Associate Degree in Engineering

Whether you're transitioning from the trades or entering the engineering industry for the first time, the two-year 100% online Associate Degree in Engineering is your gateway to becoming an engineering professional. Build practical skills and explore specialisations including civil, mechanical, mechatronics and electrical engineering.

You’ll study physics and chemistry concepts, and essential maths including algebra, trigonometry and calculus. Discover engineering-focused topics and gain experience using industry-standard software such as SolidWorks, MATLAB, Enovia and Multism.

Take the first step towards a career in Engineering with a two-year 100% online Associate Degree in Engineering. It’s ideal for those starting out in the field or making a career change, and provides a direct pathway into Adelaide University’s on-campus Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) with up to 1.5 years credit.

Develop a solid grounding in core engineering principles and benefit from a curriculum informed by the latest engineering advancements. Discover a broad range of subjects including maths, physics and chemistry, combined with first-year engineering courses.

Gain hands-on experience using industry software to design project plans, analyse data and bring circuits to life. Explore the intersection of engineering and business, and learn to apply creative, ethical and systems-based thinking to real-world challenges.

Recommended study pattern

Year 1

UO Critical Approaches to Online Learning (SOCI3014) -Elective

UO Essential Mathematics 1: Algebra and Trigonometry (MATH1029)

UO Essential Mathematics 2: Calculus (MATH1030)

UO Introduction to Engineering Chemistry (ENGI1008)

UO Introduction to Engineering Physics (PHYS1011)

UO Mathematical Methods for Engineers 1 (MATH1031)

UO Mathematical Methods for Engineers 2 (MATH1032)

UO Sustainable Engineering Practice (ENGI1010)

Year 2

UO Engineering Design and Innovation (ENGI1007)

UO Engineering Materials (ENGI1009)

UO Engineering Mechanics (ENGM1001)

UO Programming Concepts (COMP1022)

UO Design Management for Engineers (ENGI3007)

UO Electrical and Electronic Systems (ENGE1002)

UO Electrical Circuit Analysis (ENGE1001)

UO Fluid and Energy Engineering (ENGM2009)

UO Project Management for Engineers (ENGI2007)

Award requirements

Students must complete 16 subjects including 1 elective.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $15,699

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

Adelaide University is Australia’s new major university, delivering an accessible, contemporary and future-focused teaching and learning experience. Adelaide University’s range of 100% online undergraduate and postgraduate programs is designed by experts and shaped by industry, with world-class research informing your learning. Experience flexible study, tailored student support when you need it, and on-demand learning resources. Join a vibrant community of online learners and launch your next move.

Learn more about Adelaide University.

Explore Adelaide University courses.

QS World University Ranking 2026, within Australia:

8

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

• Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
• A competitive result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
• Successful completion of an Adelaide University online literacy and numeracy test and have relevant work experience; OR
• Qualify for special entry.

English language entry requirements for International students only.

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5

IELTS Reading 6.0

IELTS Listening 6.0

IELTS Speaking 6.0

IELTS Writing 6.0