Abstract:

This study examines student progression and attrition in civil engineering programmes delivered through the Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) and the New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (NZDE). Using enrolment data from 2006 to 2025, the analysis tracks cohorts of students progressing through courses aligned with Levels 4–7 of the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF). Particular attention is given to how the student pipeline changes as courses increase in complexity and academic demands.

The study identifies patterns of retention and dropout between successive levels, highlighting points in the programme where student numbers decline most significantly. Demographic variables, including ethnicity (with particular attention to Māori and Pasifika students), age and student maturity, are analysed to assess their relationship with progression outcomes.

The research also examines the distribution of student interest across civil engineering specialisations, including structural, geotechnical, water, and transportation/roading engineering.

By analysing long-term enrolment and progression trends, the study provides insight into the factors influencing student persistence and specialisation choices in applied civil engineering education. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the engineering education pipeline and may inform strategies to improve retention and support under-represented groups within New Zealand engineering programmes.

Keywords:

Education, civil engineering, specialisation.