New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Pre-Trade (Level 3)
Program Overview
The New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Pre-Trade (Level 3) at Otago Polytechnic prepares students for an electrical apprenticeship or careers in non-registration areas of the electrical industry. The program covers electrical fundamentals, workplace practices, safety, and practical skills, providing a foundation for further studies or entry-level employment.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This program is a New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Pre-Trade (Level 3) offered by Otago Polytechnic. It is designed to prepare students for an apprenticeship in the electrical industry. The program provides students with the knowledge and basic practical skills needed to enter the profession as a first-year apprentice. It also serves as a foundation for careers in non-registration areas of the electrical industry, such as electronic security, appliance servicing, and automation.
Outline:
The program is delivered over one year full-time and consists of the following modules:
- Electrical Workplace Practices: This module focuses on workplace safety, hazard identification, and management.
- DC Fundamentals: This module covers the theories and principles of Direct Current (DC) circuits and systems. Students will learn about formulas, language, ideas, and techniques used in electrical work, and they will gain practical experience applying these concepts.
- AC Fundamentals: This module explores the principles of magnetism and electromagnetism in Alternating Current (AC) theory.
- Cables, Fittings and Testing: This module covers the installation, testing, and diagnosis of electrical cords, cables, and equipment. Students will gain an understanding of various electrical fittings and their applications, as well as the legal requirements for safe testing.
- Supply Systems: This module focuses on the New Zealand electricity supply system and safe working practices in high-voltage environments. Students will learn about methods used to protect users and installers.
- Protection, Plans and Circuits: This module covers the design and construction of power-switching circuits, electrical drawing conventions, and the principles and installation requirements of lighting systems.
- Electrical Installations: This module develops students' knowledge of cable and wiring systems commonly used in the electrical trade, including in damp situations.
- Final Capstone Test: This module is a final examination that assesses students' knowledge of electrical theories and practices.
Teaching:
The program is taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, online learning, practical workshops, and teamwork. The program features experienced lecturers with strong industry connections.
Careers:
Upon completion of the program, students can enter an apprenticeship agreement with Otago Polytechnic and an employer to complete the Level 4 apprenticeship program, which leads to a New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory and Practice (Trade) (Level 4). This qualification allows graduates to work independently as electricians. Alternatively, students can pursue higher-level qualifications in other electrical fields.
Other:
The program is delivered on campus in Dunedin. The program has a strong focus on practical skills and hands-on learning, with access to excellent workshop facilities. The program also offers a free version called He Toki, which is specifically designed for Māori and Pasifika students aged 16-40.
Tuition Fees:
- Domestic fees First year Standard $6,168
- International fees Full tuition Standard $25,000
- Additional costs You’ll need to provide your own personal stationery, calculator and safety footwear. Your lecturer will let you know more about these requirements during the first week of your programme.
Domestic:
- Domestic full-time students can apply for a student loan through Studylink. This will be calculated when you enrol with us.
Otago Polytechnic
Overview:
Otago Polytechnic is a tertiary education institution located in New Zealand. It offers a wide range of qualifications and courses, from certificates to doctorates, across various fields. The institution emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with practical skills and experience relevant to their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Otago Polytechnic offers a variety of services to support students, including:
Accessibility and disability services:
Support for students with disabilities.Campus tours:
Guided tours of the institution's campuses.Accommodation assistance:
Guidance on finding accommodation options, including on-campus housing, flatting, homestay, and renting.Career advice:
Support in exploring career options and developing career plans.Fees and funding information:
Information on tuition fees and available funding options, including scholarships and government schemes.International student support:
Specific services and resources for international students, including information on English language requirements, entry requirements, and international partnerships.Māori and Pasifika culture and support:
Resources and support for Māori and Pasifika students.Student support services:
A range of services to assist students with their academic and personal well-being.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Otago Polytechnic provides a welcoming and inclusive learning environment with a focus on student support. Students can expect:
Friendly and inclusive atmosphere:
A supportive and welcoming community.Modern facilities:
Access to state-of-the-art equipment and technology.Real-world experiences:
Opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, projects, and industry placements.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats, including on-campus, online, and blended learning.Sustainability initiatives:
A commitment to environmental sustainability.Rainbow Tick Certification:
A commitment to creating an inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students and staff.Key Reasons to Study There:
Educational excellence:
High-quality teaching and a strong focus on student success.Hands-on learning:
Practical, skills-based learning that prepares students for the workforce.Personal growth and support:
A supportive environment with a range of services to assist students.Flexible study options:
A variety of learning formats to suit individual needs and preferences.Free fees and scholarships:
Opportunities to reduce or eliminate tuition costs.Academic Programs:
Otago Polytechnic offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Adventure & Tourism:
Programs in avalanche safety, bike mechanics, hospitality, outdoor education, snowsports, and tourism.Agriculture & Animal Healthcare:
Programs in animal care, avian wildlife, beekeeping, high-country farming, and veterinary nursing.Art:
Programs in ceramics, digital media and photography, and visual arts.Business:
Programs in accounting, administration, applied management, event management, human resources, professional development, and sales & marketing.Community Services:
Programs in addiction, disability support, Hauora Māori, mental health, and social services.Construction:
Programs in architecture, carpentry, construction management, and stonemasonry.Design:
Programs in architecture, communication design, digital media, fashion design, game design and development, and product design.Education & Culture:
Programs in English language, outdoor education, teaching, and Te Reo & Tikanga.Engineering:
Programs in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.Food & Hospitality:
Programs in brewing, cooking, culinary arts, and hospitality.Hair & Beauty:
Programs in beauty therapy and hairdressing.Health:
Programs in health pathways, massage therapy, mental health, midwifery, nursing, and occupational therapy.Horticulture:
Programs in amenity horticulture, arboriculture, fruit production, gardening, groundskeeping, nursery, and winemaking.Information Technology:
Programs in computing, game development, and information technology.Sport:
Programs in groundskeeping, gym & personal training, massage therapy, outdoor education, sport science, and snowsports.Trades & Pre-trades:
Programs in automotive, bike mechanics, carpentry, electrical trades, mechanical engineering, plumbing, and transport.Other:
Entry Requirements:
- General Admission:
- Must be at least 16 years old on the day the program starts (or provide a completed Early Release Exemption Form).
- Must meet or exceed the following academic requirements:
- NCEA Level 1 with Mathematics and English, or
- Have equivalent knowledge and skills.
- Special Admission:
- Must be 20 years old or younger on the day the program starts.
- Must provide sufficient evidence of aptitude or appropriate work or other life experience to indicate they can successfully complete the program.
- Discretionary Admission:
- Available in exceptional cases for those who do not meet the general admission requirements and haven't reached the age of 20 on the first day of the program.
- Admission is based on whether the applicant is prepared for study at the required level.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Domestic Applicants:
- Must provide evidence of English Language proficiency equivalent to NCEA Level 1 English if English, Māori, or New Zealand Sign is not their first language.
- If they cannot provide evidence of NCEA Level 1 English, they must provide evidence using an equivalent described in the NZQA Rules.
- International Applicants:
- Must provide evidence of the necessary English language proficiency required for the program using an equivalent described in the NZQA Rules.
- General or Academic score of 5 with no band score lower than 5.
