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Course snapshot
Domestic snapshot
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Start Date
March, July
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Duration
4 years full-time; 8 years part-time
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Location
Gold Coast, Lismore, Online
Online students attend compulsory on-campus residential workshops for some units. -
Placement
Yes Learn more
-
ATAR
70
-
Inherent Requirements
No Learn more
-
Language Requirements
IELTS Overall Score 6.0
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Entry Requirements
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Course abbreviation
BEngSys(Hons)
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Course code
3508003
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Credit points
384
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Equivalent units
32
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Scholarships
-
Indicative fee
Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.
International snapshot
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Start Date
March, June
-
Duration
4 years full-time
-
Location
Gold Coast, Lismore
-
Placement
Yes Learn more
-
ATAR
70
-
Inherent Requirements
No Learn more
-
Language Requirements
IELTS Overall Score 6.0
-
Entry Requirements
-
Course abbreviation
BEngSys(Hons)
-
Course code
3508003
-
Credit points
384
-
Equivalent units
32
-
Scholarships
-
Indicative fee
-
CRICOS
Please note, some locations may not have all intake periods available. See the full availability details for further information.
Overview
The Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) is designed to meet the requirements for accreditation at the level of Professional Engineer by Engineers Australia. Foundational core units build knowledge of the basic sciences, practical skills and the processes and philosophy that underpin the engineering profession.
Students choose a specialisation from either:
Civil Engineering
This specialisation develops skills and knowledge across the breadth of disciplines encompassed by civil engineering, including construction, project management, hydraulic engineering, water and wastewater engineering, structural, geotechnical engineering and transport engineering.
Mechanical Engineering
This specialisation develops skills and knowledge in three main areas that cover all aspects of mechanical engineering. These include mechanical design and manufacturing systems, thermo-fluid mechanics and energy systems, and mechatronics and control systems.
The final year of the course contains a mixture of advanced project-orientated core units and is designed to build skills in independent investigation, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and ethical and professional behaviour. Students also have the opportunity to complete a range of electives in areas of their own interest to help knowledge development.
With a total of 60 days (490 hours) of professional placement in industry during your studies, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running as a graduate.
All students (including online students) must complete two compulsory on-campus residentials. These are typically conducted over 1–2 days and occur in first and third year (based on a full-time study program).
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"The facilities were great and the course laid the base for my career. I actually scored a dream job before I graduated.”
The Southern Cross Model is a game-changer in higher education study.
Our students now engage in shorter, six-week unit structures designed around immersive and interactive learning experiences. The shorter unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum as they achieve milestones quickly, resulting in increased student success rates, and course and teacher satisfaction. Lectures are a thing of the past - students will be engaged in active, interactive and discussion-based learning.
On-campus students experience a variety of teaching approaches including lectures, tutorials, online activities and video-linked or podcast virtual classes.
Our online study option is highly interactive and may include a combination of podcast or video-linked lectures, electronic study materials, workshops, online discussion forums and virtual classes.
The method of teaching and assessment may vary from unit to unit.
Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the graduate attributes (GA).
| Course Learning Outcome |
|---|
GA1: Intellectual rigour Critically apply systems approaches using a wide range of technical and contextual factors to conceptualise and evaluate human-centred solutions to complex, industry-relevant problems in the chosen field of engineering specialisation Conduct research to create and apply new knowledge in the chosen field of engineering specialisation with some independence Lead or function as a team member and systematically manage information and projects to deliver industry-relevant engineering solutions aligned with stakeholder and community needs |
GA2: Creativity Critically apply systems approaches using a wide range of technical and contextual factors to conceptualise and evaluate human-centred solutions to complex, industry-relevant problems in the chosen field of engineering specialisation Creatively apply established engineering methods, techniques, tools and resources in the context of systematic engineering synthesis, design and management processes |
GA3: Ethical practice Apply professional conduct and judgement that reflects contemporary industry standards of ethical, sustainable and human-centred engineering practice |
GA4: Knowledge of a discipline Draw upon a broad conceptual knowledge of mathematics, other basic sciences, computing and information sciences, and specialist bodies of knowledge in the chosen field of engineering specialisation Conduct research to create and apply new knowledge in the chosen field of engineering specialisation with some independence |
GA5: Lifelong learning Conduct research to create and apply new knowledge in the chosen field of engineering specialisation with some independence Critically reflect on and document development of proficiency in competencies in the relevant field of engineering practice to guide continuing professional development and lifelong learning |
GA6: Communication and social skills Employ effective oral and written communication and social skills, informed by an appreciation of diverse cultural and Indigenous perspectives |
GA7: Cultural competence Employ effective oral and written communication and social skills, informed by an appreciation of diverse cultural and Indigenous perspectives |
All students must complete at least 60 days (490 hours) of professional placement in industry, typically with an organisation conducting work related to engineering practice. Industry experience enables students to apply their knowledge and skills to engineering problems within a real work environment, and to make valuable contacts within industry.
