Program Overview

---

Master of Engineering Science (Sustainable Systems)

The UNSW Master of Engineering Science (Sustainable Systems) postgraduate degree is designed to help students specialise and gain a deeper knowledge across a broad range of disciplines. Students will examine how engineers discover holistic and effective solutions to unsustainable practices in the modern world.

Overview

The degree features a range of exciting topics including sustainable systems engineering, industrial ecology, sustainability and environmental sciences, and sustainability management. It also includes a number of targeted courses in renewable energy engineering and energy efficiency and promotes flexible learning as a keystone of the program.

Program Structure

The typical two-year degree, sitting within the UNSW School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, comprises 16 courses. It features complex, open-ended enquiry-based projects as well as many other opportunities to help students become leaders in the field. Students will develop a systematic approach to problem-solving and learn to plan projects effectively, as well as gaining key skills in order to analyse, interpret and communicate results proficiently.

Why Study at UNSW?

UNSW Engineering is committed to advancing a more prosperous, safe and just society, with emphasis on sustainability and consideration of engineering impacts. The university is ranked #1 in Australia and #25 globally for Engineering and Technology.

Entry Requirements

Entry into the Masters program requires completion of a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree (or equivalent) or 3-year Engineering Science degree in any engineering discipline. A minimum 65% average, or its equivalent, throughout the qualifying bachelors degree is mandatory.

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

What Will I Study?

The program structure includes:

• Enquiry-based courses
• Disciplinary courses
• Engineering and Technical Management Courses Students will be able to tailor their degree to their interests by combining courses in their chosen specialisation with elective courses.

Future Careers

As a UNSW Sustainable Systems graduate, students will be able to work in roles such as:

• Energy efficiency engineer
• Industrial ecologist
• Sustainability consultant
• Green building engineer
• Water project manager
• Corporate social responsibility officer
• Environmental economist
• Policy

Fees and Scholarships

The indicative Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) fees are:

• 2026 Indicative CSP First Year Fee: $9,500
• 2026 Indicative CSP Fee to Complete Degree: $19,000 The indicative first year full fee is $61,000 and the indicative full fee to complete the degree is $127,000.

Scholarships

At UNSW, over $83 million in scholarships are awarded each year. The university prides itself on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether students are domestic or international, the range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support their journey.