Institute of Technology or Polytechnic
Whitireia and WelTecThis course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Diploma
Duration
2 years
Next start date
Expected Feb 2027
Campus
Petone Campus
Launch your career in Mechanical Engineering with a qualification that opens doors in New Zealand and across the globe. This internationally recognised diploma blends core engineering theory with practical, hands-on training - equipping you with the skills and knowledge employers demand.
What you will learnLearn by doing: Apply engineering principles in real-world context, master materials strength, thermodynamics, machine mechanics, and manufacturing process. Gain confidence managing projects using industry documentation standards and develop practical solutions to engineering challenges through our Engineering project. Learning in our full-fledged workshops, prototyping labs, CAD facilities and engineering laboratories, combined with applied math, physics, and engineering principles, ensures you meet both national and global industry standards.
Develop a comprehensive range of skills essential for a successful career in Mechanical Engineering.
Core Engineering CapabilitiesBuild the fundamental technical and professional competencies required across the global engineering industry:
Specialised mechanical engineering strand
Gain deep, practical expertise in modern manufacturing, thermal systems, and mechanical design:
This combination of core engineering capabilities and specialised mechanical engineering knowledge equips graduates with the skills needed to contribute effectively to the design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of mechanical systems and engineering solutions.
More detail about this qualificationGraduates will have a work-ready qualification internationally accredited under the Dublin Accord, opening a direct pathway to becoming a Chartered Member (Engineering Technician) of Engineering New Zealand.
Engineering tutorsOur Engineering tutors bring a wide range of industry experience and knowledge.
Find out more about our Engineering tutors
Career optionsGraduates go on to work in areas such as mechanical design and manufacturing, industrial plant maintenance, building services engineering, and technical project management. You’ll also be prepared for roles focused on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of tools, engines, machines, and mechanical systems.
Graduates of the diploma can seamlessly transition into the Bachelor of Engineering Technology, transferring their earned credits to complete the degree with just 1.5 years of additional study. Whether entering the workforce or continuing your studies, you'll graduate with the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to contribute to the design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of mechanical systems, and pursue opportunities in New Zealand and around the world.
NCEA Level 2* and a minimum of 48 credits at level 2 in four subjects including at least 12 credits in mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus or trigonometry), or equivalent qualifications (e.g. International Baccalaureate or Cambridge), or equivalent credits from appropriate trades training and/or demonstrated skills and experience.
*including a minimum of 10 literacy credits at level 1 or higher (for those who achieved NCEA Level 2 before 2013)
20+ yearsIf you’re 20 years or over, you may qualify for special admission on this programme. Contact us if you don’t meet the Under 20 entry criteria.
Special entrySpecial entry may be granted by the Head of School responsible for the programme to an applicant who does not meet all entry requirements, where the Head of School is satisfied the applicant is capable of undertaking the programme of study.
InternationalMinimum IELTS (academic) score of 6, with no band score lower than 5.5 or equivalent.
Find your country's equivalent academic entry requirements here
*For fee exclusions, please see our terms and conditions. International ākonga study grants are available. Contact: international@wandw.ac.nz for eligibility details.
Disclaimer
The listings provided on the Study with New Zealand website ( Study with New Zealand(external link that opens in a new tab) ) are for information and promotional purposes only. ENZ does not endorse any of the education providers listed. The information, content and material provided in the listings is the sole responsibility of each education provider. This search is powered by StudySpy(external link that opens in a new tab).
Please note that degrees and qualifications earned via remote or distance learning are excluded from the overseas credential evaluation and recognition services provided by the Chinese Service Center for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE). For more information, please contact CSCSE directly: +86-10-62677800 (phone) or visit their website(external link that opens in a new tab).
You can learn more about international recognition of New Zealand qualifications on the NZQA website.