Program Overview

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering - Civil

Overview

Kickstart your career as a civil engineering technician with the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil), a nationally and internationally accredited qualification recognised under the Dublin Accord.

Programme Details

Level

6

Campus

Petone

Start Date

23/02/2026

International Start Dates

23/02/2026

Duration

2 years, full-time (part-time options)

Domestic Fees

TBA

International Fees

TBA

What You Will Learn

This practical programme equips you with core skills in geotechnical, transportation, water, and structural engineering - preparing you to tackle real-world engineering challenges across New Zealand and beyond. A key feature is the Engineering project, where you apply your knowledge to a real engineering problem, readying you for industry demands.

Graduates gain a strong foundation to enter the New Zealand workforce or pursue further study, equipped with technical expertise, risk management, and teamwork skills. Applied learning in maths, physics, and engineering ensures you meet both national and global industry standards.

Skills and Knowledge

• Mathematics
• Engineering fundamentals
• Drawing
• Report production
• Engineering management

The civil strand focuses on:

• Land surveying
• Civil and structural drawing
• Hydraulics
• Highway engineering
• Geotechnical engineering
• Water systems
• Waste systems
• Structures

Career Options

• Civil Engineering Technician
• Assistant Site Engineer
• Structural or Geotechnical Technician
• Surveying Assistant
• Project Assistant Coordinator
• Infrastructure Design Technician
• Building Inspector / Compliance Officer
• Civil Engineering Consultant Assistant

Entry Requirements

Domestic

• Under 20: NCEA Level 2* and a minimum 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.
• 20+ years: Special admission may be granted by the Head of School responsible for the programme to an applicant who does not meet all entry requirements, where the Head of School is satisfied the applicant is capable of undertaking the programme of study.

International

• Minimum IELTS (academic) score of 6, with no band score lower than 5.5 or equivalent.
• Find your country's equivalent academic entry requirements here.

Accreditation

Students will gain the skills and attributes required by Engineering New Zealand, which are bench marked internationally and accredited to the Dublin Accord.