Studying Engineering in Australia – An In-Depth Look

Global Ed Destinations

Australia has been a hub of technical education and scientific research activities for a long time. What makes the country great for students is that it is an affordable global ed destination, while not compromising on the quality of education offered. Unsurprisingly, some of the top ranking institutions in the world are based in Australia.

With the Australian government set to welcome fully vaccinated students from all over the world, it’s time to know more about the top institutions in Australia.

Today we’re looking at studying Engineering in Australia.

Here’s a look at the most popular branches of engineering, and why studying in Australia is worth considering.

Table of contents

First - a quick word on what's engineering

Engineering is the optimal application of scientific knowledge to design, manufacture, and maintain systems, architecture, and tools among other things. Generally, engineering focuses on solving problems by applying scientific principles. It is the field that makes the world work like a well-oiled machine. One can consider engineers as those who execute plans devised by scientists who form theories. From building the pyramids of Egypt to developing quantum computing systems, the role of engineers in our collective progress cannot be underestimated.

Most branches of engineering are multidisciplinary with emphasis on different fundamental disciplines such as mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology, along with applied disciplines.

Applications of engineering include advancements in medical technology, industrial manufacturing, automotives, rocketry, chemical engineering, architecture and computing among others. Students need to possess mathematical, analytical and logical skills along with a host of other soft skills.

The field of engineering has been broken down into many branches and each branch focuses on a particular specialty. Some of the most popular branches of engineering which help one to get in-demand opportunities are listed below.

  • Aerospace Engineering– Primarily deals with the design, testing, and manufacturing of aircraft and spacecraft, and their components. In order to become an aerospace engineer, one needs to possess great analytical skills, mathematical skills, knowledge of physics, and knowledge of computing systems.
  • Architecture – Deals with the planning, design, and construction of buildings that are habitable. The architects would need to have an understanding of mathematics, physics and also possess the artistic ability to create designs of buildings.
  • Biomedical Engineering – Deals with the design and manufacture systems that are used in medicine and healthcare. Biomedical engineers are expected to possess knowledge about concepts related to medicine and biology, physics, mathematics, electronics, and sensor networks, among others.
  • Chemical Engineering – Deals with the study of chemicals and the processes related to their production, storage, and transportation. Chemical engineers generally work in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, petrochemicals, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, among a host of other fields.
  • Civil Engineering-One of the oldest engineering disciplines, it is the branch of engineering that is concerned with the design, development, construction, and maintenance of buildings, transport systems, waterways, and other environments. It is one of the most important branches of engineering as it creates the world that we live in. Civil engineers require an understanding of subjects such as mathematics, geology, physics, the design of functional structures, and other fundamental sciences.
  • Computer Engineering – Computer engineers develop the hardware and software required for computing. Computer engineering is a branch of electrical engineering that brings together multiple fields. Most students who pursue computer engineering tend to become software programmers, testers or developers. Computer engineers are equipped to become machine learning engineers, robotics engineers, quantum computing engineers, electronics engineers, and data scientists due to their knowledge of hardware and software components of computing.
  • Electrical Engineering – Deals with the study of electricity, electronics and electromagnetism. Electrical engineers design, analyse and manufacture electrical components that are used in most machines, and electrical equipment. They are responsible for designing, and building equipment that are used in our everyday lives.
  • Electronics and Communications Engineering– Deals with the design, development, and maintenance of electronic components and equipment that are used in a variety of applications including manufacturing machinery, automotives, home automation, telecommunications and even consumer durables. Those interested in the field are expected to know about communication networks and technologies, computer programming, hardware design and manufacture, and sensor design.
  • Mechanical Engineering – Deals with the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of moving/mechanical parts of a variety of systems. To become a mechanical engineer, one must possess an understanding of concepts such as mechanics, metallurgy, thermodynamics, and electricity among others. Mechanical engineers create and maintain machines and systems used in a plethora of applications.

Although these have been the most popular branches of engineering for a long time, a few contemporary branches of engineering have also begun gaining popularity of late.

These include the following.

  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Engineering– A relatively new branch, the stream is responsible for the research, design, and development of artificial intelligence-based systems that imitate human intelligence. They design algorithms that are used in a variety of applications so that automation can be achieved.
  • Automotive Engineering– Automotive engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the designing, assembling, troubleshooting, and manufacturing of automobiles that may be used for commercial as well as sporting purposes.
  • Data Science EngineeringThis branch of engineering teaches students to use tools and techniques that help to extract data and solve problems. They need to possess skills such as the ability to collect, sort, analyse data and make use of this collected data to make insightful decisions. These engineers require knowledge about data management systems, programming languages, and data analysis.
  • Geological Engineering– This branch of engineering takes deals with geological surveys, applying the knowledge of geology to understand the geological factors of locations where structures are situated. They assess the geology of areas that have been chosen as sites for the construction of habitable structures, roads, mines, petroleum production, railway networks, and others. These engineers need to possess knowledge of geology, physics, and mathematics.
  • Mechatronics-Mechatronics brings together multiple engineering disciplines such as mechanical, computer, and electronics engineering. The field also combines robotics, control systems, communications, and artificial intelligence to create systems that are used in highly advanced manufacturing processes. To study mechatronics, one would need to possess knowledge of mathematics, physics, robotics, computer programming, hardware, electro-mechanical systems, and control systems.
  • Photonics Engineering– Photonics engineering is the branch of engineering that studies the role of light in various everyday applications. These engineers create and manipulate light sources to fit a variety of use cases including but not limited to communication, cameras, scanners, medical devices, and others.
  • Robotics Engineering– As the name suggests, the field deals with the design and development of robots that can imitate humans in terms of intelligence, actions, or both. Robotics engineers are responsible for the development of autonomous machines that are used in a variety of applications.

