Entry into BE(Hons)
Studying engineering is fascinating and highly rewarding but it is also demanding. Before you enter your first-year in engineering, we check that you have the required background in mathematics and physics to succeed.
Entry tracks
Depending on your learning background, you have two possible entry tracks into the engineering first-year.
Direct entry track
This track proceeds directly with the first-year of engineering without additional preparation.
Minimum requirements:
- University Entrance
- 16 credits in Mathematics with Calculus in NCEA at Level 3 (or equivalent), preferably including:
- Apply the algebra of complex numbers in solving problems (91577)
- Apply integration methods in solving problems (91579)
- 14 credits in Physics in NCEA at Level 3 (or equivalent), preferably including:
- Demonstrate understanding of mechanical systems (91524)
- Demonstrate understanding of electrical systems (91526)
- 16 credits in Chemistry in NCEA at Level 3 (or equivalent) if you are interested in Chemical & Biological, Environmental, or Materials and Process Engineering
Is this track right for you?
We recommend this track to students who have achieved at least Merits in their internal NCEA standards in Calculus and Physics and expect to achieve at least Merits in each of the specified external NCEA standards above.
Jump Start entry track
This track starts with the Jump Start paper ENGEN100 commencing in January, around the time of the national release of external NCEA results. The main goal of this paper is to fill-in knowledge gaps and fully prepare students to enter the BE(Hons) first-year in March (A trimester) of the same year.
Minimum requirements:
- 14 credits at Level 2 in NCEA Mathematics or Physics, or a minimum of 8 credits at Level 3 in NCEA across Mathematics and/or Physics
Is this track right for you?
We recommend all prospective students to join the Engineering Jump Start programme. Here's why:
- Score at least 65% (B-) in the Jump Start paper to guarantee your entry into the BE(Hons) first-year with University Entrance, regardless of your external NCEA results
- Fill-in gaps in your understanding of critical mathematics and physic concepts and applications
- Join at no additional cost if you qualify for the fees-free scheme
- Make new friends and become familiar with the university learning environment ahead of starting a BE(Hons)
What papers should you take as prerequisites for BE(Hons) entry?
Guaranteed entry into the BE(Hons) first-year requires at least a B- in the specified prerequisite papers.
H Trimester
(Jan.-Feb.)
- Compulsory
Add a business edge
BE(Hons) students at Waikato have the unique option to complete a second qualification - Diploma in Engineering Management (DipEM) (formerly, Engineering Professional Practice) - all within four years. This unique business qualification, delivered in conjunction 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.
The DipEM includes two 500 level management papers normally focused on leadership and strategic management, two work placement papers and two papers cross-credited from the BE(Hons) degree. We highly recommend all our students join the BE(Hons) + DipEngMgt programme because of the immense value it can add to them personally and professionally.
Fast Track Graduate Programme
If you have a relevant degree, you may be able to complete a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) over two years through our new Fast Track graduate programme. This new accelerated programme has been specially designed for skilled workers whose jobs may have been affected by COVID-19.
Applying to study engineering
Once you have identified the best entry track for you, start your application process by creating a MyWaikato account and selecting the BE(Hons) as your qualification.