Program Overview

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

Overview

This automotive qualification is designed to give you all the fundamental knowledge required to work in the industry. This is achieved through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on tasks similar to the daily tasks undertaken in the workplace.

What will I study

• Automotive Workshop Safety (CAUT301, 15 credits)
• Basic Workshop Engineering Tasks, Tools... (CAUT302, 15 credits)
• Engines (CAUT303, 15 credits)
• Engine Systems (CAUT304, 15 credits)
• Electrical and Electronics (CAUT305, 15 credits)
• Driveline and Brake Systems (CAUT306, 15 credits)
• Starting, Charging and Electronically-C... (CAUT307, 15 credits)
• Wheels, Tyres, Steering and Suspension ... (CAUT308, 15 credits)

Pathway

This pretrade qualification will enable you to carry out supervised work in the industry, and help you along the pathway toward full trade qualification. As a graduate of this programme, you can seek work within an established workshop, with a view to gaining an apprenticeship.

Details

• Type: Certificate
• Code: NZ3097
• Next Starts: January 2026
• Credits: 120
• Level: 3
• May be eligible for Studylink?: Yes
• Available Part time: Yes
• May be eligible for Fees Free?: Yes
• Reference: NZ3097-STRU

Fees for 2025

• Domestic Fee: $2,550 - $3,006 per year
• Indicative Student Services Fee: $370.50 per year

Academic Requirements

This programme has open entry. English language requirements apply.

Additional Requirements

• Hold, or be working towards a Class 1 drivers licence.

English Requirements

• Overall IELTS 5.0 Academic
  • 5.0 Listening
  • 5.0 Reading
  • 5.0 Writing
  • 5.0 Speaking

Funding assistance

If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.

Career opportunities

This pretrade qualification will enable you to carry out supervised work in the industry, and help you along the pathway toward full trade qualification. As a graduate of this programme, you can seek work within an established workshop, with a view to gaining an apprenticeship.

Study pathways

This qualification enables you to progress into further study in the Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4).

Recommended school subjects

• English
• Mathematics

COVID-19 vaccination information

Placements or workplace assignments are an integral part of this programme. You don’t need to supply evidence of your Covid vaccination status to apply for or to study this programme but please be aware that some workplaces may require evidence from you that you are fully vaccinated for Covid before allowing you to complete work at their organisation. The number of organisations at which your placement or workplace assignment can be completed may be impacted, depending on your vaccination status.