Master of Engineering

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of New South Wales

Program Overview

The Master of Engineering at UNSW Sydney is a flexible two-year postgraduate program for students who want to develop advanced engineering knowledge and prepare for professional engineering careers. Students can choose from a range of specialisations, including Civil, Electrical, Environmental, Mechanical, Telecommunications, Biomedical, Mining and Renewable Energy Engineering, while building practical, research, design and management skills.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students develop strong knowledge in their chosen engineering specialisation through Disciplinary Knowledge courses and begin Advanced Disciplinary Knowledge courses based on their interests and career goals. They build deeper technical expertise while learning to apply engineering principles to practical and complex problems.

Year 2: Students continue with Advanced Disciplinary Knowledge courses and study Engineering and Technical Management to develop leadership, strategy and project management skills. They also complete a specialisation-specific Design course, an extensive Research Project and 60 days of Engineering Professional Practice to gain valuable industry experience.

Focus Areas

Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, Telecommunications, Engineering Design, Engineering Management, Research, Professional Engineering Practice

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop advanced technical and analytical skills, engineering design and research capabilities, project management expertise, leadership skills and the ability to solve complex engineering problems. The program also helps students gain practical workplace experience through 60 days of Engineering Professional Practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Several specialisations, including Civil, Electrical, Environmental, Mechanical and Telecommunications Engineering, are fully accredited by Engineers Australia at the Professional Engineer level. This provides international recognition through the Washington Accord, while Biomedical, Mining and Renewable Energy Engineering are currently provisionally accredited.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

UNSW Engineering is ranked #1 in Australia and #33 globally for Engineering and Technology in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. UNSW also reports that it has been recognised for having the Most Employable students for seven consecutive years from 2020 to 2026.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New South Wales (UNSW), the Master of Engineering program is designed to provide students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This hands-on approach ensures that you not only learn engineering principles but also apply them in real-world scenarios. With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, you will be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the engineering industry.

The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including:

- Group Projects: Collaborate with fellow students on real engineering challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internships: Gain valuable industry experience through internships with leading engineering firms, allowing you to apply your knowledge in a professional setting.
- Digital Tools: Utilize advanced software such as MATLAB, AutoCAD, and ANSYS for simulations and design projects, enhancing your technical proficiency.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to engineering sites and companies, providing insights into industry practices and innovations.
- Research Laboratories: Access specialized labs, such as the UNSW Water Research Laboratory and the Advanced Water Management Centre, where you can engage in cutting-edge research.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including engineering databases and journals, to support your studies and research.
- Institutes and Centers: Collaborate with renowned institutes like the UNSW Institute of Environmental Studies and the Centre for Advanced Water Management, which focus on addressing global engineering challenges.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to enhance your educational journey and prepare you for a successful career in engineering.

Embarking on your Master of Engineering at UNSW means stepping into a world of innovation and practical experience that will set you apart in the engineering field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a rapidly evolving engineering landscape. With a strong emphasis on practical experience and industry relevance, graduates often find themselves in high-demand roles such as Project Engineer, Systems Engineer, and Research and Development Engineer. The program not only prepares you for immediate employment but also sets the stage for a successful and fulfilling career:

- University Services: UNSW offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry leaders, ensuring you are well-prepared for the job market.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of UNSW engineering graduates secure employment within four months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around AUD 80,000 per year.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNSW has established strong partnerships with leading companies such as Boeing, Google, and Siemens, providing students with opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Master of Engineering program is accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring that your qualification is recognized both nationally and internationally, enhancing your employability.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates from the program have gone on to work in diverse sectors, including aerospace, renewable energy, and information technology, showcasing the versatility of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Master of Engineering, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Engineering or related fields, allowing you to engage in advanced research and contribute to innovative solutions in engineering. This path not only deepens your expertise but also opens doors to academic positions and high-level research roles in both industry and academia.