Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Unitec Institute of TechnologyNew Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Engineering
Level of Study
Certificate
Summary
This programme is ideal if you want to go on to Unitec’s New Zealand Diploma in Engineering or the Bachelor of Engineering Technology.
Highlights- 16-week programme full-time: Speed your way into the NZ Diploma in Engineering (Civil, Electrical or Electronic)* or the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil, or Electrical);
- *Cross-credits into these programmes: this means you’ll need to gain fewer credits to gain this qualification;
- Gain the physics, algebra literacy, and engineering fundamentals requirements for entry into our construction programmes;
- Tailored content for the engineering bachelor and diploma: the content is highly relevant to the programme in which you want to enter;
- In this programme you’ll already be a part of an Engineering student body: you’ll be learning with other aspiring engineers;
- A mix of classroom sessions, practical activities, guest speakers, discussions, presentations and online learning;
- A chance to engage with Unitec’s marae, a great setting to explore mātauranga Māori and the role of culture in communication.
Graduates of this programme can apply for further study in Unitec’s engineering programmes:
- New Zealand Diploma Engineering (Civil, Electrical, or Electronic): cross-credits available, any major
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil, or Electrical): with a B- average or above, you can apply for any major
Please note: International students who graduate will NOT be eligible for a post-study work visa upon completion of this programme.
Career Options- This programme prepares you for study toward a career in engineering
Domestic/NZ students
$3,800
(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
$13,207 (NZD) (approximate fees for 60 credits) Save up to $1,000 (NZD) with the Unitec International Study Grant 2026. Terms and conditions apply.
Semester DatesSem 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 resourcesProgramme regulations - New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 4) – Engineering Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry criteria
To apply for this programme, you must meet the following criteria:
- Academic requirements
- General admission, special admission, or discretionary admission requirements
- English language requirements
- You will need to complete a pre-entry Skills Review session
To be eligible for the Engineering Pathway, you must meet one of the following:
- UE numeracy or equivalent
- A minimum total of 48 NCEA Level 2 credits across four approved subjects, including:
- 12 credits in Mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus, or trigonometry)
- 12 credits in English at Level 1 or higher; Or
- A relevant qualification at Level 3 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF); OR
- An equivalent international qualification, such as:
- 120 credits in the best four subjects at AS Level (Cambridge), plus
- A D grade or higher in IGCSE English and a D grade or higher in AS Maths; Or
- Equivalent credits from appropriate trades training, or
- Demonstrated skills and experience in a relevant field; Or
- B- average in the New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) – Engineering Pathway
- You’ll be 16 years old or older when the programme starts.
- If you’re under 16, you’ll need to complete an Early Release Exemption form.
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