Program Overview

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Master of Engineering Science (Structural Engineering)

The Master of Engineering Science (Structural Engineering) program is designed to provide advanced professional skills in computational analysis and design of steel, and in reinforced, composite and pre-stressed concrete structures. This two-year program comprises 16 courses and features complex, open-ended enquiry-based projects as well as many other opportunities to help students become leaders in the field.

Overview

The program is suitable for practising structural engineers and recent graduates planning a career in structural or civil engineering. Students will investigate and gain practical experience in the structural integrity of materials used in buildings, bridges, dams, tunnels, roads, pavements and other structures when exposed to natural phenomena or hostile environments.

Program Structure

The program includes:

• Enquiry-based courses
• Disciplinary courses
• Engineering and Technical Management Courses Students will also have the chance to work on a complex, open-ended enquiry-based research project.

Entry Requirements

There are two entry points into this Master of Engineering Science specialisation depending on the student's cognate background.

• Students with a cognate background: Entry into the Masters program requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in a cognate discipline. A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelors degree is mandatory.
• Students with a non-cognate background: Students with a non-cognate background can enter the Master of Engineering Science via the Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science/Master of Engineering Science pathway.

Cognate Disciplines

• Aerospace
• Civil
• Civil with Architecture
• Industrial Engineering
• Manufacturing
• Mechanical
• Mechatronic
• Mining
• Naval
• Structural Engineering

Recognition of Prior Learning (Credit Transfer)

Recognition of Prior Learning is the transfer of credit towards the program from previous study. If students have relevant previous study experience, they may be eligible for credit points that would enable them to complete their Master of Engineering Science in as little as one year, or another accelerated option listed below dependent on their previous study.

• 1 year program: A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
• 1.3 year program: A 4 year Bachelor Degree with honours (AQF Level 8 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.
• 1.7 year program: A 3 year Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7 equivalent) from any institution in a cognate discipline.

English Language Requirements

Students may be asked to provide evidence of their English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on their educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations.

Admission Pathways

If students do not meet the requirements for direct entry into their chosen degree, they may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College.

What Will I Study?

The program will help students develop advanced professional skills in computational analysis and design of steel, and in reinforced, composite and pre-stressed concrete structures. Students will investigate and gain practical experience in the structural integrity of materials used in buildings, bridges, dams, tunnels, roads, pavements and other structures when exposed to natural phenomena or hostile environments.

Future Careers

As a Structural Engineering graduate, students will be able to work across:

• Building and construction
• Sustainable design
• Transport
• Technology
• Specialist consulting
• Scientific and technical services

Fees & Scholarships

• Commonwealth Supported Place: 2026 Indicative CSP First Year Fee: $9,500, 2026 Indicative CSP Fee to Complete Degree: $19,000
• Full Fee: 2026 Indicative First Year Full Fee: $61,000, 2026 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree: $127,000 The University offers various scholarships to support students in their studies.