Automotive Engineering

Study Automotive Engineering and learn this trade to repair, maintain, modify and sell vehicles and vehicle parts. Gain the skills you need to become a mechanic, automotive engineer, repair technician or workshop foreman with our hands-on programmes and apprenticeship options.

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Working on real jobs at our on-campus automotive workshop facility, you will gain the practical experience you need to succeed in automotive engineering. If you’re keen to get into this industry, you can get your career rolling with our pre-trade New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3). If you are already working in the industry, you can choose from one of our level 4 and 5 apprenticeship programmes.

The biggest point of difference at Otago Polytechnic is our real-world approach to learning. Working for clients on actual jobs as part of your studies will give you the skills to seamlessly transition to employment or promotion within the automotive industry.

Automotive Engineering qualifications

Engineering

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.

Duration

1 Year Full-time

Delivery

On campus

Location

Dunedin

Career potential

Mechanic Apprentice

Engineering

This qualification is ideal for learners who are starting, or already doing, an apprenticeship in the workplace. During this programme, you will learn how to safely and effectively diagnose and repair electrical and electronics faults in a range of vehicles.

Duration

4 Years Part-time

Delivery

Studied alongside an apprenticeship

Location

Dunedin, Cromwell

Career potential

Automotive Electrical Engineer

Engineering

Continue developing your career in the automotive industry by learning how to safely and effectively diagnose and repair faults that are commonly encountered on heavy vehicles. This programme is ideal for learners who are starting, or already doing, an apprenticeship in the workplace.

Duration

4 Years Part-time

Delivery

Studied alongside an apprenticeship

Location

Dunedin

Career potential

Qualified Automotive Technician specialising in heavy vehicles

Engineering

Learn how to safely and effectively diagnose and repair faults that are commonly found on light vehicles including cars, light commercial vehicles and light trailers. This qualification is ideal for learners who are starting, or already doing, an apprenticeship in the workplace.

Duration

2 Years Part-time

Delivery

Studied alongside an apprenticeship

Location

Dunedin, Cromwell

Career potential

Qualified Automotive Technician

Engineering, Trades and Pre-trades

This programme is designed for experienced automotive engineering technicians who want to work in an advanced technical role, specialising in electric vehicles. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to diagnose and repair faults in electric and hybrid vehicles and machines.

Duration

1 Year Part-time

Delivery

On campus, Online with block course(s)

Location

Dunedin, Online

Career potential

Qualified Automotive Technician

Short courses

Develop new skills, refresh familiar ones, or simply enjoy doing what you love!

Short courses

Contact us

If you’re not sure what to study and would like some guidance, we’re here to help. Feel free to chat to us directly about any questions you may have.