Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Curtin University Perth

Program Overview

Program Overview
The Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Curtin University offers an engaging and hands-on four-year journey into the world of engineering. From day one, you’ll be part of an industry-connected program that encourages creativity, critical thinking and collaboration. Whether you’re fascinated by machines, infrastructure, energy or emerging technologies, this degree helps you explore multiple branches of engineering before choosing your specialisation. It’s ideal for students who love maths, physics and design — and who want to apply those skills to solve real-world challenges and make a global impact.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Foundation Year
Your first year is the Engineering Foundation Year (EFY) — a dynamic introduction to the core principles of engineering. You’ll study subjects like Engineering Foundations: Principles Design and Communication, Linear Algebra and Statistics for Engineers, and Fundamentals of Programming. These units help you develop strong problem-solving, analytical and computing skills while giving you a taste of different engineering disciplines before choosing your major.

Year 2 – Core Engineering Skills
In second year, you’ll dive deeper into your chosen major — such as mechanical, civil, electrical or chemical engineering. Expect to study units like Engineering Mechanics, Calculus for Engineers and Resources, Processes and Materials Engineering. You’ll start applying theoretical knowledge to practical design tasks, teamwork projects and lab work that mirror real engineering environments.

Year 3 – Advanced Technical Knowledge
By your third year, you’ll be fully immersed in your field of study. Mechanical engineering students, for example, might explore Machine Design, Fluid Mechanics and Mechanical Design for Materials Handling. Similar advanced units are offered in other majors. This year emphasises multidisciplinary collaboration, sustainability, and systems thinking — preparing you to tackle complex engineering challenges from multiple perspectives.

Year 4 – Honours and Capstone Project
Your final year brings everything together through an honours-level research or design project. You’ll also complete advanced professional units such as Engineering Design Methodology and Professional Engineering Management and Practice. This capstone experience allows you to demonstrate your technical expertise, creativity, and leadership — producing a tangible piece of work that highlights your readiness for the engineering profession.

Focus Areas
Engineering solutions • Systems thinking • Sustainability • Industry practice • Design innovation • Computing and data analytics

Learning Outcomes
Graduates of Curtin’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) program will be able to:

Apply strong foundations in science, mathematics and computing to engineering contexts.
Design and evaluate solutions to complex engineering problems with sustainability in mind.
Make ethical, safe and informed professional decisions.
Use emerging technologies and tools effectively.
Work collaboratively in diverse teams and lead engineering projects.
Commit to continuous professional and personal development.

Professional Accreditation
This program is fully accredited by Engineers Australia and recognised internationally. It meets the Stage 1 Competencies for professional engineering practice, ensuring you’re globally ready to work as a qualified engineer.

Reputation and Employability
Curtin University ranks among the top 1% of universities worldwide and is highly regarded for the quality and industry relevance of its engineering education. With strong ties to employers and a focus on practical learning, Curtin graduates are known for being job-ready and equipped to lead innovation across industries.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Here’s how you’ll experience the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Curtin University — this isn’t a program where you just sit and listen to lectures. You’ll be learning in modern studios, using the same kind of facilities and tools that real engineers use, and gaining the hands-on experience employers look for.

From your very first day, you’ll step into purpose-built engineering studios, labs, and workshops where you learn by doing. In your first year, you’ll complete Curtin’s hands-on Engineering Foundation Year — working in computing, electrical and mechanical labs, taking part in team-based design and simulation projects, and collaborating in a studio environment that mirrors a real engineering workplace.

As you move into your major, your studies become even more applied. You’ll work on industry-connected projects, use professional simulation software, collaborate in teams, and have opportunities to complete real placements or internships that count toward your professional experience.

Here are some of the ways you’ll gain practical, real-world experience throughout the program:

Dedicated first-year engineering studio: You’ll learn in an open-plan, collaborative environment equipped with computing labs, mechanics and electrical labs, and project meeting rooms designed to reflect a professional setting.
Hands-on laboratories from day one: Whether it’s computing, electrical or mechanical labs, you’ll get early access to practical learning spaces and equipment.
Team-based design and simulation projects: From your Foundation Year onwards, you’ll work with other students on design challenges and simulation tasks that build teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Industry-informed curriculum: Your studies cover emerging technologies like data analytics, 3D printing, machine learning, and automation — keeping you ahead of what’s happening in the industry.
Final-year major or research project: You’ll complete a substantial industry-linked project or research investigation that brings everything you’ve learned together.
Work-integrated learning: Every engineering student completes supervised professional practice hours, recorded in an official Engineering Logbook, ensuring you graduate with real experience.
Industry connections: Through networking events, guest lectures, advisory panels, and placements, you’ll connect with employers and industry mentors who can open doors to future opportunities.
Advanced laboratories and fieldwork facilities: You’ll have access to specialized labs in civil, mechanical, geotechnical, water, computing, and electrical engineering.
Supportive campus environment: With extensive resources like the main library and dedicated study areas at the Bentley campus, you’ll have everything you need to collaborate, study, and explore your interests.

In short: at Curtin, you won’t just study engineering — you’ll live it. You’ll apply theory in real-world settings, work in teams, use cutting-edge tools, and graduate ready to step straight into your engineering career.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Future Progression and Career Opportunities – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), Curtin University

If you complete the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Curtin University, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact across the engineering world — from hands-on design and development to operations, project leadership, and innovation. Curtin engineering graduates are equipped to move into careers such as Mechanical Engineer, Civil & Construction Engineer, Electrical or Electronics Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, and Systems Engineer.

University support to help you build your career

Curtin’s strong industry connections mean you don’t just learn theory — you apply it. The degree includes 480 hours of professional engineering practice, giving you valuable real-world experience before you even graduate. You’ll complete this through work placements, industry projects, and site visits, helping you build confidence, networks, and employability while studying.

Graduate employment and salary outcomes

Curtin has a strong record of success — recent reports show that around 91% of domestic engineering graduates are employed shortly after finishing their degree. Across Australia, engineering graduates typically start on salaries of around AUD 72,000, with experienced engineers earning well above AUD 150,000, depending on their field and role.

Industry recognition and partnerships

This degree is fully accredited by Engineers Australia, confirming that it meets professional standards and is recognised internationally. The program has been shaped in consultation with industry partners, ensuring your learning aligns with what employers need. You’ll also benefit from industry-linked projects, site experiences, and exposure to real engineering challenges, helping you transition smoothly into the workforce.

Accreditation and global recognition

Graduating with an Engineers Australia–accredited honours degree provides you with professional recognition not only in Australia but also internationally. It also gives you eligibility to apply for membership with professional engineering bodies — a valuable credential that enhances your global career mobility.

Graduate readiness and outcomes

Throughout the degree — from the Engineering Foundation Year to your chosen major (such as Civil & Construction, Software Systems, Mining, or Mechanical Engineering) — you’ll build a solid foundation in technical and professional practice. By graduation, you’ll be ready to design solutions, manage complex projects, and make meaningful contributions as an engineering professional.

Further academic progression

After completing your honours degree, you can continue to develop your expertise by pursuing:

A Master of Engineering, specialising in areas such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, or systems engineering
A PhD if you’re passionate about research or academic pathways
Specialist postgraduate certifications in fields like project management, sustainable infrastructure, or digital systems, helping you expand your skillset and open doors to senior leadership roles