Skip to main content

How to become a metallurgist

Specialise in metal production, recovery, and purification.

Pathways to this career

  1. Complete bachelor degree in science or engineering, majoring in metallurgy or chemical engineering. An honours year may be required, depending on the specific degree.

  2. Ready to take your career to new heights? Define your expertise as a metallurgist with a postgraduate applied science degree.

  3. Stay on-top of what's happening in your industry with organisations like Engineers Australia or the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

What does a metallurgist do?

Metallurgists are scientists who research and advise on extracting and casting metals. They work in labs and on the floor, often with engineering or manufacturing professionals, to produce metal products and develop new alloys.

Duties and tasks

  • Advise miners and others who work with metals on the proper process for separating minerals and metals from their ores.

  • Assist in producing commercial metal products.

  • Develop new extraction and processing methods for metals.

  • Observe and advise on welding, heat treating, casting, and alloying processes.

  • Research and study the composition of metals.

Industry bodies

Related jobs

Discover related science degrees

University of New England

Diploma in Science

UndergraduateUNE-DSC-DIP

Discover the basic methods, techniques, and tools of science

Engage your curiosity about the natural world with this online science course. Build a solid and broad foundation of scientific knowledge, starting with core subjects including physics and chemistry. Focus on a specialisation such as maths or biology.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Macquarie University

Bachelor of Science

UndergraduateMAQ-BSC-DEG

Learn from international leaders in science

Benefit from the guidance of teachers whose research findings are known on a global scale. Use this research to conduct case studies. Take a hands-on approach with a lab component. Specialise in biology, including genetics, genes and life processes.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Southern Cross University

Bachelor of Science (Agriculture)

UndergraduateSCU-RGA-DEG

A sustainable approach to food and agriculture

Study holistic management of soils, water, fertilizers and more. Explore the climate connection. Your in-depth knowledge of regenerative practices can lead to careers growing food, consulting, and resource management. Join a new way of farming.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Southern Cross University

A double specialisation that explores, protects and restores the planet

Explore Earth’s systems and challenges. You’ll apply chemistry and biology concepts to unpack global issues including pollution. Build skills in scientific report writing and data collection. For careers in park management, government, consulting or research.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Explore science courses

Discover related science subjects

La Trobe University

Introduction to Human Physiology

UndergraduateLTU-HBS101

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 1 Dec 2025

Next enrolment closes 23 Nov

Murdoch University

Fundamentals of Mathematics

UndergraduateMUR-MAS164

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026, 1 Jun 2026
Curtin University

Human Structure and Function

UndergraduateCUR-HUMB1000

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 2 Mar 2026, 31 Aug 2026
Murdoch University

Fundamentals of Chemistry

UndergraduateMUR-SCI18

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 1 Dec 2025, 1 Jun 2026, 30 Nov 2026

Next enrolment closes 23 Nov

Need help making study choices for your career?

Student advisor working on a laptop in OUA’s bright and modern office atrium
Matthew is part of our team of student advisors here to answer your questions.

Need help making study choices for your career?

Our student advisors will turn your aspirations into a clear study path.

They'll help you with:

  • Choosing and enrolling in the right course for your desired career, including pathway options.

  • Mapping a study plan that allows you to balance work and home commitments.

  • Understanding eligibility for funding, including HECS-HELP loans.

Get unbiased advice at no cost today.

Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us

Step up your career with these resources

How to write a business plan

Thinking about striking out on your own and starting your own company? Here's how to create an effective business plan.

10 fascinating uni subjects that are open to everyone in 2025

Want to understand the psychology behind Trumpism? Push for better climate action? Or improve your cultural sensitivity in healthcare? These online subjects—and more!—are now accepting 2025 enrolments.

5 small business courses for self-starters

Whether you’re a small business owner or plotting away at a side hustle, there are many online business courses to choose from to help you get in touch with your entrepreneurial side and launch your ideas off the ground.

How to negotiate a higher salary

Not sure what to say when negotiating your salary? Follow these tips from career strategist Kelly Magowan next time you need to make your case with an employer.