New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

This qualification is designed for people who are wanting to begin a career in the automotive industry. You will gain the generic and industry-specific skills you need to work in a range of roles in automotive engineering. Upon successful completion, you will graduate as a work-ready, highly competent individual, all set to start your apprenticeship.

About the programme

Learn how to service general automotive systems.

This qualification is designed for people who are beginning a career in the industry. You will gain the generic and industry-specific skills you need to work in a range of roles in the automotive industry. Upon successful completion, you will graduate as a work-ready, highly competent individual who will be able to hit the ground running from day one. 

Alternatively, you can choose to engage in one of our managed apprenticeship programmes at Level 4 (New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering, New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering, or New Zealand Certificate in Heavy Automotive).  

16-24 years old?

If you are aged 16-24 and feel that school didn’t work out for you, you may be able to study this programme via our Youth Guarantee Scheme and pay no fees. This also applies if you are going to be 15 years old when this programme starts and you have an early exemption from school. See more info in the Fees section below.

Courses

Learn how to carry out basic automotive engine servicing, service a four-stroke spark-ignition engine, carry out basic automotive underbody service procedures and repair light vehicle hydraulic braking systems. Gain the fundamental electrical knowledge and servicing skills required for working with ignition systems, automotive electrical circuits, electronic fuel injection systems, and automotive wiring and lighting systems and discover the engineering and welding skills required for working in the automotive industry. 

Course Title Level OP Credit
Automotive Workshop Safety 3 10
Basic Workshop Engineering Tasks, Tools and Equipment 3 15
Engines 3 15
Engine Systems 3 10
Driveline Systems 3 10
Electrical and Electronic 3 15
Starting and Charging Systems 3 10
Electronic Controls, High Voltage Systems and HVAC 3 10
Brake Systems 3 10
Steering and Suspension Systems 3 15
    120

Programme specific risks

In the Otago Polytechnic automotive engineering workshop and during your work experience, there is the risk of injury through lifting, welding, welding flashes, the use of tools, motor vehicles, fixed and portable motors, heavy equipment, and any other equipment relevant to the automotive industry. There is also the hazard posed by fumes from welding and chemicals which you may be allergic to and the possibility of Occupational Overuse Syndrome through computer use.

We are part of Te Pūkenga

When you apply to study with Otago Polytechnic, you will be enrolled with Te Pūkenga, the new national network of vocational and applied education in Aotearoa New Zealand. You will learn in the same way, in the same place, and with the same people, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification.

Disclaimer

While every effort is made to ensure that this sheet is accurate, Otago Polytechnic reserves the right to amend, alter or withdraw any of the contained information. The fees shown in this document are indicative only. Both domestic and international fees are subject to change and are dependent on the development and implementation of Government policies. Please note that additional fees may from time to time be required for external examination, NZQA fees and/or additional material fees.