The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Civil) (Level 6) prepares students for careers as professional engineering technicians in one of New Zealand's fastest-growing industries. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical engineering projects and meets both New Zealand and international engineering technician standards under the Dublin Accord (International Engineering Alliance).

Key reasons to choose this programme

• Nationally recognised engineering qualification benchmarked against international standards.
• Strong demand for qualified civil engineering technicians across New Zealand.
• Industry-focused curriculum with practical project work.
• Work on real engineering projects such as wastewater treatment systems and road infrastructure projects.
• Study at MIT's award-winning TechPark engineering campus.
• Learn using industry-standard engineering software and surveying equipment.
• Excellent pathway to the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) (Level 7).
• Strong employer connections with organisations such as Downer and KiwiRail, providing valuable industry exposure and graduate opportunities.

Programme Structure / Subjects Offered

Students complete five compulsory engineering courses together with eleven Civil Engineering specialisation courses, totalling 240 credits.

Compulsory Engineering Courses

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

Civil Engineering Specialisation Courses

Core study areas include:

• Structures 1
• Structures 2
• Civil and Structural Drawing
• Civil Materials
• Land Surveying
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Hydraulics
• Transportation Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Civil Engineering Construction Practices
• Water Supply and Waste Management
• Civil Engineering Project

Students also develop skills in:

• Engineering mathematics
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• Technical communication
• Project management
• Health and safety
• Sustainable engineering
• Engineering ethics
• Professional reporting and presentations. 

Disciplines / Specialisations Offered

The Civil Engineering diploma develops expertise in:

• Structural Engineering
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Transportation Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Water Supply Engineering
• Wastewater Engineering
• Surveying
• Civil Construction
• Engineering Management
• Construction Materials
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• Project Engineering
• Engineering Design
• Sustainable Infrastructure.

Programme Highlights

• Category 1 NZQA provider.
• Qualification recognised under the Dublin Accord, supporting international recognition for engineering technicians.
• Strong industry demand for graduates.
• Real-world engineering projects integrated into learning.
• Award-winning MIT TechPark engineering campus.
• Industry-standard laboratories, CAD suites, and surveying equipment.
• Opportunities to connect with employers such as Downer and KiwiRail.
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) available.
• Direct pathway to the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) (Level 7) for eligible students.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may pursue careers such as:

• Civil Engineering Technician
• Site Engineer
• Survey Technician
• Draftsperson (CAD Technician)
• Geotechnical Laboratory Technician
• Construction Technician
• Infrastructure Technician
• Water and Wastewater Technician
• Engineering Consultant Assistant
• Local Government Engineering Technician

Graduates may find employment with:

• Civil engineering consultancies
• Construction companies
• Infrastructure organisations
• Municipal authorities
• Environmental agencies
• Transport and road authorities
• Mining companies
• Harbour boards.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Civil engineering technicians remain in high demand across New Zealand due to ongoing infrastructure development.
• The programme aligns with national and international engineering technician competency standards.
• Industry projects form an integral part of the curriculum, giving students valuable practical experience before graduation.
• Programme delivery and fees are subject to annual review.
• International students must attend on-campus classes at MIT TechPark. 

Student Visa Requirements

International students must obtain a valid New Zealand Student Visa before commencing study.

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 to cover 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.