The Diploma of Engineering, or also Diploma in Engineering is an educational programme focused on practical and skills-oriented training. It is a technical degree that only covers the essentials when ranked with an undergraduate degree. It aims to provide students with industry or job-related knowledge, scientific skills, computing & analysis, mathematical techniques, a sound knowledge of English to communicate in the field and the ability to apply problem-solving techniques.
Its duration is 2–3 years. Many countries in the world recognize it as equivalent to a Pre-Engineering or Bridging course when considered for continuing studies in engineering related bachelor’;s or associate degree programmes. After successful completion of the Diploma in Engineering course, students can either continue further Engineering studies at the undergraduate level or specialize in certain fields with an advanced diploma. Diploma holders get employment as technicians, technologists, supervisors, superintendents, foremen, machinists, workshop technicians, draughtsman, station technicians (energy, thermal, aeronautical), automobile technicians, maintenance & service technicians, equipment mechanics and technicians, CAD/CAM programmer, agricultural overseers, instrument technicians, junior instructors, manufacturing, tool and die, designers, electricians...etc.
In most of the countries, one can apply for studying a diploma in engineering degree after completion of 10th grade or after higher secondary school certificate or twelfth grade. Those who have a twelfth-grade certificate in PCM require only to complete two years of technical training excluding first-year physics, chemistry, mathematics inter science level subjects.