Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil)

Summary

Develop the skills for a career as a Civil Engineer in this three year (full-time) Bachelor’s programme. Specialise in environmental, geotechnical, water, roading and transportation, or structural engineering. Learn to make informed decisions about civil engineering projects, and apply technology to solve practical engineering problems. Explore computer-modelling techniques, civil engineering project management, engineering materials and structures, and construction practices.

There are 4 pathways within the Civil major:

Structural engineering: design, construction, and supervision of buildings and other structures

Water engineering: design and construction of water supply, wastewater or stormwater systems, analyse river catchment systems, hydrology and erosion management, and urban drainage systems

Geotechnical engineering: analysis, design and construction of foundations, slopes, earthworks structures and retaining walls

Roading and transportation engineering: design, construction and maintenance of roads, traffic engineering and urban transportation studies.

Highlights

• Get qualified in 3 years (full-time) and into employment sooner.
• A nationally-recognised engineering qualification.
• Approved under a New Zealand-wide framework for three-year engineering degrees
• Accredited by Engineering New Zealand.  On completion of this programme, combined with a period of work experience, you’ll be eligible to apply for membership of Engineering New Zealand.
• Internationally recognised under the Sydney Accord
• Five different pathways: environmental, geotechnical, water, roading and transportation, or structural
• Strong links with the engineering industry
• Small classes: the average class size is just 35-60 students
• Cross-credits from the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil) available

Qualification pathway

Well-prepared students have the best chance of success in their studies, so we’ve put together a free online guide you can use to refresh and sharpen some of the skills you’ll need in this programme

Cross-credits from the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil) are available.

If English is not your first language, please be aware that to enter this programme you’ll need to have achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years, such as IELTS. This applies to both new students and progressing students (including NZDE graduates).

Career Options

• Civil engineer (design)
• Civil engineering project and/or construction manager
• Geotechnical engineer
• Roading-transportation engineer
• Structural engineer
• Water/environmental engineer

Annual Tuition Fees

Domestic/NZ students

$7,500

(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

$29,615 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,000 (NZD) with Unitec International Study Grant 2026.Terms and conditions apply.

Semester Dates

Sem 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 resources

Programme regulations - Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students