Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/Engineering (Honours)(Civil Engineering)

6 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) / Engineering (Honours) (Civil Engineering) at UNSW Sydney lets you graduate with two world-class qualifications, combining scientific research skills with practical engineering expertise. It’s perfect if you’re curious about both discovering new scientific knowledge and designing real-world infrastructure solutions.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both science and engineering. You’ll study mathematics, physics, computing, and Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation, while also beginning your science major with subjects like advanced physics, chemistry, or earth sciences depending on your chosen pathway. This combination helps you start thinking critically across disciplines from the very beginning.

Year 2:
The second year allows you to explore more specialised areas. In your science major, you’ll tackle subjects like materials science or advanced physics, while your civil engineering courses introduce you to core topics in structures, mechanics, and systems. This year helps you understand how scientific principles directly inform engineering solutions.

Years 3–4:
During the middle years, your coursework becomes more advanced and research-focused. Your science studies involve deeper electives and research projects, while your engineering subjects cover structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, and transport systems. You’ll also work on design challenges and project-based learning that bridge theory and hands-on application.

Years 5–6:
In the final years, you’ll complete both honours programs. This includes a research-focused honours thesis in your science major and advanced civil engineering units, alongside at least 60 days of professional engineering training. By graduation, you’ll have strong research skills, accredited engineering expertise, and practical experience ready for industry or further study.

Focus areas

Civil engineering design, structural analysis, geotechnical and environmental systems, materials science, scientific research methods, and advanced studies in your chosen science major.

Learning outcomes

You’ll graduate with the ability to solve complex problems, conduct scientific research, apply engineering design principles, integrate knowledge across disciplines, and communicate effectively in both technical and scientific contexts.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The engineering component is accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised under the Washington Accord, giving you an internationally respected engineering qualification.

Reputation

UNSW Engineering is ranked #1 in Australia and #25 globally for Engineering & Technology, while UNSW Science ranks among the top 50 globally for several science disciplines — making this double degree highly regarded by employers and research institutions worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UNSW, this double degree is designed so you’re not just learning from lectures — you’re actively doing science and engineering from day one. You’ll get hands-on experience through research projects in your science major, tackling real questions and developing your analytical skills, while also completing practical engineering work that builds your technical know-how. Part of your engineering degree includes 60 days of Industrial Training, putting you in a real workplace to apply your learning and get a feel for professional life. Across both degrees, project-based learning, group work, and Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities ensure you develop the practical, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that employers value:

You’ll gain experience through:

Industrial Training in engineering, working on real-world problems in professional engineering environments.
Research Integrated Learning (RIL) in your science honours work, giving you hands-on research experience and the chance to contribute to actual scientific discovery.
Work Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities that connect classroom theory with real workplace challenges, helping you build practical skills.
State-of-the-art labs and research facilities across science and engineering, where you’ll use specialist tools and equipment for experiments and projects.
Project-based and collaborative coursework, designed to strengthen your design, communication, and problem-solving skills in both disciplines.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this double degree at UNSW gives you a unique blend of skills that employers highly value. You could work as a civil engineer, research scientist, infrastructure specialist, or innovation consultant, giving you the flexibility to shape a career in government, industry, consulting, or research. With both deep scientific knowledge and accredited engineering expertise, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle complex challenges and contribute to innovation in real-world settings.

Career support services: UNSW’s Careers and Employment team offers tailored guidance through workshops, mentoring, networking events, and programs like STEM Career Launchpad and ChallENG, connecting you directly with industry professionals before you graduate.
Employment reputation: UNSW graduates consistently rank among the most employable in Australia, with engineering students achieving some of the highest median salaries among Group of Eight universities.
University–industry partnerships: The university works with over 400 industry partners, providing access to internships, projects, and research opportunities that let you gain real-world experience and professional networks.
Long-term accreditation value: Your engineering qualification is accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised internationally through the Washington Accord, giving you credibility and mobility to work globally.
Graduation outcomes: You’ll be ready to step into high-impact roles requiring both technical and scientific insight, from infrastructure design and sustainability planning to research leadership and innovation.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you could continue your studies in several ways. A Master of Engineering or Master of Engineering Science allows you to specialise in civil or environmental engineering or emerging fields like renewable energy and infrastructure resilience. If research excites you, a PhD in science or engineering can open doors to academic careers, advanced research roles, or senior positions in policy and consultancy.