New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory and Practice (Trade) (Level 4)
Gain the skills and knowledge to work independently as an Electrician. Studied in conjunction with an apprenticeship, this programme is an ideal way to earn as you learn. It includes the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) electrical theory and regulations exams which is required for registration as an electrician. Upon successful completion of this qualification, you can apply to the EWRB for registration.
Domestic
July
About the programme
Gain the skills and knowledge you need to work independently as a commercially competent electrician.
This programme is studied in conjunction with an apprenticeship so is ideal for people who are training in the workplace and want to earn while they learn.
It includes the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB) electrical theory and regulations exams which is required for registration as an electrician. Upon successful completion of this programme, you will be able to apply to the EWRB for registration.
Once registered and licenced, you will be able to supervise other electrical workers up to and including your licence class. Roles may include an Electricity Supply Electrician, Domestic/Commercial Electrician, Industrial Electrician or Appliance Service person.
This Level 4 qualification also provides a pathway into the Electrical strand of our New Zealand Diploma in Engineering if you wish to advance your training and expand your employment options. Further study could lead to employment in management roles and in electrical engineering.
By studying this programme at Otago Polytechnic in conjunction with your apprenticeship, you will gain access to our cutting-edge workshop and training facilities. In addition, you will be trained by lecturers who are Registered Electricians with significant industry experience as well as on-the-job learning.
Workload
Your workload
You will be expected to attend a weekly, three-hour hour night class during term time. There will also be an additional two-week block courses per year during your apprenticeship.
Additional self-directed study hours (of up to nine hours per week) may be required to complete this qualification.
Entry
Entry requirements
Those under 20
- NCEA Level 2 in Maths, English, and Physics or General Science, or New Zealand Certificate in Electrical Engineering Theory (Level 3), or equivalent.
- Special entry: In exceptional circumstances, an applicant under the age of 20 who does not meet the academic entry requirements may be granted entry to the programme where they supply evidence of their ability to succeed on the programme.
Those 20 and over
- No academic entry requirements.
Alternative requirements
Skills for tertiary study (including literacy and numeracy) may be acquired through study, work and/or life experience. Students who can demonstrate these skills may be approved for alternative entry. Literacy and numeracy assessments are available.
Additional requirements
To successfully complete this programme, you must be employed in the electrical industry at the time of study. You must enter a three-way training agreement between yourself, your employer and Otago Polytechnic.
English Language requirements
- If English is not your first language, you must provide:
- New Zealand University Entrance OR
- Overall Academic IELTS 5.5 with no individual band score lower than 5.0 (achieved in one test completed in the last two years), OR
- Acceptable alternative evidence of the required IELTS (see here for NZQA proficiency table and here for list of recognised proficiency tests).
If you need to improve your English Language skills, we offer a wide range of English programmes.
Please note: This programme is not available to international students.
Want your existing skills recognised?
If you have extensive knowledge and skills due to practical experience in this area, please ask us about our recognition of prior learning process. You may have already gained credits towards this qualification and could achieve it in a shorter timeframe. Please email info@op.ac.nz or call 0800 762 786.
Fees
Domestic fees
Student Services Fee
For most students, your tuition fee shown above includes a Student Services Fee – also known as the Student Levy. This compulsory fee covers your access to the student services we offer. This cost is tailored depending on how you're studying.
Tuition fees
The tuition fees shown above are approximate only. There may be a slight fee increase per year once Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) rules and guidelines are applied. These fees also don’t include additional costs or living costs.
Studylink
Domestic full-time students can apply for a student loan through Studylink. Some support may be available for domestic part-time students. Apply at the same time as you apply for your course (you can withdraw your application anytime).
Application
How to apply
Please email AlliedTrades@op.ac.nz to find out how to apply.
As this programme is studied alongside an apprenticeship, it doesn't follow our standard application process.
A change for 2023 enrolments
When you apply to study with Otago Polytechnic in 2023, 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. The great news is that this enables us to share skills and knowledge across a network of passionate education providers, to better help you succeed. Enrolling in programmes that start in 2023, means that 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.
