Engineering, Major Environmental Engineering

The Bachelor of Environmental Engineering at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address the complex environmental challenges faced by modern society. This degree program integrates principles of engineering, science, and environmental management to prepare graduates for careers dedicated to sustainable development, pollution control, resource management, and environmental protection. Throughout the course, students engage in a diverse curriculum that covers core topics such as environmental systems, water and wastewater engineering, waste management, environmental planning, and environmental impact assessment. The program emphasizes practical experience through laboratory work, field projects, and industry placements, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations. Students also learn about the latest technologies and innovative approaches used in environmental monitoring and remediation. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills essential for success in the environmental engineering sector. Graduates are well-prepared for employment in government agencies, consulting firms, construction companies, and environmental organizations, where they can contribute to sustainable infrastructure development and environmental stewardship. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to specific interests within environmental engineering, such as water resources, renewable energy, or environmental policy. With a strong focus on practical skills and industry relevance, the Bachelor of Environmental Engineering from the University of Southern Queensland provides a solid foundation for a meaningful career dedicated to preserving and improving the environment for future generations.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

Core courses13

plus 19 x major courses19

plus 9 x practice courses (0 units value)0

Total    32

Course codeCourse name

Year 1 courses:

CIV1501Engineering Statics

ENG1002Introduction to Engineering and Spatial Science Applications

ENG1100Introduction to Engineering Design

ENG1101Introduction to Engineering Problem Solving

ENG2102Engineering Problem Solving and Analysis

ENM1600Engineering Mathematics

MEC1201Engineering Materials

SVY1500Spatial Science for Engineers

Year 2 courses: 

AGR2301Agricultural Science 

CIV2403Geology and Geomechanics 

ENV2103Hydraulics I 

ENG2002Technology, Sustainability and Society

ENG3104Engineering Simulations and Computations

ENM2600Advanced Engineering Mathematics

MEC2402Stress Analysis 

REN1201Environmental Studies

Year 3 courses: 

AGR3304Soil Science 

ENG3003Engineering Management 

ENG4110Engineering Research Methodology

ENV3104Hydraulics II 

ENV3105Hydrology 

ENV4203Public Health Engineering 

plus two electives - see Electives

Year 4 courses:  

ECO8012Methods for Sustainable Development 

ENG4111Research Project Part 1 

ENG4112Research Project Part 2 

ENV4106Irrigation Science 

ENV4107Water Resources Engineering 

ENV4204Environmental Technology 

 plus two electives - see Electives

Practice courses: 

AGR2902Field Practice 

AGR3903Soil and Water Engineering Practice 2 

CIV2901Geology and Geomechanics Practice 

ENG1901Engineering Practice 1 

ENG3902Professional Practice 1 

ENG4903Professional Practice 2 

ENG4909Work Experience - Professional 

ENV2902Hydraulics Practice 

ENV3904Environmental Engineering Practice 

Electives: 

AGR3305Precision and Smart Technologies in Agriculture

CHE1110Chemistry 1 

CHE2120Chemistry 2 

CIV3403Geotechnical Engineering 

CIV3703Transport Engineering 

CLI1110Weather and Climate 

ECO1000Economics 

ENG4004Engineering Project and Operations Management 

ENV5205Solid and Liquid Waste Treatment 

GIS1402Geographic Information Systems 

LAW2107Environmental Law 

MAT1200Operations Research 1 

URP3201Sustainable Urban Design and Development 

SVY3202Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing 

URP4203Urban and Regional Planning

Entry requirements

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

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: 10/79

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 Mathematics or equivalent
• A-level Physics is recommended

Funding options for the Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland include a variety of financial assistance programs designed to support domestic and international students. Domestic students may be eligible for government-funded support such as HEX (Higher Education Contribution Scheme) loans, which allow students to defer tuition payments until they are earning above a certain income threshold. Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) are also available for eligible students, reducing the overall tuition fees significantly compared to full fee-paying places.

International students are required to pay international student tuition fees, which vary annually and are detailed on the university’s official website. The university offers various scholarships based on merit, need, or specific criteria such as academic achievement or regional background that can help offset the costs of study. These scholarships are competitive and are awarded based on application and eligibility requirements.

In addition to scholarships, students can explore external financial aid options, including private loans, philanthropic organizations, and government grants available in their home country. The university also provides information and guidance to help students apply for financial aid, plan their budgets, and access part-time work opportunities on or near campus to support their living expenses during their studies.

Work-integrated learning and industry placements sometimes offer stipends or financial support, although these are competitive and vary per program. Furthermore, some students may qualify for special funding programs aimed at encouraging students from underrepresented backgrounds or specific regions.

The university recommends prospective students thoroughly research available financial aid options early in the application process and consult the official university website or financial aid offices for the most current and detailed information regarding tuition fees, scholarships, loan options, and application procedures. Overall, the University of Southern Queensland strives to provide diverse financial support pathways to make engineering education accessible and affordable for all eligible students.

The Bachelor of Engineering (Major Environmental Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland offers students comprehensive training in the principles and practices of engineering with a specialized focus on environmental protection, sustainability, and management. This program is designed to equip graduates with the skills necessary to develop sustainable solutions for environmental challenges by combining technical engineering knowledge with an understanding of ecological systems and regulatory frameworks. Students will engage with a broad curriculum that includes core engineering subjects such as mathematics, physics, and materials science, alongside specialized courses in environmental science, water resources engineering, waste management, air and pollution control, environmental impact assessment, and sustainable development.

Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to participate in practical projects, laboratory work, and industry placements, providing real-world experience and fostering connections within the environmental engineering sector. The program emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, preparing graduates to work in various sectors including government agencies, consulting firms, industrial corporations, and non-governmental organizations. It aims to develop competencies in problem-solving, project management, and environmental policy analysis, all critical skills in addressing the complex environmental issues facing society today.

The University of Southern Queensland’s approach to engineering education combines theoretical knowledge with applied skills, supported by modern laboratories and technology. Students are encouraged to participate in innovative research initiatives and collaborative projects that tackle current environmental problems. The degree is accredited by the Engineers Australia (EA), ensuring that graduates meet the national standards for engineering practice and are eligible to pursue Chartered Engineer status after gaining further professional experience.

Graduates of the Environmental Engineering major are prepared for diverse career opportunities including environmental consultancy, water and wastewater treatment, pollution control, environmental policy development, and resource management. They are equipped to contribute to projects that promote sustainable use of natural resources and to develop engineering solutions that minimize environmental impact. The program also emphasizes ethical practices, professional responsibility, and lifelong learning, ensuring that graduates remain adaptable and capable of contributing positively to environmental engineering fields in a rapidly evolving global context. Overall, the degree aims to produce environmentally conscious engineers who can lead efforts to protect and improve the environment through innovative engineering solutions.