Start date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
LHMR

Prerequisites
SACE Stage 2 Math Methods
More info

Assumed Knowledge
SACE Stage 2 Physics
More info

Fees
AUD$ 42,000 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025

English Language Requirements
  • IELTS total [6.0]
  • IELTS reading [6.0]
  • IELTS writing [6.0]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
081816M

Degree overview

  • Develop skills in mechanical system design, advanced manufacturing technologies and sustainable energy.
  • Build and design solutions that use contemporary mechanical engineering industry tools and technologies.
  • Professionally accredited by Engineers Australia (EA), graduates are eligible for membership with EA and comparable international institutions.
  • Endorsed by the Naval Shipbuilding College (NSC) as part of the College Endorsement Process.
  • Gain real work experience through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.
  • Learn in specialist, purpose-built facilities including the Mechatronics Lab, Experience One Studio and Experiential Learning Suite.
  • Go on an overseas study exchange and choose from over 25 countries and more than 60 universities worldwide.
  • Start now, decide later. Flexible entry pathways and common first-year across all Engineering Honours programs so you can change your specialisation based on your interests.

Snapshot

Snapshot

Mechanical engineering is a diverse field that can be applied right across industry – from robotics and automation to manufacturing, defence technology, aerospace, mining, construction and energy.

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical) will see you learn to engineer solutions to everyday challenges. You will discover the latest in machinery design, advanced materials, manufacturing technologies and sustainable energy systems.

Professionally accredited by Engineers Australia, this degree is strongly hands-on, with significant opportunities to apply engineering theory to real-world challenges. In your final year, you’ll complete a major honours research project as well as an industry-focused design project.

Through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program you’ll gain at least 450 hours of skills and competencies to ensure you are graduate career ready. You will have access to a range of engagement activities such as placements, internships, guest lectures, industry panels, site visits, events and networking opportunities. Hear more about the benefits of the UniSA Industry experience from graduates William, Franke and Teresa here.

Enjoy a common first-year across most Engineering degrees enabling you to switch between specialisations and receive credit for completed courses. This means if you change your mind about your Engineering specialisation after first-year, you can change programs and still complete your degree in 4 years full-time. Start now, decide later.

On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.

New Pathway options for Engineering

If you haven’t completed SACE Stage 2 Mathematical Methods and want to study engineering, consider our Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Flexible Entry). You’ll study first year courses, and catch up on the required prerequisite, before transferring into your preferred engineering specialisation with up to one year of credit. 

What you'll learn

What you Learn

In your first year you will develop a strong, general foundation in engineering including computer programming, applied mathematics and physics. As your studies progress you will develop advanced knowledge and skills in dynamics and controls, fluid mechanics and thermodynamics, mechanical system design and digital prototyping, and advanced materials and renewable energy technology.

Our UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program allows you to apply the skills and knowledge you've acquired throughout your degree in real-world settings.

At least half of the honours year will involve a major project. You will take the lead as an engineer in a project environment, working with industry, a government organisation, or an academic research area. There is also the option to do a full-semester internship.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Programming Concepts COMP 1045 4.5
Engineering Materials RENG 1005 4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 1 MATH 1063 4.5
Sustainable Engineering Practice ENGG 1003 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Electrical and Electronic Systems EEET 1027 4.5
Engineering Design and Innovation ENGG 1004 4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2 MATH 1064 4.5
Engineering Mechanics MENG 1012 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Mechanics of Materials CIVE 2005 4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 3 MATH 2028 4.5
Manufacturing Processes MFET 2001 4.5
Mechanical Engineering Practice MENG 2009 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Engineering Dynamics MENG 2014 4.5
Mechanical Design Practice MENG 2004 4.5
Fluid and Energy Engineering MENG 2002 4.5
Project Management for Engineers ENGG 2004 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Energy Conversion and Management MENG 3005 4.5
Control Systems EEET 3046 4.5
Computer Aided Engineering Practice MENG 3003 4.5
Engineering Modelling MATH 2009 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Design Management for Engineers ENGG 3006 4.5
Mechanics of Machines MENG 2008 4.5
Advanced Thermo-Fluid Engineering MENG 4004 4.5 Note(s): 4
Sustainable Development and Design Practice MENG 4022 4.5 Note(s): 4
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Industry Experience ENGG 4017 0 Rule(s): 1,2
Discipline Elective 1 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,4,5 Rule(s): 3
Vibration Analysis of Mechanical Systems MENG 4034 4.5 Note(s): 4
Engineering Capstone Experience A ENGG 4007 4.5 Note(s): 3,4
Engineering Honours Project A ENGG 4009 4.5 Note(s): 3,4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Discipline Elective 2 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,4 Rule(s): 3
Energy System Modelling & Design MENG 4003 4.5 Note(s): 4
Engineering Capstone Experience B ENGG 4008 4.5 Note(s): 3,4
Engineering Honours Project B ENGG 4010 4.5 Note(s): 3,4

