Associate Degree of Engineering (Civil Engineering)

The Associate Degree of Engineering (Civil Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive, industry-relevant program designed to equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to begin a career in civil engineering. This program provides a solid grounding in core concepts such as structural analysis, geotechnical engineering, transportation systems, environmental engineering, and construction management, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to infrastructure development and maintenance projects. Delivered through a combination of lectures, laboratory work, and practical workshops, the coursework emphasizes hands-on experience and real-world application. Students will learn to design, analyze, and supervise civil engineering projects, ensuring they meet safety standards, sustainability goals, and client requirements. The curriculum also covers essential topics like project planning, surveying, materials science, and the use of industry-standard software tools, fostering technical proficiency and problem-solving abilities. The program is designed to support pathways into higher education, allowing graduates to continue their studies towards bachelor’s degrees or related qualifications in engineering or surveying. With a focus on industry connections, students gain opportunities to engage with leading engineering firms through internships and industry projects, enhancing employability upon graduation. The Associate Degree prepares graduates for roles such as civil engineering technician, site supervisor, surveyor assistant, or project coordinator, contributing to the development of resilient and sustainable infrastructure. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical foundations and practical skills, ensuring students are well-prepared for entry-level positions in the civil engineering sector or further academic pursuits. By completing this program at the University of Southern Queensland, students join a vibrant community dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence.

Program structure

Courses to be studied

1 x Major16

Plus 6 x Practice courses (0 units value)0

Total    16

Course codeCourse name

Year 1 courses:

CIV1501Engineering Statics

CIV1500Applied Mechanics

ENG1002Introduction to Engineering and Spatial Science Applications

ENG1100Introduction to Engineering Design

ENG1101Introduction to Engineering Problem Solving

ENM1500Introductory Engineering Mathematics

MEC1201Engineering Materials 

SVY1500Spatial Science for Engineers 

Year 2 courses: 

CIV2403Geology and Geomechanics 

CIV2502Structural and Building Technology 

CIV2605Construction Engineering 

CIV2701Road Design and Location 

CIV2702Municipal Services 

ENV2103Hydraulics I 

plus two electives - see Electives

Practice courses: 

CIV2901Geology and Geomechanics Practice 

CIV3906Civil Materials Practice 

ENG1901Engineering Practice 1 

ENG2909Work Experience - Associate 

ENG2911AD Capstone Project 

ENV2902Hydraulics Practice 

Electives:

CIV3603Construction Methods

CIV3703Transport Engineering 

ENG2002Technology, Sustainability and Society 

ENG2102Engineering Problem Solving and Analysis

ENG4004Engineering Project and Operations Management 

ENV2201Land Studies 

ENV3105Hydrology 

ENV4204Environmental Technology 

GIS1402Geographic Information Systems 

ENM1600Engineering Mathematics 

MAT1102Algebra and Calculus I 

REN1201Environmental Studies 

URP3201Sustainable Urban Design and Development

CMG2001Job Organisation

Entry requirements

• Subject pre-requisites: Year 12 English (4 SA) or equivalent
• Recommended study: Mathematics B (mathematics A is assumed)

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

OP/Rank

The 2015 OP/Rank for this program is: 16/64

International entry requirements

English Language Requirements

Domestic and international students from a non-English speaking background are required to satisfy English Language requirements. This program requires a minimum of IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

If you do not meet the English language requirements you may apply to study a University-approved English language program.

Pre-requisites

Year 12 Senior Certificate or equivalent from a recognised institution. Find your country's level of qualificationand minimum entry requirements for this program.

• A-level (O-level Mathematics is assumed) is recommended

The Associate Degree of Engineering (Civil Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Students enrolling in this program can access various funding sources, including government-sponsored financial aid, scholarships, and student loans. The university collaborates with government agencies to facilitate financial assistance for eligible students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to quality engineering education. Scholarships are available based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as diversity and community involvement, providing additional support to outstanding and disadvantaged students. The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance on application procedures, eligibility requirements, and deadlines, helping students navigate the available options effectively. For domestic students, the Australian Commonwealth Government offers loan schemes such as the HELP (Higher Education Loan Program), which enables borrowing to cover tuition fees with income-contingent repayment plans. International students are advised to explore scholarship opportunities and private funding sources, as they may have limited access to domestic loan programs. The program fee structure is transparent and, in line with university policies, detailed information on costs, payment schedules, and available discounts is accessible online. Students are encouraged to plan their finances carefully and consider part-time work opportunities offered through the university’s career services. The university also provides financial literacy resources and workshops to assist students in managing their funds effectively. Overall, the university strives to make the Associate Degree of Engineering in Civil Engineering accessible and affordable by offering diverse financing options, clear information, and dedicated support services to help students succeed academically without undue financial stress.

The Associate Degree of Engineering (Civil Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive program designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career in civil engineering. This program offers a structured curriculum that encompasses core concepts in engineering principles, construction management, structural analysis, groundwater and soil mechanics, environmental engineering, and project management. The coursework emphasizes both theoretical understanding and hands-on experience through laboratory work, workshops, and industry placements, enabling students to apply their learning in real-world contexts.

The program is tailored to meet the demands of the evolving civil engineering industry, preparing graduates to work effectively in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, water supply systems, and environmental projects. Students are also introduced to the use of advanced engineering software and tools, facilitating their adaptation to modern technological standards. The associate degree is designed as an accessible pathway for those seeking to acquire technical expertise and practical skills, whether they intend to enter the workforce directly or pursue further study such as a bachelor's degree in engineering.

Throughout the program, students benefit from the university’s close links with industry partners, providing opportunities for internships, site visits, and collaborative projects. The curriculum also emphasizes ethical practice, sustainability, and innovation, aligning with the core values of the engineering profession. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to contribute to civil engineering projects in various sectors, including construction, government infrastructure, environmental management, and consulting. The degree is recognized for its quality education standards and its role in supporting regional development and engineering innovation.

The university's experienced faculty, modern facilities, and supportive learning environment further enhance the educational experience, ensuring students develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technical proficiency. The program duration typically spans two years of full-time study, with options for part-time or flexible learning arrangements to accommodate working professionals. Upon completion, graduates receive an Associate Degree of Engineering (Civil Engineering), which qualifies them for entry-level engineering roles and professional registration pathways in certain jurisdictions. The program reflects a commitment to fostering skilled technicians and aspiring engineers capable of meeting the technical challenges of modern civil infrastructure projects.