All students (including online students) must also complete two compulsory on-campus residentials. These are typically conducted over 2-4 days and occur in first and third year (based on a full-time study program).
Students will choose one of the following specialisations:
- Civil Engineering
Students develop skills and knowledge to solve complex problems related to four main civil engineering systems, namely civil construction systems, transport systems, built structures, and sustainable water systems.
- Mechanical Engineering
Students develop skills and knowledge to solve complex engineering problems related to four main mechanical engineering systems, namely design and production systems, sustainable energy and power systems, smart machines, and robotics and control systems.
| Location | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| Gold Coast | Term 1, Term 3 |
| Lismore | Term 1, Term 3 |
| Online | Term 1, Term 3 |
| Location | Teaching period | Annual Fees | CRICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Coast (Civil Engineering) | Term 1, Term 3 | $25,000 ($3,125 per unit) | 112798C |
| Gold Coast (Mechanical Engineering) | Term 1, Term 3 | $25,000 ($3,125 per unit) | 112801B |
| Lismore (Civil Engineering) | Term 1, Term 3 | $25,000 ($3,125 per unit) | 112798C |
| Lismore (Mechanical Engineering) | Term 1, Term 3 | $25,000 ($3,125 per unit) | 112801B |
Tuition fees are in Australian dollars, and are subject to change, including annual increases over the duration of a course. Annual tuition fee is based on completing 8 units per year. In addition students are required to pay OSHC for the duration of their visa in advance. Non-tuition fee covers textbooks, stationery and excursions. | |||
Career Outcomes
Graduates will have opportunities to work as professional engineers in the broad engineering disciplines of civil engineering or mechanical engineering as follows:
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Graduates from the Civil Engineering specialisation will be able to work in a range of settings, including traffic and transport, humanitarian organisations, engineering design, government authorities, water supply and management agencies, construction companies, natural resource management organisations, consulting engineering companies, mining companies, irrigation authorities, research organisations and in tertiary education.
- Graduates from the Mechanical Engineering specialisation have broad employment prospects in local and global markets, including both regional and metropolitan locations. They can work in diverse industries including heavy machinery, power generation, mining, manufacturing, production planning, automotive, aerospace, medical, environment, building industries and consumer product design and tertiary education. Mechanical engineers are in demand in government departments, building services, manufacturing centres, power plants, consulting engineering companies, ship building, railroads, control and automation industries, and robotics industries.
This course and all specialisations are accredited or provisionally accredited by Engineers Australia at the level of Professional Engineer. Courses accredited by Engineers Australia at this level are recognised in many different countries worldwide through the Washington Accord.
Requirements
We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, our team will work with you to find the best pathway option.
Before applying, make sure you double check all entry requirements, gather required documentation and review the University’s Rules Relating to Awards, noting any specifics listed below.
Entry requirements
- If admission is being offered on the basis of completion of the Preparing for Success program, students need to achieve a Distinction or above in their maths unit UNIP1003 Problem Solving with Maths.
- If admission is being offered on the basis of completion of the Transition to Uni program, students need to achieve a Distinction or above in their maths unit UNIP1007 Science and Maths for University.
- Applicants will not be considered for admission on the basis of having fully or partially completed a Certificate III (AQF Level 3) or a Certificate IV (AQF Level 4).
Language requirements
English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this course are as follows
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Overall | 6.0 |
| Listening | minimum 5.5 |
| Reading | minimum 5.5 |
| Speaking | minimum 5.5 |
| Writing | minimum 5.5 |
Credit for prior learning
A maximum of the equivalent of 16 units (192 credit credit points) of Advanced Standing may be granted to ensure the requirements for accreditation of the course by Engineers Australia are met.
Course requirements
To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours), students must complete 30 units (384 credit points), comprising:
- 1 specialisation in Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering (384 credit points).
