University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The program combines advanced coursework and a substantial project or capstone to develop technical competence, design capability and professional practice. Typical study areas include:

• Power systems and renewable energy: power generation, transmission and distribution, grid integration of renewables, energy management and smart grids.
• Control and automation: classical and modern control theory, industrial automation, PLCs, and process control.
• Embedded and electronic systems: microcontrollers, digital signal processing, hardware/software co‑design and real‑time systems.
• Electrical machines and drives: design and application of motors, drives, power electronics and converters.
• High voltage and power protection: insulation, switching, protection relays and fault analysis.
• Communication and networking for engineers: industrial communications, networked systems for control and telemetry.
• Professional practice and project management: engineering ethics, regulation, project planning, risk management and workplace skills.
• Capstone project or industry project: an extended individual or team project with an emphasis on design, implementation and reporting, often linked to industry partners or research groups.

Units are delivered through lectures, laboratory work, team design exercises and project supervision. Elective options allow you to tailor study toward areas such as renewable energy systems, power electronics, embedded systems or control engineering.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in engineering (or an equivalent) with appropriate electrical engineering content. Applicants with a related degree may be admitted where their prior study and work experience demonstrate sufficient background; such applicants may be required to complete specified bridging or preparatory subjects.

For international applicants, evidence of English language proficiency at the level required by the University is required. Professional experience in an engineering environment is advantageous, especially for applicants seeking advanced standing or admission via a non‑traditional pathway.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for professional practice as electrical engineers in a wide range of sectors. Common roles include:

• Power systems engineer — working on generation, transmission, distribution and grid integration of renewables.
• Control systems or automation engineer — designing control solutions for manufacturing, process and utilities industries.
• Embedded systems engineer — developing hardware/software systems for consumer, industrial or defence applications.
• Power electronics and drives engineer — designing converters, motor drives and energy conversion systems.
• Protection and relay engineer — specialising in protection coordination, fault analysis and commissioning.
• Project engineer or engineering consultant — managing technical projects and delivering client solutions.
• Research and development or further study — entering industrial R&D roles or progressing to doctoral study in specialised areas.

Graduates seeking Chartered or similar professional recognition can follow the professional accreditation and workplace experience pathways overseen by the relevant national engineering body.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide’s engineering programs combine applied coursework with strong research and industry engagement. The School of Engineering collaborates with energy companies, utilities and technology firms, offering access to specialist laboratories, high voltage and power electronics facilities, and opportunities for industry‑linked projects and internships.

Studying in Adelaide gives proximity to a concentrated engineering and energy sector, with opportunities to work on local projects in renewables, grid modernisation and advanced manufacturing. The program’s alignment with professional accreditation requirements supports graduates aiming for recognised professional status and sustained careers in electrical engineering.