Start date
February
July

Duration
2 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
LTEN

Prerequisites
Refer to Entry Requirements
More info

Assumed Knowledge
None

Fees
AUD$ 44,300 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
066197C

Degree overview

  • Pathway into further study or a professional career in civil, mechanical, mechatronic and electrical engineering.
  • Study online, on-campus or a combination of both.
  • Graduate with credit to use towards an Engineering (Honours) bachelor degree with UniSA.
  • Develop competencies through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.
  • Learn introductory mathematics, physics and chemistry along with core engineering courses.
  • Study at one of Australia's leading universities for Engineering research1.

1 UniSA's Engineering research rated well above world-class - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

Snapshot

Snapshot

This two-year qualification is an introduction to university-level study and is a pathway towards UniSA’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degrees, with specialisations in civil, mechanical, mechatronics, electrical engineering and/or surveying.

You will graduate with the knowledge and skills required in higher-level technical and management roles, supporting your transition from tradesperson to engineering professional. This qualification is also a great starting point if you’re looking to change careers and enter the engineering industry for the first time.

Depending on the combination of courses you choose, you may be eligible for up to 1.5 years of credit towards an Engineering (Honours) Bachelor degree with UniSA. Alternatively, you could go directly into employment as an engineering associate, designer drafter, developer or engineering technical officer across a range of industries.

What you'll learn

What you Learn

You will be introduced to core concepts across civil, electrical and mechanical engineering disciplines, developing your understanding of each field.

Engineers apply science and maths concepts to solve practical problems. The maths skills you gain will be essential to further your understanding of more complex engineering concepts. You’ll learn the basics of algebra, trigonometry and calculus.

You will also cover basic concepts in chemistry and physics and their practical  engineering applications. Explore fluid mechanics, circuits and signals, and the structures and properties of materials. Develop the skills to produce 2D engineering drawings and 3D engineering models, which is an essential skill to communicate visual designs.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR - ALL STREAMS
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Essential Mathematics 1: Algebra and Trigonometry MATH 1066 4.5 Note(s): 4
Introduction to Engineering Physics PHYS 1018 4.5 Note(s): 4
Programming Concepts COMP 1045 4.5
Sustainable Engineering Practice ENGG 1003 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Introduction to Engineering Chemistry CHEM 1015 4.5 Note(s): 4
Engineering Design and Innovation ENGG 1004 4.5
Essential Mathematics 2: Calculus MATH 1067 4.5 Note(s): 4
Electrical and Electronic Systems EEET 1027 4.5
CHOOSE 1 OF THE FOLLOWING 3 STREAMS
SECOND YEAR - CIVIL ENGINEERING STREAM
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Materials RENG 1005 4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 1 MATH 1063 4.5
Introduction to Surveying and Spatial Sciences GEOE 1018 4.5
Engineering and Environmental Geology EART 3012 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2 MATH 1064 4.5
Engineering Mechanics MENG 1012 4.5
Project Management for Engineers ENGG 2004 4.5
Fluid and Energy Engineering MENG 2002 4.5 Note(s): 5
OR
SECOND YEAR - ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING STREAM
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Materials RENG 1005 4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 1 MATH 1063 4.5
Design Management for Engineers ENGG 3006 4.5
Data Communications Technologies EEET 3025 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2 MATH 1064 4.5
Engineering Mechanics MENG 1012 4.5
Project Management for Engineers ENGG 2004 4.5
Digital Logic Fundamentals EEET 1026 4.5
OR
SECOND YEAR - MECHANICAL ENGINEERING STREAM
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Materials RENG 1005 4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 1 MATH 1063 4.5
Mechanical Engineering Practice MENG 2009 4.5
Manufacturing Processes MFET 2001 4.5 Note(s): 7
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2 MATH 1064 4.5
Engineering Mechanics MENG 1012 4.5
Project Management for Engineers ENGG 2004 4.5
Fluid and Energy Engineering MENG 2002 4.5

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:

  • essays, assignments, reports
  • quizzes
  • group projects
  • portfolios
  • examinations

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

Why Associate Degree in Engineering

Why this Degree

The Associate Degree in Engineering covers a broad range of subjects, including essential maths, physics and chemistry topics, as well as first-year courses from UniSA’s engineering bachelor degrees.

