Why Study / Key Benefits

• Research-focused master's degree combining independent engineering research with advanced technical coursework where required.
• Develop independent problem-solving skills through supervised research.
• Complete a substantial 120-point thesis in an approved engineering discipline.
• Opportunity to specialise in areas including Bioengineering, Chemical and Process Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Earthquake Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering and Transportation Engineering.
• Advanced engineering courses can be selected to provide technical knowledge supporting the research project.
• Provides a pathway into doctoral research in several engineering disciplines.
• UC's Faculty of Engineering has a broad postgraduate research environment covering engineering research institutes and centres.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The ME is fundamentally a thesis-based qualification.

The formal structure consists of:

• A 120-point thesis in the selected engineering area.
• Up to 45 points of supporting coursework where required or approved.
• Some endorsements are thesis-only.
• Other endorsements require both thesis and coursework.

Thesis-only endorsements currently include:

• Bioengineering
• Chemical and Process Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Software Engineering
• Transportation Engineering

The following require thesis plus coursework:

• Civil Engineering
• Construction Management
• Earthquake Engineering

Disciplines / Specialisations

The ME can be awarded with an endorsement in:

1. Bioengineering
2. Chemical and Process Engineering
3. Civil Engineering
4. Construction Management
5. Earthquake Engineering
6. Electrical and Electronic Engineering
7. Mechanical Engineering
8. Software Engineering
9. Transportation Engineering

Programme Highlights

• 120-point research master's.
• Substantial 120-point engineering thesis.
• Nine formal endorsement areas.
• Supervised independent research.
• Opportunity to undertake supporting advanced engineering coursework.
• Access to UC's Faculty of Engineering research environment.
• Can lead to doctoral study.
• Particularly suitable for students seeking research, specialist engineering or academic careers.
• UC states that postgraduate engineering study can provide specialist skills, enhanced technical knowledge, research capability and evidence of advanced academic achievement.

Career Outcomes

The ME is primarily designed to develop advanced technical knowledge and research capability.

Depending on the endorsement and thesis topic, graduates may pursue roles in:

• Engineering research and development
• Specialist engineering
• Engineering consultancy
• Technology development
• Infrastructure and construction
• Software engineering
• Transportation
• Electrical and electronic engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Chemical and process engineering
• Bioengineering
• Earthquake and resilience engineering
• Academic and research organisations
• Government and industry research organisations

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

The current UC programme page confirms that the ME remains a 120-point endorsed research qualification and is included in UC's current postgraduate offering. UC's latest qualification regulations specify nine endorsement areas and a 36-month formal time limit.

Important application requirement:

A special application is required for the Master of Engineering. Applicants should complete the ME application process through the Faculty of Engineering rather than relying only on the standard university application route.

For research-based ME applications, identifying an appropriate supervisor and research topic is important. UC engineering departments advise prospective research master's applicants to investigate supervisors and research areas before proceeding with enrolment.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students normally require a New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa for full-time study at UC.

Current Immigration New Zealand requirements include:

• Visa cost: from NZD $850.
• Maximum stay: up to 4 years.
• 80% processing timeframe: within 8 weeks.
• Offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Evidence of sufficient tuition funding or an appropriate scholarship.
• Evidence of sufficient living funds or an acceptable sponsor.
• Acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Meeting health and character requirements.
• Demonstrating genuine intention to study.
• Evidence that you can leave New Zealand at the end of your stay.