Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Civil Engineering)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering) at Macquarie University gives you the perfect mix of scientific curiosity and practical engineering skills. It’s ideal for students who want to understand how the world works while also learning to design and build real-world infrastructure, from bridges and roads to water systems and sustainable urban projects.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
You’ll start with the fundamentals in both science and engineering, taking units like Introduction to Science and Foundations of Engineering. This year is all about building your analytical thinking, understanding key concepts in math and physics, and learning how to approach real-world problems with a scientific mindset.

Year 2:
Now it gets more hands-on. You’ll explore Engineering Mechanics and Data Analysis for Engineers while continuing with your science major. You’ll learn how to apply scientific knowledge to practical engineering challenges — like understanding material properties or solving mechanical problems.

Year 3:
This year focuses on specialisation. You’ll tackle advanced subjects like Structural Engineering and Fluid Mechanics, alongside your science courses. You’ll see how scientific insight directly informs the design and analysis of infrastructure, from buildings and bridges to water flow and soil behaviour.

Year 4:
You’ll bring everything together through projects and capstone units, such as Civil Engineering Design Project and Research Methods in Science. Working in teams, you’ll solve complex problems and gain the skills needed for professional practice or further research.

Year 5 (Honours):
Your final year culminates in an honours research project, where you’ll apply your scientific understanding to a significant engineering problem. It’s your chance to showcase leadership, critical thinking, and independent research — preparing you for a career in industry or advanced study.

Focus areas

Civil engineering design, scientific research methods, structural mechanics, fluid systems, environmental science, data analysis, project-based engineering practice

Learning outcomes

Graduate with the ability to apply both scientific reasoning and engineering principles to complex problems, strong analytical and design skills, hands-on experience in experiments and data analysis, and readiness for professional engineering roles or research opportunities.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The engineering component meets professional standards aligned with Engineers Australia, ensuring your skills are recognised and valued both in Australia and internationally.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Macquarie University is known globally for research-driven science and engineering programs. Graduates are highly regarded for their practical experience and analytical skills, giving you a strong start in industry or further study.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Macquarie University, learning goes far beyond the classroom — you’ll get hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world work in both science and engineering. From industry-linked projects and field trips to research labs and collaborative team projects, this degree is designed so you can apply what you learn immediately. You’ll also have access to cutting-edge facilities and tools that mirror professional environments, giving you confidence and practical skills that employers value:

Here’s what experiential learning looks like in this program:

Professional and Community Engagement (PACE): Participate in real workplaces, research projects, or community placements, giving you the chance to apply classroom knowledge and build professional networks.
State-of-the-art labs and workshops: Work in well-equipped engineering and science labs, prototyping facilities, and collaborative spaces where you can test, design, and refine solutions.
Collaborative projects: Team up with classmates, lecturers, and industry partners on design challenges and research projects that mirror real workplace problems.
Industry experience and internships: Gain practical work experience through internships, practicums, and field placements that enhance your resume and give you a competitive edge when you graduate.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this double degree opens doors to careers where your skills in both science and engineering really stand out. You could become a civil engineer designing essential infrastructure, an environmental or geotechnical engineer, a project manager leading multi-disciplinary teams, or a consultant solving complex problems — all roles where employers value problem-solving, analytical skills, and hands-on experience. Macquarie supports you every step of the way:

Career support services: Macquarie’s Career Services and the Professional and Community Engagement (PACE) program help you build your resume, prepare for interviews, and secure internships or industry placements — giving you real-world experience and professional connections before you graduate.
Employment prospects and salaries: Many graduates find work soon after finishing, stepping into well-paid roles in engineering, construction, environmental planning, and consulting, with starting salaries often around A$100,000–A$120,000 per year depending on your role and experience.
Industry connections: Your learning is tied to industry projects and partnerships, so you’re gaining skills employers are actively looking for, from civil design to environmental systems and applied scientific research.
Professional accreditation: The engineering part of your degree is aligned with professional standards and the Australian Qualifications Framework, giving your qualification credibility in Australia and internationally.
Graduate outcomes: With a combination of scientific knowledge and engineering expertise, you’ll leave with a versatile profile that’s highly valued by employers across a wide range of sectors.

Further Academic Progression:

If you want to continue studying, there are plenty of exciting pathways. You could pursue a Master’s in engineering, environmental science, or applied research, or go on to PhD research — especially if you’re interested in innovation, leadership in technical fields, or academic careers. Your honours research project and PACE experiences give you a strong foundation to take your studies to the next level and open doors to specialised professional roles.