Introduction

The primary aim of engineering education is to equip students with the skills to identify problems and apply theoretical knowledge to drive innovation and product improvement. New Zealand engineering programs offer a comprehensive education, preparing students for successful careers in various disciplines, including biotechnology, imaging technology, structural mechanics, environmental engineering, computer engineering, information science, and nanotechnology. Due to the thrive of the country’s engineering sector, there is a high demand for skilled professionals in this field in NZ. 

The salary for engineering graduates in New Zealand is very competitive, with entry-level positions starting at NZD 70,000 annually and senior levels often exceeding NZD 100,000 per year. Additionally, studying engineering in NZ can provide international students with excellent opportunities to migrate to this country. 

Why Study Engineering in New Zealand?

Engineering Opportunities in New Zealand

New Zealand universities are globally recognised for their high-quality engineering programs, offering excellent education and career prospects.

Top-Ranked Universities

These universities are known for their high standards, strong research facilities, and experienced faculty. Their programs are accredited by professional bodies, ensuring global recognition.

Robust Employment Opportunities

The engineering sector in New Zealand offers robust employment opportunities across various fields, including:

  • Construction
  • Technology
  • Energy
  • Environmental management

With a shortage of engineering skills, approximately 1,500 new engineers are needed annually to match economic growth and replace retirees.

Post-Study Work Visa

International students can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, allowing them to stay and work in New Zealand for up to three years. This visa can pave the way to permanent residency.

Competitive Program Costs

Engineering programs in New Zealand are competitively priced compared to other countries. Course durations vary based on the student’s background. For example, students with a four-year engineering degree can apply for a one-year Master of Engineering program.

Studying engineering in New Zealand offers a combination of high-quality education, excellent career prospects, and the opportunity to live and work in a beautiful and dynamic country.

Programs for International Students

The NZQF (New Zealand Qualifications Framework) has ten levels of qualifications, each based on complexity. Level 1 is the least complex, and Level 10 is the most complex. New Zealand universities offer various levels of engineering programs catering to different stages of academic and professional development.

Undergraduate Programs

  • Diploma in Engineering: Level 6
    • Typically completed in 1 year full-time.
    • Provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in engineering.
    • Often packaged with a Bachelor of Engineering as an undergraduate pathway.
    • Students can move into Year 2 of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) or Bachelor of Engineering Technology upon completing the diploma.
  • Bachelor of Engineering (Honours): Level 8
    • A comprehensive 4-year program.
    • Covers various engineering disciplines such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.

Postgraduate Programs

  • Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering: Level 8
    • Provides an understanding of engineering courses.
    • Usually does not require a relevant background.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering: Level 8
    • A 1-year program designed for students who have completed a three-year engineering degree.
    • Provides a pathway to further study in a master’s program.
  • Master of Engineering Studies: Level 9
    • A 1-1.5 year full-time coursework engineering program.
  • Master of Engineering: Level 9
    • A 1-1.5 year full-time master’s program with a research component.

New Zealand universities offer a range of engineering programs that provide students with the knowledge, skills, and qualifications needed to pursue successful careers in engineering, both in New Zealand and internationally.

Top Universities for Engineering

The University of Auckland  Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 

Master of Engineering Studies 

Master of Engineering 

Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering 

Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering  

Auckland University of Technology (AUT)  Diploma in Engineering 

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 

Bachelor of Engineering technology 

Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering 

Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering  

Master of Engineering  

The University of Canterbury  Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 

Postgraduate certificate in Engineering 

Master of Engineering 

Master of Engineering Studies 

University of Waikato  Diploma in Engineering Management (pathway to BE) 

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 

Master of Engineering 

Master of Engineering Practice 

Manukau Institute of Technology  Diploma in Engineering 

Bachelor of Engineering Technology 

Only available in civil engineering, electrical engineering and mechanical engineering 

Lincoln University  Master of Engineering in Ecological Engineering 

Master of Engineering in Environmental Management 

 

Victoria University of Wellington  Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 

Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering Practice 

Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering Practice 

Master of Engineering by thesis 

Master of Engineering by thesis and coursework 

Entry Requirements & Tuition Fee

Undergraduate programs: 

  • Academic entry requirement: Completion of high school equivalent to New Zealand Year 13, with strong performance in relevant subjects such as Mathematics and Physics. Conditions varies from different universities 
  • English requirement: IELTS score of 6.5 or 6.0(depends on schools) with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent. 
  • Tuition fee: 30000 NZD – 53122 NZD per year (please refer to the official website for more information) 

Postgraduate programs: 

  • Academic entry requirement: Completion of bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. 
  • English requirement: IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.0, or equivalent. 
  • Tuition fee: 35000 NZD —51000 NZD per year (please refer to the official website for more information) 

Career Outcomes

Graduating with an engineering degree from New Zealand opens a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors. Here are some examples:  

  • Civil Engineer: The main role of a civil engineer is to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, tunnels, buildings, and water supply systems. 
  • Mechanical Engineer: Mechanical engineers work in the manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, robotics fields to develop, design, and test mechanical devices, tools, engines, and machines. 
  • Electrical Engineer: Electrical engineers are professionals working on projects involving power generation, transmission, and distribution, as well as developing new electrical devices and components.  
  • Software Engineer: Software Engineers can work in information technology, software development, telecommunications, finance areas and their main roles include writing code, debugging software, developing new features, and maintaining software performance. 
  • Chemical Engineer: A chemical engineer can normally work in pharmaceuticals, energy, food processing, chemical manufacturing areas to develop processes transforming raw materials into useful products such as fuels, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. 
  • Mechatronics Engineer: The main responsibilities of mechatronics Engineers are to integrate mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering to develop and improve automated systems and robotics. 

