Start Date
February
July

Duration
4 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
LHMR

SATAC Code
434791 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Prerequisites
SACE Stage 2 Math Methods
More info

Assumed Knowledge
SACE Stage 2 Physics
More info

Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 72.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 72.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
View full entry requirements

Degree overview

  • Study at SA's number one university for graduate careers 16 years running1.
  • 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.
  • Combine new manufacturing and management techniques with sophisticated, high-precision machinery.
  • Apply information and communication technology with electronics and new practices to improve products and processes.
  • Gain real work experience through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.
  • Access the Engineering Mechatronics Lab and Experience One Studio.
  • 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.
  • A new pathway option for students to complete the required mathematical prerequisite.

1Graduate Destinations Survey 2007-2015 and Graduate Outcomes Survey 2016-2022 (Domestic Undergraduate Full-time Employment Indicator for SA public universities).

Snapshot

Snapshot

In advanced manufacturing, new production techniques, sophisticated modern manufacturing technologies and high-precision and automated machinery are used to improve products and processes. Mechanical engineers in the manufacturing sector use a broad range of knowledge and skills, including information and communication technology (ICT), digital modelling, quality assurance and new organisational practices. 

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 foundation in engineering including computer programming, applied mathematics and physics. As you advance in your studies you will explore the latest in manufacturing such as intelligent systems, and industrial actuation and automation. Topics will include:

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.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

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
Engineering Modelling MATH 2009 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)
Intelligent Production Systems MFET 5055 4.5 Note(s): 1
Energy Conversion and Management MENG 3005 4.5
Project Planning and Control MFET 5040 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
Computer Aided Engineering Practice MENG 3003 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Energy and Society MENG 5005 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
OR
Sustainable Development and Design Practice MENG 4022 4.5 Note(s): 3
Mechanics of Machines MENG 2008 4.5
Design Management for Engineers ENGG 3006 4.5
Robotics and Automation MFET 5023 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Industry Experience ENGG 4017 0 Rule(s): 1,2
Vibration Analysis of Mechanical Systems MENG 4034 4.5 Note(s): 3
Total Quality Management MFET 5022 4.5 Note(s): 1,3
Engineering Honours Project A ENGG 4009 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
Engineering Capstone Experience A ENGG 4007 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Advanced Thermo-Fluid Engineering MENG 4004 4.5 Note(s): 3
Integrated Industrial Actuation and Automation MENG 4019 4.5 Note(s): 3
Engineering Capstone Experience B ENGG 4008 4.5 Note(s): 2,3
Engineering Honours Project B ENGG 4010 4.5 Note(s): 2,3

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 electrical and electronic engineering.

Why Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical and Advanced Manufacturing)

Why this Degree

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

  • fluid mechanics and thermodynamics
  • advanced materials and design for manufacturing
  • intelligent manufacturing systems and digital prototyping
  • industrial actuation and robotics
  • economic analysis for production and engineering projects
  • quality control and project management

You will learn in purpose-built, industry standard facilities, equipped with software platforms and collaborative digital environments that will prepare you for Industry 4.0.

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
  • Industrial 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
  • Systems Engineer: install, configure, test and maintain operating systems, application software and system management tools; manage and monitor all installed systems and organisational infrastructure; and, ensure high levels of system and infrastructure availability
  • CAD Engineer: use specialised software to generate drawings, blueprints, plans, and other design documents for use across a wide variety of fields (such as mechanical design, architecture, construction or engineering)

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

Applying to study with us:

  • go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
  • you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

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:


Deferment

This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.

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

Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. 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 loads 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 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:

  • academic counselling
  • personal counselling
  • social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • career services and mentoring
  • Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

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

    The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

    The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

    There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

    If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

    You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

    If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying

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

    Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

    Undergraduate

    The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

    Postgraduate

    Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

    As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.

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

    You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central. 

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

    Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

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