Course Overview
With the managed apprenticeship option, you’ll benefit from our full support for both you and your employer while you train at level 3, through to level 4, and on to being fully qualified.
You’ll come out with well-developed diagnosis and repair skills as well as customer service and workshop management skills, with plenty of hands-on practice during this practical automotive course.
Starting with the basics, you’ll develop a full range of skills to service and repair all makes and models. We’ll show you how to disassemble, measure and reassemble an engine. You’ll also service engine transmission and driveline systems, and brake, steering and suspension systems. From there you’ll learn how to check and perform minor repairs on electrical systems, electronic control systems, and learn about high voltage safety and climate control systems.
With task based learning this course is designed to achieve results in your workplace. We tailor your specific day release for what you can’t get at work as well as provide night classes and conduct monthly workplace visits with you and your supervisor. Staffed by highly skilled and qualified managed apprenticeship coordinators we know how to create confident, capable automotive engineers.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
| Locations | Wider BOP/Other |
|---|---|
| Next intake | Dec 2024 View more details |
| Study options |
2 years part-time Note you can study this course anywhere in the region. |
| Total credits | 120 |
| StudyLink assistance | Available |
| Indicative Fees | $2,984 for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career opportunities
Graduates will be prepared for employment in entry level positions in the automotive industry.
Topics you'll cover
You'll cover all the fundamental principles of automotive engineering, with integrated and project based training supported by highly skilled and qualified teachers.
- Automotive Workshop Safety
- Basic Workshop Engineering Tasks, Tools and Equipment
- Engines
- Engine Systems
- Driveline Systems
- Electrical and Electronic
- Starting and Charging Systems
- Electronic Controls, High Voltage Systems and HVAC
- Brake Systems
- Steering and Suspension Systems
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | $2,984 for domestic students |
|---|---|
| Course related costs | Approximately $500 for a google chromebook. |
2025 Indicative Fees - $3,163
Your final fee may vary if:
- you have a choice of topics/papers to study
- the qualification excludes GST
- there are extra course materials to purchase
- student levies apply
We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.
* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Help with fees
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.
- A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
- A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.
Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz
Scholarships
Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.
Course Entry Information
Entry criteria
You must:
- have 10 credits in each of literacy (reading and writing) and numeracy at NCEA Level 1, OR
- be able to demonstrate suitable knowledge and skills.
- be working in the automotive industry
A Class 1 full drivers licence is recommended, however a Restricted or Learners Licence is acceptable. In circumstances where all other entry criteria are met, applicants without a licence will be considered. Students without a licence will be advised to obtain one during the course.
Special Admission
If you do not meet the academic requirements you may be given special admission if Toi Ohomai staff are satisfied you are capable of successfully completing the requirements.
Special admission may also apply for applicants over 20 years.
Information Session
You’ll be invited to an information meeting. This is your opportunity to find out more about the course content and to make sure you're on the most appropriate course for your career aspirations and current level of experience.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
For courses at levels 1-3, domestic and international students will be required to:
Provide evidence of ability to complete academic requirements.
English language requirements
Level 3 certificate IELTS General or Academic score of 5 with no band score lower than 5 or completed New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 3 with an endorsement of either General, Workplace or Academic, or meets a relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined by NZQA.
Return to course overview
Course Locations and Intake Information
| Location | Campus | Start Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 2 Dec 2024 | |
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 10 Feb 2025 | |
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 14 Apr 2025 | |
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 9 Jun 2025 | |
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 25 Aug 2025 | |
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 13 Oct 2025 | |
| Wider BOP/Other | --- | 17 Nov 2025 |
Study options
- 2 years part-time
- Note you can study this course anywhere in the region.
