation and simulation technologies.
- Improved job prospects: This programme is nationally developed and recognised
- We assist you with employment relationships: This means we work with your employer to recognise the work you do on-site that contributes to your qualification.
- Support and mentoring for students and employers throughout your study
Qualification Pathway
Once you’ve completed this programme and your apprenticeship, you’ll receive the Level 4 qualification: New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering. From here, you will be able to work as a qualified Light Automotive Engineer and move on to many other automotive career options.
Graduates may also apply to be assessed for a Warrant of Fitness license via the Vehicle Inspectors Preparatory Course.
Career Options
- Light Automotive Engineer
- Service Manager
- Workshop foreman
- Workshop supervisor
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
Approximately $13 per credit plus Student Services Fee
(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)
International students
This programme is not open to international students - check our international study options instead.
Semester Dates
Enrolments accepted and start throughout the year
Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
You must be at least 16 years of age on the date of the programme’s commencement for the semester, and you’ll need to:
- Achieved the New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3); or
- Equivalent skills and experience
And English entry requirements;
If English is not your first language, you will also need at least one of the following qualifications:
Equivalence of a minimum of 12 credits at NCEA Level 1 in English; Or
- Evidence of an overall IELTS (General or Academic) band score of at least 5.5 with no band lower than 5.0; Or
- Equivalent described in NZQA Rules and on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students
Non Academic requirements
Demonstrate the equivalent skills and must be working on approved automotive premises. Find out more about work placement learning here.
Don’t meet theseAcademicrequirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify.
- You may also be eligible for special or discretionary admission.
Simply apply online, and we’ll be in touch about your next steps.
About the provider
Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere. At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently. With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world. We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.