Study for a degree in electrical engineering
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Duration and study methods
Full-time for 3 years (34 teaching weeks per year), part-time available.
The maximum time to complete this programme part-time is 10 years. -
Start dates
February, July
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Qualification
Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical) (Level 7)Programme code: MN4331 -
Credits
360 -
Locations
MIT TechPark
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Domestic fees
$7,900 (approx.) per year
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International fees
NZD $31,200 (approx.) per year
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Free* study
Explore the free options available for this programme, and check your eligibility:
Programme highlights
Get qualified to work as an engineering technologist – an area in huge demand here and around the world.
You'll learn how to design and run the electrical systems that power our world.
You will be specialising in power.
When you graduate, you'll be ready for a job as a field services engineer.
Some of our graduates have also gone on to jobs in the building and manufacturing industries.
Entry requirements
Applicants must meet the following entry requirements:
Academic
University Entrance – NCEA Level 3 including:
- Three subjects at Level 3 including:
- Physics with a minimum of 14 credits;
- Calculus with a minimum of 14 credits; and
- One other subject from the list of approved subjects*.
- Literacy – 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of five credits in reading, five credits in writing;
- Numeracy – 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627);
Or
- Equivalent academic qualifications (Equivalent academic qualifications may include University B Bursary with 45% or more in both Physics and Calculus or algebra);
Or
- Equivalent Cambridge score;
Or
- Equivalent International Baccalaureate.
English language entry requirements
Applicants must have sufficient competence in the English language to undertake this programme, which is taught and assessed in English.
Any applicant whose first language is not English may be required to provide evidence of their English language competency.
International students: English language entry requirements
EAL students must meet the minimum academic entry requirements and have achieved an overall band score (Academic) of 6.0 IELTS, (writing and speaking score no less than 6.0 and reading and listening bands no less than 5.5) or equivalent.
Other entry requirements
Applicants must be physically capable of completing the practical aspects of the programme, by being able to work effectively, efficiently and safely.
Special & discretionary admission
Any ākonga who is 20 years of age or older and has not reached the general admission requirements for their intended programme is eligible for Special Admission. Te Pūkenga works with the ākonga to ensure they are prepared for their intended programme. Any ākonga who is not yet 20 years of age and has not reached the general admission requirements for their intended programme may be eligible for Discretionary Admission. In assessing whether to grant Discretionary Admission, the delegated authority focuses on the applicant’s level of preparedness for their intended programme.
Give yourself credit with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Did you know you can use the knowledge and experience you already have to your advantage?
Your previous work experience and on-the-job skills, volunteering, professional development, and other providers’ qualifications can be recognised as prior learning, matched against credits in our courses, and put towards your qualification – potentially saving you money and possibly helping you to complete your qualification faster Learn more.
Programme structure
You will need to complete the below courses related to the power specialisation (360 credits):
Power
Level 5
114.508 Engineering Design & Drawing (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5005
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of engineering design, drawing practice and modelling in an applied context.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Describe the stages of the design process.
- Apply the principles, standards, and techniques of design and drawing used in engineering contexts.
- Use models and drawings to meet given briefs and communicate outcomes of solutions.
124.503 Mechanics (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5002
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of the fundamental principles and laws of mechanics.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Analyse basic theory and principles of forces in mechanics and their relationship to engineering applications.
- Analyse motion, forces and motion, work and energy problems and their relationship to engineering applications.
- Analyse the principles of fluids.
141.517 Engineering Mathematics Level 5 (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5004
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of general mathematical principles and equip them with appropriate engineering mathematical skills to solve engineering problems.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Analyse graphs.
- Manipulate and solve algebraic expressions and equations.
- Manipulate and apply complex numbers.
- Use matrices to solve problems.
- Apply differentiation and integration of mathematical techniques to solve engineering problems.
- Derive and solve differential equations.
181.518 Engineering Communication (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5003
The aim is to enable students to communicate effectively in their professional environment.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Write effective reports.
- Design relevant documentation.
- Make effective presentations.
- Give and receive clear instructions.
- Research and reference to support the field of study.
