Why choose engineering?

Engineers make things happen. Most of today’s products and services have an engineering component, enabling us to enjoy longer, healthier, more comfortable and fulfilling lives.

From the large-scale infrastructure of the physical environment we inhabit to the virtual environment of computing and information technology, from applied research to the world of elite sports - the work of engineers has a huge impact on our lives. Here are the areas you can specialise in.

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical engineers use their engineering and medical knowledge to understand how the human body functions, and why it sometimes fails. They work in a wide range of industries, hospitals, research facilities, or in government regulatory agencies. Find out more about Biomedical Engineering.

Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineers are ‘big picture’ professionals involved in the design, research and development, construction and installation, and manufacturing and production processes of converting raw materials into valuable end-products for use in our modern, technological society. They work in the dairy and food industries, pharmaceuticals, biotechnologies, paper and pulp, petrochemical, energy processing and production, semiconductors and mineral processing sectors. Find out more about Chemical and Material Engineering.

Civil Engineering

Civil engineers work on the planning, design, construction and maintenance of the things that make modern world that we inhabit possible; skyscrapers, motorways, bridges, tunnels and dams. They also develop structures, equipment and systems that provide practical solutions to the problems caused by increased consumption and waste, and threats to biodiversity. Find out more about Civil Engineering.

Computer Systems Engineering

Computer systems engineers develop the software and hardware components that we depend on in our everyday lives; home automation, appliances, automobiles, factory processes, wireless and communication systems, mechatronics systems, instrumentation, embedded systems and nano-systems. Find out more about Computer Systems Engineering.

Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Electrical and electronic engineers design the equipment and systems that provide essential services to satisfy our high dependence on reliable power, communications and electronic systems; electric power generation, communications, wireless computing technologies, microprocessors, computer applications, and high power electronics. Find out more about Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Engineering Science

Engineering scientists use mathematical models and advanced computing power to provide solutions to the complex decision problems faced by industrial, medical, service and business sectors. Find out more about Engineering Science.

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineers use science and technology to develop the machines that are essential for everyday life through design, production and operation of mechanical devices, machinery, transportation and energy management. Find out more about Mechanical Engineering.

Mechatronics Engineering

Mechatronics engineers integrate electronic devices with mechanical systems and information technology. They are involved in the ‘smart’ evolution of computers, software, electronics, sensors and actuators to improve products, processes and services in such sectors as automotive, aerospace and machine tool industries and the defence sector. Find out more about Mechatronics Engineering.

Software Engineering

Software engineers combine their skills in computer science, engineering and maths to design, develop and test software for various functions – from mobile applications to banking, architecture, medicine and telecommunications. Find out more about Software Engineering.

Are you interested in contributing to the health of our nation, the growth of our economy and/or the future of our cities? Maybe you'd like to be involved in rebuilding essential infrastructure in quake-ravaged Christchurch, or design the technology to power future electric cars, or even go on to create software to track the spread of malaria in third-world countries?

If this is what you want from a career, now is the time to start your journey! Taking physics and calculus at high school can take you to your dream career destination. We hold events like Engineering Info Evenings to help you take the first step.

If you'd like to learn more about undergraduate study in Engineering, register your interest to stay up-to-date with all the latest information about our programme specialisations, scholarship opportunities, accommodation options, upcoming events and more.

Auckland is home to some of the country’s largest entertainment and cultural events and boasts a diverse nightlife centred around the city and its fringe suburbs. With over 800 beaches, parks and walkways spread throughout the city, and 65 islands in the Hauraki Gulf, Auckland offers plenty of opportunities to disconnect from city life.

The University of Auckland and its Faculty of Engineering are the highest ranked in New Zealand. We’re continuing to invest in this reputation by growing the resources our students, staff and researchers rely on. Construction on a brand new building for the Faculty of Engineering is well underway, and will be ready for use in 2020.

All nine of our specialisations are accredited by Engineering New Zealand, a signatory to the Washington Accord. This makes our BE(Hons) an internationally recognised engineering qualification that can prepare you for work in many countries across the world.