Academy Mechanical Engineering

Program Overview

It offers hands-on learning in topics like safety, materials, tools, welding, and fabrication. Graduates can pursue further studies in engineering or enter careers in mechanical engineering, fabrication, maintenance, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Level: 2
• Locations: UCOL Manawatū (Palmerston North) and UCOL Whanganui
• Dates: Starting: Week of 12 Feb 2024, Finishing: Week ending 27 Sep 2024
• Delivery days: Palmerston North - Thursdays, 9am - 3pm; Whanganui - Fridays, 9am - 3pm

This program aims to:

• Introduce secondary school students to the world of engineering.
• Provide a pathway towards NCEA Level 2 achievement while experiencing hands-on engineering practice.

Topics covered:

• Health and safety in engineering workplaces
• Engineering materials
• Hand and power tools
• Measuring
• Welding and light fabrication

Outline:

This program comprises 28 credits and consists of the following unit standards:

• Unit Standard 21911 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of safety on engineering worksites.
• Unit Standard 29560 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of efficient and effective workplace procedures in mechanical engineering or fabrication.
• Unit Standard 33135 (Level 3): Demonstrate knowledge of health and safety while welding and thermal cutting.
• Unit Standard 21907 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of welding principles and quality control and safe welding practice under supervision.
• Unit Standard 2395 (Level 2): Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the selection, use, and care of engineering hand tools.
• Unit Standard 2396 (Level 2): Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the selection, use, and care of portable handheld engineering power tools.
• Unit Standard 4432 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of, and convert, units of measure used in engineering.
• Unit Standard 4434 (Level 1): Demonstrate knowledge of basic geometric form in engineering.
• Unit Standard 29670 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of fabrication machinery, materials, and processes.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include:

• Completion of practical tasks and projects
• Written and oral examinations
• Portfolio of work

Teaching:

• Experienced and qualified engineering instructors with industry experience
• Focus on hands-on, practical learning through workshops and projects
• Access to industry-standard machinery and equipment

Careers:

• Upon successful completion, graduates can explore further tertiary studies in:
• Academy Applied Construction Design
• New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
• New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)
• Potential career paths:
• Mechanical engineer
• Engineering technician
• Light or heavy fabrication
• Maintenance engineering
• Fitting
• Machining
• Tool making
• Welding
• Diagnostics

Other:

• This program is designed for Year 11-13 secondary school students.
• Applications are made in partnership with schools, parents/caregivers, and career advisors.