Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)

Overview / Course Aims

The aim of this course is to give high quality academic training in mechanical engineering and to produce graduates with the core skills, knowledge and attributes required to practice as professional engineers. These required graduate skills/attributes are transferable to a wide range of careers and include: ability to formulate and solve problems; a creative approach to design and synthesis; excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work effectively in teams; appreciation of the environmental, social and business contexts of Mechanical Engineering; independent and self-motivated approach; understanding and commitment to lifelong learning; and in-depth technical competence in the Mechanical Engineering discipline.

Career Opportunities

Mechanical Engineering has the broadest scope of all the branches of engineering, and graduates in this field have the core skills to adapt to other fields of engineering. It includes many exciting fields such as advanced manufacturing, metal forming technology, robotics, control of systems, computer aided design and manufacturing, air conditioning, bio-mechanics, powder technology and bearing dynamics. The degree covers a wide range of technical subjects including engineering computing and instrumentation, workshop practice, mechanical engineering design, control of machines and processes, process design and analysis, manufacturing process analysis, manufacturing systems, sustainable energy, transport and engine technologies, dynamics of engineering systems, bulk solids handling technology, fluid power, heat transfer and aerodynamics. Design innovation and project management are important aspects of mechanical engineering. The highlight of the course is the final year thesis, which requires each student to complete a major engineering project in a field of their choice or in research projects funded by government and/or industry.

Study Options

Students can select electives from a number of specialist areas in their final year including: Sustainable Energy and Engineering Systems, Manufacturing Engineering, Applied Mechanics, and Bulk Materials Handling. The list of electives on offer in any one year varies somewhat, depending on staff availability and other factors. Double degrees are also available.

Course Program

* Not all electives may be available each year - check subject timetable. Electives may be taken in other departments, subject to written approval by the Discipline Advisor (maximum of two for full-time and one for part-time students).

** 18cp thesis is equivalent to the 12cp thesis and one 6cp elective.

Last reviewed: 29 January, 2007