What you will learn
Learn by doing: Apply engineering principles in real-world context, master materials strength, thermodynamics, machine mechanics, and manufacturing process. Gain confidence managing projects using industry documentation standards and develop practical solutions to engineering challenges through our Engineering project. Learning in our full-fledged workshops, prototyping labs, CAD facilities and engineering laboratories, combined with applied math, physics, and engineering principles, ensures you meet both national and global industry standards.
Develop a comprehensive range of skills essential for a successful career in Mechanical Engineering.
Core Engineering Capabilities
Build the fundamental technical and professional competencies required across the global engineering industry:
- Engineering mathematics and fundamentals
- Computer-aided design (CAD)
- Professional report writing and presentation skills
- Engineering project management
Specialised mechanical engineering strand
Gain deep, practical expertise in modern manufacturing, thermal systems, and mechanical design:
- Mechanics, materials, and strength of materials
- Mechanics of machines, thermodynamics, and heat transfer
- Fluid mechanics and energy systems
- Manufacturing processes and electrical fundamentals
This combination of core engineering capabilities and specialised mechanical engineering knowledge equips graduates with the skills needed to contribute effectively to the design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of mechanical systems and engineering solutions.
More detail about this qualification
Graduates will have a work-ready qualification internationally accredited under the Dublin Accord, opening a direct pathway to becoming a Chartered Member (Engineering Technician) of Engineering New Zealand.
Engineering tutors
Our Engineering tutors bring a wide range of industry experience and knowledge.
Career options
Graduates go on to work in areas such as mechanical design and manufacturing, industrial plant maintenance, building services engineering, and technical project management. You’ll also be prepared for roles focused on the design, manufacture, and maintenance of tools, engines, machines, and mechanical systems.
- Mechanical Engineering Technician
- Computer Aided Design / Drafting Technician
- Manufacturing or Production Technician
- Maintenance or Reliability Technician
- Mechatronics / Automation Assistant
- Project Support Assistant in Mechanical projects for R and D
- Quality Assurance / Inspection Technician
- Workshop or Plant Technician
Graduates of the diploma can seamlessly transition into the Bachelor of Engineering Technology, transferring their earned credits to complete the degree with just 1.5 years of additional study. Whether entering the workforce or continuing your studies, you'll graduate with the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to contribute to the design, manufacture, operation, and maintenance of mechanical systems, and pursue opportunities in New Zealand and around the world.
Entry requirements
Summer Maths Course
Maths is the cornerstone of all engineering. Without it, bridges would collapse under tension, lightbulbs might blow up each time you flip a switch in your house, and your car brakes would only work some of the time.
We offer a confidence-building 4-week maths course covering; algebraic expressions, factorising and linear equations; solving quadratic equations; logarithms and exponential functions; and differentiation and integration.
The course is delivered in January, across three days each week with two days on campus and one self-directed. Summer Maths is available to enrolling ākonga. Options will be discussed with you during the application process.
Whitireia and WelTec is a business division of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST).
Last updated: 28/7/2026
