New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4)
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.
Domestic
Cromwell
Apply now
Email autotrades@op.ac.nz to get started.
About the programme
This qualification is ideal for learners who are starting, or already doing, an apprenticeship in the workplace.
During this programme, you will gain the industry-specific skills you need to work in a wide range of roles in the motor industry. You will learn how to safely and effectively diagnose and repair faults that are commonly encountered on light vehicles including cars, light commercial vehicles and light trailers.
You'll graduate as a Qualified Automotive Technician.
What You Study
Courses
| Course name | Level | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| Effective Workplace Maintenance and Safety | 4 | 15 |
| High-Risk Automotive Systems Safety | 4 | 10 |
| Engine Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Fuel and Emissions Systems | 4 | 10 |
| Driveline Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Transmission Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Climate Control | 4 | 15 |
| Vehicle Safety Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Body Control Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Wiring Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Braking Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Suspension Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Steering Systems | 4 | 15 |
| Wheels and Tyres | 4 | 15 |
| 200 |
Further study options
Graduates could progress to the New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 5) if they wished to continue studying or alternatively would be qualified to take on senior positions in an automotive workshop.
Workload
Your workload
You'll be expected to attend a weekly night class, additional one-week block courses, and to undertake some self-directed study in conjunction with your apprenticeship.
Entry
Entry requirements
- Level 3 Automotive Engineering qualification (such as the New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering Level 3) OR evidence of equivalent skills and knowledge.
- For the managed apprentice option, you must also be employed in a light automotive engineering workshop which is operating at a commercially-acceptable industry standard. The apprentice, employer and provider must enter into a training agreement.
- 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 isn't available for international students.
Fees
Domestic fees
Funding help
As this programme is part-time, students generally aren't eligible for student loans or allowances to cover additional costs or living costs. But, some help may be possible depending on your circumstances. Check the Studylink website for more information.
If you have any questions about student loans and allowances, please email our Studylink Advisor: Amanda.McAra@op.ac.nz
If you're eligible, you may be able to get further tuition fee cover through the Fees Free scheme. See Paying for your study section below.
Additional costs
Smart device (essential)
- Laptop or tablet which is WiFi capable, able to take photos and use Windows 365 applications
Safety equipment and clothing (essential)
- Approved safety footwear (i.e. steel caps)
- Overalls/safety clothes (maybe supplied by employer)
- Welding gloves - gauntlet (red or blue)
- Fitted safety glasses - clear (Scope Phat Boxa)
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.
Fees Free
The Government has announced that Fees Free for the first year of study or training will finish at the end of 2024. A final-year Fees Free policy will replace it, starting from 1 January 2025.
If you are a first-time tertiary learner in 2025, you may be able to get Fees Free for your final year of study or training. If you are eligible, you will need to apply for your entitlement through IRD from 2026 onwards.
For more information about the transition from first-year Fees Free or the final-year Fees Free policy, visit FeesFree.govt.nz.
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.
The international tuition fee does not include your Student Levy. This will be calculated when you enrol with us.
Click below to find out more about the Student Levy costs and services provided.
Application
How to apply
If you'd like to apply for this programme, please email EngTrades@op.ac.nz and we'll guide you through the application process.
Due to this being studied alongside an apprenticeship, the process is a little different to our standard programmes.
Need more info?
If you'd like to chat about this study option before applying, please email AutoTrades@op.ac.nz
Or, you can get in touch with the Programme Leader, Hamish - hamish.miller@op.ac.nz | 03 4796115
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, and you will graduate with a Te Pūkenga qualification.
