Engineering Science (Agricultural Engineering)

The Bachelor of Engineering Science (Agricultural Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the technical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address complex challenges in the agricultural sector. This innovative program combines fundamental engineering principles with a specialized focus on agricultural systems, machinery, and environmental management. Throughout the course, students will engage in a broad curriculum that covers areas such as soil and water engineering, sustainable farming practices, farm machinery and equipment design, and resource management. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through laboratory work, industry placements, and project-based assessments, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations. Graduates will be prepared for diverse careers in agricultural engineering, including roles in farm design, irrigation systems, environmental consultancy, and agricultural innovation. The program also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and sustainable development practices to meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and strong industry connections, students are supported throughout their academic journey to develop the skills required for a successful career in agricultural engineering. The University of Southern Queensland’s focus on practical learning and industry engagement ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute effectively to the agricultural sector both locally and globally.

Program structure

Courses to be studiedUnits

7 x Core courses8

plus Major Courses6

plus 2 x Elective2

plus 5 x Practice courses0

Total16

Course codeCourse name

Core Courses:

ENG8208Advanced Engineering Project Management

ENG3104Engineering Simulations and Computations

ENM2600Advanced Engineering Mathematics

ENG5001Professional Skills in Engineering

ENG8001Masters Dissertation A

ENG8411Masters Dissertation B

ENG8412Masters Dissertation C1

Agricultural Engineering Major:

AGR3303Agricultural Materials and Post-Harvest Technologies

ENG8101Technological Impact and its Management

AGR4305Agricultural Soil Mechanics

ENV3104Hydraulics II

ENV4106Irrigation Science

ENV4107Water Resources Engineering

Elective Courses:Select two units from the following:

AGR3304Soil Science

AGR3305Precision and Smart Technologies in Agriculture

ENG8103Management of Technological Risk

ENG8104Asset Management in an Engineering Environment

ENG8205Technology Management Practice

ENV3105Hydrology

ENV4203Public Health Engineering

ENV4204Environmental Technology 

ENV5205Solid and Liquid Waste Treatment

MEC3303System Design

MEC4406Robotics and Machine Vision 

Practice Courses:

AGR3903Soil and Water Engineering Practice 2

AGR3905Agricultural Engineering Practice

ENG3902Professional Practice 1

ENG4903Professional Practice 2

ENG4909Work Experience - Professional

Footnotes

 1 Two units.

Entry requirements

• 3-year degree in engineering or spatial science or equivalent

    or

• An appropriate engineering degree in a non-related specialisation, or equivalent

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 6.5 or equivalent.

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

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 6.5 or equivalent.

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

Pre-requisites

•  3-year degree in engineering or spatial science or equivalent

    or

• An appropriate engineering degree in a non-related specialisation, or equivalent

The University of Southern Queensland offers various financings options for students enrolled in the Engineering Science (Agricultural Engineering) program. International students can access Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) and Australian Government funding, reducing the financial burden through subsidized tuition fees. Domestic students may also qualify for Commonwealth Supported Places, enabling them to pay a reduced fee rate compared to full fee-paying international students. Additionally, students can apply for student loans and financial aid programs, which provide concessional loans to support their education costs. The university encourages students to explore scholarships and bursaries available for engineering students, many of which are renewable annually based on academic performance or financial need.

Apart from government support, the university offers various scholarship opportunities tailored to engineering students, including merit-based scholarships, equity scholarships, and industry-sponsored awards. These scholarships can significantly offset tuition fees and provide living stipends. Many students also utilize external funding options such as private scholarships, employer-sponsored education programs, and educational loans from financial institutions.

The university’s flexible studying options, including full-time and part-time enrollment and online studies, allow students to manage their finances more effectively. Part-time students may balance work and study, reducing reliance on loans and allowing more manageable payment of tuition and living expenses. The university’s financial support services provide guidance and counseling on managing education costs, application procedures for scholarships, and planning for long-term financial stability.

International students should also consider additional costs such as overseas student health cover (OSHC), visa application fees, and relocation expenses, which are also crucial in their financial planning. The university offers financial advice and planning resources to help students prepare a comprehensive budget for their studies.

Overall, the Financing studies of the Engineering Science (Agricultural Engineering) program at USQ are designed to be accessible and flexible, supported by a range of federal, state, and university-specific funding options to help students achieve their educational and career goals without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Engineering Science (Agricultural Engineering) at the University of Southern Queensland is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for careers in agricultural engineering, a field focused on applying engineering principles to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. This program provides students with a solid foundation in engineering concepts, combined with specialized knowledge relevant to agriculture, such as soil and water resources, sustainable farming practices, machinery design, and crop and livestock management systems. Throughout the course, students engage in a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, including laboratory work, industry projects, and fieldwork, ensuring they develop both the technical skills and industry experience necessary for professional practice.

The curriculum covers core engineering disciplines such as mechanics, thermodynamics, electrical systems, and materials science, integrated with agricultural-specific subjects like irrigation systems, renewable energy solutions for farms, environmental impact assessment, and precision agriculture technologies. Students are also exposed to coursework in project management, systems analysis, and innovation, preparing them to lead and develop sustainable solutions within the agricultural sector. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and problem-solving, reflecting the complex challenges faced by modern agriculture in a changing climate.

Graduates of this program are equipped to work across various sectors including farming operations, agricultural machinery manufacturing, environmental consultancy, and policymaking related to sustainable land use and resource management. The university's strong links with industry partners and regional agricultural organizations provide students with excellent internship, networking, and employment opportunities. The program often incorporates industry-based projects and work-integrated learning, fostering practical experience that aligns with workforce needs.

The Bachelor of Engineering Science (Agricultural Engineering) typically takes three years of full-time study to complete, though pathways for part-time study are also available. Admission requirements usually include the completion of secondary education with suitable English proficiency and mathematics prerequisites. Upon graduation, students are eligible to pursue professional accreditation and further studies such as a Master of Engineering or related postgraduate programs at USQ or other institutions.

The university’s focus on flexible learning options, including online coursework and evening classes, allows students from diverse backgrounds and locations to access higher education in engineering. The program is designed to develop not only technical competence but also leadership, innovation, and ethical responsibility, preparing graduates to address vital challenges in global food security, environmental sustainability, and rural development. As a research-active university, USQ continually updates its curriculum to reflect current technological advancements and industry standards in agricultural engineering, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the profession.