502.514 Engineering Computing (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5001
The aim is to enable students to develop an understanding of computing principles and their use in engineering practice.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Solve engineering problems using an engineering maths and analysis package.
- Develop a program to a specification by devising, coding and testing an algorithm to solve a specified problem.
- Use software packages, including spreadsheets, database and discipline-specific software to produce engineering solutions.
523.519 Elements of Power Engineering (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5016
Pre-requisite: 523.526 Electrical Principles
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of general three-phase circuit theory principles, ELV earthing and protection systems.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Apply knowledge of three-phase circuit theory.
- Perform calculations using power in AC circuits.
- Describe the electricity distribution industry meters and metering methods.
- Describe how RL transients are created in AC circuits.
- Explain basic earthing and power system protection for ELV and LV installations.
- Describe electrical and building reticulation systems and types.
523.520 Electrical Machines (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5017
Pre-requisite: 523.526 Electrical Principles
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of DC and single and three-phase AC electrical machines, motor control and transformers.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Apply knowledge of transformer theory.
- Apply the theory of AC machines.
- Describe the application of AC Machines.
- Apply knowledge of DC motors.
- Describe the functioning of Synchronous machines.
523.526 Electrical Principles (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5034
The aim is to enable students to understand the general electrical and power circuit theory principles and skills.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Apply the fundamental principles of DC theory.
- Apply the fundamental principles of AC theory.
- Apply the fundamental principles of basic three-phase theory.
- Use electrical measuring equipment.
523.527 Electronic Principles (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5035
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of general electronics and the basic building blocks of electronics as required for subsequent courses.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Analyse and use circuit theorems.
- Apply fundamental principles of digital electronics.
- Apply fundamental principles of power supplies.
- Apply fundamental principles of analogue electronics.
- Use electronic measuring equipment.
524.509 Instrumentation and Control 1 (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5026
Pre-requisite: 523.526 Electrical Principles
The aim is to enable students to learn the principles and applications of industrial instrumentation and control techniques.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Apply knowledge of signal transmission.
- Apply measurement principles and have an understanding of the operation of a range of transducers that are used in the control industry.
- Apply control system elements and principles.
527.517 PLC Programming 1 (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG5018
Pre-requisite: 502.514 Engineering Computing, 523.526 Electrical Principles
The aim is to develop an understanding of, and an advanced knowledge of PLC systems, applications, and programming methods.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Explain the operation of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and its use in industry.
- Hardwire a PLC and apply ladder logic programming to perform simple automation tasks.
- Compare the key programming languages listed in IEC 61131-3 with ladder logic and understand their application in industry.
- Apply common industrial analogue and digital input/output modules.
- Explain field bus systems and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)
Level 6
523.613 Engineering Project (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6136
Pre-requisite: MG5003 Engineering Communication AND MG5005 Engineering Design and Drawing AND A minimum of 45 Level 5 credits from major specific courses
To apply knowledge and problem-solving skills to plan and complete an engineering project relevant to the strand studied (mechanical, electrical or electronics) to accepted practice and standards from a given specification.
On successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Develop preliminary design(s), based on a given specification, for an engineering project relevant to their strand (mechanical, electrical, electronics).
- Develop a plan or design parameters considering functionality, safety, environmental, cultural and ethical issues.
- Undertake well-defined planning and produce as project output.
- Produce supporting documentation relevant to project output.
- Evaluate compliance of the project output against specification.
- Present findings to an audience in a professional manner.
115.619 Engineering Management (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6103
Pre-requisite: 181.518 Engineering Communication
The aim is to develop the knowledge and skills required to administer and manage projects effectively in a specific strand of engineering.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Identify the parties involved in an engineering project and evaluate the roles and responsibilities that each has.
- Apply the fundamentals of project management to a well-defined engineering project.
- Appraise the procurement process, evaluate contract documentation and prepare cost estimates for a well-defined engineering project.
- Demonstrate how to administer and supervise projects, contracts and engineering works in accordance with the relevant standards and/or codes of practice.
- Critically evaluate professional practice principles and their application to an engineering environment.
