The Graduate Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical) (Level 7) is designed for engineering graduates and experienced engineering professionals who wish to gain advanced specialist knowledge in Mechanical Engineering.The programme provides graduates with a qualification at the same academic level as a bachelor's degree while strengthening their expertise in engineering design, computational modelling, thermodynamics, professional engineering practice, and project management.

Key reasons to choose this programme

• Gain advanced specialist knowledge in Mechanical Engineering.
• Graduate with a Level 7 qualification, equivalent to bachelor's degree level.
• Study at the modern MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Complete a substantial Engineering Development Project based on a real engineering problem.
• Develop expertise in computational engineering analysis and engineering modelling.
• Learn professional engineering ethics, sustainability, and project management.
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options.
• Strong employment opportunities across manufacturing, industrial engineering, infrastructure, and consulting sectors.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete 120 credits through compulsory Level 7 courses.

Compulsory Courses

Engineering Development Project (30 Credits)

This year-long project enables students to:

• Investigate an engineering problem.
• Design and develop engineering solutions.
• Build and evaluate engineering concepts or prototypes where appropriate.
• Apply engineering software tools.
• Communicate effectively with engineers, technicians, clients, and project teams.

Applied Computational Modelling (15 Credits)

Students develop advanced knowledge in:

• Engineering analysis using computer-based modelling tools.
• Thermodynamic principles.
• Engine cycle analysis.
• Air compressors and steam plant.
• Energy conservation systems.
• Refrigeration and heat pump cycles.
• HVAC systems.
• Heating and cooling load calculations.
• Fuel combustion and exhaust analysis.

Professional Engineering Practice (15 Credits)

Topics include:

• Professional responsibilities of engineers.
• Engineering legislation and legal requirements.
• Engineering ethics.
• Environmental sustainability.
• Behavioural management.
• M?ori cultural perspectives in engineering.
• Project management principles.

Additional Approved Level 7 Engineering Courses

Students complete approved elective courses to achieve the required 120 credits, based on academic advice and programme requirements.

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programme specialises in Mechanical Engineering, covering:

• Mechanical Engineering Design
• Applied Computational Modelling
• Thermodynamics
• HVAC Systems
• Energy Systems
• Refrigeration and Heat Pumps
• Mechanical System Analysis
• Engineering Project Development
• Engineering Software Applications
• Professional Engineering Practice
• Project Management
• Engineering Ethics and Sustainability. 

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• One-year Level 7 graduate qualification.
• Study at the award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Advanced engineering project with practical application.
• Strong focus on computational engineering analysis.
• Industry-relevant curriculum.
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Graduate at the same academic level as bachelor's degree graduates.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers such as:

• Mechanical Engineer
• Mechanical Engineering Technologist
• Mechanical Design Engineer
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Product Development Engineer
• Mechanical Project Engineer
• Engineering Consultant
• Maintenance Engineer
• Plant Engineer
• HVAC Engineer
• Energy Systems Engineer
• Engineering Manager

Employment opportunities exist across:

• Manufacturing
• Industrial Engineering
• Heavy Engineering
• Construction
• Energy and Utilities
• Engineering Consultancies
• Infrastructure
• Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing industries.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is designed specifically for engineering graduates and experienced professionals wishing to strengthen their expertise in Mechanical Engineering.
• Students complete a substantial Engineering Development Project involving investigation, design, modelling, implementation, and evaluation of an engineering solution.
• Programme fees are based on the indicative 2026 fee structure and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF).
• Programme delivery is subject to minimum enrolment numbers and academic approval.
• International students must study in class and are not eligible for fully online delivery. 

Student Visa Requirements

International students studying this programme full-time in New Zealand must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa.

Applicants are generally required to provide:

• An Offer of Place from Manukau Institute of Technology.
• Proof of payment or sufficient funds for tuition fees.
• Evidence of sufficient funds for living expenses.
• A valid passport.
• Proof of English language proficiency (typically IELTS Academic 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5, or an approved equivalent).
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (where applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with all current Immigration New Zealand student visa requirements.