Key facts

Duration

2 years full-time or part-time equivalent

Locations

Course overview

Study the Master of Engineering (Professional) and prepare for entry to engineering practice with the technical, project and professional skills required by industry. This degree is designed for graduates seeking to become professional engineers, developing strong problem-solving capabilities and the ability to contribute effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Throughout the course, you will build core engineering knowledge alongside leadership, communication and strategic thinking skills needed to operate in complex professional environments. Learning is grounded in practical, project-based experiences with a strong focus on sustainability and project management. Through industry or research informed projects and through a professional 60 day placement, you will graduate with the knowledge, experience and confidence to enter professional engineer roles in civil and infrastructure, mechanical, electrical and renewable, robotics and automation and smart manufacturing areas of practice.

Key dates

Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 3 2026 close 18 October 2026

Current Deakin students

To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook

Award granted
Master of Engineering (Professional)
Year

2027 course information

Deakin code
S751
CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
052600A Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
Level
Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition

The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9

Course structure

To complete the Master of Engineering (Professional) you must pass 16 credit points. This includes:

* Students entering with a 3-year bachelor’s degree in engineering science, science or technology are required undertake SEP791 Engineering Modelling and SEN700 Research Methodology in their first year of study instead of two open electives. 

^ Students will be required to select a specialisation aligned with the related discipline of their undergraduate degree. 

Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.

6
Core units
+
4
Elective units
+
6
Specialisation units
=
16
Total

You are required to complete six core units (these are essential units for this degree)

In your first trimester you must also complete three 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree. 

Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points)
Career Tools for Employability (0 credit points)
Safety Induction Program (0 credit points)
Project Planning (capstone) ~
Project Implementation and Evaluation (2 credit points) (capstone) ~
Engineering Project Management
Engineering Sustainability
Professional Practice
Engineering Modelling ^
Research Methodology ^

~It is recommended students undertake SEN710 and SEN720 in consecutive trimesters

plus

A 6 credit point specialisation

plus

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.

  • Start date: March
  • Available at:
    • Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
  • Start date: July
  • Available at:
    • Waurn Ponds (Geelong)
  • Start date: November
  • Available at:
    • Waurn Ponds (Geelong)

Course duration

You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.

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 lectures, seminars, studios, laboratories 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.

Participation requirements

Students commencing their course in Trimester 3 will be required to complete units in Trimester 3.

Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.

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. This gives you the opportunity to explore potential career paths and build valuable professional networks. Assessment tasks will deepen your understanding of the engineering profession and strengthen your professional practice skills. Learn more about SEBE work integrated learning

Entry requirements

Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements or higher to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.

A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.

To be considered for admission to this degree you will need to meet at least one of the following criteria:

  • Completion of a 4-year non-accredited Bachelor of Engineering degree in the same or a cognate discipline to the chosen engineering specialisation, with a minimum credit average (equivalent to a Deakin WAM of 60).  Applicants who already hold an accredited engineering qualification and wish to transition into a different but related cognate area to gain eligibility to practice as a Professional Engineer can apply. See cognate areas for each specialisation below.

OR

  • Completion of a 3-year Bachelor of Engineering Science degree (or equivalent) in the same or a cognate discipline to the chosen engineering specialisation, with a minimum credit average (equivalent to a Deakin WAM of 60).

OR

  • Completion of a 3-year (or more) Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Technology degree with a major in a cognate discipline to the chosen engineering specialisation with a minimum credit average (equivalent to a Deakin WAM of 60).

OR

  • Hold Engineering Technologist Membership in a cognate engineering discipline to the chosen engineering specialisation, issued by Engineers Australia or an equivalent professional body in a country that is signatory to Sydney Accord, (including countries with provisional status). 

Applicants who already hold a qualification at the level of professional engineer and are seeking a master’s level qualification in the same engineering discipline are encouraged to apply for entry to S787 Master of Engineering Management (Professional) or S825 Master of Engineering.

