New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6) (Mechanical)
Enhance your practical engineering skills for a career as a mechanical engineering technician.
This national qualification was designed by industry in 2010 to meet the needs of the New Zealand engineering sector. The programme consists of core and elective courses focused on the design and implementation of engineering technology and aimed at providing you with sound thinking and problem solving abilities.
You will gain a solid grounding in engineering theory and principles of engineering science including design and drawing, materials, fluids, thermodynamics and production.
The graduate profile defined by Engineering New Zealand is benchmarked internationally to the exemplar graduate attributes for graduates of technician education programmes recognised under the Dublin Accord. Part-time up to 6 years.
Fees for 2025
NCEA level 2*, and
- Minimum total of 48 Credits at Level 2 in 4 subjects including at least 12 credits in Mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus or trigonometry)
- Including a minimum of 10 literacy credits at level 1 or higher (for those who achieved NCEA level 2 before 2013)
OR New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Engineering Pathway or equivalent.
If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart.
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
- What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?
- You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.
Overall IELTS 6.0 Academic
- 5.5 Listening
- 5.5 Reading
- 5.5 Writing
- 5.5 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
New Zealand mechanical engineering graduates are in demand for roles such as design engineer, production engineer, maintenance team leader, sales engineer or quality assurance engineer. You will find positions in diverse environments from high-level industrial facilities and urban based manufacturing, through to agricultural processing plants. You may also choose to focus in niche areas of personal interest, eg mountain bike design, or sustainable vehicle technologies.
This qualification meets the academic requirements for membership in Engineering New Zealand. Upon graduating you will be able to function at a technician-level in many countries as outlined by the Sydney and Dublin Accords (International Engineering Alliance 2002).
Study pathways
The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering provides a pathway to the Bachelor of Engineering Technology with established cross-crediting arrangements.
Graduates can also benefit from the Diploma in Computer Aided Design.
Recommended school subjects
- English
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Calculus , Algebra, Trigonometry
New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Level 6) (Mechanical)
Enhance your practical engineering skills for a career as a mechanical engineering technician.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Diploma |
| Code | NZ2612 |
| Next Starts | February 2025 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| International application close date | Please enquire |
| Credits | 240 |
| Level | 6 |
| Additional Equipment/Fees | Advised before enrolment |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| Available Part time | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2612-MECH |
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreCredit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 426 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 363 KB
Area of Interest
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