Automotive

Want a career in the automotive industry? Gain the skills you need to become an automotive engineer, repair technician, workshop foreman, or self-employed mechanic.

Not sure where to start?

EXPLORE THE PATHWAY

Automotive apprenticeships
Pathways for Qualified Mechanic

Learn from automotive industry professionals and gain essential skills with an automotive apprenticeship pathway brought to you by Otago Polytechnic. This apprenticeship option allows you to work in the automotive industry as an employee under supervision - which means you can earn while you learn! The apprenticeship addresses industry standards and provides students with the full support of regional coordinators.

HOW IT WORKS

PROGRAMMES

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)

Dunedin
One year full-time
Level 3
Starts February
Apply by early December

Learn how to service general automotive systems. This qualification is designed for people who are beginning a career in the industry.

New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Electrical Engineering (Level 4)

Dunedin or Central Otago
Three and a half years part-time
Level 4
Starts anytime
Apply anytime - email autotrades@op.ac.nz

Ideal for learners who are starting, or already doing, an apprenticeship in the workplace, this programme provides is a great option for those wishing to pursue a career as an Automotive Electrical Engineer. Plus, study in 2022 for this programme is free for domestic students due to the Government's Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) (although you'll need to pay for any additional course-related and living costs). Graduates will be able to take on senior positions in an automotive workshop. Please note: this programme is not available to international students.

New Zealand Certificate in Heavy Automotive Engineering (Level 4) (Road Transport) or (Plant and Equipment)

Dunedin
Three and a half years part-time
Level 4
Starts - flexible start
Apply anytime - email autotrades@op.ac.nz

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. Plus, study in 2022 for this programme is free for domestic students due to the Government's Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) (although you'll need to pay for any additional course-related and living costs). Graduate as a Qualified Automotive Technician with the opportunity to pursue senior positions in a heavy automotive workshop.

New Zealand Certificate in Light Automotive Engineering (Level 4)

Dunedin or Central Otago
Two years part-time
Level 4
Starts - flexible start
Apply anytime - email autotrades@op.ac.nz

This qualification is ideal for learners who are starting, or already doing, an apprenticeship in the workplace. Plus, study in 2022 for this programme is free for domestic students due to the Government's Targeted Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF) (although you'll need to pay for any additional course-related and living costs). Gain the industry-specific skills you need to work in a wide range of roles in the motor industry and graduate as a Qualified Automotive Technician. Please note: this programme is not available to international students.

New Zealand Certificate in Electric Vehicle Automotive Engineering (Level 5)

Dunedin or online with block courses
One year part-time
Level 5
Starts Jan, May, August or Oct
Apply now

Charge up your knowledge of Electric Vehicles (EV) with this advanced automotive technician programme. You'll gain the skills and knowledge to diagnose and repair faults in battery electric and hybrid electric vehicles and machines.