New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Trade) (Level 4) - Managed Apprenticeships

Program Overview

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This flexible apprenticeship program in mechanical engineering allows students to balance study and work while specializing in fitting and machining or general engineering. Through blended learning, students gain industry-relevant skills in a real-world environment, supported by UCOL lecturers and employers. The program prepares graduates for diverse career opportunities in manufacturing, construction, and other industries, and provides a pathway for further studies or professional certifications.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objective:

Gain advanced mechanical engineering skills while specializing in fitting and machining or general engineering.

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Description:

This flexible apprenticeship program allows you to balance study and work while achieving a qualification in mechanical engineering. With various learning formats, including day release, night classes, block courses, and online learning, you have the freedom to choose what suits you best.

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Key Highlights:

• Gain industry-relevant skills while working in a real-world environment.
• Receive guidance and support from both UCOL lecturers and your employer.
• Achieve a nationally recognized qualification.
• Progress towards further studies or various career opportunities.

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Structure:

• 4 years part-time (up to 36 weeks per year).
• Flexible study options: day release, night classes, block courses, online learning.

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Delivery:

• Blended learning: Workplace learning combined with classroom and online learning.
• Employer and UCOL lecturer collaboration for successful learning outcomes.

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Outline:

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Year One:

• Mechanical Engineering Principles 1 (15 Credits)
• Mechanical Engineering Practices 1 (15 Credits)
• Mechanical Engineering Processes 1 (15 Credits)
• Strand-Based Project or Task 1 (15 Credits)

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Year Two:

• Mechanical Engineering Principles 2 (15 Credits)
• Mechanical Engineering Principles 3 (15 Credits) (Fitting and Machining Strand)
• Mechanical Engineering Principles 3 (15 Credits) (General Engineering Strand)
• Mechanical Engineering Skills (15 Credits)
• Strand-Based Project or Task 2 (15 Credits)
• Precision Machining 1 (15 Credits) (Fitting and Machining Strand)
• Maintenance and Welding Skills 1 (15 Credits) (General Engineering Strand)

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Year Three:

• Mechanical Engineering Principles 3 (15 Credits)
• Advanced Maintenance (15 Credits)
• Strand-Based Project Planning (15 Credits)
• Strand-Based Project (30 Credits)

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Year Four:

• Management Practice (10 Credits)
• Strand Based Positional Welding (15 Credits)
• Advanced Machining and Measurement (15 Credits) (Fitting and Machining Strand)
• Advanced Fluid Power (15 Credits)
• Strand Based Project or Task 3 (15 Credits) (General Engineering Strand)
• Elective Course (15 Credits)

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Strands:

• Fitting and Machining
• General Engineering

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Modules:

• Mechanical Engineering Principles: Covers fundamental engineering concepts and skills.
• Mechanical Engineering Practices: Focuses on applying engineering principles in practical workplace situations.
• Mechanical Engineering Processes: Explores various engineering processes used in the industry.
• Strand-Based Projects or Tasks: Applies theoretical knowledge to practical projects in your chosen strand.
• Precision Machining: Develops advanced machining skills (Fitting and Machining Strand).
• Maintenance and Welding Skills: Acquires skills for maintaining and repairing machinery (General Engineering Strand).
• Advanced Maintenance: Deepens understanding and skills for maintaining complex machinery.
• Strand-Based Project Planning: Develops planning skills for a major project in your chosen strand.
• Management Practice: Introduces basic principles of engineering management.
• Strand Based Positional Welding: Master advanced welding techniques in various positions.
• Advanced Machining and Measurement: Learn advanced machining techniques and high-precision measuring methods (Fitting and Machining Strand).
• Advanced Fluid Power: Gain in-depth knowledge of fluid power systems and preventative maintenance.
• General Engineering Strand options: Choose one of the three electives: Pressure Valves and Pipework, Site Installation, or another relevant course.

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Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the module and may include:

• Written assignments
• Practical projects
• Presentations
• Examinations
• Workplace observation
Assessment criteria are aligned with the learning outcomes of each module and ensure the achievement of the required skills and knowledge.

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Teaching:

The program benefits from a blended learning approach that combines:

• Workplace learning: Gain practical experience and apply knowledge in real-world situations.
• Classroom learning: Benefit from lectures and tutorials delivered by experienced UCOL lecturers.
• Online learning: Access additional learning materials and resources online.
The teaching team consists of experienced professionals with strong industry knowledge and teaching expertise.

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Careers:

Graduates can pursue various career paths in the mechanical engineering field, such as:

• Fitter turner
• Fitter
• General engineer
• Maintenance technician
• Precision machinist
• Welding technician
The program prepares students for diverse employment opportunities in various industries, including:
• Manufacturing
• Construction
• Automotive
• Aerospace
• Marine

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Other:

• The program is designed to be flexible and adaptable to individual needs and learning styles.
• Students receive ongoing support from UCOL and their employer throughout the program.
• The program prepares graduates for further study in advanced mechanical engineering or related fields.
• Graduates can also choose to pursue professional certifications or licensures to enhance their career prospects.