Programme overview
The focus of this qualification is on developing the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes to perform meaningful civil engineering work.
As a graduate of this programme you’ll be able to use your knowledge to make informed decisions and implement them; competently perform technical work using national and international standards and apply civil engineering theory to design, contract administration and construction practice. You'll gain a solid understanding of water, structural, geotechnical, road engineering and develop invaluable civil and structural drawing skills.
This diploma allows you to specialise in any one of the following four areas:
Structures: the design and construction of simple buildings, bridges, retaining walls and other structures
Water Resources: the design and construction of water, wastewater and stormwater reticulation systems.
Roading: the design, construction and maintenance of roads, pavements, and road drainage systems
Geotechnical: the assessment of soil and rock structures to support civil engineering structures, designing and constructing simple soil structures and testing and monitoring earthworks.
Highlights
- Unitec is the largest provider of civil engineering training in New Zealand at diploma level.
- Supported by the civil engineering industry, including Engineering New Zealand.
- A step towards Engineering New Zealand membership: once you've gained a suitable period of work experience as a qualified civil engineer at diploma level, you'll be eligible for Associate Membership (AIPENZ).
- Can serve as a pathway into graduate engineering qualifications.
- Focus on real-world learning: observe the day-to-day activities of engineering sites, and take part in lab work, land surveying, and workshops.
- Undertake a project where you tackle an engineering problem.
- Visiting industry experts who will give you a real feel for the career opportunities available in civil engineering.
- Cross-credits towards the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil).
Prepare for success
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 use on this programme.
Funding your study
The Targeted Training Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) fees-free programme, which used to cover training costs for the programme, ended 31 Dec 2022. However, we have many alternative funding options available for you if you meet the criteria. Call us on 0800 10 95 10 to chat to help understand options or visit Funding your study.
Admission requirements
You will need the following:
1. Be at least 16 years of old when you start this programme:
2. A total of NCEA level 2 including a minimum of:
- 10 literacy credits at level 1 or higher (for those who achieved NCEA Level 2 before 2013); and
- 48 NCEA credits at level 2 in four subjects, including at least 12 credits in Mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus or trigonometry);
2. If English is not your first language, you will need one or more of the following:
- Have achieved NCEA Level 3 and New Zealand University Entrance
- Be able to provide evidence you satisfy our criteria for existing English proficiency
- Have achieved at least one English proficiency outcome in the last two years
Don't have NCEA? We also accept:
- An equivalent qualification; or
- Equivalent credits from appropriate trades training and/or demonstrated skills and experience; or
- Provide sufficient evidence to be eligible for special or discretionary admission
For more information, download the programme regulations:
Courses and timetables
For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.
| Courses | Credits | Aim |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Fundamentals (ENGGDE4101) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To introduce the basic fundamentals of a range of engineering strands. |
| Engineering Mathematics 1 (ENGGDE4102) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To develop mathematical skills, concepts and understandings in order to perform calculations and solve problems within engineering contexts. |
| Technical Literacy (ENGGDE4103) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To develop technical research skills along with oral, written, graphical and interpersonal communication skills. |
| Materials (Civil) (ENGGDE4201) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To introduce the fundamentals of geological and geomorphological processes and the properties and application of a range of civil engineering materials. |
| Land Surveying 1 (ENGGDE4202) | 15 credits (0.125 EFTS) | To understand and apply the theoretical and practical concepts of Land Surveying |
Unitec is part of Te Pūkenga
On 1 October 2022 Unitec became part of Te Pūkenga. Find out more about Te Pūkenga and what this means for you.
