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Industry-linked projects from your first year
Designed in accordance to Engineers Australia’s accreditation requirements
Key facts
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2023 close 25 June 2023
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
Become a highly skilled graduate ready to tackle global environmental issues such as climate change, sustainability and pollution when you study the Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours) at Deakin. Gain knowledge across environmental engineering industry areas including waste management, water engineering, catchment management and soil and water remediation. Develop solutions-led technical and professional skills to put you in high demand in this future-focused field.
Environmental engineers address global issues such as climate change, sustainability, waste disposal, water security, utility distribution, pollution and more. Graduates are highly sought after in government and private sectors to provide innovative solutions to these environmental challenges. You will be equipped to assess project impacts on air, water and soil, and to design strategies that minimise adverse effects.
Want to design groundbreaking engineering solutions for a sustainable future?
This course equips you with the skills and knowledge to develop sustainable engineering solutions through project-oriented design-based learning and lab-based practical classes.
You will gain in-depth knowledge across a range of environmental engineering disciplines related to environmental health, water, air and soil quality, water resource management and waste management. This is underpinned by the fundamentals of environmental engineering and the natural and physical sciences, including geography, chemistry, mathematics, environmental science, ecology and hydrology.
By undertaking authentic engineering projects using project-oriented design-based learning (PODBL) in collaboration with industry, you will have the chance to apply scientific and engineering principles to develop innovative, ethical solutions to real-world environmental problems. This type of project-based learning ensures you will gain the practical expertise – as well as the communication, teamwork and project management skills – to graduate job ready for future roles across industry, government or the humanitarian sector.
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours)
- Year
2023 course information
- VTAC code
1400310431 - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400311301 - Regional Access Scheme - Waurn Ponds (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400610431 - Online, Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)- Deakin code
- S465
- CRICOS code?
- 095002A Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 8.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours), students must attain 32 credit points, which must include the following:
- Thirty one (31) credit points of core units *
- One (1) elective unit (1 credit point)
- Completion of four (4) zero-credit point compulsory units:
- SEJ010 Introduction to Safety and Project Oriented Learning
- SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction
- STP050 Academic Integrity
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability
*Students without year 12 Chemistry (or equivalent) are required to take 32 credit points of core units, including SLE133 Chemistry in our World.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.Core
Level 1 - Trimester 1
Level 1 - Trimester 2
* This unit has an assumed strong knowledge of Chemistry. Students without VCE Chemistry 3 and 4 or an equivalent are strongly encouraged to undertake
Molecular science is integral to modern environmental engineering. For this reason, knowledge of chemistry is important for all students in the Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours) course. Students who have a weak or no knowledge of year 12 Chemistry should study SLE133. Students who have a strong knowledge of Chemistry may proceed directly to SLE155, and choose an elective later in the degree.
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Level 3 - Trimester 2
Level 4 - Trimester 1
Plus 1 elective (one credit point)
Level 4 - Trimester 2
^ Students are encouraged to complete this unit in Trimester 3 of the third year of study.
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
~ It is recommended students undertake SEJ441 and SEJ446 in consecutive trimesters.
+ Students enrolled online for these units are required to attend campus mode conducted activities during the corresponding Intensive Activities in a trimester. Attendance at campus mode activities is linked to assessment requirements within the Engineering programs, failure to attend will result in not meeting the hurdle requirement of the respective assessment. Thus, a fail grade shall be awarded for the respective affected unit(s) for that particular trimester.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online*
Trimester 2 - July
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
- Online*
*Online students will be required to undertake a compulsory Trimester 3.
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Additional course information
Flexible entry into the course allows students to upgrade their qualifications and to obtain credit for previous studies/experience. Applicants with appropriate TAFE qualifications or other approved post-secondary studies may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning. Credit may be considered for skills obtained in the workforce or by informal means.
Students must have access to a suitable computer and a network connection. The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course may also require that students have access to a range of software. Access to high-cost specialist equipment is provided but students may be required to purchase minor equipment for particular unit(s) as detailed in unit site.
Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
In total, expect to dedicate about 10 hours per week to each single credit point unit, and 20 hours per week to each double credit point unit.
Participation requirements
In order to satisfy course accreditation requirements, as specified and administered by Engineers Australia, all online enrolled students, or students enrolled online in specific units are required to participate in campus-based learning activities at Waurn Ponds (Geelong) during intensive week each trimester in order to ensure that graduates possess and have demonstrated the minimum necessary knowledge and skill base, engineering application abilities, and professional skills, values and attitudes at successful completion of the course to be sufficiently prepared to enter professional engineering practice.
Attendance and participation in learning activities during intensive week is linked to assessment requirements within the Engineering programmes, and failure to attend may result in students not meeting the hurdle requirement of the respective assessment. This may result in a fail grade being awarded for the respective affected unit(s) for that particular trimester.