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • reports, project documentation, case studies and presentations
  • essays and assignments 
  • examinations 
  • industry-relevant, research-based projects
  • practical, team-based projects 

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Honours

This is a four-year, professional degree with honours. The honours component includes a minimum of one year of advanced studies in research and professional practice. You will receive First Class, Second Class or Third Class Honours, depending on your performance.

You will graduate with industry experience and connections, and a higher-level qualification than a bachelor degree. Your honours year is designed to prepare you for future leadership roles in mechanical engineering.

Why Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical)

Why this Degree

With the focus of this degree on solutions engineering problems, you will develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in:

  • dynamics and controls
  • fluid mechanics and thermodynamics
  • mechanical system design and digital prototyping
  • advanced materials and renewable energy technology

You will also have the opportunity to choose discipline electives in areas of robotics and automation, mechanical design, production and quality management.

You will graduate prepared for Industry 4.0 developing skills in industry software platforms and collaborative digital environments.

Our students also work on the UniSA entry in the Warman Design and Build Competition, applying hands-on skills and knowledge to a complex design project. This is an Asia Pacific-wide competition, open to students in mechanical engineering who are in their first or second year of study.

An internship in your final year will see you complete projects that tackle engineering challenges for industry clients.

All of our Engineering Honours programs share a common first-year, so choosing this degree offers ultimate flexibility. Should you wish to pursue a different specialty after completing your first-year, you can switch to an alternative Engineering program and receive credit for the courses completed. Start now, decide later.

4+1 Pathway to Masters
Are you interested in gaining a postgraduate degree with just one extra year of study? You can package the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical) with the Master of Engineering (Engineering Management) with our Fast-track to Masters programs. This unique offering allows you to develop advanced expertise and broaden your career opportunities. You will graduate in just five years, instead of the typical six.

Real-world connections

UniSA collaborates with over 2,500 companies worldwide to ensure our degrees remain relevant and connected to industry. As part of all engineering degrees UniSA students participate in our UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.

The UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program gives you the opportunity to gain hands on experience and create industry connections. In-industry work placements and internships enhance the employability skills of our graduates.

UniSA is number one in South Australia for graduate careers and student satisfaction1 and we’re one of Australia's leading universities for Engineering research2. Our leading researchers will be your teachers and everything you learn will be supported by our research excellence. We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.

1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-22 – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate). SA public universities.
2
UniSA’s Engineering research rated well above world-class – 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

Engineers Australia accreditation

Graduate career ready by completing the Professional Practice Program as part of your degree. You will gain at least 450 hours of skills and competencies through a range of engagement activities such as placements, internships, guest lectures, industry panels, site visits, networking and events.

This program is accredited by Engineers Australia and students are eligible to join as a member during their studies. Engineers Australia is part of the Washington Accord, making members eligible for membership with comparable institutions worldwide.

