Associate Degree of Engineering (Process Engineering)

The Associate Degree of Engineering (Process Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive two-year program designed to prepare students for a successful career in the dynamic field of process engineering. This program provides a solid foundation in engineering principles, focusing on the design, operation, and optimization of industrial processes across various sectors including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food production, and energy. Throughout the course, students gain hands-on experience through practical laboratory work, industry projects, and internships that promote real-world skills and foster problem-solving abilities essential for tackling contemporary engineering challenges. The curriculum covers core areas such as chemistry, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, process control, and environmental sustainability, ensuring graduates are well-equipped with both technical knowledge and industry-relevant skills. The program emphasizes the development of analytical thinking, teamwork, and communication skills to prepare students for leadership roles in process engineering environments. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, supporting experiential learning and innovation. The Associate Degree of Engineering (Process Engineering) also offers pathways for further study, enabling graduates to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related fields. With a curriculum aligned with industry standards and a focus on sustainable practices, this program aims to produce competent, versatile, and ethical professionals ready to contribute to industrial development and process efficiency. Upon completion, graduates can seek employment in process engineering roles, quality assurance, plant operation, or even start their entrepreneurial ventures. The program is designed to meet the evolving demands of the engineering sector, emphasizing lifelong learning and continuous professional development.

Program structure

Courses to be studied

1 x Major16

Plus 5-6 x Practice courses (0 units value)0

Total16

Course codeCourse name

Year 1 courses:

CIV1500Applied Mechanics

CIV1501Engineering Statics

ENG1002Introduction to Engineering and Spatial Science Applications

ENG1100Introduction to Engineering Design

ENG1101Introduction to Engineering Problem Solving

ENM1500Introductory Engineering Mathematics

MEC1201Engineering Materials

MEC1501Introduction to Process Engineering

Year 2 courses:

ELE1301Computer Engineering

MEC2101Thermodynamics

MEC2501Process Engineering Systems

plus five electives - see Electives

Practice Courses:

ELE1911Electrical and Electronic Practice A

ENG1901Engineering Practice 1

ENG2909Work Experience - Associate

ENG2911AD Capstone Project

MEC2901Mechanical Practice 1

Electives:

Choose any course from this table. Students completing a Minor program of study must complete all courses under the Minor heading.

CHE1110Chemistry 1

CHE2120Chemistry 2

ENM1600Engineering Mathematics

MEC2106Introduction to Thermo-Fluids

MEC3204Production Engineering

ENG2102Engineering Problem Solving and Analysis

Instrumentation and Control minor:

ELE1502Electronic Circuits

ELE1801Electrical Technology

ELE2101Control and Instrumentation

ELE2303Embedded Systems Design

Machine Systems minor:

MEC2202Manufacturing Processes

MEC2301Design of Machine Elements

MEC2402Stress Analysis

MEC2405Machine Dynamics

MEC2902Mechanical Practice 2

Process Plant Technology minor:

4 CP Unspecified Block Exemption on successful completion of specified courses within PMA50108 Diploma of Process Plant Technology

Entry requirements

• Subject pre-requisites: Year 12 English (4 SA)
• Recommended study: Mathematics B

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

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Associate Degree of Engineering (Process Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. International students are generally required to demonstrate their ability to finance their education and living expenses before gaining admission. The university recommends that students budget for tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, health insurance, and personal expenses. Tuition fees vary depending on the number of courses taken per semester, but as of the latest information, the annual tuition fee for international students is approximately AUD 22,000 to AUD 25,000. Domestic students, on the other hand, are eligible for Commonwealth-supported places, which significantly reduce the tuition costs, often covering a portion of the total fees through government funding.

Students seeking financial assistance can explore multiple avenues. The university provides scholarships and bursaries for eligible students, which are awarded based on academic performance, financial need, or other criteria. Additionally, students may access government loan schemes such as HECS-HELP for eligible domestic students, which allows them to defer payment of tuition fees until earning a sufficient income after graduation. International students are generally not eligible for these schemes but can consider other options such as education loans from their home country or private funding.

Part-time work opportunities are available on or near campus, allowing students to balance employment and studies. The university also partners with various organizations to facilitate internships and work placements that can help students support themselves financially while gaining relevant practical experience. Students are advised to plan their finances carefully and seek advice from the university’s student support services to ensure they understand all available funding options.

The university encourages prospective students to research and apply early for scholarships and financial aid programs to secure funding for their studies. It is important to note that costs and financial aid options can vary from year to year, so students should refer to the official university website or contact the admissions office for the most current information. Overall, the University of Southern Queensland is committed to assisting students in managing the costs associated with pursuing an Associate Degree of Engineering (Process Engineering), providing information on scholarships, government support, and employment options to facilitate successful completion of the programme.

The Associate Degree of Engineering (Process Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the diverse field of process engineering. This programme combines fundamental engineering principles with specialized knowledge relevant to the processing industry, including chemical, petrochemical, food, and manufacturing sectors. Students enrolled in this program gain a solid foundation in core engineering disciplines such as mathematics, physics, and chemistry, along with detailed training in process design, control systems, safety procedures, and environmental considerations. The curriculum emphasizes practical, hands-on experience through laboratory work, industry placements, and project-based learning, which equips graduates with the skills needed to analyze, design, and optimize industrial processes. The program's structure is typically delivered over two years of full-time study or part-time equivalent options, providing flexibility for working students or those seeking to balance studies with employment. The degree aims to produce graduates who can work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and adapt to rapidly changing technological environments. It also offers pathways for further education, including articulation into bachelor’s degree programs for students wishing to advance their qualifications. The university collaborates closely with industry partners to ensure the curriculum remains relevant and responsive to current trends and employment needs in the process engineering sector. Graduates of the Associate Degree can pursue careers in process operations, technical consultancy, quality control, or maintenance within a variety of industrial settings. The program also emphasizes sustainability and environmentally responsible practices, fostering graduates' ability to contribute to green engineering solutions. Overall, this program provides a robust foundation for those looking to enter the dynamic world of process engineering with practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and a clear career pathway.