New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Pre-Trade (Level 3)
Electrical
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to begin your career as an electrician or to enter non-registration roles in the electrical industry. This Level 3 certificate prepares you for apprenticeship and employment in electrical trades.
NZ$7,953
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Workplace Safety and Professionalism
Apply electrical workplace safety procedures, identify hazards, practise with professionalism, and achieve first aid certification.
Master DC and AC Electrical Theory
Understand and apply the principles and concepts of direct and alternating current circuits.
About This Course
This one-year, full-time programme delivers hands-on learning to build your foundational skills for an entry pathway in the electrical industry. It covers essential workplace safety, DC and AC fundamentals, cable installation, testing, electrical machines, and more. Ideal as pre-apprenticeship preparation, it can lead directly to a first-year apprenticeship or support entry into non-registration areas such as electronic security or appliance servicing. Upon completion, you may progress to the New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory and Practice (Trade) (Level 4) or pursue higher-level qualifications.
Course Content
- Electrical Workplace Practices: Safety, hazard management, first aid certification, professionalism
- DC Fundamentals: Theory and principles of direct current circuits
- AC Fundamentals: Magnetism, electromagnetism, alternating current theory
- Cables, Fittings and Testing: Installation, testing, diagnosing issues, legal requirements
- Supply Systems: New Zealand electricity system, high voltage safety, protection methods
- Protection, Plans and Circuits: Power-switching circuit design, electrical drawings, lighting systems
- Electrical Installations: Cable/wiring systems, installation in varied environments
- Electrical Machines, Transformers and Isolation: Theory, practical applications
- Final Capstone Test: Theory and practice examination
Entry Requirements
Build towards these roles
Electrician (Apprentice)Electronic Security TechnicianAppliance Servicing TechnicianElectrical InstallerAutomation TechnicianElectrical Trades Assistant
Build skills in these industries
ConstructionElectrical
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.
