New Zealand Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3)
Mechanical
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
Gain practical skills in mechanical engineering with this hands-on, pre-apprenticeship programme covering machining, fabrication, welding, and more. Perfect for entering the engineering trades or beginning an apprenticeship.
NZ$9,695
inc GST
Enquire about international pricing
Core skills this course teaches
Understand and apply health and safety in engineering
Develop knowledge around relevant health and safety legislation and apply these in day-to-day engineering tasks.
Perform basic engineering calculations and drawing
Apply basic numeracy, literacy, and graphic skills relevant to mechanical engineering and trades.
About This Course
This Level 3 certificate provides the academic foundation for individuals looking to enter the mechanical engineering trades or to progress into an engineering apprenticeship. The programme includes both practical and theoretical modules focused on core mechanical engineering skills such as machining, fabrication, welding, workshop practice, health and safety, and effective workplace communication. Students will engage in both campus-based workshop activities and off-site work experience, preparing them for a variety of entry-level roles in the mechanical engineering industry.
Course Content
- Health and Safety legislation and practical applications
- Engineering calculations, literacy and technical drawing
- Machining: workshop practices, measurement, mechanical operations
- Fabrication: entry level skills, use of engineering power tools
- Basic and specialist welding principles and skills
- General engineering workshop skills and common material knowledge
- Processes, quality control, and responsibility in engineering tasks
- Workplace communication and teamwork in engineering contexts
- Off-site practical work experience
Entry Requirements
NCEA Level 1 with 10 credits in Numeracy (algebra, trigonometry, measurement recommended) and 10 credits in Literacy
Build towards these roles
Building Installation TechnicianCNC Machine OperatorFitter and TurnerFitter and WelderMachine OperatorMaintenance EngineerMetal FabricatorSpecialist Production WelderToolmakerMetal WorkerPipe Fitter and Welder
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.