Our practical approach to learning means you’ll gain the skills to hit the ground running. You’ll learn to use industry-standard software such as SolidWorks to produce 3D CAD models that bring your designs alive, Enovia (Dassault Systems) to develop detailed project plans, MATLAB to process data and Mulitsim to instantly visualise and analyse electronic circuit behaviour. You’ll discover how engineering intersects with essential business management practices across diverse environments, and study systems and design thinking techniques.

Real-world connections

UniSA collaborates with over 2,500 companies worldwide. If you go on to study Engineering (Honours) you’ll have many opportunities to gain hands-on experience and make industry connections. The UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program allows you to 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.

UniSA also hosts regular University-wide employee master classes and employment expos, and alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

Careers you could consider:

  • Electrical Engineering Technologist: design, build, test and repair electronic parts in mobile phones, medical equipment, machinery control systems, or computers; use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-assisted engineering (CAE) software to design systems and products.
  • Engineering Design and Development: work on products such as mobile phones or car part construction; research using mathematical modelling; use CAD and CAE software; test prototypes and analysing results.
  • Maintenance Technician: preventative maintenance work such as checking and calibrating instruments, fitting new parts or carrying out quality inspections; emergency maintenance work such as fixing equipment breakdowns or faults.
  • Engineering Associate: work as a paraprofessional and design, develop and maintain products, equipment and processes; apply technical knowledge to complete routine engineering tasks such as performing calculations, operating machinery and preparing reports; and manage small projects under the supervision of a senior engineer.
  • Design Drafter: support engineers to research and design new products and systems for an organisation; draft blueprints, model new components using 3D sketches; interpret engineering sketches, specifications and drawings; create test prototypes and oversee manufacturing processes; collaborate with design and production teams; and apply in-depth knowledge of the latest design trends and engineering software.
  • Engineering Technical Officer: support engineers to analyse and modify new and existing engineering technologies and apply them in the testing and implementation of engineering projects; monitor and test apparatus and operating equipment; conduct statistical studies to analyse production costs for a range of designs; and organise and direct site labour and the delivery of construction materials, plant and equipment.
  • Engineering Developer: work with engineers to plan, design, develop, test and release new products and features, enhancements or fixes; assist with developing new methodologies and implement emerging technologies; write diagnostic programs and design and write code for operating systems; work on products such as mobile phones or car part construction; research designs using mathematical modelling using CAD and CAE software; and test prototypes and analyse results.

This associate degree is a pathway into UniSA Engineering (Honours) degrees, so you may choose to continue your studies and become a fully-qualified engineer.

Explore a range of engineering and construction careers here.

Industry facts

chart-people

There is strong predicted future growth for Mechanical engineering draftspersons and technicians in Australia

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

data-presentation

Employment for Mechanical Engineering Draftpersons and Technicians is projected to increase by 7,200 jobs (or 10.8 per cent) by 2026

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

analytics-data-investigate-measure

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.

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 program director

I have been educating the next generation of students for the past 25 years, dedicating my time and effort to improving the learning experience and empowering them to become competent engineers. I have served as the head of the department and the faculty’s deputy dean at Bu-Ali Sina University and University of Isfahan, Iran, and recently as the program director of Associate and Flexible Degree in Engineering at UniSA.

My career began at a pioneer ICT manufacturing firm as an Electronic Designer, before becoming Production Line Supervisor in 1991, and moved to a newly established petrochemical complex in 1994 where my role involved the maintenance of electronic and electromechanical instruments. In 1997, I discovered my passion for teaching and ensuring young Electrical and Computer Engineering students get the best possible training and education for their future careers.

Dr Hooman Nikmehr

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for Dr Hooman Nikmehr
Portrait image for Dr Hooman Nikmehr

Dr Hooman Nikmehr

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