Study Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Structural) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for International students.

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
Mawson Lakes

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

Admissions
Student Profile

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
081807A

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.

Certain conditions apply. For more information refer to Appendix 4 of the University's Selection and Entry policy.

Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:

Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points

Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.

OR
Higher education study

Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
Complete the Associate Degree in Engineering at the University of South Australia

OR
Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above

OR
Work and life experience

Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past

Essential requirements for admission

Prerequisites

SACE Stage 2 Math Methods

Assumed Knowledge

SACE Stage 2 Physics

English language entry requirements

In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements. The minimum language requirements for this program are:

English language test

IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)

Admission Requirements by Country

Norway GPA	3
Pakistan HSSC	85
Sri Lanka A Levels (best 3)	7
Sweden GPA	13
UK Board GCE A Levels/HK Board	7
Vietnam	7.5
Australia	72
IB (best 6)	26
USA SAT (1600)	1110
India (best 4) State Board	75
India (best 4) Central Board	65
HKDSE	15
Nepal NEB	2.61
Bangladesh HSC	4
Canada High School (OSSD)	65
Eynesbury FSP	330
German Abitur	3.5
Kenya KCSE (average)	B+
Malaysia STPM (best 3)	6
Malaysia UEC	30

View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements

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This program allows progression to fast-track Masters. Visit Fast-track to Masters in STEM for more information.

Degree overview

Professionally accredited by Engineers Australia (EA), graduates are eligible for membership with EA and comparable international institutions.
Develop competencies and gain real work experience through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.
Develop the skills to manage the social, environmental and financial components of construction projects.
Focus on the design and construction of buildings and structures, using materials including concrete, masonry, timber and steel.
Conduct an industry-related major project and an in-class design projects that model industry practice.
Access industry-standard facilities including the largest strong floor in Australia.
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

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 projects.

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.

Throughout your degree you’ll learn and develop your skills in specialist, industry-standard facilities. We have the largest strong floor in the southern hemisphere and a 1200m long hydraulic testing facility. You’ll also learn to use high-tech testing and computer modelling software and equipment.

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

In your first year, you will develop a strong, general foundation in engineering before commencing your civil engineering courses in second year. During your third year, you will start taking introductory structural engineering courses, such as structural analysis and steel and timber design, with your final year primarily focused on specialised structural courses including earthquake and masonry engineering and cold-formed steel design.

At least half of your honours year will involve a major project. Projects are generally supported by industry clients or based in a research area like the Sustainable Infrastructure and Resource Management concentration. Our UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program allows you to apply the skills and knowledge you've acquired throughout your degree in real-world settings.

You will also undertake the Engineering Capstone Experience course with other engineering students. This course will see you will complete real projects provided by industry, with industrial representatives acting as your clients. You will work through the real-life stages of a project from developing a tender through to feasibility, concept development and detailed design. See examples of student projects: Project 1 and Project 2.

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): 4
Reinforced Concrete Design	CIVE 3003	4.5	Note(s): 4
Structural Analysis	CIVE 3011	4.5
Water Resources Systems Design	CIVE 3010	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
Engineering Capstone Experience A	ENGG 4007	4.5	Note(s): 3,4
Engineering Honours Project A	ENGG 4009	4.5	Note(s): 3,4
Civil Honours Electives		4.5	Note(s): 1,2,4
Advanced Concrete Structures	CIVE 5079	4.5	Note(s): 2,4
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Engineering Capstone Experience B	ENGG 4008	4.5	Note(s): 3,4
Engineering Honours Project B	ENGG 4010	4.5	Note(s): 3,4
Earthquake and Masonry Engineering	CIVE 4036	4.5	Note(s): 4
Advanced Steel Structures	CIVE 5080	4.5	Note(s): 2,4

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Civil Honours Electives
Advanced Construction Management	BUIL 4013	4.5
Principles of Project Management	BUSS 5142	4.5
Water Quality Modelling	CIVE 5066	4.5
Advanced Concrete Structures	CIVE 5079	4.5
Advanced Steel Structures	CIVE 5080	4.5
Environmental Engineering and Modelling	CIVE 4038	4.5
Green Infrastructure	CIVE 5085	4.5
Civil Electives
STEM Internship 15 Days	NASC 4022	4.5
Spatial Data Acquisition and Analysis	GEOE 2026	4.5
Contract Administration	BUIL 3010	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. Engineers Australia (EA) requires students to achieve at least 450 hours/60 days full-time equivalent (FTE) of discipline and/or industry related skills and competencies prior to graduation. At UniSA, students must complete the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program (PPP) to gain these hours through a range of professional engagement activities such as placements, internships, guest lectures, industry panels, site visits, networking, and industry events. Please contact STEM.placements@unisa.edu.au for more information.

