The Graduate Diploma in Engineering (Electrical) (Level 7) is designed for engineering graduates and experienced professionals who want to advance their expertise in Power Engineering. The programme provides advanced technical knowledge in electrical power systems, renewable energy, power electronics, electrical machines, and professional engineering practice. Graduates complete a qualification at the same academic level as a bachelor's degree and are prepared for specialist engineering technologist roles.

Key reasons to choose this programme

• Designed for engineering graduates seeking advanced electrical engineering skills.
• Specialise in Power Engineering.
• Develop expertise in renewable energy systems and power electronics.
• Complete a substantial Engineering Development Project that addresses a real engineering problem.
• Study at the award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Learn using industry-standard engineering software and equipment.
• Gain practical skills valued by employers in the electricity generation, utilities, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.
• Graduate with a nationally recognised NZQF Level 7 qualification.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete 120 credits in the Power Engineering strand.

Compulsory Courses

Sustainable Energy and Power Electronics (15 Credits)

Topics include:

• Power switching devices
• Power conversion systems
• AC to DC conversion
• DC to AC conversion
• DC to DC conversion
• AC to AC conversion
• Power control applications
• Small- and medium-scale renewable energy systems (up to 100 kW)

Electrical Machine Dynamics (15 Credits)

Students study:

• Three-phase power transformers
• Medium- and high-voltage power transformers
• Electrical machine dynamics
• Earthing systems
• Switchgear
• Single-line diagram (SLD) development for power networks

Engineering Development Project (30 Credits)

This year-long project enables students to:

• Investigate a real engineering problem
• Design and specify engineering solutions
• Develop and evaluate engineering concepts or prototypes
• Apply engineering software tools
• Communicate effectively with clients, technicians, and engineers

Elective Courses

Students select approved electives, such as:

• Engineering Project
• Professional Engineering Practice
• Other approved Level 6 and Level 7 engineering courses.

Throughout the programme, students also develop expertise in:

• Renewable energy
• Power electronics
• Electrical power systems
• Power transformers
• Engineering design
• Project management
• Professional engineering ethics
• M?ori cultural perspectives in engineering
• Engineering communication.

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The Graduate Diploma specialises in Power Engineering, including:

• Sustainable Energy
• Power Electronics
• Electrical Machine Dynamics
• Power Systems
• Renewable Energy Systems
• Medium- and High-Voltage Networks
• Power Transformers
• Electrical Protection
• Engineering Design
• Engineering Project Management
• Professional Engineering Practice.

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• One-year Level 7 graduate qualification.
• Specialist focus on Power Engineering.
• Award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Practical learning using industry-standard software and equipment.
• Strong emphasis on renewable energy and power electronics.
• Year-long Engineering Development Project.
• Flexible full-time and part-time study options.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Graduates complete a qualification at the same academic level as a bachelor's degree.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers such as:

• Electrical Engineering Technologist
• Power Systems Engineer
• Electrical Design Engineer
• Electrical Project Engineer
• Renewable Energy Engineer
• Electrical Maintenance Engineer
• Electrical Consultant
• Protection Systems Engineer
• Field Services Engineer
• Power Distribution Engineer
• Electrical Infrastructure Engineer
• Engineering Project Manager

Graduates find employment in sectors including:

• Electricity generation
• Power transmission and distribution
• Renewable energy
• Utilities
• Manufacturing
• Industrial automation
• Infrastructure development
• Engineering consultancies.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is designed specifically for engineering graduates and experienced engineers seeking advanced expertise in Power Engineering.
• Students undertake a significant Engineering Development Project, integrating technical knowledge with professional engineering practice.
• Indicative tuition fees are based on the 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 on-campus classes and are not permitted to enrol in 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 (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.