International students: Please note that due to Australian Government regulations, student visas to enter Australia cannot be issued to students who enrol in Deakin online. To participate in the mandatory campus based scheduled sessions during the trimester intensive week, it is suggested that you apply for a tourist visa to enter Australia. Please be advised that Deakin University cannot guarantee that you will be granted a tourist visa by the Australian Government.
International students studying online may not be granted a visitor visa to complete mandatory components of the course at a campus.
Placement can occur at any time, including during the standard holiday breaks listed here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/courses/key-dates.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
Through SEL703 Professional Practice, you’ll gain industry experience by completing at least 30 to 60 days of practical work experience in an engineering workplace with assessment tasks designed to develop and enhance your understanding of the engineering profession, professional practice and continuing professional development, possible career outcomes, and the opportunity to establish valuable professional networks.

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Download course guideEntry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE Prerequisite subjects
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics.
ATAR
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics; or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics; or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL; Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 20 in one of Maths: Mathematical Methods or Maths: Specialist Mathematics; or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in any English, Maths: Mathematical Methods, Maths: Specialist Mathematics, Physics or Systems Engineering equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of 50% of the course at Deakin University.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Direct applications are open for applicants who are not currently in Year 12, including:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE study
- applicants with higher education study.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours) with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Graduates will be in high demand in this rapidly evolving discipline, addressing global issues like climate change, sustainability and water security across a range of industries:
- air pollution and emissions control
- natural resource management
- environmental protection
- engineering consultancy
- government departments - local, state, and federal
- resources - mining, oil and gas
- waste management and recycling
- water and wastewater treatment.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours) has been designed in accordance with Engineers Australia professional accreditation requirements. Deakin has been awarded provisional accreditation for the Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours) by Engineers Australia (EA).
Course learning outcomes
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Design, develop, manage and evaluate the sustainability of established and innovative engineering solutions for real-world environmental problems by integrating and applying well-developed knowledge and skills in natural and physical sciences, engineering and project management, and by assessing environmental, social and economic consequences of implementation. Apply professional engineering and scientific techniques to study environmental engineering problems, evaluate the benefits, risks and uncertainty associated with the use of specific environmental engineering approaches and tools, and evaluate the effectiveness of designs and experiments that are used to determine a remedy. Plan and execute practice-based research projects to show capacity for advanced knowledge and skills in the discipline of environmental engineering and thereby demonstrate the ability to continue professional development and scholarship. |
Communication | Apply effective communication skills in a professional context to interpret, evaluate and present technical engineering information using oral, written, visual modes. Demonstrate proficiency and accuracy in comprehending diverse viewpoints from technical and non-technical stakeholders and present arguments and justifications for representing an engineering position. |
Digital literacy | Identify, select and use digital technologies and tools relevant to environmental engineering to use, manage, generate and share information, evaluate its reliability, and use the information for engineering design, problem solving and research purposes. Demonstrate the ability to independently and systematically locate and share information, laws, policies and regulations that pertain to the air, water and land environment and its management. |
Critical thinking | Demonstrate autonomy and judgement through balanced application of logic, intellectual and research criteria to review, analyse, and synthesise information for engineering problem solving. |
Problem solving | Apply knowledge of natural and physical sciences, and environmental engineering skills and techniques to identify and define complex problems in a variety of contexts. Evaluate and use established engineering methods to identify potential solutions to independently and collaboratively resolve complex, real-world environmental engineering problems and realise solutions. Demonstrate innovative and creative approaches and solutions to environmental engineering problems that are constrained by local, national, global and contemporary issues and show capacity for planning, designing, executing and managing environmental engineering projects. |
Self-management. | Evaluate own knowledge and skills, professionalism and ethical development using frameworks of reflection and take responsibility for learning and performance. Work responsibly and safely in engineering environments to demonstrate professionalism. |
Teamwork | Undertake various team roles, work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, and utilise effective teamwork skills in order to achieve team objectives. Apply interpersonal skills to interact and collaborate to enhance outcomes through shared knowledge and creative capacity to optimise engineering outcomes. |
Global citizenship | Formulate sustainable engineering practices by integrating aspects of design, development, management and research competencies through concern for economic, environmental, social and cultural perspectives and values. Evaluate impacts to global environmental systems, engage with global traditions and current trends in environmental engineering practice in order to appreciate diversity, seek equity in outcomes and adopt ethical and professional standards. |
Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2021
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Footnotes
*Ranked ‘well above world standard’ for manufacturing engineering and ‘above world standard’ for engineering and materials engineering. Source: Excellence in Research for Australia's (ERA) research evaluation framework 2018
#ARWU Rankings 2022