Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Specialise where your passion lies.

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Apply yourself to engineering design, problem solving, research projects, professional engineering practice and technical management across 19 engineering disciplines.

 
Faculty
Faculty of Engineering
Delivery Mode
Face-to-face (includes blended)
Award
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
Commencing Terms
Term 1, Term 2, Term 3
Duration (Full Time)
4 Year(s)

Overview

Engineers develop practical solutions to technical and environmental problems by using science and mathematics. Through scientific discoveries engineers meet societal and consumer needs.

Engineers work in a range of roles across all different types of industries, from civil engineering to environmental, computer science to petroleum engineering – the possibilities are endless. The type of engineer you’ll become often depends on the specialisation you choose in this degree. This degree offers 19 engineering specialisations across different engineering disciplines.

In this degree you’ll gain a solid background in mathematics, natural sciences and computing that’ll prepare you to learn knowledge and skills in an engineering discipline. You’ll graduate with the technical knowledge, skills and attributes required to succeed as a professional engineer.

Key features

You’ll study at the number one engineering faculty in Australia with leading edge facilities and opportunities for practical hands-on learning. This four-year degree can be studied full time or part time.

The degree is accredited by Engineers Australia* and recognised by the Washington Accord. You’ll apply the skills you develop through 60 days of approved industrial training.

You can complete a Flexible First Year when you study this degree. Flexible First Year allows you to explore different engineering fields before choosing your specialisation. The first year of engineering study has a core of common subjects, plus a wide choice of electives, so you can figure out which one is right for you.

In your fourth year, you can choose from over 40 discipline electives to explore your interests and future career aspirations. 

Electives include: 

  • Machine Learning
  • Chemical Processing
  • Fluid Mechanics
  • Digital Signal Processing
  • Industrial Management
  • Petrophysics
  • Bioenergy and Renewable Fuels
  • Humanitarian Engineering

Follow your passion through 19 disciplines you can study as part of the Bachelor of Engineering:

*The Bachelor of Engineering (Quantum) is provisionally accredited by Engineers Australia.

In most of the Bachelor of Engineering specialisations you can choose to complete a minor in Humanitarian Engineering. Humanitarian Engineering is a large part of our ChallEng program. ChallEng offers you exciting, real-world, project-based learning initiatives that bring the classroom to life. This multidisciplinary educational approach connects students, academics and industry so you can develop the technical and professional skills to thrive in your future career.

Why study this degree at UNSW?

UNSW Engineering is a leader in engineering education and research. We’ve invested in a $1 billion refurbishment of our engineering facilities. We’re ranked number 1 for engineering in Australia* and 36th globally.

We’re also ranked: 

  • 1st for Civil and Structural Engineering in Australia 
  • 1st for Electrical Engineering in Australia 
  • 1st for Mechanical, Aeronautical, and Manufacturing Engineering in Australia
  • 3rd for Mineral and Mining Engineering in Australia 
  • 4th for Chemical Engineering in Australia 
  • 4th for Computer Science and Information Technology in Australia

UNSW Engineering is the largest engineering faculty in Australia and offers the widest range of engineering degrees in the country. With eight schools and more than 70 years’ experience, our researchers are at the forefront of exciting technological developments.

UNSW is known for its graduate employability, UNSW placed in the AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards in 2020 and 2021. Australia’s top employers prefer UNSW Engineering graduates over any other university and we’re ranked 22nd in the world for employer reputation.

Take part in interactive learning through the ChallEng program. The ChallENG program connects students, academics and companies to exciting, real-world projects and learning-based initiatives. The program will prepare you for your future career by helping develop technical and design skills and expanding your professional expertise.

This degree includes 60 days Industrial Training which provides a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) experience. WIL allows you to engage in work learning experiences that integrate academic learning with its application in the workplace, connecting you directly with industry and community partners.

Make a difference to disadvantaged communities through our Humanitarian Engineering projects, electives and minors on offer. Humanitarian Engineering works to provide disadvantaged individuals and communities with engineering solutions that improve lives and livelihoods. These solutions may provide essential services such as food, water, shelter, energy and information where they are unavailable.

At UNSW Engineering you’ll benefit from a diverse and welcoming community with plenty to keep you busy. UNSW Engineering boasts 16 student societies including a society for each school. Get involved in Engiqueers, Women in Renewable Energy Society or Robogals. UNSW’s Women in Engineering (WIE) society runs social and industry events as well as programs designed to mentor and develop female engineers. 

*According to QS Top Universities Rankings by Subject 2021

 
Program Code
3707
CRICOS Code
056835E
Campus
Kensington
UAC Code
425000
Total Units of Credit (UOC)
192
Indicative Enrolments
4,397

Want to see more from UNSW Engineering?
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Entry requirements

2022 Lowest Selection Rank
90
2022 A levels
16
2022 IB Diploma
34
2022 Lowest ATAR
81*

Please note that the ATAR will vary depending on the specialisation you choose to study. You can view the required ATAR by visiting the specific page of the specialisation.
    1. The 2022 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2022.
    2. The 2022 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subject. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.
    3. The 2022 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2022. It is to be used as a guide only.
    4. The 2022 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.

  • At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.

    To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.

