Study mechanical engineering

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical) (Level 6)

Programme highlights

Get qualified to work as a professional engineering technician – an area critical to the economy in New Zealand and around the world.

Learn the hands-on skills to build and repair machines. From refrigerators to industrial equipment, you'll learn how to work with the most complex machines.

This qualification meets New Zealand and international benchmarks for engineering technicians. Graduates can work at a technician level as outlined by the Dublin Accord (International Engineering Alliance, 2002).

Key facts

Start month(s)

February, July
Study location(s)

MIT TechPark
Level 6
Domestic fees

$7,200 (approx.) per year

Click here to see individual course fees
Youth Guarantee (fees-free*)

Not available

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Programme code NZ2612
Duration

Full-time for 2 years (34 teaching weeks per year), part-time available.
The maximum time to complete this programme part-time is 10 years.
Study method

Full-time, Part-time
Credits 240
International fees NZD$25,600 (approx.) per year
Māori and Pasifika Trades Training Scholarship (fees-free*)

Not available

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Qualification leads to

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering

with strands in Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering and Mechanical Engineering 

(Level 6)

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

Academic

NCEA Level 2

  • Including a minimum of 10 literacy credits at Level 1 or above (for those who achieved NCEA Level 2 before 2013);

AND

  • 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);

OR

  • Equivalent qualifications (e.g. International Baccalaureate or Cambridge);

OR

  • Equivalent credits from appropriate trades training and/or demonstrated skills and experience.

English language entry requirements

In addition to meeting the minimum entry criteria, those applicants for whom English is a second language (including International students) must meet the IELTS overall language requirement: Overall Band Score (Academic) of 6.0 IELTS, with no individual score less than 5.5, or equivalent.

Other entry requirements

Applicants must be physically capable of completing the practical aspects of the programme, by being able to work effectively, efficiently and safely.

Although not part of the entry requirements, applicants will attend an interview as part of the process of assisting them to select the right specialisation.

Successful applicants will be accepted in order of application. The above attributes will be assessed through an interview process to which applicants may bring family and/or whānau support.

Applicants who do not meet the entry requirements will be counselled to an appropriate Foundation programme.

Provisional entry

Students who have attained the age of 20 years and do not hold the minimum entry requirements for a programme or training scheme may be eligible to be enrolled. Such decisions must consider any applicable pre-requisites and will be made by the Head of School. Students who have not attained the age of 20 years and do not hold the required minimum entry requirements may also be eligible to be enrolled in exceptional circumstances where they can demonstrate capability for study at the required level. Such decisions must consider any applicable pre-requisites and will be made by the Head of School.

International students

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Programme structure

You will need to complete five compulsory courses and 11 additional courses related to this strand (240 credits):
Compulsory courses:

Level 4

141.417 Engineering Fundamentals (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4101
The aim is to introduce the basic fundamentals of a range of engineering disciplines.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of, and apply, the fundamentals of statics, dynamics and mechanical energy concepts.
  • Evaluate direct stress and strain, and derive elastic properties from tensile test results.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the engineering properties of fluids and apply the fundamentals of hydrostatics.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of electrical voltage, current and resistance and explain the difference between AC and DC.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the New Zealand Electricity system and describe some of its safety features.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of heat energy and transfer; temperature and humidity of the air.

141.418 Engineering Mathematics 1 (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4102
The aim is to develop mathematical skills, concepts and understanding in order to perform calculations and solve problems within engineering contexts.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Manipulate and solve algebraic expressions and equations.
  • Solve, manipulate and apply mathematical functions, including the application of graphs where appropriate.
  • Apply the rules and principles of trigonometry using both degree and radian measure.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of differentiation and integration techniques and apply them to solve engineering problems.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and application of one of the following:
    • 5.1 Complex numbers, logic expressions and numbers OR
    • 5.2 Basic statistical concepts and techniques.

523.413 Technical Literacy (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4103
The aim is to develop technical research skills along with oral, written, graphical and interpersonal communication skills.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Utilise information obtained from physical or web-based resources in technical problem solving and presentations.
  • Prepare and deliver an oral presentation on a technical subject.
  • Communicate ideas and technical findings in a written format.
  • Create and use pictorial sketches and pictorial/orthographic drawings to current drawing standards as a communication technique to present ideas and data.
  • Demonstrate interpersonal communication skills to develop project Outcomes.

