Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical Engineering) / Science

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical Engineering) / Science at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) is a comprehensive five-year dual degree that combines advanced electrical engineering expertise with a strong scientific foundation. This program is designed for students who are passionate about innovation, technology, and scientific discovery, preparing graduates to solve complex challenges across industries such as energy, telecommunications, electronics, automation, research, and emerging technologies.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1 – Engineering and Science Foundations
Students develop a strong foundation in engineering, mathematics, physics, and scientific principles. Core courses such as Engineering Mechanics, Electrical Engineering Fundamentals, Mathematics for Engineers, and introductory science subjects establish the analytical and technical skills required for advanced study.

Year 2 – Core Electrical Engineering and Scientific Principles
The curriculum advances into key engineering concepts through courses such as Circuit Analysis, Signals and Systems, and Electromagnetics. Alongside engineering studies, students continue building scientific expertise through discipline-specific science courses that strengthen their research and analytical capabilities.

Year 3 – Systems, Design, and Applied Science
Students explore more specialized engineering topics including Control Systems, Digital Systems, Electronics, and Data Analysis. Science studies become increasingly focused, allowing students to develop expertise in their chosen scientific discipline while strengthening interdisciplinary problem-solving skills.

Year 4 – Advanced Engineering Applications and Research
The focus shifts to advanced areas such as Power Systems, Communication Systems, Embedded Systems, and emerging technologies. Students also undertake advanced science coursework and research-based projects that integrate scientific inquiry with engineering innovation.

Year 5 – Professional Practice and Capstone Experience
In the final year, students complete a major engineering capstone project that addresses real-world challenges and demonstrates their technical, analytical, and project management skills. Advanced electives in areas such as Renewable Energy Systems, Smart Grid Technologies, Telecommunications, and specialized science fields allow students to tailor their studies to their career aspirations.

Focus Areas:

Electrical Engineering
Renewable Energy Systems
Power and Energy Networks
Control and Automation Systems
Digital and Embedded Systems
Communication and Telecommunications Engineering
Scientific Research and Innovation

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will develop:

Advanced problem-solving and analytical skills
Technical expertise in electrical engineering systems and technologies
Strong scientific research and investigative capabilities
Project management and leadership skills
Effective teamwork and communication abilities
The ability to apply scientific knowledge to engineering challenges

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The engineering component of the program is accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring graduates meet internationally recognized professional engineering standards and are eligible for professional engineering pathways in Australia and overseas.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
UNSW is internationally recognized for excellence in engineering, technology, and scientific research. Its strong industry connections, world-class facilities, and emphasis on practical learning ensure graduates are highly sought after by employers across engineering, technology, research, and innovation sectors. The university consistently ranks among the world's leading institutions for graduate employability and engineering education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), students pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Electrical Engineering and Science are immersed in a dynamic learning environment that emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. The program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the challenges of the engineering field. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning that enhances their understanding and expertise.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Access to specialized laboratories such as the Electrical Engineering laboratories, which are equipped with advanced equipment for circuit design, signal processing, and power systems.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects that encourage teamwork and problem-solving skills, allowing students to work on real engineering challenges and develop innovative solutions.

- Internships and Industry Partnerships: Opportunities for internships with leading companies in the engineering sector, providing valuable industry experience and networking opportunities.

- Software Tools: Familiarity with industry-standard software such as MATLAB, Simulink, and AutoCAD, which are essential for modeling, simulation, and design in electrical engineering.

- Field Trips: Organized visits to engineering firms and research institutes, giving students insights into the practical applications of their studies and exposure to the latest industry trends.

- Digital Learning Resources: Access to online platforms and digital tools that support learning and collaboration, including UNSW's extensive library resources and databases.

- Research Institutes: Opportunities to engage with research initiatives at UNSW, such as the UNSW School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications, where students can participate in cutting-edge research projects.

These experiential learning components not only enhance academic knowledge but also equip students with the skills and experiences that employers value. By choosing UNSW, you are setting yourself up for a successful career in electrical engineering and science.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Electrical Engineering) / Science from UNSW possess a unique combination of advanced engineering expertise and scientific research capabilities. This dual degree prepares students to solve complex technological challenges, drive innovation, and contribute to emerging industries across Australia and globally. Graduates are highly sought after in sectors such as renewable energy, telecommunications, electronics, automation, defence, advanced manufacturing, research, and technology consulting.

Typical career pathways include: Electrical Engineer, Power Systems Engineer, Electronics Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Research Scientist, Renewable Energy Engineer, Data Analyst, and Technology Consultant.

This strong career outlook is supported by UNSW's reputation, industry engagement, and graduate employability outcomes:

UNSW Careers and Employability provides students with career coaching, resume and interview support, networking opportunities, employer events, internships, and graduate recruitment programs.
Engineering graduates are in high demand across industries undergoing rapid technological transformation, particularly in renewable energy, smart infrastructure, telecommunications, automation, and digital technologies.
Median full-time salaries for engineering graduates in Australia typically range from AUD $75,000–$85,000+ shortly after graduation, with substantial growth potential as graduates progress into specialist, leadership, and management positions.
UNSW maintains strong partnerships with leading organizations including companies in energy, telecommunications, technology, defence, infrastructure, and research sectors, providing students with valuable industry exposure and employment pathways.
Accreditation by Engineers Australia ensures graduates meet internationally recognized professional standards and enhances global career mobility.
The combination of engineering and science qualifications provides graduates with a competitive advantage in research-intensive industries, innovation-focused roles, and emerging technology sectors.
Graduates develop highly transferable skills in analytical thinking, project management, problem-solving, communication, data analysis, and technical leadership, enabling success across a wide range of careers.
UNSW is consistently ranked among Australia's leading universities for graduate employability, with employers recognizing the university's strong emphasis on practical learning, research excellence, and industry engagement.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this degree, graduates may pursue advanced study through a Master of Engineering, Master of Renewable Energy, Master of Data Science, Master of Information Technology, Master of Engineering Science, or Master of Project Management. Students interested in research can continue into a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in areas such as electrical engineering, telecommunications, power systems, quantum technologies, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, robotics, or advanced scientific research. These pathways can lead to careers in research, academia, innovation, technology development, and senior leadership positions within industry.