Engineering is a field that has played a vital role in humankind’s progress. No other field has contributed more to the technological, medical, and industrial progress we have witnessed than engineering.

Why study engineering in Australia?

With 7 of the top 100 institutions located in Australia, it is a student’s paradise and a top-tier location for quality higher education. Australia also boasts of some of the best post-study work opportunities, with the government even offering between 2 to 4 years of temporary graduate visa, and unbeatable standards in terms of quality of living. The cost incurred while studying in Australia is also relatively low compared to other educational destinations. The most popular student cities in Australia include Sydney, Canberra, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Brisbane.

Australia has many reasons why it is considered a world-class educational destination and why it is one of the best places to study engineering from. Some of them are listed below.

Internationally acclaimed degrees – As the degrees are provided by some of the top universities in the world, they are all internationally recognized, giving students a great chance to land their dream opportunities. Hands-on training, industry exposure, and connecting with industry professionals and leaders are some of the added benefits of a degree from Australia’s institutions.

Diversity in terms of culture and people – A country is only as good as its people and Australia is a fine example of how good a country and its people can be. It is a melting pot of cultures brimming with people from all over the world from various walks of life. The cultural experience that one can experience here is unparalleled and therefore a must-try for youngsters.

Great post-study opportunities – With the Australian government allowing students to stay-on post their graduation, more students get to avail employment opportunities relevant to their field of interest. Attractive packages are also an advantage to those looking to kickstart their careers in Australia.

Host to some of the top organizations in the world – Australia is home to the headquarters of many top companies in the world including Commonwealth Bank, Woolworths, Wesfarmers, BHP, ANZ Bank, Qantas, and many others. Industry leaders from these organisations reach out to the students of various institutions, thereby providing them with necessary information about how things work in the industry.

Top universities to study engineering in Australia

Australia is home to 7 of the top 100 educational institutions in the world.

Out the top 500 institutions across the world, Australia is home to at least 20 institutions, including many, what are called Level 1 universities. The top-notch educational policies and the facilities available make it worthwhile for students to study at these institutions that are located in Australia. The top institutions in Australia to study engineering from are listed below.

S.No University/Institution Location
1 The University of New South Wales Sydney
2 The University of Melbourne Melbourne
3 Monash University Melbourne
4 The University of Sydney Sydney
5 Australian National University (ANU) Canberra
6 The University of Queensland Brisbane
7 The University of Technology Sydney Sydney
8 The University of Adelaide Adelaide
9 RMIT University Melbourne
10 The University of Western Australia Perth

Source: topuniversities.com

Top Organisations That Recruit Engineering Graduates

There are several engineering roles that get paid much more than other roles and these roles belong to branches of engineering that include software engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, and chemical engineering. Many organizations look to recruit engineering graduates across different roles for their expertise and knowledge. Some of the top organizations in Australia that hire engineering graduates are listed below.

Organizations Headquarters
Worley North Sydney, Australia
BHP Melbourne, Australia
4mation Sydney, Australia
Wesfarmers Perth, Australia
ANZ Bank Melbourne, Australia
Qantas Mascot, Australia
SMEC Melbourne, Australia
Aurecon Melbourne, Australia
Atlassian Sydney, Australia
Iress Melbourne, Australia
WiseTech Global Sydney, Australia
Commonwealth Bank Sydney, Australia
Telstra Melbourne, Australia
Canva Sydney Australia
Aurizon Queensland, Australia

These are only a few of the top organizations that hire engineering graduates. With the right experience and education, it is possible to land the dream job that you are looking for!

Conclusion about study engineering in Australia

Engineering is truly the pinnacle of development and technology. Most technological advancements can be attributed to the evolution of engineering. This translates to advanced medical systems, computers, the internet, automobiles, smart systems, and so much more.

Australia is truly a one-of-a-kind destination for global education. It has been constantly outperforming itself in terms of quality education, providing ample opportunities for all, creating sustainable and safe living standards, and by embracing cultural diversity. Those looking to study engineering and go on to jumpstart a career in their respective fields must definitely consider Australia due to the number of options available, both in terms of institutions as well as organizations. With over 1,100 institutions and over 20,000 courses to choose from, Australia is truly an educational paradise! Moreover, Australian law protects international students and also promotes quality education.

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Date added
15.07.2022

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Global Ed Destinations

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