New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical)
Course details
About the course
Want to pursue a career as an electrical technician? The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical) is an industry-recognized qualification focusing on power.
You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of electrical engineering theory and practice and develop the knowledge and skills to work as an engineering technician on construction sites and in engineering workplaces. After the first year of study, you will cover the necessary theory requirements to prepare you to sit your Electrical Service Technician (EST) theory and regulations exam. With additional practical experience, you may then apply for your EST registration with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). Your NZ Diploma in Engineering qualification will also allow you to pursue registration as an Electrical Engineer, which will allow you to specify, design, and supervise the construction or manufacture of systems and equipment that produce, distribute, and/or use electricity. Work includes designing the electrical wiring of a building and doing the work of an electrician.
Highlights
- Internationally recognised under the Dublin Accord, this qualification is recognised in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and much more.
- Work towards your EST registration and be able to work independently as registered electrical worker – read more about EST in the section below.
- This programme is a nationally developed and internationally recognised engineering qualification.
- Supported by the electrical engineering industry, including the Engineering New Zealand (ENZ)
- A step towards ENZ membership: completion of the programme, combined with a period of work experience, provides eligibility to apply for membership of ENZ
- Small classes: the average class size is just 35–60 students
- Can serve as a pathway into graduate engineering qualifications
- Focus on real-world learning: observe the day-to-day activities of engineering sites and take part in lab work, workshops, and debates
- Visiting industry experts will give you a real feel for the career opportunities available in electrical engineering
Qualification pathway
Once you’ve completed this programme you’ll receive the qualification: New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical). This programme can cross-credit into the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical). You may gain your EST Registration from the EWRB with successful completion of the EST theory and regulations exam and with on-job practical experience component (currently 18 month). Upon completing the Diploma, you can also work towards your registration as an Electrical Engineer.
Career Options
- Computer engineer
- Control systems engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Electrical services engineer
- Electronics engineer
- Power systems engineer
- Robotics/automation engineer
- Telecommunications engineer
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$7,100
(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
$29,615 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,000 (NZD) with Unitec International Study Grant 2026.Terms and conditions apply.
Semester Dates
Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun
Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov
For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical) Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
You must be at least 16 years of old when you start this programme and have at least one of the following:
- Have NCEA Level 2 with;
- A minimum total of 48 credits at level 2 in four subjects including at least 12 credits in mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus or trigonometry)
- 10 literacy credits at level 1 or higher (for those who achieved NCEA Level 2 before 2013)
- Equivalent qualifications (e.g. International Baccalaureate or Cambridge)
- Equivalent credits from appropriate trades training and/or demonstrated skills and experience.
And meet one of the English entry requirements;
- A minimum of 8 credits at NCEA Level 2 in English (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing).
- Overall band score (Academic) of 6.0 IELTS, with no individual score less than 5.5,
- Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Applyonline, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply
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.