QUALIFICATION
Master’s Degree (NZQA Level 9, 120 or 180 points)
Duration
1 year
Location
Hamilton Campus
Fees
NZD 50,445 - 75,668
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5
Next Intake
March & July
Programme Overview
The Master of Engineering Practice (MEngPrac) at The University of Waikato is an industry-aligned NZQA Level 9 qualification designed in response to employer demand for work-ready, technically proficient engineers. The program integrates advanced engineering science with executive business management principles and culminates in an applied capstone project focused on real-world technological challenges.
Note: Graduates of this 120 or 180-point Level 9 master's program qualify international students to apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Programme Structure & Core Formats
The qualification offers flexible structural models depending on previous qualifications and work background:
- Advanced 120-Point Track (1 Year): Comprises advanced taught technical electives, management coursework, and a core industrial R&D research project.
- Standard 180-Point Track (1 to 1.5 Years): Combines core engineering management modules, extended subject specialization electives, and an applied R&D capstone project.
What You'll Study
Students select an endorsement area to focus their advanced technical coursework and capstone research:
- Civil Engineering
- Electronics Engineering
- Materials and Processing
- Mechanical Engineering
Core & Elective Course Modules:
- EXMBM Series / ENGEN508: Engineering Practice & Executive Management
- ENGEN583 / ENGEN585: Directed Study & Professional Engineering Practice
- Specialised Technical Electives: Advanced 500-level engineering science modules in chosen subject
- ENGEN592 / ENGEN593: Capstone Research & Industrial Development Project (60 points)
Why Choose This Programme?
- Work-Ready Focus: Blends advanced technical specialization with project leadership, risk management, and commercialization skills.
- Industrial Capstone Project: Solve an authentic engineering problem in collaboration with New Zealand industrial partners or research laboratories.
- Accessible Academic Support: Taught in smaller class settings within the Te Kura Mata-Ao School of Engineering, featuring direct access to leading faculty and specialized labs.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Civil & Infrastructure | Civil Engineer, Structural Specialist, Infrastructure Project Manager |
| Electronics & Mechatronics | Electronics Engineer, Embedded Systems Developer, Automation Lead |
| Materials & Manufacturing | Materials Engineer, Process Optimization Engineer, Mechanical Design Engineer |
Entry Requirements
- Academic Minimums: Recognized 4-year undergraduate degree in a related engineering discipline with a B grade average across final-year papers.
- Prerequisites: Sound baseline background in engineering science and mathematics in the intended specialist subject area.
- Language Requirement: Academic IELTS 6.5 (no band < 6.0), PTE 56–58, or TOEFL iBT 90.
