Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

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.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. 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.
2. Conduct research to create and apply new knowledge in the chosen field of engineering specialisation with some independence.
3. 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.
4. Creatively apply established engineering methods, techniques, tools and resources in the context of systematic engineering synthesis, design and management processes.
5. Apply professional conduct and judgement that reflects contemporary industry standards of ethical, sustainable and human-centred engineering practice.
6. 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.
7. Conduct research to create and apply new knowledge in the chosen field of engineering specialisation with some independence.
8. 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.
9. Employ effective oral and written communication and social skills, informed by an appreciation of diverse cultural and Indigenous perspectives.

The Bachelor of Engineering (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. 

With a total of 60 days (490 hours) of engagement with professional practice 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 3 days and occur in first and third year (based on a full-time study program).

Award requirements

To be eligible to receive the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours), students must compete 30 units (384 credit points), comprising:

• 15 core units (204 credit points),
• 1 specialisation in Civil Engineering or Mechanical Engineering (132 credit points),
• 4 option units (48 credit points) and
• Demonstrate satisfactory completion of 60 days of Engagement with Professional Practice.

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.

Choose your subjects

Majors

Students will choose one of the following specialisations:

1.Civil Engineering:

• Students develop 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.

2.Mechanical Engineering:

• Students develop 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.

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

Indicative total fee $37,256

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.

Southern Cross University believes in the power of change. Their graduates stride the global stage at the frontline of healthcare, transforming education in the classroom, and tackling the world’s wicked problems with scientific and engineering solutions. Students enjoy award winning support, teaching quality, and online delivery. Ranked among the best for many years, they will help you make the change you seek to transform your tomorrow.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

30

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

35

ATAR: 70 or equivalent.

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:

• Overall: 6.0
• Listening: minimum 5.5
• Reading: minimum 5.5
• Speaking: minimum 5.5
• Writing: minimum 5.5.

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.

All students complete at least 60 days of engagement with professional practice, 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 complete two compulsory on-campus residentials. These are typically conducted over 3 days and occur in first and third year (based on a full-time study program).