Examples of related majors in an undergraduate engineering or engineering science degree for admission to a Master of Engineering (Professional) specialisation include, but is not limited to:

  • Civil and Infrastructure Engineering specialisation: Architectural Engineering; Civil Engineering; Construction Engineering; Geotechnical Engineering; Hydropower Engineering; Industrial Engineering; Infrastructure Engineering; Manufacturing Engineering; Materials Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Mining Engineering; Naval Engineering; Petroleum Engineering; Structural Engineering; Traffic Engineering; Transportation Engineering; Water Engineering; Urban Engineering.
  • Electrical and Renewable Energy Engineering specialisation: Automation Engineering; Control Systems Engineering; Electrical Engineering; Electrical and Electronics Engineering; Electronics Engineering; Instrumentation Engineering; Instrumentation and Control Engineering; Telecommunications Engineering; Thermal Energy Engineering; Power Engineering; Mechatronics Engineering; Optoelectronic Engineering; Photonics Engineering; Power Electronics; Power Engineering; Renewable Energy Engineering; Systems Engineering.
  • Mechanical Engineering specialisation: Aeronautical Engineering; Aerospace engineering; Agricultural Engineering; Automation Engineering; Automobile Engineering; Automotive engineering; Biomechanical Engineering; Biomedical Engineering; Civil Engineering; Industrial engineering; Industrial Manufacturing; Manufacturing engineering; Materials Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Mechatronic Engineering; Maritime Engineering; Naval Engineering; Product Design Engineering; Production Engineering.
  • Robotics and Automation Engineering specialisation: Aeronautical engineering; Aerospace Engineering; Agricultural Engineering; Applied Artificial Intelligence; Automation Engineering; Automobile Engineering; Biomedical Engineering; Communications Engineering; Computer Engineering; Embedded Systems Engineering; Computer Science Engineering; Computer Systems Engineering; Control and Automation Engineering; Control Engineering; Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering; Electronics Engineering; Industrial Manufacturing; Product Engineering; Marine Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Robotics Engineering; Software Engineering; Systems Engineering; Telecommunication Engineering.
  • Smart Manufacturing specialisation: Aeronautical Engineering; Aerospace Engineering; Automobile Engineering; Computer Engineering; Embedded Systems Engineering; Computer Science Engineering; Computer Systems Engineering; Control and Automation Engineering; Control Engineering; Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering; Manufacturing Engineering; Automation Engineering Biomedical Engineering; Industrial Manufacturing; Materials Engineering; Mechatronics Engineering; Manufacturing Engineering; Maritime Engineering; Product Engineering; Product Design Engineering; Textile Technology; Software Engineering; Applied Artificial Intelligence; Computer Science Engineering; Computer Systems Engineering.

Examples of related majors in an undergraduate degree in Science or Technology for admission to a Master of Engineering (Professional) specialisation include, but is not limited to:

  • Civil and Infrastructure Engineering specialisation: Science or Technology major in geology; geoscience; environmental science; hydrogeology; chemistry; earth science; or mineral processing.
  • Electrical and Renewable Energy Engineering specialisation: Science or Technology major in chemistry; physics; climate science; climate systems science; physical oceanography; electrical engineering; computer systems.
  • Mechanical Engineering specialisation: Science or Technology major in physics; mathematics; materials science; mineral processing; automation; robotics; sports technology; exercise technology; design and technology.
  • Robotics and Automation Engineering specialisation: Science or Technology major in physics; mathematics; electronics; telecommunications; computer science; artificial intelligence; process engineering; automation; robotics; sports technology; exercise technology; design and technology, systems engineering.
  • Smart Manufacturing specialisation: Science or Technology major in physics; mathematics; electronics; telecommunications; computer science; computer systems; electrical engineering; materials science; mineral processing; process engineering; automation; robotics; or design and technology.

Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.

Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.

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 one-third of the course at Deakin University, or 4 credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.

You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.

Fees and scholarships

Fee information

Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place

$36,600 for 1 yr full-time - Full-fee paying place
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.

The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a FEE-HELP loan to defer all or part of your tuition fees.

Check your eligibility or learn more about a FEE-HELP loan.

Scholarship options

A Deakin scholarship can open the door to new opportunities. Whether you have something unique to offer or simply need a bit of extra support to reach your goals, we’re here to help. Scholarships can assist with course fees, living costs and study materials – so you can focus on achieving your best. Explore the range of opportunities and find the right fit for you.

Search or browse through our scholarships

Postgraduate bursary

We love welcoming Deakin alumni back to continue their journey with us. If you're starting a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible for a 10% discount on your enrolment fees, applied per unit. It's our way of supporting your next step.

Learn more about the 10% Deakin alumni discount

Apply now

Apply directly to Deakin

To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.

