The Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) is designed for students who want to become engineering technologists with strong practical and applied engineering skills. Unlike traditional engineering degrees that focus heavily on theory, this programme emphasizes the application of engineering knowledge to real-world industry challenges. It is accredited by Engineering New Zealand under the Sydney Accord, providing international recognition for engineering technology graduates.

Key Reasons to Choose This Programme

• Internationally accredited engineering technology qualification.
• Strong practical and hands-on learning focus.
• Industry-connected curriculum with workplace experience.
• Opportunity to work on real engineering projects.
• Smaller programme duration than a traditional engineering honours degree.
• Strong employer connections with companies such as Fisher & Paykel, Beca, Spark, Contact Energy and others.
• Pathway to postgraduate engineering qualifications.
• Preparation for Technical Membership of Engineering New Zealand.

Programme Structure

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology combines engineering fundamentals, specialist study, project work, and workplace experience.

Year 1

Students are introduced to:

• Engineering fundamentals
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Engineering design
• Engineering problem-solving
• Communication and teamwork skills

Years 2 and 3

Students develop advanced technical knowledge in their chosen major.

Key features include:

• Specialist engineering courses
• Applied engineering projects
• Industry-focused learning
• Design and technology applications
• Workplace experience
• Final-year industry project

Engineering Majors (Specialisations)

Students choose one major:

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Topics include:

• Electrical systems
• Electronics
• Telecommunications
• Power technologies
• Automation systems
• Instrumentation and control

Career Focus

• Electrical Engineering Technologist
• Electronics Technologist
• Control Systems Technologist

Mechanical Engineering

Topics include:

• Manufacturing technologies
• Mechanical systems
• Product design
• Thermodynamics
• Materials engineering
• Mechanical design applications

Career Focus

• Mechanical Engineering Technologist
• Manufacturing Technologist
• Product Development Technologist

Practical Work Experience Requirement

A major feature of the programme is its workplace learning requirement.

600 Hours of Supervised Industry Experience

Students must complete:

• Minimum 600 hours of planned and supervised work experience
• Industry-based learning activities
• Professional engineering practice

Career Outcomes

Graduates are prepared for careers as engineering technologists in a variety of industries.

Potential Career Roles

Electrical and Electronics

• Electrical Engineering Technologist
• Electronics Technologist
• Power Systems Technologist
• Automation Technologist

Mechanical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering Technologist
• Manufacturing Technologist
• Design Technologist
• Production Technologist

General Engineering

• Engineering Project Coordinator
• Maintenance Technologist
• Technical Consultant
• Operations Technologist

Further Study Opportunities

Graduates may progress to:

• Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering
• Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering
• Master of Engineering
• Other advanced engineering qualifications

Special Requirements and Important Notes

Work Experience Requirement

Students must successfully complete:

• Minimum 600 hours of supervised industry work experience.

Mathematics and Physics Background

Applicants should have strong preparation in:

• Mathematics (Algebra, Statistics or Calculus)
• Physics

Latest Updates

• The Bachelor of Engineering Technology remains accredited by Engineering New Zealand under the Sydney Accord.
• The programme currently offers two majors: Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
• Students are required to complete 600 hours of supervised industry experience.
• Published intakes currently include July 2026, February 2027, and July 2027

New Zealand Student Visa Requirements

International students generally require a New Zealand Student Visa.

Typical requirements include:

• Offer of Place from AUT
• Valid passport
• Evidence of tuition fee payment
• Proof of sufficient funds for living expenses
• Medical examinations (if required)
• Police clearance certificates (if required)
• Health and travel insurance