Bachelor of science Advanced Mathematics (Honours) / Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering)

6 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Advanced Mathematics) (Honours) / Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering) at UNSW Sydney is a six-year double degree that combines advanced mathematical knowledge with professional environmental engineering training. It is ideal for students who enjoy analytical thinking, problem-solving and sustainability, and want to use mathematics and engineering to solve complex environmental challenges.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you build strong foundations in both mathematics and engineering through subjects such as Higher Mathematics 1A, Higher Mathematics 1B, and Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation. You develop analytical thinking, mathematical modelling and engineering problem-solving skills while learning how engineers create solutions for real-world challenges.

Year 2
During second year, students deepen their mathematical knowledge while strengthening their engineering fundamentals. Subjects such as Discrete Mathematics, Linear Algebra, and core environmental engineering studies introduce advanced quantitative techniques and engineering analysis used to understand environmental systems and infrastructure.

Year 3
In third year, learning becomes more specialised and application-focused. Students may study environmental engineering subjects such as Groundwater Resource Investigation, Air Quality and Pollution, and Sustainability in Construction, while advanced mathematics courses develop expertise in modelling, statistics and complex systems analysis. This combination helps students understand how mathematical methods can be applied to environmental engineering challenges.

Year 4
Fourth year focuses on advanced engineering and mathematical applications. Through subjects such as Advanced Water Engineering, Coastal Engineering, and higher-level mathematics electives, students explore sustainable engineering design, environmental risk assessment and sophisticated modelling techniques used in industry and research.

Year 5
In fifth year, students continue building specialist expertise through advanced electives, interdisciplinary projects and professional engineering studies. Learning focuses on innovation, research and the integration of mathematical and engineering knowledge to solve complex environmental problems.

Year 6
The final year includes honours-level study, independent research and major projects that demonstrate advanced analytical and engineering capabilities. Students also complete professional industry experience, graduating with two honours qualifications and a highly valuable combination of technical, research and problem-solving skills.

Focus areas (in a string):

Advanced mathematics, applied mathematics, statistics, mathematical modelling, environmental engineering, water and wastewater systems, sustainability, environmental remediation, groundwater management, air quality and pollution control, climate resilience, sustainable infrastructure

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Apply advanced mathematical techniques to engineering challenges, develop sustainable environmental solutions, analyse complex environmental systems, perform data-driven modelling and forecasting, conduct independent research, manage multidisciplinary projects, communicate technical findings effectively, demonstrate professional and ethical engineering practice

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The Engineering (Honours) component is fully accredited by Engineers Australia at the Professional Engineer level and recognised internationally through the Washington Accord. The honours component also provides excellent preparation for research, innovation and advanced technical careers.

Reputation (employability rankings):

UNSW is recognised as one of Australia's leading universities for both Engineering and Mathematics, with strong global rankings and an outstanding reputation for graduate employability. Students benefit from world-class teaching, industry engagement and access to research opportunities that support long-term career success.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), students in the Advanced Mathematics (Honours) and Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering) programs 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 for their future careers. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, UNSW ensures that students are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges.

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

- Group Projects: Collaborate with peers on complex projects that simulate real-world engineering problems, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Internships: Gain valuable industry experience through internships with leading companies, allowing you to apply your knowledge in practical settings and build professional networks.
- Field Trips: Participate in field trips to various engineering sites and environmental projects, providing firsthand insights into the industry and its practices.
- Laboratories: Access specialized laboratories, such as the Water Research Laboratory and the UNSW Engineering Design Studio, where you can conduct experiments and engage in innovative research.
- Software Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as MATLAB, AutoCAD, and ArcGIS, which are essential for modeling, design, and analysis in engineering and mathematics.
- Research Institutes: Engage with research institutes like the UNSW Water Research Centre, where you can contribute to groundbreaking research in environmental engineering.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to a vast collection of engineering and mathematics journals, textbooks, and digital resources.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in your chosen field.

Choosing UNSW for your Advanced Mathematics (Honours) or Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering) degree means you’re not just learning; you’re preparing to make a real impact in the world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Advanced Mathematics) (Honours) / Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Environmental Engineering) at UNSW Sydney leave with a strong mix of advanced mathematical expertise and professional environmental engineering capability. This combination prepares them for roles such as Environmental Engineer, Data and Modelling Specialist, Water Resource Engineer and Sustainability Consultant, with opportunities across engineering, research, infrastructure and environmental sectors:

Access to UNSW Employability services, including career coaching, mentoring, internship support, networking events and professional development programs that help students transition into industry
Completion of 60 days of Engineering Professional Practice, giving students real workplace experience and industry exposure before graduation
Opportunities to engage in industry-linked projects and research activities focused on real environmental and engineering challenges
Study within a leading engineering and mathematics faculty with strong academic reputation and employer recognition
Full accreditation of the Engineering (Honours) component by Engineers Australia at the Professional Engineer level, with international recognition through the Washington Accord
Strong career pathways across environmental consulting, water resources, infrastructure, sustainability, climate resilience, data modelling and engineering research
Honours-level training builds advanced analytical, research and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers and research organisations
A UNSW qualification supports strong employability outcomes both in Australia and internationally
The combination of mathematics and engineering opens additional opportunities in quantitative analysis, modelling, finance-related analytics and technical consulting fields

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this double honours degree, students can continue into postgraduate study in environmental engineering, applied mathematics, statistics, data science, climate science, water engineering or sustainability. Graduates may also pursue research-based master’s or PhD programs, leading to careers in advanced research, academia, policy development, consulting or senior technical leadership roles.