Level 6

115.610 Engineering Management (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE6101
The aim is to develop the knowledge and skills required to administer and manage projects effectively in a specific discipline of engineering.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of, and apply, the fundamentals of project planning and project management.
  • Prepare and evaluate cost estimates, tender documentation and contract documentation.
  • Administer and supervise contracts in accordance with the relevant Standards and/or Codes of Practice.
  • Critically evaluate professional practice principles and their application to an engineering environment.

115.616 Engineering Project (Mechanical) (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE6102
Pre-requisite: 523.413 Technical Literacy, 243.422 Engineering CAD and three level 5 ENG courses, or equivalent.

The aim is to apply knowledge and problem-solving skills to plan and complete an engineering project relevant to the discipline strand studied (civil, mechanical, electrical or electronics) to accepted practice and standards from a given specification.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Develop preliminary design(s), based on a given specification, for an engineering project relevant to their discipline strand. (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical or Electronics)
  • Develop a plan or design parameters considering functionality, safety, environmental, cultural and ethical issues.
  • Undertake well-defined planning and produce as project output.
  • Produce supporting documentation relevant to project output.
  • Evaluate compliance of the project output against a specification.
  • Present findings to an audience in a professional manner.
Courses related to your chosen strand:

Level 3

141.317 Engineering Practice (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE3301
The aim is to develop an understanding of the skills involved in safely using engineering workshop machines and equipment and to develop an awareness of common manufacturing processes.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Operate safely in an engineering environment and explain the safety requirement required by the appropriate regulations.
  • Operate mechanical engineering equipment.

Level 4

243.422 Engineering CAD (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4301
Pre-requisite: 523.413 Technical Literacy

The aim is to provide students with the basic CAD draughting skills required for an engineering technician.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate correct draughting practice and the use of different views and projections.
  • Produce working drawings including projections, perspective, sectional and assemble views.
  • Produce 3D models of parts and assemblies and output final drawings.
  • Explain the CAD/CAM manufacturing process.

243.423 Mechanics (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4302
Pre-requisite: 141.417 Engineering Fundamentals, 141.418 Engineering Mathematics 1, 523.413 Technical Literacy

The aim is to develop a sound understanding of the principles of mechanics.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate the correct use of analysing forces and moments in mechanical systems.
  • Calculate indirect stresses (bending and torsion) in mechanical components and select appropriate sections from standard tables.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of energy in mechanical systems, including the Conservation of energy theory.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the forces, moments and torques resulting from linear acceleration, rotational acceleration, and centripetal acceleration.

243.424 Material Properties (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4303
The aim is to develop an understanding of the characteristics and properties of common engineering materials relevant to mechanical and process engineering.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of basic materials science chemistry.
  • Describe and test the properties of materials used in mechanical engineering.
  • Describe and specify methods to change engineering material properties.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of selection criteria for engineering materials.
  • Explain the likely causes of material failure.

523.418 Electrical Principals (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE4401
The aim is to provide the students with an understanding of general electrical and power circuit theory principles and skills required for subsequent courses.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Explain and apply the fundamental principles of DC theory.
  • Explain and apply the fundamental principles of AC theory.
  • Explain and apply the fundamental principles of the basic three-phase theory.
  • Demonstrate the use of electrical measuring equipment.

Level 5

243.516 Strength of Materials 1 (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE5302
Pre-requisite: 243.423 Mechanics

The aim is to develop an understanding of the essential elements in the strengths of materials.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of complex states of stress and the effects of dynamic loadings on a mechanical system.
  • Design jointing systems.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of beam failure modes and calculate deflections and shear stresses.
  • Calculate failure loads for concentrically loaded columns.

243.517 Manufacturing Processes (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE5303
Pre-requisite: 243.424 Material Properties

The aim is to apply engineering knowledge to common manufacturing processes.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Select mechanical engineering manufacturing processes for products.
  • Select equipment and tooling to support mech. engineering manufacturing processes.
  • Assess an existing manufacturing process.

251.502 Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE5301
Pre-requisite: 141.417 Engineering Fundamentals, 141.418 Engineering Mathematics 1, 523.413 Technical Literacy

The aim is to develop a sound basic knowledge of thermodynamic principles - including gas laws, measurement of pressure and temperature, mass and energy conservation and energy sources in the New Zealand context - and the mechanisms of heat transfer including the uses of heat exchangers.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of thermodynamics principals for temperature, pressure, gas laws, thermal expansion, conservation of energy, change of phase, heating and thermal efficiency.
  • Apply thermodynamics principals to practical applications for refrigeration, heat exchanger, and solar collectors.
  • Calculate rates of heat transfer through multiple layers and combined modes.
  • Evaluate and compare the sources of energy in NZ including sustainability concepts.

