Why Study Engineering at Waikato?
Professional engineering at Waikato is one of New Zealand’s best kept secrets, but we don't want to keep it that way. Here are the key reasons you should look no further than studying engineering with us.
Choose from a full range of accredited BE(Hons) programmes
We offer world-class Bachelor of Engineering with Honours, BE(Hons), programmes in the pillar engineering disciplines as well as critical emerging and future-focused areas. Our programmes are proudly supported by local industry and accredited by Engineering New Zealand based on the international Washington Accord.
BE(Hons) programmes
Study where jobs exist in a fast growing region
Located in the heart of the industrial growth region of the Central North Island, we pride ourselves on supporting our students to be work-ready by the time they graduate. Every BE(hons) student at Waikato completes 800 hours of paid work placement throughout their degrees and many end up with a permanent job offer as a result of this. They are supported every step of the way by our dedicated Work Integrated Learning team.
Engineering work placements
Gain a business edge
At Waikato you have the option to complete a dual qualification - BE(Hons) and Diploma in Engineering Management - all within four years. This unique business qualification, delivered with the Waikato Management School, equips students with critical management skills to complement their technical skills. This dual offering is the first and only of its kind in New Zealand and puts our graduates in great stead for rapid progression into leadership positions in industry.
Dual qualification in Engineering & Management
Jump Start your way into first-year Engineering
Our Engineering Jump Start programme comprises two papers run over Summer covering entry-level physics and maths for the BE(Hons). We encourage all prospective students to join Jump Start, especially those who need a refresher or might fall short of the BE(Hons) entry requirements.
Engineering Jump Start
Earn scholarships and awards
We offer numerous scholarships and awards that can help you get set-up for your fees-free first year and support you in your subsequent years of study. Some awards are standards-based with no cap to the number of awards, meaning every student that demonstrates excellence in their studies will be rewarded, not just the top few.
Scholarships and awards
Be part of a world-class Engineering Design Show
You will undertake challenge-inspired design projects in all four years of your degree. In October each year, you will have the opportunity to showcase your creative talents and innovative designs in front of potential employers in what can only be described as one of the best undergraduate design shows in the Southern Hemisphere.
Waikato Engineering Design Show
Learn from leading innovators, engineers and professors
We have a teaching staff comprising Fellows and Members of Engineering New Zealand, Chartered Engineers, and disruptive “can-do” researchers and innovators. Many of us have studied or taught at top-tier universities in the United Kingdom, USA and Europe. At Waikato, we strive to value and elevate each and every student, mentoring them to aim high and become leaders in their chosen engineering discipline.
Meet our academic staff
Start the BE(Hons) before locking in your engineering programme
At Waikato, you can decide on your preferred engineering programme after completing your first-trimester of studies. During your first year, you learn a wide range of engineering fundamentals, allowing you to experience a little taste of each discipline and enabling you to make an informed decision on your engineering degree and career.
Engineering first-year
Start your studies in Tauranga
You can undertake your first year of study in Tauranga where class sizes are smaller and places are limited. If you are from Tauranga, studying in your home city can help you minimise your student loan. If you are from Hamilton, you may want to "get away" for a year to experience life away from home. Our award-winning Tauranga campus is located in the heart of the Tauranga CBD and features new, state-of-the-art engineering laboratories.
Explore engineering in Tauranga