Start date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
LHMI

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]
  • IELTS reading [6]
  • IELTS writing [6]
Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
081807A

Snapshot

Snapshot

This fast-tracked program of study offers an accelerated pathway to a master level qualification that provides you with an advanced level of knowledge in structural and geotechnical civil engineering.

Civil and structural engineers are responsible for the infrastructure and resources that keep our cities, towns and rural areas functioning. They focus on the design and construction of buildings, bridges and other structural components of infrastructure.

By combining your undergraduate studies in civil and structural engineering with a Master of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) you will advance your skills in communication, leadership, research methods and project management, and extend your technical and theoretical knowledge in structural and geotechnical civil engineering, graduating with a competitive edge as you enter the job market.

You will learn in industry standard facilities, with UniSA No. 1 in SA for campus facilities in engineering¹.  Enjoy access to the largest strong floor in the southern hemisphere and a 1200m long hydraulic testing facility.

Our connections with industry will see you gain at least 450 hours of skills and competencies through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program, including placements, internships, guest lectures, industry panels, site visits and networking events. Hear more about the benefits of the UniSA Industry experience from graduates William, Franke and Teresa here.

 

¹ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – Learning Resources Indicator (Postgraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.

 

What you'll learn

What you Learn

Your undergraduate degree will start with building a strong foundation in engineering before you move into your civil engineering major. From third year you will also start taking specialised structural engineering courses such as structural analysis, earthquake and masonry engineering and cold-formed steel design.

A significant portion of your honours year will then involve a major project supported by industry clients, or based in a research centre such as the Sustainable Infrastructure and Resource Management concentration.

You will also have the opportunity to complete a Civil Engineering Design Project where you will work on an industry project with an industrial representative as your client. You will work through the various stages of a project – from developing a tender, through to feasibility, concept development and detailed design.

Progressing through to your postgraduate studies you will extend your knowledge and skills in civil engineering, with a focus on advanced structural and geotechnical civil engineering. You will develop the skills to apply and synthesise civil engineering theories in solving practical infrastructure problems and advanced skills to communicate with civil engineering and related professionals.

You can also choose to use your electives to focus on topics such as project management and leadership, green infrastructure or climate change adaptation.

The development and application of research methods and skills are central to the degree and will be vital to the completion of your master thesis.

The UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program will allow you to apply the skills and knowledge attained throughout your studies in real-world settings.

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)
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2 MATH 1064 4.5
Electrical and Electronic Systems EEET 1027 4.5
Engineering Mechanics MENG 1012 4.5
Engineering Design and Innovation ENGG 1004 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Modelling MATH 2009 4.5
Mechanics of Materials CIVE 2005 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)
Introduction to Water Engineering CIVE 2010 4.5
Project Management for Engineers ENGG 2004 4.5
Civil Engineering Techniques CIVE 2009 4.5
Road Design and Traffic Management CIVE 2012 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Design Management for Engineers ENGG 3006 4.5
Soil Mechanics CIVE 3008 4.5
Steel and Timber Design CIVE 3013 4.5
Hydraulics and Hydrology CIVE 3009 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Geotechnical Engineering CIVE 3007 4.5 Note(s): 5
Reinforced Concrete Design CIVE 3003 4.5 Note(s): 5
Structural Analysis CIVE 3011 4.5
Water Resources Systems Design CIVE 3010 4.5 Note(s): 5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Industry Experience ENGG 4017 0 Rule(s): 1,2
Engineering Capstone Experience A ENGG 4007 4.5 Note(s): 3,5
Engineering Honours Project A ENGG 4009 4.5 Note(s): 3,5
Civil Honours Electives 4.5 Note(s): 1,2,5
Advanced Concrete Structures CIVE 5079 4.5 Note(s): 2,5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Engineering Capstone Experience B ENGG 4008 4.5 Note(s): 3,5
Engineering Honours Project B ENGG 4010 4.5 Note(s): 3,5
Earthquake and Masonry Engineering CIVE 4036 4.5 Note(s): 5
Advanced Steel Structures CIVE 5080 4.5 Note(s): 2,5

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:

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

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 civil and structural engineering.

Why Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Structural) (Pathway to Master of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure))

Why this Degree

This fast-track to master program enables you to commence a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Structural) and secure a place in the Master of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) to be completed in five years of study instead of the typical six years, with the program granting you one year of advanced standing.

Professionally accredited by Engineers Australia, your undergraduate degree will equip you to manage the social, environmental and financial components of construction projects. With a focus on the design and construction of buildings and structures, including masonry and steel work, you will get hands-on experience and knowledge in areas such as:

  • road design and traffic management
  • geospatial science for engineer soil mechanics
  • geotechnical engineering

You will have access to industry standard facilities and enjoy significant opportunities to apply your knowledge and skills through the 450+ hours of the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.

Progression to the master degree will see your learning supported by world-class engineering research, with UniSA rated well above world-class for research in engineering¹, and strong theoretical teaching integrated with experienced-based learning. You will graduate ready to begin your career as a highly qualified civil engineer.

¹2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

Real-world connections

UniSA collaborates with over 2,500 companies worldwide to ensure our degrees remain relevant and connected to industry. All undergraduate engineering students at UniSA participate in the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program, giving you the opportunity to gain hands-on industry experience and make industry connections.

Industry work placements and internships enhance the employability skills of our graduates, with many gaining employment through work placements or internships.

We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Career outcomes

Your career

For civil engineers in Australia, employment growth of 13.5 percent is expected by 2023¹. There are a wide range of career options for highly qualified engineers and project managers, with employment opportunities in engineering consulting firms, construction companies, and local, state and federal government. You could consider:

  • engineering project manager: ensuring projects are completed according to project plans; managing project team resources; scheduling, preparation and resource forecasting for engineering and other technical activities; managing vendors and suppliers
  • engineering operations manager: supervising and leading teams of engineers, scientists and technicians who work on projects; overseeing production and quality control; directing operations, testing and maintenance; planning and scheduling, client consulting, budgetary responsibilities
  • civil engineer: responsible for the design, construction and testing of physical infrastructure; assesses the impact of large scale projects on the environment
  • structural engineer: works with architects, builders, mechanical, electrical and chemical engineers to make sure all parts of a structure are safe and fit for purpose; makes sure materials are used efficiently and appropriately

You could also continue with a PhD through one of our dynamic research concentrations.

1Australian Government, Department of Jobs and Small Business, Occupational Employment Projections 2018

 

Industry facts

job-listings

There is strong predicted future growth for Civil Engineering Professionals

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

buildings-city

Employment for Civil Engineering Professionals is projected to increase by 13.4 per cent (or 8,700 jobs) by 2026

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

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.

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

Dr Sithara Walpita Gamage is the Program Director for Civil Engineering at UniSA. She has contributed to UniSA engineering education for over 10 years, during which time she has undertaken roles as a lecturer, course coordinator, curriculum developer and student supervisor. Sithara has promoted innovation in student-centred learning and has conducted workshops promoting the use of digital technologies in teaching. She also has a background in Water Engineering with a focus on surface water hydrology. Teaching is her passion and she is committed to pass on her knowledge and experience to inspire the next generation.

Dr Sithara Walpita Gamage

Program Director

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Portrait image for Dr Sithara Walpita Gamage
Portrait image for Dr Sithara Walpita Gamage

Dr Sithara Walpita Gamage

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.

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