Associate Degree of Engineering (Power Engineering)

The Associate Degree of Engineering in Power Engineering offered by the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive, industry-focused program designed to equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful career in the power engineering sector. This program is ideal for individuals seeking to enter the dynamic field of electrical power generation, transmission, and distribution, or for those aiming to enhance their existing technical expertise with a formal qualification. Throughout the course, students are exposed to a broad range of topics including electrical circuits, power systems analysis, electrical machines, renewable energy technologies, and power plant operations. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, industry placements, and project-based assessments, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the technical challenges of the industry. Students will also develop critical problem-solving skills, technical communication abilities, and a solid understanding of engineering principles, all within the context of Australian and global energy markets. The program provides a pathway to further education in engineering disciplines, offering credits that can be transferred to bachelor-level programs. Faculty members are experienced professionals committed to delivering quality education that aligns with current industry standards and technological advancements. Graduates of this program will be qualified for roles such as electrical technician, power systems operator, or maintenance engineer within the energy sector, contributing to the development, maintenance, and operation of electrical infrastructure. With strong links to industry partners and an emphasis on employability, the Associate Degree of Engineering in Power Engineering from USQ is your stepping stone into a rewarding career in a vital and rapidly evolving industry, ensuring that you are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the competitive energy sector of the future.

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:

ELE1301Computer Engineering

ELE1502Electronic Circuits

ELE1801Electrical Technology

ENG1002Introduction to Engineering and Spatial Science Applications

ENG1101Introduction to Engineering Problem Solving

ENM1500Introductory Engineering Mathematics

MEC1201Engineering Materials

 plus one elective - see Electives

Year 2 courses: 

ELE2101Control and Instrumentation 

ELE2501Electronic Workshop and Production 

ELE2503Electronic Systems 

ELE2702Electrical Measurement and Analysis 

ENG1100Introduction to Engineering Design 

plus three electives - see Electives

Practice courses: 

ELE1911Electrical and Electronic Practice A 

ELE2912Electrical and Electronic Practice B 

ELE2913Electrical and Electronic Practice C 

ENG1901Engineering Practice 1 

ENG2909Work Experience - Associate 

ENG2911AD Capstone Project 

Electives:

CIV1501Engineering Statics

CIV2403Geology and Geomechanics 

CIV2605Construction Engineering 

ELE2303Embedded Systems Design 

ELE2704Electricity Supply Systems 

ELE3803Electrical Plant 

GIS1401Geographic Data Presentation 

GIS1402Geographic Information Systems 

SVY1110Introduction to Global Positioning System 

ENG2102Engineering Problem Solving and Analysis

Entry requirements

• Subject pre-requisites: Year 12 English (4 SA)
• 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 financing studies for the Associate Degree of Engineering (Power Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland primarily involve a combination of government funding, student contributions, scholarships, and financial aid options. Australia’s higher education system provides various pathways to support students financially, including federal and state government support, which significantly reduce the financial burden for eligible students through schemes like FEE-HELP. FEE-HELP is a government loan scheme that allows domestic students to defer payment of their tuition fees until after graduation, when they are earning above a set income threshold. This scheme covers the cost of tuition fees, making the programme accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.

International students enrolled in this program are responsible for paying all tuition fees upfront or through approved payment plans, as FEE-HELP does not apply to international students. The tuition fees for the Associate Degree of Engineering (Power Engineering) are established annually and are published on the university’s official website. These fees vary depending on the student’s residency status and specific program factors but are generally competitive compared to similar programs at other universities.

In addition to government loans, students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities offered by the university, including merit-based scholarships, equity scholarships, and industry-sponsored grants. These scholarships aim to reduce financial stress for students and promote access to engineering education. The university also partners with various industry organizations and companies, which sometimes offer financial support or sponsorships for students undertaking relevant work placements or research projects.

Students may also consider external sources of funding, such as state or federal government grants, private sector scholarships, and sponsorships from engineering firms or industry bodies. Some students may be eligible for part-time work, which can help offset living expenses and study-related costs, especially considering the flexible study options provided by the university, including online and part-time study pathways.

Overall, the financing options for this program are designed to facilitate access and affordability, ensuring that talented students can pursue their engineering education without excessive financial hardship. The university provides comprehensive guidance and counseling to prospective and current students to navigate available financial support systems effectively, ensuring they can focus on their studies and future career prospects in power engineering.

The Associate Degree of Engineering with a specialization in Power Engineering at the University of Southern Queensland is designed to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in electrical power systems, renewable energy sources, and electrical machinery. This program aims to equip graduates with the technical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to work effectively in the power industry, including areas such as electrical generation, transmission, distribution, and maintenance. It covers core engineering principles, including circuit analysis, control systems, thermodynamics, and electrical safety, tailored specifically to the needs of power engineering. Students will also gain practical skills through laboratory work, workshops, and industry placements, providing real-world experience that enhances employability upon graduation.

The curriculum emphasizes sustainable energy practices and technological innovations in renewable energy, reflecting the industry’s shift towards cleaner energy sources. Courses include studies in power systems analysis, renewable energy technologies, electrical machines, and power electronics, ensuring students develop a holistic understanding of the field. The program is designed for those who aspire to work as technical officers, electrical engineers, or in maintenance and operations within the power industry. It also provides a pathway for further engineering studies, such as Bachelor of Engineering programs, should students wish to continue their education.

The teaching staff consists of qualified professionals and researchers with extensive experience in power engineering, ensuring that students receive quality education aligned with industry standards. The program combines theoretical coursework with practical applications to prepare graduates for employment in a rapidly evolving industry heavily influenced by new technologies and sustainability initiatives. Students benefit from modern facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with the latest tools and software used in power engineering. The program also emphasizes project management, teamwork, and communication skills, recognizing their importance in engineering practice.

Graduates of the Associate Degree of Engineering (Power Engineering) are well-positioned to pursue careers in power generation plants, electrical utilities, manufacturing industries, or consulting firms. The university’s strong industry connections and support services help facilitate internships, job placements, and career development activities. The qualification can also serve as a stepping stone toward further engineering qualifications, enabling students to achieve higher professional credentials if desired in the future. Overall, this program offers a robust educational foundation for those interested in making a significant contribution to the energy sector, particularly in electrical power systems and renewable energy integration.