Why Study / Key Benefits

• The Master of Engineering (ME) is a research-focused master's degree designed for engineering graduates who want to undertake advanced research and develop innovative solutions to engineering problems.
• It normally takes 12 months full-time and requires 120 points.
• The programme builds on prior engineering study, particularly a four-year Bachelor of Engineering with Honours.
• Students undertake substantial independent research rather than following a primarily taught master's curriculum.
• Research can be undertaken with academics who are leaders in their fields and with access to specialist engineering laboratories and facilities.
• The University highlights industry-linked research projects and collaborations with organisations including Fonterra, Gallagher Group, Oji Fibre Solutions, Tetra Pak and ArborGen Australasia.
• Past Master of Engineering research has included projects such as a snake robot for disaster rescue and a brain-controlled electro-mechanical prosthetic hand.
• The programme develops advanced engineering science and mathematics knowledge, research capability, analytical skills, innovation, complex problem-solving and professional communication.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The ME is primarily a research programme rather than a conventional coursework master's.

The formal structure requires:

• 120 points at 500 level or above.
• A 90-point Engineering thesis, or
• A 120-point Engineering thesis.
• Up to 30 points can be taken outside the field of the degree.

The 2027 Engineering subject regulations identify the following relevant postgraduate papers:

• ENGEN508 Master’s Capstone Project – 60 points
• ENGEN561 Artificial Intelligence for Engineers – 15 points
• ENGEN570 Engineering and the Profession – 15 points
• ENGEN593 Engineering Thesis – 90 points
• ENGEN594 Engineering Thesis – 120 points
• ENGME555 Advanced Control in Mechatronics – 15 points
• ENGMP516 Materials Characterisation – 15 points
• ENGEN583 Special Topics in Engineering 3 – 15 points
• ENGEN584 Special Topics in Engineering 4 – 15 points
• ENGEN585 Special Topics in Engineering 5 – 15 points
• ENGEN586 Special Topics in Engineering 6 – 15 points
• ENGEN587 Directed Study 1 – 30 points
• ENGEN588 Directed Study 2 – 30 points.

Disciplines / Specialisations

The Master of Engineering can be awarded with one of the following endorsements:

• Chemical and Process Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Materials and Manufacturing Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics
• Robotics
• Software Engineering
• Structural Engineering

The formal field of the degree includes:

• Computer Science
• Electronics
• Engineering
• Materials and Processing
• Mathematics
• Physics

Programme Highlights

• Research-focused master's degree.
• 120 points.
• Normally one year full-time.
• March and July intakes.
• Hamilton campus.
• 90-point or 120-point thesis options.
• Eleven formal endorsement areas.
• Access to specialist engineering laboratories and research facilities.
• Research projects can involve industry collaboration.
• Opportunities to work on real engineering problems with real clients.
• Research areas span engineering, materials, computing, electronics, mathematics and physics.
• The qualification can provide a pathway towards doctoral research.

Career Outcomes

The University lists potential career opportunities including:

• Automotive Engineer
• Biotechnologist
• Civil Engineer
• Computer-aided Engineer
• Engineering Geologist
• Food Processing Engineer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Medical Sciences Technician
• Pharmaceutical Engineer
• Quality Assurance Officer
• Research Assistant.

Depending on the thesis topic and specialisation, graduates may also work in:

• Research and development departments
• Energy companies
• Environmental agencies
• Government departments
• Biomedical and pharmaceutical industries
• Private research organisations
• Universities and research institutions
• Food and dairy industries
• Electronics
• Agriculture
• Forestry.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The 2027 Engineering subject regulations are currently published and should be used when planning a 2027 programme.
• The current programme remains a 120-point research master's with a normal duration of one year.
• The current programme page lists March and July intakes.
• The 2027 ENGEN593 Engineering Thesis is a 90-point thesis running from 1 March 2027 to 27 February 2028 in Hamilton and requires departmental approval.
• The 2027 Engineering regulations list ENGEN594 as a 120-point Engineering Thesis in Hamilton.
• Thesis examination involves two examiners: one external examiner active in the research field and one internal examiner who is not directly connected with the candidate or supervision.
• Students may complete the degree with an endorsement or without an endorsement.
• The exact thesis topic, supervisor availability and research project must be confirmed with the relevant School/Department before enrolment.
• The current programme page does not guarantee that every endorsement or research area will be available in every intake.
• Specific supervisor/project availability for an individual applicant: Not publicly specified – please confirm with IPU.
• The University recommends the Master of Engineering Practice for students seeking a taught master's programme rather than a research degree. 

International Student Visa Requirements

For an international student physically studying the Master of Engineering in New Zealand, the normal visa route is the Fee Paying Student Visa.

Immigration New Zealand currently requires applicants to:

• Have an offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Have sufficient funds to pay tuition fees or an acceptable scholarship.
• Have sufficient funds for living expenses or an acceptable sponsor.
• Meet health requirements.
• Meet character requirements.
• Have a genuine reason for coming to New Zealand.
• Have acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Demonstrate that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.