Institute of Technology or Polytechnic

Whitireia and WelTec
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New Zealand Diploma in Engineering - Mechanical

This course is available

On-Campus

Level of Study

Diploma

Duration

2 years

Next start date

Expected Feb 2027

Campus

Petone Campus

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Summary

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 learn

Learn 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 Capabilities

Build the fundamental technical and professional competencies required across the global engineering industry:

  • Engineering mathematics and fundamentals
  • Computer-aided design (CAD)
  • Professional report writing and presentation skills
  • Engineering project management

Specialised mechanical engineering strand

Gain deep, practical expertise in modern manufacturing, thermal systems, and mechanical design:

  • Mechanics, materials, and strength of materials
  • Mechanics of machines, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
  • Fluid mechanics and energy systems
  • Manufacturing processes and electrical fundamentals

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 qualification

Graduates 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 tutors

Our Engineering tutors bring a wide range of industry experience and knowledge.

Find out more about our Engineering tutors

Career options

Graduates 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.

  • Mechanical Engineering Technician
  • Computer Aided Design / Drafting Technician
  • Manufacturing or Production Technician
  • Maintenance or Reliability Technician
  • Mechatronics / Automation Assistant
  • Project Support Assistant in Mechanical projects for R and D
  • Quality Assurance / Inspection Technician
  • Workshop or Plant Technician

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.

Entry criteria

Domestic Under 20

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+ years

If 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 entry

Special 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.

International

Minimum 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.

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Disclaimer

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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.