Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)(Environmental Engineering) / Science (Computer Science)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering) / Science (Computer Science) at UNSW Sydney is a five-year double degree that combines environmental engineering with computing and software expertise. It is a strong choice for students who want to solve environmental challenges using technology such as programming, data analysis, simulation, and digital engineering tools.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you build a solid foundation in mathematics, engineering design, programming, and computing basics. Alongside introductory engineering subjects, you study core computer science concepts like programming and computational thinking, helping you develop problem-solving skills from both technical and digital perspectives.

Year 2
In second year, you start core environmental engineering studies while continuing computer science learning. Engineering subjects introduce environmental systems and design principles, while computing courses focus on algorithms, data structures, and software development fundamentals.

Year 3
In third year, environmental engineering becomes more specialised through subjects such as water systems, pollution control, and sustainable design. At the same time, computer science studies deepen your knowledge of areas like databases, systems programming, and software engineering, helping you link environmental problems with digital solutions.

Year 4
In fourth year, you work on advanced engineering applications and computing-based projects. This stage focuses on applying both environmental engineering knowledge and software tools to solve complex, real-world problems through modelling, analysis, and system development.

Year 5
In the final year, you complete advanced electives, specialised subjects, and major capstone projects. This phase brings together environmental engineering and computer science, preparing you to design integrated technological solutions for environmental challenges.

Focus areas (in a string):

Environmental engineering, water systems, sustainability, pollution control, climate resilience, programming, software engineering, algorithms, data structures, computational modelling, environmental data analysis, systems design

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Design sustainable engineering solutions, develop software systems for environmental applications, analyse environmental data, apply computational modelling techniques, solve complex engineering problems, integrate computing with engineering design, manage interdisciplinary projects, communicate technical solutions effectively

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The Engineering (Honours) component is fully accredited by Engineers Australia at the Professional Engineer level, with international recognition through the Washington Accord.

Reputation (employability rankings):

UNSW is recognised as one of Australia’s leading universities for Engineering and Computer Science, with strong global rankings and excellent graduate employability across both technology and engineering sectors.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), students pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Environmental Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science are immersed in a rich environment that emphasizes experiential learning. This hands-on approach not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also equips students with practical skills that are essential in today’s job market. With state-of-the-art facilities and a variety of tools at their disposal, students can engage in real-world projects, collaborate with peers, and gain invaluable experience that prepares them for their future careers.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in these programs:

- Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students have access to specialized laboratories, such as the Water Research Laboratory and the UNSW Makerspace, where they can conduct experiments and work on innovative projects.

- Field Trips and Site Visits: The curriculum includes field trips to various environmental sites and tech companies, allowing students to see the practical applications of their studies in real-world settings.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core component of both programs, fostering teamwork and communication skills while tackling real engineering and computer science challenges.

- Internships and Industry Partnerships: UNSW has strong connections with industry leaders, providing students with internship opportunities that offer hands-on experience and networking possibilities.

- Software and Digital Tools: Students are trained in industry-standard software such as MATLAB, AutoCAD, and various programming languages, ensuring they are well-prepared for the workforce.

- Research Institutes: Students can engage with research institutes like the UNSW Sustainable Water Research Group, where they can contribute to cutting-edge research in environmental engineering.

- Access to Libraries and Resources: The UNSW library system offers extensive resources, including access to digital databases and research materials that support both engineering and computer science studies.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance academic knowledge but also build essential skills that employers value. By choosing UNSW, you’re not just earning a degree; you’re preparing for a successful career in a dynamic and impactful field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering) / Science (Computer Science) at UNSW Sydney are prepared to work at the intersection of sustainability and technology, using engineering knowledge and computing skills to solve complex environmental problems. This combination opens doors to roles such as Environmental Engineer, Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Environmental Systems Developer and Sustainability Consultant across industries like infrastructure, energy, technology and government.

To support strong career outcomes, the program offers:

Access to UNSW Employability services, including career coaching, internship support, employer networking events, mentoring programs and professional development workshops tailored to engineering and computer science students
Industry-linked learning through engineering projects and computing applications that reflect real environmental and digital challenges
Completion of Engineering Professional Practice, providing structured workplace experience and industry exposure before graduation
Full accreditation of the Engineering (Honours) component by Engineers Australia at the Professional Engineer level, with international recognition through the Washington Accord
Strong industry demand across environmental consulting, software development, data science, infrastructure, renewable energy and climate technology sectors
A globally recognised UNSW qualification that supports strong employability and international career mobility
Interdisciplinary training that builds both technical engineering capability and advanced computing skills, making graduates highly versatile in the job market
Competitive starting salaries for graduates in engineering and technology roles, with strong long-term growth potential as experience increases in specialised fields

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue into postgraduate study in environmental engineering, computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, environmental informatics or sustainability-focused engineering disciplines. Graduates may also pursue research-based master’s or PhD programs, leading to careers in advanced research, academia, technology development, consulting or senior technical leadership roles across engineering and computing industries.