University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The programme delivers a balance of core engineering fundamentals and specialised environmental engineering subjects across a four-year honours curriculum. Early years focus on mathematics, physics, materials, programming and engineering design fundamentals. From the middle years you study environmental-specific subjects such as hydrology and hydraulics, water and wastewater engineering, environmental chemistry and microbiology, contaminated land assessment and remediation, air quality and pollution control, environmental modelling, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Laboratory work, field studies and computing classes are integrated with theoretical teaching, and you will undertake project-based learning to apply design standards, risk assessment and sustainability principles. The honours year typically includes an individual research thesis or major design project under academic supervision, developing research and project-management skills suitable for professional accreditation or further postgraduate study.

• Core engineering mathematics and mechanics
• Hydrology, hydraulics and water resources engineering
• Water and wastewater treatment processes
• Environmental chemistry and contaminant transport
• Soil mechanics and contaminated site assessment
• Air quality and emissions control
• Environmental modelling and data analysis
• Sustainability, environmental management and regulation
• Capstone design project or honours research thesis

Entry requirements

Admission is based on completion of a recognised secondary qualification or an approved alternative pathway. Applicants normally need strong results in mathematics (often advanced or equivalent level) and physics; chemistry or earth sciences are advantageous. Domestic applicants typically present a competitive ATAR or equivalent; international applicants present an equivalent secondary completion and meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

The University of Adelaide offers pathway options such as foundation studies or college programmes for those who do not meet direct entry requirements. Selection may also consider relevant work experience, recognised prior learning, or performance in admission interviews or tests where applicable. Specific prerequisites and minimum scores can vary, so prospective students should check the university's admissions pages for detailed, current criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers across public, private and not-for-profit sectors that address environmental and resource challenges. Typical roles include environmental engineer, water and wastewater engineer, contaminated site remediation specialist, environmental consultant, sustainability or compliance officer, coastal and catchment engineer, and roles in environmental monitoring and modelling. The degree also provides a pathway to postgraduate study (master's or PhD) for careers in research or academia.

Employers include engineering consultancies, water utilities, environmental regulators, infrastructure contractors, mining and resources firms, local and state government agencies, and environmental technology companies. Professional accreditation supports chartered or chartership pathways through Engineers Australia and comparable professional bodies internationally.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide has a long-established engineering school with close links to local industry, government agencies and research centres working on water resources, contaminated land, and sustainability. Students benefit from practical laboratory and field training, supervised honours research projects, and industry-engaged capstone work that build workplace-ready skills.

The university's location provides opportunities to collaborate with water utilities, environmental consultancies and regulatory bodies, while research strengths in environmental science and engineering support cutting-edge projects. The programme's accreditation and focus on both technical competence and environmental stewardship make it a strong choice for students aiming for professional engineering careers or further research in environmental and sustainability fields.