Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Tai Poutini PolytechnicNew Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Certificate
Duration
40 weeks
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Greymouth Campus
Summary
About the programmeYour training will cover everything you need to know to get started in the automotive industry— including vehicles and their systems, engines, brake systems, steering and suspension systems, electrical and electronic principles—and our strong partnerships with local businesses and industry representatives will help you get a foot in the door to a job.
As well as being an excellent steppingstone into the industry, this programme is also a great option if you want to learn the basics so you can work on your own car, truck, motorbike or boat.
Core elementsThis programme will provide you with knowledge and skills in topics such as:
- Automotive workshop safety
- Basic workshop engineering tasks, tools and equipment
- Engines, engine systems and driveline systems
- Electrical and electronic principles, starting and changing systems, electronic controls, high voltage systems and HVAC
- Brake systems, steering and suspension systems
This qualification can lead on to New Zealand certificates in a range of related areas including light vehicle engineering, collision repair, automotive refinishing, automotive electrical engineering, heavy automotive engineering, motorcycle engineering, automotive diesel fuel technology, outdoor power equipment and heavy wheel alignment. See our website for more details.
Career opportunitiesUpon successful completion of this qualification, you can progress to an apprenticeship or further study, leading to roles such as:
- Automotive Engineering Technician
- Automotive Heavy Engineering Technician
- Road Transport - Agricultural, Plant and Equipment Technician
- Automotive Electrical Engineering Technician
- Motorcycle Engineering Technician
- Outdoor Power Equipment Servicing Technician
- Power Boat Servicing Technician
It's also a useful qualification for other motor industry occupations, such as: Automotive Parts Person, Service Station Attendant, Automotive Dismantler or Motor Vehicle Salesperson.
Entry criteria
Entry requirementsTo apply for this programme you must:
- Have a minimum of 10 credits in literacy and numeracy and NCEA Level 2, or be able to demonstrate suitable knowledge, skills or work experience*
- Be physically capable of meeting programme requirements
- Meet general or academic IELTS 5 (with no band score lower than 5) or equivalent, if English is a second language
- Attend an information session where you'll be required to demonstrate your ability, interest, motivation and commitment to succeed in the programme
*If you're over 20 years old and you don't meet the academic entry requirement but can demonstrate your skills, education and/or work experiences, you may be eligible for special admission.
Special notes
Where students meet the entry criteria and the programme is over-subscribed, the following will apply in order:
- Applicant accepts offer of place by returning their signed learner agreement
- Applicant is waitlisted
Disclaimer