Open main menu Close main menu

Menu

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical)

Learn about the fundamentals of electrical engineering and develop the extensive practical knowledge required to work in the field of power engineering. This programme also leads to Electrical Service Technician (EST) registration and further opportunity for Electrical Engineer registration with EWRB.

Level
6
Credits
240 (2.0 EFTS)
Campus
Mt Albert
Start dates
February or July
Duration
Full-time for two years, or part-time options available

Programme overview

Want to pursue a career as an electrical technician? The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical) is an industry-recognized qualification focusing on power.

You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of electrical engineering theory and practice and develop the knowledge and skills to work as an engineering technician on construction sites and in engineering workplaces. After the first year of study, you will cover the necessary theory requirements to prepare you to sit your Electrical Service Technician (EST) theory and regulations exam. With additional practical experience, you may then apply for your EST registration with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). Your NZ Diploma in Engineering qualification will also allow you to pursue registration as an Electrical Engineer, which will allow you to specify, design, and supervise the construction or manufacture of systems and equipment that produce, distribute, and/or use electricity. Work includes designing the electrical wiring of a building and doing the work of an electrician.

Highlights

  • Internationally recognised under the Dublin Accord, this qualification is recognised in the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and much more.
  • Work towards your EST registration and be able to work independently as registered electrical worker - read more about EST in the section below. 
  • This programme is a nationally developed and internationally recognised engineering qualification.
  • Supported by the electrical engineering industry, including the Engineering New Zealand (ENZ)
  • A step towards ENZ membership: completion of the programme, combined with a period of work experience, provides eligibility to apply for membership of ENZ
  • Small classes: the average class size is just 35–60 students
  • 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, workshops, and debates
  • Visiting industry experts will give you a real feel for the career opportunities available in electrical engineering

Qualification pathway

Once you've completed this programme you'll receive the qualification: New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical). This programme can cross-credit into the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical).
You may gain your EST Registration from the EWRB with successful completion of the EST theory and regulations exam and with on-job practical experience component (currently 18 month). Upon completing the Diploma, you can also work towards your registration as an Electrical Engineer.

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:

Programme Regulations

Courses and timetables

Compulsory Courses

level 4:

 

DE4101

Engineering Fundamentals

DE 4102

Engineering Mathematics 1

DE4103

Technical Literacy

DE4401

Electrical Principles

DE4402

Electrical Electronic Applications

level 5:

 

DE5401

Power Engineering

DE5402

PLC Programming 1

DE5403

Electronic Principles

DE 5404

Electrical Machines

DE5408

Introduction to Networks

level 6:

 

DE 6101

Eng Management

DE 6102

Engineering Project

Elective Courses

Level 6

 

DE6401

Power Systems 1

DE6409

Electrical Building services

DE6411

PLC Programming 2

DE6421

Sustainable Energy and Power El

DE6420

Protection

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.