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Pathways

Alternate exits

Career outcomes

We’ll prepare you to be a well-rounded engineer, ready to practise in Australia or abroad. Deakin graduates are required more than ever with the demand for engineers expected to grow by around 20 per cent over the next decade.* Renewable energy engineers are also among the 15 fastest-growing jobs worldwide,^ offering exciting opportunities to make a global impact. Depending on which field of engineering you choose during your degree, you could work in government, the private sector, consulting, or even education and research.

* Engineers Australia, ‘Engineers warn skills shortages remain profession’s biggest challenge’, May 2026. 
^ World Economic Forum’s ‘The Future of Jobs Report 2025’.

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.

Course Learning Outcomes

Apply knowledge of engineering principles and techniques, and use research, project design and management skills and approaches to systematically investigate, interpret, analyse and generate solutions for complex problems and issues.

Respond to or initiate research concerned with advancing engineering and developing new principles and technologies within the specialist engineering discipline using appropriate methodologies and thereby contribute to continual improvement in the practice and scholarship of engineering.

Manage engineering solutions, projects and programs, and ensure reliable functioning of all materials, components, sub-systems and technologies as well as all interactions between the technical system and the context within which it functions to form a complete, sustainable and self-consistent system that optimises social, environmental and economic outcomes over its full lifetime.

Advocate engineering ideas and make engineering decisions from conception through to implementation by properly evaluating and integrating technical and non-technical considerations as desirable outcomes of engineering projects and practice.

Prepare high quality engineering documents and present information including approaches, procedures, concepts, solutions, and technical details in oral, written and/or visual forms appropriate to the context, in a professional manner.

Use reasoning skills to critically and fairly analyse the viewpoints of stakeholders and specialists, and consult in a professional manner when presenting an engineering viewpoint, arguments, justifications or solutions to engage technical and non-technical audience in discussions, debate and negotiations.

Use a wide range of digital engineering and scientific tools and techniques to analyse, simulate, visualise, synthesise and critically assess information and methodically and systematically differentiate between assertion, personal opinion and evidence for engineering decision-making.

Demonstrate the ability to independently and systematically locate and share information, standards and regulations that pertain to the specialist engineering discipline.

Identify, discern, and characterise salient issues, determine and analyse causes and effects, justify and apply appropriate assumptions, predict performance and behaviour, conceptualise engineering approaches and evaluate potential outcomes against appropriate criteria to synthesise solution strategies for complex engineering problems.

Use research-based knowledge and research methods to identify, reveal and define complex engineering problems which involve uncertainty, ambiguity, imprecise information, conflicting technical or nontechnical factors and safety and other contextual risks associated with engineering application within an engineering discipline.

Apply technical knowledge, problem solving skills, appropriate tools and resources to design components, elements, systems, plant, facilities, processes and services to satisfy user requirements taking in to account broad contextual constraints such as social, cultural, economic, environmental, legal, political and human factors as an integral factor in the process of developing responsible engineering solutions.

Identify recent developments, develop alternative concepts, solutions and procedures, appropriately challenge engineering practice from technical and non-technical viewpoints and thereby demonstrate capacity for creating new technological opportunities, approaches and solutions.

Regularly undertake self-review and take notice of feedback to reflect on achievements, plan professional development needs, learn from the knowledge and standards of a professional and intellectual community and contribute to its maintenance and advancement.

Commit to and uphold codes of ethics, established norms, standards, and conduct that characterises accountability and responsibility as a professional engineer, while ensuring safety of other people and protection of the environment.

Function effectively as a team member, take various team roles, consistently complete all assigned tasks within agreed deadlines, proactively assist, contribute to ideas, respect opinions and value contribution made by others when working collaboratively in learning activities to realise shared team objectives and outcomes.

Apply people and personal skills to resolve any teamwork issues, provide constructive feedback that recognises the value of alternative and diverse viewpoints, and contribute to team cohesiveness, bringing to the fore and discussing shared individual and collective knowledge and creative capacity to develop optimal solutions to complex engineering problems.

Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the global, cultural and social diversity and complex needs of communities and cultures through the assessment of qualitative and quantitative interactions between engineering practices, the environment and the community, the implications of the law, relevant codes, regulations and standards.

Actively seek traditional, current and new information to assess trends and emerging practice from local, national and global sources and appraise the diversity, equity and ethical implications for professional practice.

Note – From 2026, Deakin commenced introducing Graduate Attributes (GAs), which define the distinctive characteristics of a Deakin graduate. You may notice some courses still refer to Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) during this transition period.

*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.

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