Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) (CRICOS course code 0102158) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Southern Cross University (SCU) over 4 years. This AQF Level 8 program falls under the field of Engineering and Related Technologies (039999), preparing graduates for professional engineering roles. Located in Lismore, New South Wales, the course combines theoretical foundations with practical work-integrated learning, including a 12-week industry placement. With indicative total fees of A$112,000 (tuition A$104,000 plus non-tuition costs of A$8,000), this course offers a pathway to engineering careers in Australia. All information is sourced from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), and Southern Cross University is a CRICOS-registered provider (01241G) ensuring compliance with ESOS Act protections for international students.
The Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) is a four-year undergraduate program designed to equip students with advanced engineering knowledge and skills. As a Bachelor Honours Degree (AQF Level 8), it provides a deeper level of study compared to a standard bachelor degree, often including a research component. The course is categorized under the broad field of Engineering and Related Technologies (03), specifically 'Other Engineering and Related Technologies' (039999), which encompasses interdisciplinary engineering fields not elsewhere classified. This means graduates may work across various engineering sectors, including systems engineering, project management, and technical consulting. Southern Cross University, a government-owned institution based in Lismore, NSW, delivers this program with a focus on sustainable engineering practices and real-world problem-solving. The CRICOS registration ensures that international students receive quality education and are protected under Australian law.
While specific syllabus details are set by Southern Cross University, the field of education (039999) typically covers topics such as engineering systems design, modelling and simulation, project management, and applied mathematics. Students at this level learn to analyze complex engineering problems, design solutions integrating multiple disciplines, and manage engineering projects from conception to completion. The honours component involves a research project or dissertation, developing skills in inquiry, data analysis, and professional communication. Graduates are expected to meet the competencies required for chartered engineering status or further postgraduate study. As an engineering degree in Australia, it aligns with the Engineers Australia accreditation framework, ensuring global recognition.
The program runs for 4 years (208 weeks as per the CRICOS register). It is delivered in English and is a single qualification (no dual degree). Students are expected to study full-time on campus at Southern Cross University's Lismore campus. The duration includes scheduled breaks, and the course allows for a maximum of 12 weeks of work-integrated learning (see Work component section). International students must maintain full-time enrolment to comply with student visa conditions.
Course fees shown are indicative and sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026. Fees are set by Southern Cross University and subject to change. The indicative tuition fee for the Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) is A$104,000 for the full program (4 years). Non-tuition fees (such as materials, library access, and student services) amount to approximately A$8,000, bringing the estimated total to A$112,000. This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. For current fees, always confirm with Southern Cross University at www.scu.edu.au. International students should budget for additional costs: OSHC (~A$500–$700 per year for single cover), living expenses (A$21,041 per year as per Department of Home Affairs), and the student visa application fee (A$710 as of 2025). Lismore's regional location may offer lower living costs compared to Sydney or Melbourne, with indicative weekly rent around A$200–$350 for shared accommodation.
To gain admission to the Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours), international students typically need to meet both academic and English language requirements. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0–6.5 overall (with no band below 5.5–6.0) or equivalent is expected. Academic entry usually requires completion of an Australian Year 12 or overseas equivalent with strong results in mathematics and science subjects. Some applicants may enter via pathway programs, such as a foundation year or diploma in engineering, which Southern Cross University may offer. For exact requirements, consult the university's website. Note that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent and recommends consulting the provider directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, at 40 hours per week, totalling approximately 480 hours. This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of an industry placement, internship, or project with an engineering firm. It allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting, develop practical skills, and build industry networks. Under the Student visa (Subclass 500), students can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, so the placement may be arranged as part of the curriculum rather than separate employment. Southern Cross University's careers service assists in finding suitable placements.
The Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) is delivered at Southern Cross University's Lismore campus, located in EAST LISMORE, NSW. Lismore is a regional city in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, approximately 45 minutes from Byron Bay and 2 hours from Brisbane. The city has a population of around 30,000 and a growing international student community. Lismore offers a relatively low cost of living compared to major cities, with affordable accommodation and a relaxed lifestyle. The campus is accessible by public transport, including local buses, and the area has a subtropical climate. While Lismore has fewer CRICOS-registered providers than Sydney or Melbourne (over 1,500 providers across Australia), Southern Cross University is a reputable public university.
International students enrolling in this course require a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key visa conditions include: maintaining full-time enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course; adequate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay; genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement; and sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled university breaks. It is important to note that HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice; for visa applications, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit the Department of Home Affairs at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) at Southern Cross University:
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use the official CRICOS register or HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level (Bachelor Honours), field (Engineering), and location (NSW). Confirm that Southern Cross University (CRICOS 01241G) is the right choice for you.
2. **Apply directly to your chosen institution** — Check Southern Cross University's website for entry requirements, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS), and application deadlines. Submit your application through the university's online portal or via an authorized education agent. Provide all required documents: academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy, and personal statement.
3. **Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** — Once accepted, the university will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC arranged and demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intent. After visa grant, plan your travel and accommodation in Lismore.
Studying in Lismore offers a unique blend of quality education and lifestyle benefits. Regional Australia has a growing demand for engineers, particularly in areas like renewable energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. Southern Cross University's engineering program emphasizes sustainable practices, which aligns with local industry needs. Living in Lismore also means lower living costs—weekly rent for a shared apartment averages A$200–$350, compared to over A$500 in Sydney. The campus is modern, with access to labs and workshops. However, students should consider that regional cities have fewer public transport options and social activities than major capitals. For those seeking a quieter study environment with strong community support, Lismore can be an excellent choice. Keep in mind that Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, so explore all options before deciding.
Ready to advance your engineering career? Start your application today by researching CRICOS-registered providers and contacting Southern Cross University.
Bachelor of Engineering Systems (Honours) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Southern Cross University (SCU). Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.