The Graduate Diploma in Engineering (Civil) (Level 7) is designed for engineering graduates and experienced engineers who wish to develop specialist expertise in civil engineering. The programme enables students to specialise in either Structural Engineering or Water and Wastewater Engineering, equipping them with advanced technical knowledge in engineering design, specification, and project management. Graduates complete the qualification at the same academic level as bachelor's degree graduates and are prepared for professional engineering technologist roles.

Key reasons to choose this programme

• Designed for engineering graduates seeking specialist civil engineering skills.
• Choose from Structural Engineering or Water and Wastewater Engineering specialisations.
• Develop advanced engineering design and project management capabilities.
• Gain practical experience through an Engineering Development Project.
• Study at the award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Learn using industry-standard engineering software and technologies.
• Graduate with a Level 7 qualification recognised throughout New Zealand.
• Strong industry connections and practical learning approach.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete 120 credits within their chosen specialisation.

Structural Engineering Specialisation

Compulsory Courses

• Structural Steel and Timber (15 credits)
• Structural Concrete (15 credits)
• Engineering Development Project (30 credits)

Elective Options

Students choose two electives (including at least one Level 7 course), such as:

• Civil Engineering Detailing and Modelling
• Civil Engineering Construction Practices
• Other approved engineering electives.

Water and Wastewater Engineering Specialisation

Students study advanced topics including:

• Drinking Water Standards and Water Quality
• Water Treatment Processes
• Wastewater Quality Assessment
• Wastewater and Solid Waste Treatment
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• M?ori Cultural Values in Water Management
• Engineering Development Project (30 credits)

Throughout the programme, students also develop skills in:

• Engineering design
• Project management
• Engineering specification
• Professional reporting
• Sustainable engineering solutions
• Engineering problem solving. 

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

Students choose one of the following specialisations:

Structural Engineering

Topics include:

• Structural Steel Design
• Timber Engineering
• Reinforced Concrete Design
• Prestressed Concrete
• Earthquake Design
• Wind Loading
• Structural Analysis

Water and Wastewater Engineering

Topics include:

• Water Supply Engineering
• Wastewater Engineering
• Water Treatment
• Environmental Engineering
• Sustainable Water Management
• Waste Management
• Hydraulic Systems.

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• One-year Level 7 graduate qualification.
• Two specialist pathways:
  • Structural Engineering
  • Water and Wastewater Engineering.
• Practical Engineering Development Project.
• Study at the award-winning MIT TechPark.
• Industry-relevant curriculum with advanced engineering content.
• Develop expertise in engineering design, specification, and project management.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Graduate at the same academic level as bachelor's degree students. 

Career Outcomes

Graduates are qualified to work as engineering technologists and specialists within their chosen field. Career opportunities include:

• Civil Engineering Technologist
• Structural Engineering Technologist
• Water and Wastewater Engineer
• Civil Design Engineer
• Infrastructure Engineer
• Civil Project Engineer
• Construction Engineer
• Engineering Consultant
• Asset Management Engineer
• Engineering Project Manager
• Local Government Engineer
• Environmental Infrastructure Engineer

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The programme is intended for engineering graduates and experienced professionals seeking advanced civil engineering expertise.
• Engineering students benefit from MIT's award-winning TechPark facilities and strong links with industry.
• Tuition fees quoted 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 classes on campus and cannot 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.