Programme overview
The MEngSt allows students with academic engineering backgrounds to expand their existing theoretical and practical skills. It is flexible – you can study either full-time or part-time, undertake either a primarily coursework or research-focused programme, and choose from sixteen distinct specialisations.
This programme ultimately requires an in-depth exploration of your chosen topic. You will demonstrate the high-quality critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are sought-after by employers worldwide. The MEngSt is also a foundation for further study.
Programme structure
Taught study
This programme is offered in two options, to suit the existing qualifications and experience of candidates.
- 120 points for candidates with a four-year bachelors (honours) degree
- 180 points for candidates with a three-year bachelor’s degree
Your programme structure will vary depending on your chosen specialisation. Some specialisations have specific requirements to meet, while others will offer some flexibility and a chance to select your courses tailored to your interests.
Research study
In addition to their taught pathways, the Master of Engineering Studies offers a research pathway in two specialisations:
- 120-points and 180-points Food Engineering
- 120-points and 180-points Sustainable Resource Recovery
You will complete a 90-point Research Portfolio alongside 30 points of taught courses for the 120-point research programme and 90 points of taught courses for the 180-point research programme.
Please see ‘Subjects” tab to view all our specialisation topics.
You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.
Subjects available in this programme
Civil specialisations that have been suspended under Master of Engineering studies are:
- Civil (On-campus)
- Environmental
- Transport
- Geotechnical
These are now available under the new Master of Civil Engineering programme.
2024 entry requirements
My highest qualification is from:
Programme requirements
Minimum programme requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
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Study optionTaught 120 pointsGrade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 4.0
Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)
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Study optionTaught 180 pointsGrade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 4.0
Bachelors degree in an approved subject
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Study optionResearch 120 pointsGrade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 4.0
Bachelor of Engineering (Hons)
Further programme requirements
Select your study option:
You must have completed a BE or BE(Hons) with a GPA of 4.0 in 120 points above Stage III, in the same as your intended specialisation.
You must have completed a bachelors degree in a field related to your chosen specialisation, such as architecture, physics or geology, with a GPA of 4.0.
You must have completed a BE or BE(Hons) with a GPA of 4.0 in 120 points above Stage III, in the same as your intended specialisation.
Other pathways to study
If you do not meet the GPA requirement, you can still gain entry by passing 60 points towards the Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering with a GPA of 4.0.
In exceptional circumstances, we will consider you for entry if you have completed a bachelors degree and have three years of work experience in engineering.
Programme requirements
Minimum programme requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
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Study optionTaught 120 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 4.0
Four-year engineering degree
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Study optionTaught 180 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 4.0
An undergraduate degree in engineering
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Study optionResearch 120 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 4.0
Four-year engineering degree
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QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
No bands less than 6.0
Further programme requirements
Select your study option:
You must have completed a four-year bachelors degree in engineering at a recognised university (or similar institution), in a field similar to your intended specialisation, that includes:
- Broad coverage in your first year of the foundational science topics that underpin engineering disciplines: mathematical modelling, chemical and materials science, electrical engineering theory, mechanics, programming, and engineering design.
- One year of postgraduate-level study
- A research project or dissertation comprising at least one-quarter of the final year.
You will need a GPE of 4.0.
You must have completed an undergraduate engineering degree at a recognised university (or similar institution), in a field similar to your intended specialisation.
You will need a GPE of 4.0.
You must have completed a four-year bachelors degree in engineering at a recognised university (or similar institution), in a field similar to your intended specialisation, that includes:
- Broad coverage in your first year of the foundational science topics that underpin engineering disciplines: mathematical modelling, chemical and materials science, electrical engineering theory, mechanics, programming, and engineering design.
- One year of postgraduate-level study
- A research project or dissertation comprising at least one-quarter of the final year.
You will need a GPE of 4.0.
Other pathways to study
If you do not meet the GPE requirement, you can still gain entry by passing 60 points towards the Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering with a GPA of 4.0.
In exceptional circumstances, we will consider you for entry if you have completed an undergraduate degree and have three years of work experience in engineering.
How much does a Master of Engineering Studies cost per year?
2025 fees
The domestic fee for the Light Metals Reduction Technology specialisation will exceed the estimated range due to its required courses.
- Domestic students
- NZ$11,334 – $12,127.20*
- International students
- NZ$50,810*
Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.
*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.
Find out about financial support information
Scholarships and awards
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.
Student loans and allowances
Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.
Cost of living
Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.
Key dates
Please note that the Master of Engineering Studies in Plastics is only available as a part-time programme.
1 December start available for 120-point research masters only, subject to supervisor availability.
Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
Application closing dates
- Semester One 2025
- 8 December 2024
- Semester Two 2025
- 4 July 2025
Start dates
Here are the start dates for the programme.
Semester One | Starts – 26 February |
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Ends – 24 June | |
Semester Two | Starts – 15 July |
Ends – 11 November |
Semester One | Starts – 3 March |
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Ends – 30 June | |
Semester Two | Starts – 21 July |
Ends – 17 November |
Other important dates
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
Where could this programme take you?
Your specialisation may determine your career path, though our graduates fit broad roles in planning, evaluating, designing, maintaining and operating engineering products and infrastructure. The MEngSt gives you opportunities to advance in ranking, become a lead engineer, or enjoy a career in research and development.
Jobs related to this programme
- Design engineer
- Process engineering manager
- Product engineer
- Project manager
- Senior engineer
- Software developer
After working in industry, Lavannya decided she wants to support her technical knowledge with management expertise.
Read moreStudent career planning service
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
Do you need help?
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- International
- +64 9 373 7513