115.618 Protection (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6047
Pre-requisite: 141.514 Engineering Mathematics 1, 523.519 Elements of Power Engineering
The aim is to enable the students to gain an understanding of electrical power system fault protection concepts for both MV & HV systems.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Explain the operating principles of current and voltage transformers in terms of various construction types in accordance with industry practice.
- Apply protection concepts as these would apply to generators, power cables, transformers, aerial conductors, busbars and motors.
- Analyse the types of fault that occur in electrical power systems, for LV, MV and HV.
- Explain and apply the different power system protection equipment types under various common protection scenarios.
- Apply safe working practices in relation to power protection equipment.
- Apply digital protection and control systems to basic substation design.
142.603 Mathematics Level 6 (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6190
Pre-requisite: 141.814 Engineering Maths Level 5 MG5004
The aim is to enable students to understand advanced calculus, and develop the ability to formulate and solve models of complex engineering and scientific systems.
On the successful completion of this course student will be able to:
- Use and apply vectors, vector calculus and advanced calculus.
- Use and apply mathematical transforms including Fourier series and Laplace transforms.
- Use and apply probability and statistical techniques.
- Use and apply numerical methods..
527.612 PLC Programming 2 (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6019
Pre-requisite: 527.517 PLC Programming 1
The aim is to enable students to extend their knowledge and programming skills for PLCs, using advanced PLC control techniques and to learn the concepts of automation, networking and network programming.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Apply advanced PLC programming techniques.
- Apply PID (Proportional, Integral, and Derivative) control.
- Apply data communication concepts to a range of fieldbus systems.
- Integrate commonly used sensors and Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) to a PLC.
527.613 Automation (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6020
Pre-requisite: 527.612 PLC Programming 2
The aim is to enable the student to learn modern advanced automation systems and practice used in the industry.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Select, interface, program and operate typical industrial networks.
- Apply a SCADA/HMI software package.
- Analyse peer to peer communication between PLCs.
- Interpret and apply IEC 61131-3.
533.624 Sustainable Energy and Power Electronics (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG6118
Pre-requisite: 141.514 Engineering Mathematics 1, 523.526 Electrical Principles, 523.527 Electronic Principles
The aim is to enable students to develop an understanding of the concepts and applications of power electronics including basic converter types and applications involving small scale renewable energy systems.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Describe power switching devices.
- Describe power conversion systems.
- Demonstrate knowledge of AC to DC conversion.
- Demonstrate knowledge of DC to AC and DC to DC conversion.
- Demonstrate knowledge of AC to AC conversion.
- Describe knowledge of Power Control Applications.
- Demonstrate knowledge of small to medium scale renewable energy systems covering up to 100kW.
Level 7
115.719 Engineering Development Project (30 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG7101
Pre-requisite: 114.610 Design and 45 Level 6 credits
*This is a year-long course
The aim is to enable students to investigate an engineering problem; to propose, specify, design and develop a solution and where feasible, to construct and test a prototype.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Synthesise a solution for an engineering problem.
- Complete a project to a specified standard.
- Design, project manage and evaluate a concept/model/product.
- Use software application packages as an engineering tool, if required.
- Communicate effectively with customers, peers, technicians and engineers.
115.720 Professional Engineering Practice (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG7121
The aim is to enable students to critically apply knowledge and understanding of professional practice for engineers, professional engineering roles and activities and their interactions with society and the environment.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Appraise the professional role of engineers in society and industry.
- Evaluate and apply laws within the engineering practice area.
- Critique moral and ethical issues related to the environment in an engineering context.
- Critically explore issues relating to behavioural management in the practice of engineering.
- Critically apply knowledge of Māori cultural concepts and perspectives to those of the Crown and project management development.
523.703 Electrical Machine Dynamics (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG7011
Pre-requisite: 523.520 Electrical Machines
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of AC electrical machine dynamics and control and power transformers.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Apply transformer theory to three-phase power transformers.
- Analyse fault currents in a power transformer and failure modes of power transformers and basic differential protection.
- Evaluate the theory of machine dynamics to induction motor starting, speed control, braking, and protection.
- Interpret the parameters used in the selection of motors.
- Explain the operation of fractional horsepower motors.
- Compare recent developments in machine design, control, and application.
