New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering

Summary

Dive into the diverse and fast-growing world of mechanical engineering by studying for the New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3).

This highly practical course will prepare you for work, an apprenticeship, or further education in an endless list of industries:

• Aerospace
• Biomedical
• Civil engineering
• Construction
• Consumer electronics
• Energy
• Environmental
• Fabrication
• Manufacturing
• Marine
• Vehicles
• Robotics and more!

Who is this programme for?

This pre-trade certificate lets you explore different areas of mechanical engineering while building the core knowledge and practical skills to work as an operator or trade assistant within your chosen discipline. 
If you’re already working in the industry, this certificate will help you further develop your knowledge, refine your skills, and ultimately improve your career prospects.

What you’ll learn:

Alongside completing a defined range of tasks that are the foundation of any job in mechanical engineering, our teaching team will challenge you to experiment and innovate. The sky’s the limit in this industry – and your invention might be the next breakthrough that forever changes our world.

Highlights

• Plenty of hands-on learning in our purpose-built trades building. You’ll spend lots of time on the shop floor in Mataaho, our dedicated trades training area with  multiple workshop spaces and with the latest emulation and simulation technologies. Explore our facilities virtually
• Work with cutting-edge machinery and systems, including Fusion 360 and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery such as plasma cutters, lathes, and milling machines.
• Tackle real-world challenges. Apply your knowledge and skills to real-world projects
• Develop your portfolio showcasing your achievements and work, a great addition to your CV when applying for jobs.

Move into work or continue studying

Once you’ve graduated, you can work in entry-level manufacturing, machining, and operation roles in the mechanical, construction, manufacturing, and fabrication industries. Alternatively, you may choose to continue studying in your chosen discipline

Career Options

• Apprentice marine inboard/outboard technician
• Heavy/light fabrication engineer
• Marine cabinetmaker

Annual Tuition Fees

Domestic/NZ students

$9,700

(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

$26,415 (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

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