Level 6

243.628 Mechanics of Machines (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE6302
Pre-requisite: 243.516 Strength of Materials 1

The aim is to develop an understanding to solve complex problems involved with machinery dynamics such as power transmission, balancing, noise, and lubrication systems.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Identify dynamic loads in rotational equipment and explain the need for balance and how it is achieved.
  • Analyse mechanical systems to determine natural frequencies and the effects of resonance.
  • Explain acoustic term and solve for noise level and noise attenuation in an engineering environment.
  • Explain gear terminology. Solve velocity ratios and forces in gear systems.
  • Analyse power transmission components for life, force and application.

251.601 Advanced Thermodynamics (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE6309
Pre-requisite: 251.502 Thermodynamics & Heat Transfer

The aim is to develop a sound understanding of the theory and application of thermodynamics, especially as related to heat engines, air compressors, nozzles, steam plant, and energy conservation plant/principles.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the laws of thermodynamics.
  • Analyse common engine cycles and explain their operation and their effects on the environment.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of air compressors, nozzles, Steam plant, energy conservation plant/principles.
  • Analyse refrigeration/heat pump cycles.
  • Outline HVAC system operation and equipment and determine heating, cooling and dehumidifying loads.
  • Determine air/fuel ratios and exhaust analysis for common fuels and describe their handling requirements.

271.601 Fluid Mechanics (15 credits)

NZBED course code: DE6301
Pre-requisite: 141.417 Engineering Fundamentals, 141.418 Engineering Mathematics 1, 243.423 Mechanics

The aim is to understand and apply the principles of fluid statics and dynamics to common engineering problems.

The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles of fluid mechanics.
  • Describe and assess hydrostatic fluid applications.
  • Describe and assess hydrodynamic fluid applications.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the requirements for fluid machinery.
  • Produce fluid power systems (pneumatic and hydraulic) to meet operational requirements.

Key dates and timetables

To find the key dates and timetables of this programme, please view the engineering calendar.

Career opportunities

Mechanical engineering and mechanical services cover an extensive range of occupations and industries. Positions can include engineering technicians, design engineers, plant engineers and managers.

The analytical, problem solving and project management skills gained through mechanical engineering training can also be transferred to many other occupations and provide a great platform for careers in business, management and design. For potential salaries visit careers.govt.nz.

Further training or study

Successful completion of your first semester in the New Zealand Diploma of Engineering (Level 6) with a required grade point average of B can provide direct entry to Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Level 7).

MIT is becoming Te Pūkenga

Vocational education in Aotearoa is changing to better meet the needs of learners like you.

As part of this transformational change, MIT will next year become fully part of Te Pūkenga, a national network delivering skills training in a wide range of locations throughout Aotearoa. This means that while you’re applying with MIT now, from Semester 1, 2023 when you enrol you’ll become a Te Pūkenga learner.

The new system has the success and wellbeing of learners at its heart, and a review of all programmes is currently underway to help support this, including the programme that you’ve enrolled with. The aim is to make qualifications more portable, consistent and closely aligned with the needs of industry, and more in tune with where the world is headed.

As the programme review is ongoing, the courses outlined may be liable to change over time. Rest assured that we’ll notify you of any material changes to delivery that might impact what you’re studying, where you’re studying or the ways you’re learning.

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Information is correct as at 27 September 2022. Programme fees are based on a full-time student and may vary depending on your final selection of courses that make up your programme. To provide you with an indication of costs, the approximate fees quoted in this publication are based on the indicative 2023 fee structure. The indicative programme fees for 2023 do not include the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF). The CSSF is an additional levy to your 2023 programme or course fees. Further information about the CSSF can be found here www.manukau.ac.nz/cssf. Programmes stated as eligible for free study in 2023 are based on the 2022 fee structure and subject to funding confirmation for 2023. All fees are in New Zealand Dollars. You will be advised of the current fees at the time of enrolment. All courses and programmes will proceed subject to numbers and academic approval. Manukau Institute of Technology Limited is accredited under the provisions of the Education and Training Act 2020. International students must study in class and will not be able to enrol for online study options.

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