Be the solution: study environmental and sustainability engineering

Environmental and sustainability engineering focuses on developing practical solutions to environmental issues. It combines principles of engineering with a deep understanding of sustainability. This allows for the design and implementation of technologies and systems that protect our natural resources, reduce pollution and promote sustainable practices.

You may be wired to care more about the "why?" – in which case, an environmental science degree might be more your thing. But if you want to be part of practical solutions, engineering is the path for you! From creating waste reduction strategies to minimising the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on air, land, water and ecosystems – there are plenty of engineering-led job opportunities in this exciting field.

The most important skills you'll develop with an environmental and sustainability engineering degree are design skills including creativity, problem solving and critical thinking.

Dr Ellen Moon, senior lecturer in environmental engineering at Deakin, emphasises that engineering is all about developing solutions but it always requires balance and compromise:

"We help you develop the skills to identify and evaluate a range of solutions based on technical considerations, to find the best fit for the situation."

"There is also a big emphasis on developing teamwork and communication skills, as environmental engineers hardly ever work alone, and almost always work as part of a diverse team with other engineers, scientists, policy experts and trades."

Unlike many other programs, 50% of this course is dedicated to project and design-based learning. Alongside learning the engineering fundamentals, you'll be directly applying that knowledge to industry-style design projects. This means you won't just be hitting the books – you'll be out there, creating tangible solutions from day one.

"For example, you'll design a renewables-powered sanitation facility for a remote village in a Pacific nation, you'll find the most sustainable combination of solutions to manage a community's waste, and you'll propose a management strategy for a local wetland," Dr Moon explains.

There are no exams in these units – instead, your assessments will be based on the type of outputs expected of you as a professional engineer. These include project proposals, design reports and presentations to stakeholders, meaning you'll have the practical skills and knowledge needed to kickstart your career in environmental engineering.

After graduation, your career options in this fast-paced field are both diverse and exciting. You could find yourself working as an environmental engineer, consultant, or landfill specialist. Or maybe you'll become a water specialist, hydrogeologist, or even an air pollution control engineer.

The possibilities don't stop there – you could find yourself testing soil samples for land development, developing renewable energy policies, or working on large infrastructure projects to prevent environmental damage.

Tailor your career towards the issues you want to find solutions for – whether that's working on land, water, or in a major globally recognised corporation. The options are endless and the impact you can make is significant.

Deakin ensures that you're not just learning in the classroom. The program's strong industry connections mean you'll have opportunities to work with organisations like Barwon Water, the City of Greater Geelong and the Djilang Alliance. A compulsory 12-week internship gives you real-world experience, allowing you to apply your skills and make valuable industry contacts.

Many students also choose an industry-based final year project, which is an opportunity to bring together everything you've learned throughout your degree to solve a real-life industry problem. Class sizes are also capped at around 30 students, so you'll enjoy a more engaging and supportive learning environment.

Take it from Rosemarie Henderson, a Deakin alumna who now works as an environmental advisor for the Djilang Alliance. "I had a lot of amazing experiences and opportunities while studying at Deakin," she shares.

"I was able to travel to ANSTO in my first year of study to learn all about nuclear energy and network with other STEM students from around Australia and New Zealand. I also completed my internship through one of Deakin's industry partners, allowing me to develop my industry knowledge prior to graduating. It gave me a chance to develop my skills in time management and research in a professional setting."

Rosemarie's journey is a testament to the program's ability to prepare you for a successful and impactful career.

Choosing the right career can be daunting but if you're after a hands-on, design-focused approach, engineering is the way to go. Deakin's Environmental and Sustainability Engineering (Bachelor of Engineering– Honours) degree transforms thought into action and ideas into impact. With its combination of practical learning, industry connections and strong career prospects, you'll be well-equipped to make a real difference in the world.

So, are you ready to bring your unique, innovative ideas to life and shape a better tomorrow? Apply now.