    We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
    See more

Assumed knowledge

Mathematics Extension 1 and Physics; for Bioinformatics: Mathematics Extension 1 and Chemistry; for Chemical and Chemical Product: Chemistry, Mathematics Extension 1 and Physics, for Software: Mathematics 1

Adjustment Factors


We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies. 

HSC Plus 
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points. 

Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL) 
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.

Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.

Admission pathways

The Faculty of Engineering Admission Scheme (FEAS) is a possible alternative admission pathway for the admission of domestic undergraduate students to UNSW Faculty of Engineering degree programs, including the BSc Computer Science and the BSc Food Science (Hons), who do not meet the published Guaranteed Entry selection rank. Learn more about FEAS.

English language requirements

 

You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.

If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

UNSW Global offers courses and programs designed to help you reach the English language level required for entry into your chosen degree. Different options are available depending on your current English language level. Learn more.

International direct entry

We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.

Please contact us for direct entry requirements.

Assumed knowledge

Adjustment Factors


We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies. 

HSC Plus 
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points. 

Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL) 
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.

Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.

Admission pathways


UNSW Global has university pathway programs that provide seamless transition to UNSW Sydney so you can achieve your academic and career goals. Learn more.

English language requirements


You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.

If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:

UNSW Global offers courses and programs designed to help you reach the English language level required for entry into your chosen degree. Different options are available depending on your current English language level. Learn more.

Check the specific English language requirements for this program

Program structure

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) is a four-year degree, which can be studied part time or full time.

In this degree you’ll gain a solid background in mathematics, natural sciences and computing that’ll prepare you to learn knowledge and skills in an engineering discipline.

You’ll choose one of 19 specialisations ranging from traditional areas of Engineering including Civil, Mechanical and Electrical to emerging areas like Quantum Engineering or Renewable Energy Engineering.

If you’re not sure of which specialisation to choose, a flexible first year allows you to choose your specialisation at the end of your first year. 
    • Aerospace Engineering
    • Bioinformatics Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
    • Chemical Product Engineering
    • Computer Engineering
    • Civil Engineering
    • Environmental Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Mechatronic Engineering
    • Mining Engineering
    • Petroleum Engineering
    • Photovoltaics and Solar Energy
    • Quantum Engineering
    • Renewable Energy Engineering
    • Software Engineering
    • Surveying
    • Telecommunications
    • Humanitarian Engineering

Full program structure

Degree structures can vary depending on the number of courses you choose and timetabling, to give you an indication you can consider the below. 

In your first year you might study: 

  • Two introductory courses in Mathematics 

  • An introductory course in Physics, 

  • and an introductory course in Computing 

You may also study an introductory course related to your specialisation of choice. These courses equip you with the skills required for the rest of your Engineering degree.   

All students study DESN1000 “Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation”. In this course you’ll learn to think the way that engineers think, developing solutions with limited budget, time and resources.  

In your second year you’ll undertake: 

  • Courses from your selected specialisations 

  • Core courses to give you the fundamental knowledge in your area of interest 

In your third and fourth year you’ll develop your knowledge further with a range of core and elective courses.   

During your degree you’ll be required to complete two General Education electives. These courses help you broaden your education by completing several courses from outside the engineering faculty strengthening your cross-disciplinary thinking, developing a flexible approach and enhancing your critical analysis skills.  

This degree also requires you to complete 60 days of industrial training, which gives you some on the job experience before graduating. This multidisciplinary educational approach connects students, academics and industry enabling you to develop the essential technical and professional skills, so you thrive in your future career.  
Go to the handbook
Download Sample Program
Go to the handbook

Future careers

When you graduate from this degree, you’ll be eligible to apply for membership of Engineers Australia. UNSW Engineering graduates are some of the most sought-after engineers in Australia and abroad thanks to the reputation of our teaching.

Your career opportunities will depend on your area of specialisation. From your second year, you can specialise in a particular field of engineering. Visit the various engineering degree specialisations for examples of career opportunities.

Accreditation

This degree with all majors, apart from Quantum Engineering, is accredited by Engineers Australia. Quantum Engineering is provisionally accredited by Engineers Australia.

This degree with majors in Bioinformatics, Computer Engineering and Software Engineering is accredited by the Australian Computing Society

How to apply

Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).

Visit the Apply section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.

On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.

Ready to apply?

Apply now

For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.

Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For more information visit our international applicant information page.

*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. Read more.

Ready to apply?

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Fees & Scholarships

2023 Indicative First Year Full Fee
$6,880*

Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 2

*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the university and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year.

The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only - other fees and charges are not included.
2023 Indicative First Year Fee
$48,100*
2023 Indicative Fee to Complete Degree
$200,820*

*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).

Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.

Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.

Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.

Scholarships


At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.

Featured scholarships

Women in Engineering Scholarships

UNSW provides a wide range of Women in Engineering scholarships to support high-achieving female students throughout their degree.

Apply here and search for ‘Engineering’ in the keywords. 

Engineering Rural Scholarship

The Faculty of Engineering Rural Scholarships Program aims to assist high achieving high school students from rural or isolated areas to study in the Faculty of Engineering at UNSW.

Apply here and search for ‘Engineering’ in the keywords.  
Explore Scholarships
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    QS World University Rankings, 2022.

  • Most
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    AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.

  • Leading
    Innovation

    #1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.

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