Study Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical and Mechatronic) 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
LHMR

Prerequisites
SACE Stage 2 Math Methods
More info

Assumed Knowledge
SACE Stage 2 Physics
More info

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

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
081815A

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

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
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

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.
Endorsed by the Naval Shipbuilding College (NSC) as part of the College Endorsement Process.
Integrate mechanical engineering with computing, control and automation.
Learn specialist skills in robotics and machine vision systems.
Gain real work experience through the UniSA STEM Professional Practice Program.
Learn in specialist, purpose-built facilities including the Mechatronics Lab, Experience One Studio and Experiential Learning Suite.
Go on an overseas study exchange and choose from over 25 countries and more than 60 universities worldwide.
Start now, decide later. Flexible entry pathways and common first-year across all Engineering Honours programs so you can change your specialisation based on your interests.

Snapshot

Mechanical and mechatronic engineering is a diverse field that can be applied right across industry – from robotics and automation to manufacturing, automotive and energy. This degree captures that diversity, integrating mechanical engineering with computing, control, automation and actuation.

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

In your first year you will develop a strong general foundation in engineering including computer programming, applied mathematics and physics. As your studies progress you will discover innovative mechanical and mechatronic areas such as robotics, industrial actuation and automation and machine vision.

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 involves 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.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Programming Concepts	COMP 1045	4.5
Engineering Materials	RENG 1005	4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 1	MATH 1063	4.5
Sustainable Engineering Practice	ENGG 1003	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Electrical and Electronic Systems	EEET 1027	4.5
Engineering Design and Innovation	ENGG 1004	4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2	MATH 1064	4.5
Engineering Mechanics	MENG 1012	4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Mechanics of Materials	CIVE 2005	4.5
Mathematical Methods for Engineers 3	MATH 2028	4.5
Electrical Circuit Analysis	EEET 1003	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)
Computer Aided Engineering Practice	MENG 3003	4.5
Control Systems	EEET 3046	4.5
Energy Conversion and Management	MENG 3005	4.5
Electromechanics	EEET 2044	4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Digital Logic Fundamentals	EEET 1026	4.5
Mechanics of Machines	MENG 2008	4.5
Robotics and Automation	MFET 5023	4.5	Note(s): 2,3
Design Management for Engineers	ENGG 3006	4.5
FOURTH YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Engineering Industry Experience	ENGG 4017	0		Rule(s): 1,2
Advanced Control and Signal Processing	EEET 4071	4.5	Note(s): 3
Machine Learning and Vision Systems	MFET 4015	4.5	Note(s): 3
Engineering Capstone Experience A	ENGG 4007	4.5	Note(s): 1,3
Engineering Honours Project A	ENGG 4009	4.5	Note(s): 1,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Mobile Autonomous Robotic Systems	EEET 4070	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): 1,3
Engineering Honours Project B	ENGG 4010	4.5	Note(s): 1,3

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 for the course. Students will not be eligible to graduate until they have obtained a Non-Graded Pass (NGP) for this course.

Notes

1. 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.

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 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 mechanical design, advanced manufacturing and applied mechatronics.

Why Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical and Mechatronic)

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

dynamics and mechanics of machines
thermodynamics and energy engineering
mechanical system design and digital prototyping
control systems and industrial actuation
machine vision and learning
robotics and autonomous systems

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

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

An internship in your final year will see you tackle engineering challenges for industry clients, where you will complete a research and development project.

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 careers 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 mechanical and mechatronic engineering facilities at the UniSA Mawson Lakes campus.

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
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
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
Mechatronic Device Designer And Development Engineer: design machinery with electronic and computer control systems such as power generators, mining and chemical plant machinery, aircraft, robots, motor vehicles or cameras; develop high-technology engineering systems that automate industrial tasks
Automation Engineer: develop automated machinery and processes to complete exact tasks; develop technologies for production and delivery such as robots for packaging, food processing or car manufacturing

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

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

(National Skills Commission 2021)

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)

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

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 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

Dr Tim Lau

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.

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