Bachelor of Science(chemistry) and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Macquarie University is a five-year double degree that combines the discovery-driven world of chemistry with the practical, solution-focused approach of engineering. It’s an excellent option for students who are curious about how chemical processes work and want to apply that knowledge to design technologies, solve complex problems, and contribute to real-world engineering innovations.

Curriculum structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in both chemistry and mathematics. You’ll explore key scientific concepts through units such as CHEM1001 – Foundations of Chemical and Biomolecular Sciences and CHEM1002 – Reactive Chemistry, while strengthening your analytical thinking with MATH1007 – Linear Algebra. This year helps you develop the scientific and mathematical skills needed for more advanced engineering and chemistry studies.

Year 2
During the second year, you’ll start diving deeper into chemical science and laboratory techniques. Units like CHEM2001 – Organic Chemistry and CHEM2002 – Analytical Chemistry introduce important concepts such as molecular structure, reaction mechanisms, and chemical analysis. Alongside this, MATH2010 – Calculus and Differential Equations supports your understanding of mathematical models used in engineering and scientific problem-solving.

Year 3
By the third year, your studies become more specialised and applied. You’ll take advanced chemistry subjects such as CHEM3001 – Advanced Chemical Synthesis and CHEM3002 – Advanced Analytical Chemistry, where you’ll explore complex chemical systems and modern analytical techniques. These units help you connect scientific theory with practical applications in engineering and industry.

Year 4
In the fourth year, the program shifts more strongly toward engineering practice and design. You’ll study advanced engineering topics and begin applying your chemistry knowledge to real technical challenges through collaborative projects and design-based coursework. This stage focuses on problem-solving, teamwork, and applying scientific principles in engineering contexts.

Year 5
Your final year is the honours year, where everything comes together. You’ll complete advanced engineering coursework and undertake a major Engineering Honours Project, allowing you to investigate a real scientific or engineering problem. This experience helps you develop research skills, technical expertise, and professional confidence before entering the workforce.

Focus areas (in a string): chemical sciences, engineering design and systems, materials and process engineering, applied mathematics, scientific research and innovation

Learning outcomes (in a string): strong chemistry knowledge, engineering design capability, laboratory and technical expertise, analytical and problem-solving skills, teamwork and professional communication

Professional alignment (accreditation): The engineering component is designed in line with the professional standards of Engineers Australia, supporting graduates who wish to pursue professional engineering recognition.

Reputation (employability rankings): QS World University Rankings consistently recognises Macquarie University for its strong global reputation and graduate employability outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Macquarie University learn in a highly practical environment where classroom knowledge is constantly applied through experiments, design work, and collaborative projects. Throughout the degree, you’ll spend time in modern chemistry laboratories, engineering workshops, and digital design spaces that allow you to test ideas, analyse results, and develop real technical solutions. The university’s Science and Engineering Precinct is designed to support hands-on learning, giving students access to advanced equipment and collaborative project environments used by researchers and industry professionals.

Because this degree combines chemistry with engineering, you’ll work across several specialised facilities where scientific experimentation meets engineering design. These spaces help you build practical lab skills, explore modern engineering technologies, and collaborate with classmates on real-world challenges:

Chemistry teaching laboratories where students perform practical experiments, chemical synthesis, and analytical testing using professional wet-chemistry equipment and instrumentation.
Specialised wet chemistry and research labs that allow students to develop hands-on skills in chemical analysis and experimental techniques.
Engineering workshops and fabrication spaces equipped with machinery and technical tools used for building prototypes and testing engineering designs.
MAPS Maker Space, an innovation hub where students can develop and prototype ideas using 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics equipment, and design tools.
Project-based “mega-labs” in the Science and Engineering Precinct, designed for team-based engineering challenges where students collaborate to design and test solutions.
Computer-aided design (CAD) laboratories where students use digital modelling and engineering design software to develop and refine technical projects.
Robotics, drone, and virtual-reality facilities that support experimentation with emerging engineering technologies.
Advanced research laboratories and analytical facilities, giving students exposure to professional scientific equipment and research environments.
Collaborative learning and project spaces designed for teamwork, presentations, and engineering design discussions.

Together, these facilities create an environment where students can confidently move between scientific research and engineering innovation, gaining the practical experience needed for careers in modern science and engineering industries.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) and Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) from Macquarie University finish their degree with a rare blend of scientific knowledge and engineering expertise. This combination allows them to work in industries where chemistry and engineering come together—such as developing new materials, improving manufacturing processes, or designing sustainable technologies. Because of this versatile skill set, graduates often pursue careers as chemical engineers, materials engineers, process engineers, or research and development scientists:

Macquarie University’s Career and Employment Service supports students throughout their studies with career coaching, CV and interview workshops, networking opportunities, and the MQ Employability Connect platform where students can discover internships, placements, and graduate roles.
Industry connections through the Macquarie Park Innovation District, one of Australia’s largest technology and business hubs located next to the campus, give students access to companies and organisations working in engineering, pharmaceuticals, and advanced technologies.
Strong employability reputation, with QS World University Rankings recognising Macquarie University globally for graduate employability.
Competitive starting salaries, with many engineering graduates in Australia beginning their careers with salaries typically around AUD $65,000–$80,000+, depending on their role and industry.
Practical, industry-relevant skills, including laboratory research, engineering design, data analysis, and project management—skills that are highly valued in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, environmental science, and materials development.
Professional recognition opportunities, as the engineering component aligns with the professional standards of Engineers Australia, supporting graduates who aim to become professionally accredited engineers in the future.

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to continue studying after graduation, this degree provides excellent pathways at Macquarie University. Graduates can move into advanced programs such as a Bachelor of Science (Honours), Master of Engineering, or Master of Research (MRes) to specialise further in areas like chemical science, materials engineering, or environmental engineering. For those interested in research or academic careers, these pathways can also lead to doctoral studies such as a PhD.