Honours
All students successfully completing this course will be awarded Honours. Additionally, a student who has reached the required standard of academic performance may be awarded Honours with one of the following merit descriptors based on the criteria specified in Rule 10:
- First Class Honours
- Second Class Honours Division I
- Second Class Honours Division II
Exit Awards
Students may be eligible to exit with a Diploma of Engineering after completing 8 core units (96 credit points).
Other things to consider
As part of our commitment to admissions transparency, the University provides a snapshot of how students were admitted to their courses and the profile of students studying with us.
There are different pathways into an undergraduate degree.
Whether you are returning to study after some time or you have just finished school and you need some extra academic preparation before embarking on a degree, Southern Cross University offers two excellent, fee-free academic preparation programs that develop the skills you need to be successful at university.
SCU College also offers a range of one-year Diplomas that provide extra academic support as you commence university. Diplomas are a great pathway to a degree and may also prepare you for diverse paraprofessional roles.
Credit for Prior Learning, also referred to as ‘Advanced Standing’ or Recognition for Prior Learning (RPL), is the process of looking at your prior study and/or experience to assess if you can be awarded academic credit or gain entry to a course on the basis of your existing knowledge and skills.
The Early Offer program allows Year 12 students to secure a place in a Southern Cross University undergraduate degree before Year 12 results are released. It’s designed to remove some of the pressure from Year 12 and provide a pathway directly into university study that is not based solely on Year 12 results.
Course structure
Why study Engineering at Southern Cross University
Industry connections
Strong industry connections for work placement and networking
World-class facilities
Learn in state-of-the-art engineering laboratories
Go global
Work around the world with accredited degrees
Fees and Scholarships
Domestic students
You are a domestic student if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or Australian humanitarian visa holder. Your course will either be a Commonwealth Supported Place or a full fee-paying place. This is noted in the course snapshot.
Commonwealth Supported Places:
In a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP), the Government pays some of your fees and you pay the rest as the Student Contribution Amount (SCA).
SCA is calculated per unit, not per course. Eligible students can defer the SCA through a HECS-HELP loan.
Full Fee-Paying Places:
A full fee-paying place is where you pay the full (unsubsidised) tuition fee for your course. Eligible students can defer the payment of their tuition fees through the FEE-HELP scheme (including employer-reserved places for The Hotel School courses).
Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF
Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.
Scholarships vary in amount, from a few hundred to several thousand dollars each year. Eligibility isn't limited to top-performing students or those facing financial challenges; there are opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds and with different accomplishments. This ensures that education remains accessible to all, changing lives and helping individuals achieve their goals for a brighter future.
Fees and Scholarships
International Students
If you're an international student, you can find the annual course cost in Australian dollars (AUD$) on our International Courses and Fees page or on the web page for your course under fees.
Also known as SSAF, the Student Services and Amenities Fee is a compulsory fee for most students used to provide important services and amenities to students both on and off campus. It’s charged per unit, based on the unit’s credit point value. Eligible domestic students have the option of deferring this fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme. More about SSAF
Depending on your course, your costs could also include computer equipment and software, books, stationery, field trips, uniforms or other course-specific expenses such as art materials, musical equipment or travel for practicums, internships, vaccinations or industry experience.
Southern Cross University offers a range of scholarships designed to support you while you study, available for a variety of backgrounds and achievements. Scholarships range from a few hundred dollars a year to several thousand dollars a year. Southern Cross has also introduced Access25, a new initiative for 2025 to deliver a quality education combined with a straightforward tuition model, ensuring every international student has equal access.
Apply now
Preparing to apply
- Check requirements
- Get supporting documents ready
- Choose where and when from the available options
Click the Apply button to start your application in our Application Portal.
Choose where you want to study
Gold Coast
Lismore
Online
Choose where you want to study
International students studying in Australia
Gold Coast (Civil Engineering)
Gold Coast (Mechanical Engineering)
Lismore (Civil Engineering)
Lismore (Mechanical Engineering)
Dates for the diary
Our shorter, more focused six-week unit structure gives students a greater sense of momentum and motivation as they achieve milestones quickly. Application dates per Term are shown on each course page however refer to our key dates and teaching calendar for detail on when enrolment opens, studies commence and when grades are published. There are also Dual Term and Tri Term calendars for those who have specific subjects.
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Credit Transfer
Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you’re eligible for credit from previous studies.
Go to credit assessorEntry Pathway
We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.
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