Course details

National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 3)
NZQF Level 3

About the course

This qualification marks an intermediate stage in the training programme for people wishing to qualify as an electrician. Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring and electrical and electronic equipment in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. The qualification is typically achieved in the second or third year of a three to four year training programme.

Holders of this qualification have gained a range of knowledge and skills assessed both off-the-job (during courses conducted by accredited training providers) and on-the-job (in the workplace):
. knowledge of basic electrical theory, concepts, and trade practice
. skills and knowledge related to working safely in the electrical environment, including first aid, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, safe-working practices, and safety testing
. some knowledge and application of relevant legislation, codes of practice, and standards
. knowledge of the New Zealand electricity supply
. competence in some of the practical skills required of a fully qualified electrician
. generic skills and knowledge related to working effectively in the electrical industry, such as communication skills, report writing, and rights and responsibilities as an employee
. draw and interpret electrical diagrams; and
. knowledge of electric motors.

This qualification includes all of the standards of the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 2) [Ref: 0174], and can lead to the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Electrician for Registration) (Level 4) [Ref: 1195]. The level 4 qualification may be followed by registration and licensing as an electrician by the Electrical Workers Registration Board.

This qualification shares credits with the National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Electrical) (Level 3) with strands in Electricity Supply Electrician, Electrical Fitter, and Electrical Technician [Ref: 1294].

Entry requirements

Candidates must have completed the National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (Level 3) or equivalent. Internationals IELTS Score of 5.5 with a minimum score of 5.0 in the written band.

About the provider

The Electrical Training Company, or Etco, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Master Electricians (previously ECANZ) established to provide employment and training for the electrical industry in New Zealand. Our two main areas of activity are: The employment and placement of electrical apprentices via our group apprenticeship scheme.

The provision of training courses for apprentices and tradespeople.

Since our establishment in 1991, our commitment to producing the best has helped thousands of Etco apprentices and students achieve outstanding results and successes in industry competitions, national examinations and the industry itself.