Engineering Contracts for Project Managers
Explore the legal concepts related to contracts and how they apply to the project environment from procurement to completion Enquire NowEngineering Contracts for Project Managers
Explore the legal concepts related to contracts and how they apply to the project environment from procurement to completion Apply NowFACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND DESIGN
Taught by real industry professionals, this course has been produced in partnership with MinterEllisonRuddWatts.
Recommended Background
Students will have a bachelors degree in a relevant subject.
University Entrance (or equivalent required for admission)
Duration
12 weeks
Next start dates
2 March, 2026 (Semester One)
Applications close one week before the course starts. Enrol early to secure your spot.
Domestic Fees
$1,496.70
Why is this online course right for you?
Engineering Contracts for Project Managers will build on your understanding of commercial issues around projects and familiarise you with aspects of the various standard contracts in use for the delivery of projects. You will explore the legal concepts related to contracts and how those concepts apply to the project environment throughout the contract lifecycle from procurement to completion.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will:
- be awarded with 15 credit points from the University of Auckland
- have the option to take your credit into the Master of Engineering Management, Master of Engineering Project Management or other relevant degrees (time limits and entry criteria apply).
Course Summary
- Gain a deep understanding of engineering commercial contracts
- Learn how theoretical concepts apply to the project environment
- Study standard contract forms such as NZS3910, NEC3, and FIDIC
- Critically evaluate alternative contract forms and delivery systems. Understand the role of the project manager as client’s agent.
Course Structure
Theoretical concepts in engineering commercial contracts, how those concepts apply to the work environment and manifest in the contracts in use in the project environment. Students will study relevant case law, NZS3910, NEC3 and FIDIC.
A major focus is placed on the application of legal concepts to real case studies and examples drawn from our industry experts’ professional practice.
Programme Structure
Theoretical concepts in engineering commercial contracts, how those concepts apply to the work environment and manifest in the contracts in use in the project environment. Students will study relevant case law, NZS3910, NEC3 and FIDIC.
A major focus is placed on the application of legal concepts to real case studies and examples drawn from our industry experts’ professional practice.
Introduction to construction law and legal framework
This module introduces the concept of construction law, how it developed in the past, and examine its applicability in the modern day. In this module, you will explore an outline of the legal framework including contracts, common and civil law, as well as an overview of key legislation.
Contract process and contract formation
This module introduces the contract process and explores commonly used standard forms for contract formation. In this module, you will also gain insight into how these standard forms are different from tailored contracts.
Concept stage and project procurement
In this module, you will explore the basics of procurement and the various procurement models and gain insight into the process of procurement including tendering. In addition, you will learn about the different people involved in the procurement process.
Scope and standard of works
In this module, you will learn about the scope of works and contract variations. You will also gain insight into the standard of works, including measuring acceptability and the contractual and statutory duties.
Pricing, payment and variations
In this module, you will focus on contract pricing, payment, various forms of pricing arrangements, variations, and the valuation of variations in contracts.
Liability and insurance
In this module, you will learn about the roles and obligations of parties, legal issues of liabilities, and insurance in contracts.
Time in construction contracts
In this module, you will learn about the timing considerations in construction contracts. You will explore the delays and extension of time during construction projects and you will also be introduced to the liquidated damages and penalty doctrine.
Suspension and termination
In this module, you will explore situations when things go wrong in the contract, which leads to the suspension of work or termination of the contract.
Role of the engineer
In this module, you will learn about the role of the engineer and the engineer’s powers and responsibilities in a construction contract.
Disputes under construction contracts
In this module, you will learn about the different types of dispute forms including mediation, expert determination, adjudication, and arbitration. You will also be introduced to the processes that get the parties to agree to things differently in a construction contract.
Limitation
In this module, you will explore the limitations in legislation and defects liability period under a construction contract.
Construction Contracts Act 2002 and Health and Safety at Work Act 2015
In this module, you will learn about the purpose and legislative details of the Construction Contract Act 2002 and the Health and Safety Work Act 2015.
The Engineering Contracts for Project Managers CoP contributes to:
Postgraduate
Master of Engineering Management
Duration: 2 years part-time study
Start Dates: 2 March 2026 and 20 July 2026
Postgraduate
Master of Engineering Project Management
Duration: 2 years part-time study
Start Dates: 2 March 2026 and 20 July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Application FAQs
What are the entry requirements?
This course is for students with a bachelors degree in a relevant subject. Relevant subjects include architecture, commerce, construction, engineering, law, and quantity surveying. Please note that for admission you must meet the requirements to study at a New Zealand University (e.g. through University Entrance or an alternative entrance pathway).
Is the course fee a one-off lump sum?
Yes, the course fee is a one-off sum.
Is this course open to non-resident students?
No. Currently University of Auckland Online Certificates of Proficiency are only open to NZ citizens and permanent residents.
Studying FAQs
Can I study the course in my own time? Is it suitable for those working full-time?
Yes. University of Auckland Online courses are designed for working professionals. They are flexible yet structured to help you gain the knowledge in the time you have. Core content is delivered asynchronously, so you can study at a time that suits you (within the allocated course dates).
In addition, a live Zoom tutorial will be held once a week in the late afternoon or early evening. It is not mandatory that you attend every week. However, you are highly encouraged to actively participate on a regular basis as this is a key time to connect with peers, the teaching staff, and to discuss queries on assignments.
How is the course structured?
The course will run over 12 weeks (with a break in the middle), and will comprise 12 weekly modules. Further details on the course structure can be found under the ‘Course Structure’ tab further up on this page.
Assessment FAQs
How will I be assessed?
Learners will be assessed through a combination of activities that address the learning objectives from each of the modules in the course. These will comprise a discussion paper, project case analysis, extension of time claim, and contributions to weekly discussion boards and live sessions.
Benefits FAQs
What is a Certificate of Proficiency (CoP)?
A Certificate of Proficiency (CoP) is a course-only study option that allows you to take a course at the University of Auckland, without studying a full programme. It is a good option for those who want to study short-term or to test whether a subject is something they wish to pursue more of in the future.
Does the course enable me to take further study at the University?
If you decide to progress your studies further towards a full qualification, you can apply to reassign the points from your CoP to a range of postgraduate programmes in engineering, including the Postgraduate Certificate in Engineering Project Management, Master of Engineering Project Management, and Master of Civil Engineering (entry criteria and time limits apply).
How many course credits will I attain upon completion of the course?
Upon completion of the course, you will be awarded with 15 credit points from the University of Auckland.
Do I get a certificate at the end?
As a Certificate of Proficiency is not a formal qualification, you will not be able to graduate with it or receive a graduation certificate. Your results will be recorded on your official academic transcript, providing evidence of your study.
Enquire Now
(Takes less than 1 minute)
Get personalised advice and updates on scholarships, application deadlines and flexible online options direct from our team.
Fields marked with * are required.
What Scholarships Am I Eligible For With 100% Online Study?
If you’re feeling stuck in your job or you’re simply looking for a new challenge, a career change can shake things up and find your passion. But before you make the leap, here are a few things you need to think about!
How to Get Employer Funding for 100% Online Postgraduate Programmes & Courses
If you’re feeling stuck in your job or you’re simply looking for a new challenge, a career change can shake things up and find your passion. But before you make the leap, here are a few things you need to think about! We explore the reasons why employers should sponsor their employees’ postgraduate study and how employees can secure funding from their employers.
What Types of Student Loans Am I Eligible For With 100% Online Study?
Embarking on postgraduate study can be a big decision, with personal finances to take into consideration. You could be eligible for a student loan via Studylink if you enrol in an Auckland Online programmes.
