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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

What you will need to study this programme. 


Domestic students

Academic requirements

You must be at least 16 years of old when you start this programme and have at least one of the following:

  • Have NCEA Level 2 with;
    • A minimum total of 48 credits at level 2 in four subjects including at least 12 credits in mathematics (preferably achievement standards in algebra, calculus or trigonometry)
    • 10 literacy credits at level 1 or higher (for those who achieved NCEA Level 2 before 2013)
  •  Equivalent qualifications (e.g. International Baccalaureate or Cambridge)
  • Equivalent credits from appropriate trades training and/or demonstrated skills and experience.
And meet one of the English entry requirements;

Don’t meet these Academic requirements?

For more information, download the programme regulations


International students

Academic requirements 

As a part of this requirement, you must be at least 16 years of age and meet one of the below;

And English entry requirements;

​If English is not your first language, you will also need at least one of the following qualifications:

Don’t meet these Academic requirements?

For more information, download the 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
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