The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical) (Level 6) prepares students for careers as professional engineering technicians in one of the world's most versatile engineering disciplines. The programme develops practical skills in designing, manufacturing, maintaining, and repairing mechanical systems ranging from household appliances to industrial machinery. Graduates gain a qualification that meets New Zealand and international engineering technician benchmarks under the Dublin Accord (International Engineering Alliance), providing strong employment opportunities both in New Zealand and overseas.

Key reasons to choose this programme

• Nationally recognised engineering qualification.
• Meets international standards for engineering technicians under the Dublin Accord.
• Develop practical skills in designing, manufacturing, and maintaining mechanical equipment.
• Extensive hands-on learning through laboratories, workshops, and engineering projects.
• Study at the award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Learn using industry-standard engineering software and manufacturing technologies.
• Strong pathway to the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Mechanical/related engineering pathways) for eligible students.
• High demand for qualified mechanical engineering technicians across multiple industries.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete 240 credits, consisting of five compulsory engineering courses together with 11 Mechanical Engineering strand courses.

Compulsory Engineering Courses

• Engineering Fundamentals
• Technical Literacy
• Engineering Management
• Engineering Project (Mechanical)
• Professional Engineering Practice

Mechanical Engineering Courses

Core subjects include:

• Engineering CAD
• Engineering Mathematics
• Mechanics
• Strength of Materials
• Mechanical Materials
• Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer
• Fluid Mechanics
• Manufacturing Processes and Production
• Mechanical Design
• Engineering Project (Mechanical)

Elective Courses

Students choose approved electives such as:

• Mechanics of Machines
• Additional advanced mechanical engineering courses approved within the programme.

Throughout the programme, students develop skills in:

• Mechanical system design
• Manufacturing technology
• Materials selection
• Fluid power systems
• Thermodynamics
• Engineering drawing
• CAD modelling
• Project planning
• Engineering communication
• Professional engineering practice.

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The programme focuses on Mechanical Engineering, including:

• Mechanical Design
• Manufacturing Engineering
• Thermodynamics
• Heat Transfer
• Fluid Mechanics
• Mechanics of Machines
• Mechanical Materials
• Engineering CAD
• Production Engineering
• Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems
• Engineering Management
• Project Engineering.

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• Qualification recognised under the Dublin Accord, supporting international recognition for engineering technicians.
• Study at the award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Practical, project-based learning with industry-standard equipment.
• Strong emphasis on mechanical design and manufacturing.
• Industry-relevant curriculum developed to meet employer needs.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Pathway to the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Level 7) for eligible students.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers such as:

• Mechanical Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Design Technician
• Manufacturing Technician
• Plant Engineer
• Maintenance Technician
• Production Technician
• CAD Technician
• Mechanical Services Technician
• Engineering Project Technician
• Quality Assurance Technician
• Industrial Engineering Technician

Graduates may work in industries including:

• Manufacturing
• Industrial processing
• Food processing
• Construction
• Engineering consultancies
• Energy and utilities
• Heavy engineering
• Maintenance and production companies.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme aligns with New Zealand and international engineering technician standards under the Dublin Accord (International Engineering Alliance).
• Engineering technicians remain in demand across manufacturing, infrastructure, maintenance, and industrial sectors.
• 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 attend face-to-face classes at MIT TechPark and are not eligible for fully online study.

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:

• Offer of Place from Manukau Institute of Technology.
• Proof of payment or sufficient funds for tuition fees.
• Evidence of sufficient funds for living expenses.
• Valid passport.
• Proof of English language proficiency (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.