Migration Pathway

Engineering is in high demand in New Zealand, so it is one of the prioritised occupations for migration. Follow the below steps to migrate to this beautiful country.  

Step 1. Study an engineering program in New Zealand  

  • Enrol in a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering at a recognised New Zealand university. 
  • You must ensure that your qualification is accredited by Engineering New Zealand, which is important for professional recognition and future employment. 

Step 2. Post-study work visa 

  • After completing your degree, you can apply for a post-study work visa. 
  • This visa allows you to stay and work in New Zealand for up to 3 years, depending on your qualification level and where you studied. 

Step3. Get a job in New Zealand 

  • To apply for a permanent residency (PR) in New Zealand, you must have a job and get paid at least median wage (NZ$31.61 as of 2024).  

Step 4. Apply for a PR  

Depending on your engineering field and occupation, you can choose from one of the following pathways.  

Pathway 1: Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) 

To be eligible for this visa, applicants need to have at least 6 points, and the points can be claimed from one of the below categories: 

  • NZ professional registration 

The points can be rewarded based on the length of training required for your occupational registration in New Zealand.  

  • More than 2 years of trading/work experiences: 3 pts 
  • More than 4 years of trading/work experiences: 4 pts 
  • More than 5 years of trading/work experiences: 5 pts 
  • More than 6 years of trading/work experiences: 6 pts  
  • Qualification: The points are claimable based on the following criteria: 
  • Level 7 (bachelor’s degree): 3 pts 
  • Level 8 (post-graduate certificate): 3 pts 
  • Level 8 (honours, post-graduate diploma): 4 pts 
  • Level 9 (Master’s): 5 pts 
  • Level10 (PhD): 6 pts 
  • High income 

If the applicant’s annual income meets certain criteria (comparing to median wages), you can claim points based on the annual income.  

  • 1.5 x Median Wages or more: 3 pts 
  • 2 x Median Wages or more: 4 pts 
  • 3 x Median Wages or more: 6 pts 
  • Work experience 

The applicants can gain additional points from their working experiences in NZ.  

  • 1-year experiences 1 pt 
  • 2-year experience: 2 pts 
  • 3-year experience: 3 pts 

Work experience must be in a full-time job (minimum 30 hours per week) and meet wage thresholds based on the ANZSCO level of the job. 

  • Additional Criteria 

In addition to the point requirement, the applicants must also meet the following criteria: 

  • Age: Less than 55years old 
  • Employment: You need have evidence of current job or job offer (30hrs/week) 
  • English requirement: IELTS 6.0 (overall) or equivalent  

Pathway 2: Green List Tier 1 

If your engineering occupation is in the Green List Tier 1, you can apply straightly for permanent residency as soon as you get a job offer and get paid at least the median wage. As of 2024, the median wage in NZ is 31.61 per hour. 

Regarding the qualification requirement, you must meet one of the following requirements to be eligible for this pathway: 

  • A Washington Accord accredited (initial) engineering degree 
  • A Bachelor of Engineering with Honours (NZQF Level 8) 
  • A qualification at NZQF Level 7 or higher, with a letter from Engineering New Zealand certifying that the degree and any further learning meet the benchmark requirements towards Chartered Professional Engineer professional status in New Zealand 
  • NZ registration as a Chartered Professional Engineer by Engineering New Zealand. 

If you wish to know more about the PR pathway information, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or call 07 3003 1899.  

FAQs

Can international students work while studying?

Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. 

What are the accommodation options for international students?

Options include university residences, private rentals, and homestays if under 18. 

Is there support available for international students?

Yes, universities provide extensive support services, including academic assistance, career advice, and pastoral care. 

What engineering courses are popular in New Zealand?

New Zealand universities provide numerous courses in the field of engineering. Below are some popular courses:  

  • Mechanical engineering courses NZ 
  • Civil engineering courses NZ 
  • Electrical engineering programs NZ 
  • Software engineering courses NZ 

How much an engineer in New Zealand can earn?

Salaries for engineering graduates in New Zealand are competitive and can vary based on specialisation, experience and location. Here are general salary ranges: 

  • Entry-Level: NZD 60,000 – NZD 70,000 per year 
  • Mid-Level: NZD 80,000 – NZD 100,000 per year 
  • Senior-Level: NZD 100,000 – NZD 150,000+ per year