University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational engineering science and applied electrical engineering subjects with substantial practical work and a capstone honours project. Early years emphasise mathematics, physics and core engineering principles such as circuit theory, signals and systems, electromagnetism and engineering computation. In later years you study specialist topics including power systems and power electronics, control systems, digital and analogue electronics, microprocessors and embedded systems, communications and signal processing, and energy systems.

Practical learning is delivered through laboratory classes, simulation and design studios, group design projects and an individual honours project in the final year. Typical modules and subjects include:

• Engineering mathematics and modelling
• Electronic circuits and devices
• Signals, systems and digital signal processing
• Electromagnetics and fields
• Power engineering and sustainable energy systems
• Control engineering and automation
• Embedded systems and microcontroller design
• Communications systems and networks
• Engineering software tools (CAD, MATLAB/Simulink, PCB design)
• Professional engineering practice, ethics and project management
• Capstone honours project with research or industry focus

The degree is structured to meet professional accreditation requirements, so project work, teamwork, ethics and communication are embedded across the curriculum. Elective streams and cross‑disciplinary options allow you to tailor study towards areas such as renewable energy, robotics, telecommunications or electronic product design.

Entry requirements

Admission is based on successful completion of senior secondary qualification or its equivalent, with a competitive academic profile. Applicants are usually expected to have strong results in mathematics and physics (or equivalent), with specialist mathematics strongly recommended. International applicants need an equivalent secondary school credential and demonstrated English language proficiency.

Specific entry pathways include direct school leavers, mature‑age applicants and transfers from other tertiary courses. The University of Adelaide also considers alternative evidence of readiness such as prior tertiary study or recognised vocational qualifications. Meeting the stated subject prerequisites is important; additional selection criteria may apply for certain pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across the electrical and electronic engineering landscape. Typical career pathways include positions as electrical engineer, power systems engineer, controls and automation engineer, electronics designer, embedded systems engineer, communications and network engineer, systems integrator, test and validation engineer, and project engineer.

Employment sectors cover utilities and energy (including renewable energy and battery storage), telecommunications, defence and aerospace, manufacturing and industrial automation, transport and automotive electrification, research and development, and engineering consultancy. Many graduates proceed to professional registration with Engineers Australia and pursue postgraduate study (master’s or PhD) to specialise in areas such as power engineering, control systems, communications or microelectronics.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers an engineering programme with strong industry links, research strengths and practical facilities. The Faculty provides modern laboratories, electronics and power testbeds, and opportunities to work on real industry problems through capstone projects and industry co‑op arrangements. South Australia has active sectors in renewable energy, defence and space technologies, giving students access to internships and employer networks.

The degree is aligned with professional accreditation standards, supporting your pathway to chartered or professional engineer status. Small cohort sizes in advanced subjects, multidisciplinary collaboration across science and engineering faculties, and options for international exchanges and postgraduate study make the University of Adelaide a pragmatic choice for students aiming for a technically rigorous and career‑oriented electrical engineering education.