Bachelor of Engineering Science/Master of Engineering (Civil and Structural Engineering )

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Charles Darwin University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Engineering Science/Master of Engineering (Civil and Structural Engineering) at Charles Darwin University is a five-year combined program designed to turn you into a fully qualified professional engineer. You’ll start with a solid foundation in engineering principles and gradually move into advanced civil and structural engineering topics, learning both theory and practical skills to design and manage real-world infrastructure projects.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year introduces you to the core concepts of engineering, maths, and physics. Units like Mathematics 1A & 1B, Design and Innovation: Communicating Technology, and Statics help you develop problem-solving and analytical skills while learning the tools engineers use every day. This year lays the foundation for all future engineering study.

Year 2:
In the second year, you’ll dive deeper into engineering sciences. Subjects such as Mechanics of Solids, Fluid and Thermodynamics, and Engineering Materials teach you how forces, motion, and materials behave in real-world structures. You’ll also start working on practical applications, including small design projects and laboratory experiments.

Year 3:
Year three connects theory with professional practice. Units like Surveying and Construction, Dynamics, and Water Engineering give you hands-on experience measuring, planning, and analysing real infrastructure. By now, you’ll be developing teamwork skills through group projects while applying engineering concepts to practical problems.

Year 4:
The master’s phase begins in year four, focusing on advanced civil and structural engineering. Units such as Advanced Structural Analysis, Geotechnical Engineering, and Road and Traffic Engineering deepen your technical knowledge. You’ll work on design projects that simulate real-world engineering challenges, preparing you for professional practice.

Year 5:
In your final year, you’ll consolidate your expertise and tackle complex engineering problems. Subjects like Design of Concrete and Steel Structures and a Research Thesis/Capstone Project allow you to apply everything you’ve learned to real projects, demonstrating your readiness to graduate as a professional engineer. You’ll also develop leadership and project management skills to step confidently into the workforce.

Focus areas

civil infrastructure design, structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, water resources, road and traffic systems, advanced structural design

Learning outcomes

apply engineering fundamentals; analyse and design safe, sustainable structures; conduct independent research and project development; collaborate in multidisciplinary teams; solve real-world engineering challenges

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Accredited by Engineers Australia at the professional engineer level under the Washington Accord, giving your qualification international recognition and strong industry credibility.

Reputation (employability rankings)

CDU’s engineering programs are designed in consultation with industry leaders, ensuring graduates are job-ready with skills that match workforce needs in infrastructure, construction, and government projects.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Charles Darwin University, this degree isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about getting hands-on experience that prepares you for a real engineering career. From day one, you’ll work on projects, use industry-standard software, and take part in labs and simulations that mirror what engineers do in the field. The program also includes two 12-week industry placements, giving you the chance to step into professional engineering environments, apply your learning on real projects, and start building your network before graduation.

Some of the ways you’ll gain practical experience include:

Industry Work Placements: Two 12-week placements immerse you in everyday engineering practice, letting you work with companies, government projects, or infrastructure initiatives while earning course credit.
Design Projects & Practical Units: Units like Surveying and Construction, Mechanics of Solids, and Advanced Structural Analysis let you tackle real engineering challenges, often in team-based settings.
Hands-On Collaboration: Group assignments and design challenges help you develop teamwork and communication skills — essential for any engineering career.
Digital Tools & Online Labs: CDU’s Learnline platform supports simulations, virtual labs, and collaborative projects, helping you get familiar with software and systems used in professional engineering.
Campus Facilities: On the Casuarina campus, you’ll have access to modern workshops, computer labs, study spaces, and the CDU library for research and technical projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

When you graduate from this combined degree, you’ll hold a professional engineering qualification that’s recognised by employers both in Australia and overseas. You’ll be ready to take on roles like Civil Engineer, Structural Design Engineer, Project Manager, or Infrastructure Consultant, working on bridges, roads, buildings, and water systems. Thanks to the hands-on experience, industry placements, and accredited training you’ll receive, you’ll step into the workforce confident and job-ready:

Career Support Services: CDU’s Careers Centre helps you prepare for the real world with resume and interview coaching, personalised job search support, and connections to employers in engineering and infrastructure.
Employment Prospects & Salaries: CDU engineering graduates enjoy excellent employment outcomes, with many securing full-time positions soon after graduation and earning competitive starting salaries.
Industry Partnerships: The program has strong links with industry leaders and includes two 12-week work placements, giving you valuable real-world experience and professional connections.
Accreditation & Recognition: The course is accredited by Engineers Australia under the Washington Accord, ensuring your degree is internationally recognised and trusted by employers worldwide.
Graduate Success: CDU graduates are known for being practical, skilled problem-solvers who can confidently take on roles in construction, infrastructure planning, design, and project management.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, you can continue your studies with higher research options like a PhD in Engineering, specialising in areas such as sustainable infrastructure, advanced structural design, or innovative materials. Postgraduate study can open doors to careers in research, academia, or senior technical and leadership roles.