University of Auckland

What you'll study

The BE(Hons) programme delivers a mix of mathematics, engineering science, professional practice and major‑specific technical courses. In the early years you study foundational subjects such as calculus, linear algebra, mechanics, thermodynamics, materials, circuits and programming. As you progress you take streams of specialised coursework aligned with your chosen major and undertake laboratory, simulation and design classes.

The honours year emphasises advanced technical topics and an individual or group capstone project that can be research‑led or industry‑facing. Typical modules and activity include:

• Core engineering science: advanced mathematics, modelling, numerical methods and systems analysis.
• Major technical courses: for example structural analysis and geotechnics (civil); fluid dynamics and control systems (mechanical/mechatronics); power systems and signal processing (electrical); process engineering and reaction engineering (chemical); algorithms, software engineering and machine learning (software).
• Laboratory and design work: multi‑disciplinary labs, practical workshops, CAD and prototyping, embedded systems and instrumentation.
• Professional development: ethics, project management, communication and teamwork, health and safety.
• Honours project: an independent research or design project supervised by faculty, often undertaken in collaboration with industry or research groups.

Entry requirements

Admission to the BE(Hons) is competitive. Applicants need University Entrance and appropriate achievement in school mathematics (calculus/advanced mathematics) and usually physics; chemistry is required for some majors. Domestic applicants typically apply through the university's standard admission process, while international applicants follow the international entry path.

There are two common routes into the honours programme:

• Direct from secondary school: meeting the university's entrance qualifications and subject prerequisites for engineering, together with sufficient academic preparation in mathematics and science.
• Internal progression: students already enrolled in the University of Auckland engineering programme normally progress into the honours year after successful completion of prior years and meeting the faculty's academic performance requirements.

Specific prerequisites and the required level of academic achievement vary by major and applicant type; applicants should consult the University of Auckland Faculty of Engineering admissions pages for the exact subject and grade requirements relevant to their circumstances.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BE(Hons) enter a broad range of careers across industry, government and research. Typical roles include:

• Design and consulting engineer in civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, chemical and other engineering disciplines.
• Software engineer, systems developer or data engineer in technology firms and startups.
• Manufacturing and process engineer, or roles in energy and utilities companies.
• Research and development roles in industrial research organisations and university research groups, or continuation to postgraduate study (Master’s and PhD).
• Project management, technical sales, and technical advisory positions in multidisciplinary teams.

The degree is structured to meet the academic requirements for professional recognition by engineering bodies in New Zealand and internationally, which supports progression towards chartered or registered engineer status when combined with relevant work experience.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Auckland Faculty of Engineering is the largest engineering school in New Zealand and offers extensive laboratory, workshop and computing facilities to support hands‑on learning and applied research. Students benefit from active links with local and international industry partners, opportunities for internships and collaborative projects, and access to research groups working across infrastructure, energy, biomedical engineering, software and advanced manufacturing.

Studying in Auckland provides proximity to New Zealand’s largest commercial and industrial centre, enhancing options for industry placements and employment. The faculty’s teaching is informed by research and professional practice, preparing graduates with the technical knowledge and professional skills employers expect.