Hear from Niyo Samwel, Mechanical Engineering student

Niyo Samwel talks about his experience studying UniSA's Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical) where he was able to apply the skills he learned in the classroom during real-world placements.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

Overall, engineering vacancies have increased by 22 per cent in 2022 and shows engineering as one the strongest professions in demand in Australia1

Careers to consider:

  • Mechanical Engineer: develop products from small parts to large plant, machinery or vehicles; can work on all stages of a product such as research, development, design, manufacture and installation
  • Production Engineer: work to eliminate wastefulness in production processes; develops systems, facilities and equipment that increase efficiency, reduce costs and improve quality and safety
  • Mechanical Engineering Supervisor: oversee the design of mechanical equipment, industrial processes and robotics; supervise the production, operation, repair and maintenance of equipment; manage staff, resources and work processes
  • Hydraulics Engineer: focus on fluid mechanics – the motion, control and storage of water and sewage; design and develop structures and facilities such as canals, rivers, dams, reservoirs and water treatment plants; work on large scale issues such as power generation, flood control and access to drinking water
  • Mechanical Designer: create machines, products, and new technologies using computer aided design software (CAD) and tools

Explore a range of engineering and construction careers here.

1Engineers Australia: Australian Engineering Employment Vacancies, February 2023

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is professionally accredited by Engineers Australia and is designed to meet the requirements for graduate membership of Engineers Australia and comparable international institutions.

Industry facts

global-travel-delivery

There is strong future demand for Design, Engineering, Science and Transport Professionals in Australia

(National Skills Commission 2021)

job-listings

Employment for Industrial, Mechanical and Production Engineers in Australia is projected to increase by 5.5 per cent (or 1,500 jobs) by 2026

(National Skills Commission 2021)

chart-people

There is currently a skills shortage of experienced engineers in Australia

(Engineers Australia 2022)

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

International
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • career advice and mentoring
  • help with student visas and health cover
  • personal counselling
  • academic counselling
  • fees and finance help
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • accommodation services 
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

You will have access to the latest industry technology and tools in our engineering spaces:

  • Engineering Design Studio: a practical learning space with the state-of-art industry-standard digital modelling and design software platforms and tools.
  • Experience One Studio: a unique first year engineering space with open studio, small group and learning spaces. There are also chill out areas.
  • Engineering Experience Studio: the studio for second and third year students.
  • Experiential Learning Space: a collaborative, innovation space. Final year students, postgraduate and research students, leading researchers and industry partners work side-by-side, in a flexible, open and creative environment.
  • Industry-standard facilities: the largest strong floor in the southern hemisphere and a 1,200 metre long hydraulic testing facility.
  • Mechatronics Laboratory: explore active suspension systems, mobile robotics, industrial control stations comprising programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software.
  • Industry 4.0 Test Lab: a world-class Industry 4.0 practical laboratory space and facilities for CAD, additive manufacturing, pilot scale manufacturing demonstration, and smart coating, targeted for various sectors including defence, space, mining, electronics, agri-tech/food, medical/healthcare and automotive.
Your study spaces

Your program director

I work on a number of consultancy and research projects in resource-efficient product and service innovation, sustainable industry and community transformation, and low-carbon urban precincts. I am particularly dedicated to incorporating social, economic, and environmental perspectives into tertiary engineering education to achieve sustainability in engineering practice. 

Dr Tim Lau

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Dr Tim Lau
Portrait image for Dr Tim Lau

Dr Tim Lau

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

    You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

    Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

    If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

    Postgraduate study by research
    For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

    If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

    The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

    The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

    Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

    We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

I wanted to become an inventor when I was a child and I was always curious. I wanted to know how things worked and how people made cars from scratch, and I was amazed by the impact engineers made with machines they developed. That's when I decided to become a mechanical engineer. One of the highlights of my degree was when, in my second year, I had the opportunity to go to India with Engineers Without Borders to put my learning into practice with an engineering group project. With my passion for travelling, I'm really keen to see what I can do with travel alongside engineering to contribute to the advancement of technology.

Niyo Samwel

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical)

Niyo Samwel.jpg

Niyo Samwel

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical)

My UniSA degree has been essential to get me to where I am today. The hands-on approach and skills based learning was particularly beneficial when applied to real world engineering issues. My biggest career highlight to date is being involved in the launch of two Hobart Class Air Warfare Destroyers, highly capable military warships built in Adelaide.

Bradley Toole

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical)
Senior Maritime Consultant | Bastion Defence Consulting

Bradley Toole.jpg

Bradley Toole

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical)
Senior Maritime Consultant | Bastion Defence Consulting