How long will an apprenticeship take?

To be recognised as either a qualified automotive engineer or  automotive electrical engineer, you need to undertake an apprenticeship and complete the necessary theory and practical work experience required by the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA). It may take you between two and four years to complete all unit standard assessments to enable you to apply for the relevant motor industry qualification.

How can Unitec prepare me for an apprenticeship?

Unitec offers a range of programmes to prepare you for an apprenticeship in the automotive industry. We recommend that you begin by studying the Certificate in Applied Technology, majoring in either automotive engineering or autotronics. This programme will equip you with the necessary skills to begin working for an employer and complete the on-the-job training and study towards your apprenticeship. Most employers in the automotive industry prefer apprentices who have undertaken some form of training prior to commencing work within the industry.

We offer the following programmes to prepare you for an apprenticeship in the automotive industry:

• Certificate in Automotive and Mechanical Engineering - Study full-time for one year in this entry-level programme designed to give you a solid introductory grounding for the automotive and mechanical engineering industry. Once you've successfully completed this programme, you'll be ready to start working as an apprentice mechanic in the automotive industry. You could also step up to either of the Certificate in Applied Technology programmes below.

• Certificate in Applied Technology (Automotive Engineering)­ - Study full-time, attending classes four days a week for one year. Once you've successfully completed this programme, you'll be ready to start working as an apprentice mechanic in the automotive industry.

• Certificate in Applied Technology (Autotronics) - Study full-time, attending classes four days a week for one year. Once you've successfully completed this programme, you'll be ready to start working as an auto electrical or auto electronic apprentice.

Can I gain cross-credits towards my apprenticeship?

Once you've successfully completed the Certificate in Applied Technology - majoring in either automotive engineering or autotronics - you can apply for cross-credits for a selection of NZQA unit standards. This will reduce the time it'll take to complete your apprenticeship.

What if I'm already working in the industry?

If you've already entered into an apprenticeship arrangement with an employer, you can study one of the following automotive programmes part-time at Unitec to complete the theory component of your qualification:

• National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Electrical Engineering) - Study part-time, attending classes one or two nights a week while completing all practical components in your workplace. Once you've completed all unit standards (both practical and theoretical), you'll be eligible to apply to the NZQA for your National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Electrical Engineering) qualification.

• National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Engineering) - Study part-time, attending classes one or two nights a week while completing all practical components in your workplace. Once you've completed all unit standards (both practical and theoretical), you'll be eligible to apply to the NZQA for your National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Engineering) qualification.

Last edited: 11 December 2012