2. Upon completion of the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program (PPP) students will be invited to enrol in this course and complete the required assessment. Students will not be eligible to graduate until they have obtained a non-graded pass (NGP) for this course.

Notes

1. Not all electives will be offered every year. Other options not listed here may only be taken with the prior agreement of the Program Director.

2. To enrol in a course with a catalogue number starting with 5 (e.g. CIVE 5xxx), students need to apply for a career permission override via myEnrolment and gain approval first.

3. Students must undertake a final year project. This can be completed as an on-campus research project or with Program Director's approval as an industry project at a workplace. Contact the Program Director for more information.

4. Students must complete at least 36 units with honours level outcomes. This course may contribute towards the final honours grade for the program.

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

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.

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)

This degree focuses on the design and construction of buildings and structures, using materials including concrete, masonry, timber and steel. In your studies you will develop the skills to manage the social, environmental and financial components of construction projects. You will get hands-on experience and gain knowledge in areas such as:

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

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) (Civil and Structural) with the Master of Engineering (Civil and Infrastructure) or the Master of Engineering (Engineering Management) with our Fast-track to Masters programs. This unique offering allows you 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. Many of our graduates have been employed through work placements or internships, going on to work on major projects such as the $350 million redevelopment of the Adelaide Oval and the $2 billion Royal Adelaide Hospital.

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.

²UniSA’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.

Study Engineering at UniSA

Explore our purpose-built civil engineering facilities at the UniSA Mawson Lakes campus.

Career outcomes

Your career

For civil and structural engineers in Australia, employment growth of 15.2 per cent is expected by November 2025¹. Careers to consider:

civil draftsperson: design, construction and testing of physical infrastructure; assessing the impact of largescale projects on the environment
structural engineer: working 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
water and environment engineer: involved in providing clean water, the disposal of wastewater and sewage, and preventing flood damage; responsible for the construction and maintenance of new equipment for managing water resources
environmental engineer: protecting the environment by assessing the impact a project has on the air, water, soil and noise levels in its vicinity

Explore a range of engineering and construction careers here.

¹Australian Government, Occupation Projections 2020

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

There is strong predicted future growth for Civil Engineering Professionals

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

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

(Labour Market Insights 2022)

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:

UniSA College Diploma in STEM (Engineering)
SAIBT Diploma of Engineering
Eynesbury Diploma of Engineering

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

SAIBT Diploma of Engineering
Eynesbury Diploma of Engineering

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

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

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.

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.

Your study spaces

As a UniSA engineering student you will enjoy access to the latest industry technology and tools in our engineering spaces.

Experience One Studio: a unique first year engineering space with open studio, small group and learning spaces as well as chill out areas.
ENE Experience Studio for second and third year students.
Experiential Learning Space: a collaborative, innovation space for final year students, postgraduate and research students, leading researchers and industry partners to 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.
Engineering Mechatronics Lab: a laboratory to explore robotics, machine tool control, and automated guided vehicles.

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

Enquire

Dr Sithara Walpita Gamage

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

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?

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?

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?

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

Being able to connect and understand concepts is something I find interesting. I spent my Gap Year working - fly in fly out for a mineral exploration company (Verdant Minerals) doing data collection and acquisition in the Northern Territory. It was this experience that lead me to study engineering.

I have been involved with the Formula SAE (FSAE) for the last four years. I think that FSAE is one of the best learning experiences you can get while studying at university, it allows you develop your engineering skills in a real-world setting. You are able to develop and express creativity with designs while learning and implementing the fundamental principles of engineering learnt during your studies. Formula SAE is looked upon highly within industry because it gives real-world experience within a multitude of different areas across engineering, whilst also demonstrating you have a passion for engineering.

Samuel Matthews

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil and Structural)