What you will learn
This practical programme equips you with core skills in geotechnical, transportation, water, and structural engineering - preparing you to tackle real-world engineering challenges across New Zealand and beyond. A key feature is the Engineering project, where you apply your knowledge to a real engineering problem, readying you for industry demands.
Graduates gain a strong foundation to enter the New Zealand workforce or pursue further study, equipped with technical expertise, risk management, and teamwork skills. Applied learning in maths, physics, and engineering ensures you meet both national and global industry standards.
Develop a range of skills essential for the civil engineering field:
- Mathematics
- Engineering fundamentals
- Drawing
- Report production
- Engineering management
The civil strand focuses on:
- Land surveying
- Civil and structural drawing
- Hydraulics
- Highway engineering
- Geotechnical engineering
- Water systems
- Waste systems
- Structures
More detail about this qualification
Students will gain the skills and attributes required by Engineering New Zealand, which are bench marked internationally and accredited to the Dublin Accord.
Engineering tutors
Our Engineering tutors bring a wide range of industry experience and knowledge.
Career options
- Civil Engineering Technician
- Assistant Site Engineer
- Structural or Geotechnical Technician
- Surveying Assistant
- Project Assistant Coordinator
- Infrastructure Design Technician
- Building Inspector / Compliance Officer
- Civil Engineering Consultant Assistant
This qualification opens pathways degree-level study, including the Bachelor of Engineering Technology or Bachelor of Engineering and supports progression towards professional recognition such as Chartered Member (Engineering Technician) status, affiliate membership with Engineering New Zealand, or registration as a Registered Engineering Associate. Join us to build New Zealand’s infrastructure and take your engineering skills worldwide.
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 starting 20 January 2026 covering; algebraic expressions, factorising and linear equations; solving quadratic equations; logarithms and exponential functions; and differentiation and integration.
The course is delivered across three days each week with two days on campus and one self-directed. This opportunity is available to ākonga anticipating study in this, or a related programme in 2026. Our Enrolment Advisors will discuss joining this course with you when they contact you to further your application.
Whitireia and WelTec is a business division of the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST).
Last updated: 19/12/2025