524.708 System and Control (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG7018
The aim is to enable students to predict and implement the desired behaviour of industrial control systems.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Model and evaluate the behaviour of simple industrial control systems.
- Apply common analytical and design methods for control systems.
- Evaluate the use of controller tuning methods to control systems, under varying load and set-point conditions.
525.706 Power Systems (15 credits)
Metro Group course code: MG7110
Pre-requisite: 523.519 Elements of Power Engineering
The aim is to enable students to gain an understanding of three-phase power generation and transmission systems with an emphasis on generation, transmission and distribution systems.
The learning outcomes on successful completion of this course are the student should be able to:
- Evaluate aspects of the New Zealand Power System.
- Evaluate the types of generation systems in use in New Zealand (large scale >1000kW – hydro, geothermal, thermal and co-generation)
- Evaluate key aspects of transmission and distribution systems MV and HV networks.
- Apply power transformers in an MV and HV environment.
- Apply earthing systems and switchgear to MV and HV networks.
- Develop and apply an SLD for a simple network.
Accreditation by Engineering New Zealand (EngNZ) confirms that the Bachelor of Engineering Technology meets national and international benchmarked standards for first degrees for professional engineers in South Africa, USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. EngNZ accreditation also provides recognition for professional membership and registration/licensing purposes in those countries.
Do you want to study a single course, without enrolling into the full programme?
Courses within some of our programmes may be offered as an individual Certificate of Proficiency (COP). Programme entry requirements and course fees apply. For more information, please speak to our friendly Ask Me! team.
Further training or study
Upon completion of this programme, students can continue towards:
Career opportunities
Technical sales, or field services engineering, production manager, or working in a role that supports professional engineering activities including development, design, building operation and/or maintenance of equipment, plants or structures. For potential salaries visit careers.govt.nz.
“My advice, just do it. The lecturers will do their utmost to help you succeed.
I'm just a kid from South Auckland who has always been portrayed as the guy with no future from everyone around me. I was even asked to drop out of high school as my teachers saw no academic hope in me but at the end of the day as long as you truly believe in yourself you can literally accomplish anything in this world. So, I highly recommend anyone who thinks they're ‘too dumb’ to be an engineer to just go for it, cancel out the noise and put in the work, put in hours and I promise you, your success will speak for itself.
I’m now a Graduate Design Estimator responsible for electrical distribution design, estimating, tendering, and pricing for customer-initiated projects. My role involves developing electrical design and liaising with multiple internal and external stakeholders to ensure the design are feasible. The typical projects I am regularly involved with include supplying power at proposed new subdivisions, distribution network upgrades, downgrades and new capacity projects on Vectors Electrical Distribution network in Auckland
I attended high school through to the end of year 12. At the start of year 13, I decided to leave school to study the Electrical Engineering Certificate (Level 3) at MIT. This helped me into the electrical industry which ultimately helped me secure an Electrical Engineering cadetship with Northpower – where I gained practical experience out on the field whilst completing my electrical engineering diploma, specialising in power. MIT was a great experience for me – both in the diploma I completed through the Northpower cadetship, as well as my certificate in electrical engineering.
The diverse culture makes MIT unique. No matter where you are from MIT makes you feel a part of the family. The lecturers go above and beyond to help you succeed. The knowledge they possess, and the industry experience is next to none. Carrying this real-life industry experience meant there was not a single query my lecturers did not have a solution for. With their help, relating the practical and theoretical side of the electrical industry was a lot easier than I initially expected. The practical assessments are almost like a real-life simulation of what's really out there, and the lecturers are always available to give you extra help when you need it outside of tuition hours, which was really the bread and butter for me. They really want to see their students succeed and go out of their way to help make that happen. Performing university level maths and physics almost seemed impossible as I had no prior high school/calculus experience but MIT made the whole learning experience achievable with the tremendous amount of support I felt from them.
The MIT qualification gave me the much-needed knowledge and experience to get myself in the door and start my journey as an upcoming engineer. Relating the practical side with the theoretical was a breeze with the support I received from MIT. I still use my skills and knowledge from MIT on a daily basis to perform my daily work tasks. These aren't just skills I've learnt to get a qualification but in fact skills I will use throughout my whole career.
