New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical)

Program Overview

The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical) is a 2-year program that equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to become qualified Engineering Technicians in electrical engineering areas. The program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning through lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and industry projects. Graduates can pursue careers in various industries, including electrical power generation, distribution, and transmission, with a median salary range of NZ$55,000 to $70,000 per year.

Program Outline

New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Electrical)

Degree Overview:

• Overview: This 2-year full-time program equips graduates with the knowledge and skills required to become qualified Engineering Technicians in various electrical engineering areas.
• Objectives:
• Equip graduates with industry-recognized skills required for technician roles.
• Enable graduates to start their careers as Engineering Technicians in the electrical and power industries.
• Description: The program is designed to be practical and hands-on, providing students with a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Students will learn through a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, tutorials, laboratory work, and industry projects.

Outline:

• Program Content: The program covers a wide range of topics related to electrical engineering, including:
• Electrical principles
• Power engineering
• Electronic principles
• Electrical machines
• Introduction to networks
• Engineering management
• Engineering project
• Power systems
• Protection
• Sustainable energy and power electronics
• Structure: The program consists of 240 credits, divided into 16 courses.
Each course is typically 15 credits. Semester 1 is 17 weeks, and semester 2 is 18 weeks to accommodate the NZDB external exam.
• Modules:
• Engineering Mathematics 1 (15 Credits): Develops mathematical skills for solving engineering problems.
• Technical Literacy (15 Credits): Enhances technical research, communication, and drawing skills.
• Electrical Principles (15 Credits): Explores fundamental electrical principles like DC circuit theory, electromagnetism, and AC circuit theory.
• Electrical and Electronic Applications (15 Credits): Applies theoretical knowledge to understand electronic principles like circuit diagrams, lighting, and PCB layout.
• Power Engineering (15 Credits): Focuses on three-phase circuit theory applied to power engineering and earthing systems.
• PLC Programming 1 (15 Credits): Introduces PLC programming for solving industrial problems.
• Electronic Principles (15 Credits): Delves into general electronics and building blocks, including diodes, operational amplifiers, and electronic meters.
• Electrical Machines (15 Credits): Studies single and three-phase electrical machines.
• Introduction to Networks (15 Credits): Explores network architecture, functions, components, and models, enabling students to build simple LANs.
• Engineering Management (15 Credits): Covers project management techniques, contract law, professionalism, ethics, and sustainability.
• Engineering Project (15 Credits): Applies knowledge and problem-solving skills to complete an engineering project relevant to the electrical discipline.
• Power Systems 1 (15 Credits): Examines three-phase power systems with an emphasis on generation, distribution, and transmission systems.
• PLC Programming 2 (15 Credits): Develops advanced knowledge of PLC systems, applications, and programming methods.
• Protection (15 Credits): Learns about electrical power system fault protection concepts for MV and HV systems.
• Sustainable Energy and Power Electronics (15 Credits): Explores concepts and applications of power electronics, including converter types and small-scale renewable energy systems.

Assessment:

• Assessments: The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Assignments
• Tests
• Practical examinations
• Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
• Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to solve practical problems
• Communication and presentation skills

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Laboratory work
• Industry projects
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced and qualified staff with industry experience and expertise.
• The program currently undergoes a review to ensure consistency and alignment with industry needs.
• Unique Approach: The program emphasizes a hands-on, practical approach to learning.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Upon program completion, graduates can pursue various career options, including:
• Engineering Technician
• Production Manager
• Workshop Supervisor
• Product Design and Developer
• Business Owner
• Electrical & Electronic Designer
• Industrial Automation & Control Engineer
• Power System Designer
• Opportunities: The program prepares graduates for employment in various industries, including:
• Electrical power generation
• Distribution and transmission
• Industrial automation and control
• Manufacturing
• Salaries: The salary for Engineering Technicians can vary depending on experience, location, and industry.
According to careers.govt.nz, the median salary is between NZ$55,000 and $70,000 per year, with experienced technicians earning up to $90,000.

Other:

• The program is recognized by the Dublin Accord, allowing graduates to work as Engineering Technicians in various countries, including Australia, Canada, Ireland, Korea, New Zealand, South Africa, UK, and the USA.
• The NZ Diploma in Engineering is also a pathway to further studies at the bachelor's level in Engineering or Engineering Technology.
• As part of UCOL Te Pūkenga, the program is committed to providing the best learning outcome for students.
• Students can apply for Emerging Professional membership with Engineering New Zealand (ENZ) and gain recognition for their diploma qualification in other Dublin Accord countries.
• Students can opt for part-time or paper-based study options.
• The UCOL Diploma in Electrical Engineering will be portable, consistent, and closely aligned with industry needs upon completion of the review process.