About the programme
The Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil) is an NZQF Level 7 programme at Whitireia & WelTec that trains civil engineering technologists over three years of full-time study (360 credits). Its graduate attributes are aligned with the Sydney Accord, so the qualification is designed for careers in New Zealand and overseas. Part-time options are available.
The degree offers several specialist focus areas: water and wastewater management, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, highway engineering, asset management and project management. Throughout the programme students build professional engineering practice: applying engineering science, analysing complex problems, designing safe and sustainable solutions, using modern engineering tools and managing projects.
Ethics, teamwork in diverse groups and clear communication of engineering ideas across cultural and professional settings are also emphasised. In the final year students complete a comprehensive capstone civil engineering development project. The engineering tutors bring broad industry experience, and teaching takes place at the Petone campus in Wellington.
Holders of the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE) can complete the degree with just 1.5 years of additional study. A Summer Maths course covering algebra, trigonometry and calculus is offered to incoming students to build confidence. Graduates can continue to graduate diplomas or postgraduate study in engineering and related fields.
Entry requirements
- NZDE graduates can enter the degree and finish it with 1.5 years of additional study.
- A preparatory Summer Maths course (algebra, trigonometry, calculus) is available to enrolling students.
What you study
- Water and wastewater management
- Geotechnical engineering
- Structural engineering
- Highway Engineering
- Asset management
- Project management
- Capstone civil engineering development project
Careers after graduation
- Civil engineering roles in New Zealand and overseas
- Structural, geotechnical and highway engineering
- Water and wastewater engineering
- Asset and engineering project management
- Further study through graduate diplomas or postgraduate programmes
Post-study work visa
Equal to the length of the programme, 3 years maximum
Depends on the qualification, the length of study and other Immigration New Zealand requirements.
This description is based on the official programme page, checked on 09/09/2026. Ask an NIU adviser about fees and intake dates — the programme page on the Whitireia & WelTec website