I really want to set an example and inspire the upcoming generation and really show them that anything is possible. My ultimate goal is to be an experienced leader in the industry and head into more complex roles such as project management.
The electrical industry is a never-ending profession and the career progressions available to you are endless. The challenges you will face throughout your career will only help you grow as a person."
Ashnil Datt
MIT graduate
MIT TechPark is an award-winning centre of excellence for engineering and trades.
Having won a Learning Environments Australasia Award which recognises planning, design and construction of educational facilities throughout the region, our state-of-the-art campus is the home of our engineering and trades school. Coupling stunning architectural learning spaces with a myriad of high-tech facilities for our students, it's easy to see why it's been given such high praises.
Our TechPark building is situated on the corner of Lambie Drive and Manukau Station Road. It is across the road from the existing MIT Manukau campus, currently home to the schools of nursing, health and counselling, business, and digital technologies.
"I chose to study engineering because I am fascinated by electricity. When I see large factories, I wonder how some of their processes are automated, I wanted to learn and have the knowledge to do that. So for me, MIT was the best fit. I learnt the practical skills needed to get a job when I graduated.
My decision to study engineering has given me job security, I am an automation control specialist and the skills that I learned at MIT directly transferred to my role."
Shiraaz Yakub
MIT graduate
“Looking back on my experience at MIT, I really enjoyed the learning style. I did the lectures online and only had to come into class for one week a semester to do the practical parts. Overall, the atmosphere and the way that classes were taught was really enjoyable, and not too restrictive either. It just feels comfortable.
The choice to study engineering at MIT definitely secures your future. It narrows down on the things employers are looking for, like answers to practical questions that you might face on the job. Those are the things that show you are competent to employers.
My five-year plan is to become a senior engineer. It is a lifelong learning process, even now that I have the job, there is still a lot to learn. It is a continuous process. You have to keep going to gain more knowledge.
Having a qualification is really important if you want to land that dream job.”
Oscar Lee
MIT graduate
"I’m the first Māori female in my family to actually be doing engineering. I never thought of doing electricity when I was growing up, no one in my family is in the industry until now, so I'm sort of like the first of my family. My Mum is very proud when she sees me in my gear. She always comments to my sisters and my family “oh, she has such an awesome job”. I just love seeing how happy they are for me.
We gain so much knowledge while we're on our course studying. We have a small class so we're able to bounce off each other. I also love that in a small class I’m able to talk to my teacher one-on-one.
My long-term career goal is obviously to become an engineer. I reckon that’s an awesome opportunity."
You can read Alyssa's full story below:
Alyssa Paki
MIT graduate
Ready to put your plans in place?
Fees Free scheme: Free study for the first or final year of your Level 3 or above qualification may be available under the Government’s Fees Free study scheme. Visit feesfree.govt.nz for eligibility criteria and more information. Students must meet New Zealand residency criteria. Note: The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free scheme will replace it, starting from January 2025. Learners who have already used Fees Free in their first year of study won’t be able to access Fees Free under the new final-year policy. However, from now until the end of 2025, first-year Fees Free will operate under ‘first-year transition rules’. For more information, visit feesfree.govt.nz. All free study is subject to availability and funding confirmation. Proof of residency status required. Entry criteria, and some costs, may also apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact StudyLink for more information.
Information is correct as at 4 December 2024. Programme fees are based on a full-time student and may vary depending on your final selection of courses that make up your programme. Where the fees are indicative, the approximate fees quoted in this publication are based on the indicative 2025 fee structure. The indicative programme fees for 2025 do not include the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF). The CSSF is an additional levy to your 2025 programme or course fees. Further information about the CSSF can be found here www.manukau.ac.nz/cssf. Programmes stated as eligible for free study in 2025 are based on the 2024 fee structure and subject to funding confirmation for 2025. All fees are in New Zealand Dollars. You will be advised of the current fees at the time of enrolment. All courses and programmes will proceed subject to numbers and academic approval. Manukau Institute of Technology is part of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology. Te Pūkenga is accredited under the provisions of the Education and Training Act 2020. International students must study in class and will not be able to enrol for online study options.