Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Materials Science and Engineering/Bachelor of Engineering Science (CRICOS course code 089471M) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 5 years. This dual qualification combines a professional honours degree in materials engineering with a bachelor of engineering science, allowing you to specialise in areas like metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney is home to over 60,000 students, including a large international cohort. As a CRICOS-registered provider (00098G), UNSW is a government university offering globally recognised qualifications under the ESOS Act protections. Whether you aim to work in mining, manufacturing, or research, this course provides a strong foundation with a mandatory 12-week work placement integrated into the program. All data on HeadStart Academy is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, covering 26,433 courses across 1,556 providers.
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This course sits within the field of Materials Engineering (030305), a sub-discipline of Process and Resources Engineering. At AQF Level 8, you'll develop advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the design, processing, and testing of materials. Core topics include thermodynamics, material mechanics, phase transformations, and fracture analysis. You'll also study engineering science fundamentals, including mathematics, physics, and systems design. The dual degree structure means you graduate with both a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and a Bachelor of Engineering Science, giving you two credentials in five years. UNSW's curriculum emphasises project-based learning, with access to state-of-the-art labs and industry partnerships. Graduates typically pursue careers in aerospace, biomedical engineering, energy, or advanced manufacturing – all sectors where Australian engineering talent is in high demand.
The course runs for 5 years (260 weeks on the CRICOS register) and is delivered in English on campus at UNSW Kensington. As a dual qualification, you complete a single integrated program that awards two degrees simultaneously. This is an intensive program designed for full-time study; part-time options are generally not available for international students due to visa conditions. The language of instruction is English, so you must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. UNSW runs three semesters per year (Trimester 1, 2, and 3), allowing for flexible start dates. However, the course structure may require you to commence in specific trimesters to follow the progression timeline.
Tuition fees for this program are indicative and set by UNSW. According to the CRICOS register, the total tuition is A$318,500, with additional non-tuition fees of A$5,000, bringing the estimated total to A$323,500. These figures do not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. International students should budget for Sydney living costs: average weekly rent is around A$400–600 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–150, and public transport A$30–50. Always confirm current fees directly with UNSW before applying, as costs are subject to change. For up-to-date fee information, visit the provider's website at www.unsw.edu.au.
To be considered for admission, international students typically need an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5 with no band below 5.5–6.0. Equivalent English tests (TOEFL, PTE) are accepted. You should have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent with high achievement in mathematics and physics – or a recognised foundation program. UNSW offers a UNSW Foundation Studies pathway for students who don't directly meet entry requirements. Note that entry requirements vary by country and are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Always check the exact requirements with UNSW before applying. Meeting the minimum English score does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course includes a mandatory work-integrated learning component of 12 weeks (456 total hours) at 38 hours per week. This industrial training placement is designed to give you real-world experience in materials engineering, typically within a manufacturing, mining, or research environment. You'll complete a project or work assignment that integrates your academic knowledge with professional practice. Such placements often lead to job offers after graduation and count towards professional accreditation. UNSW's CareerHub helps students find suitable placements. The work component is a requirement for course completion and is part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) standard for honours degrees.
The course is delivered solely at UNSW's Kensington campus in Sydney, NSW. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million, hosting more than 200 CRICOS-registered providers and around 200,000 international students. The Kensington campus is located 6 km from the CBD, accessible by bus and light rail. Living costs in Sydney are higher than the national average, but the city offers diverse cultural experiences, world-class beaches, and a strong engineering job market. When considering this location, factor in the cost of living and the competitive student housing market.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. The visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks – subject to visa conditions. You must maintain genuine temporary entrant (GTE) status, have adequate OSHC arranged, and demonstrate financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. For families, the Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590) may apply. HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent; for visa advice, consult a MARA-registered agent or visit the Department of Home Affairs (homeaffairs.gov.au). All CRICOS-registered courses ensure ESOS Act protections, including tuition fee refund safeguards.
Sydney is a hub for engineering innovation, particularly in materials research and manufacturing. The city is home to major companies like BHP, Rio Tinto, and Cochlear, offering internship and employment opportunities. UNSW's strong industry connections enhance your learning experience. However, consider the high cost of living: average weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city is around A$600–800, while shared housing near campus is more affordable at A$350–500. Public transport is extensive, with discounts for international students via the Opal card. Before choosing this course and location, reflect on your career goals, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
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Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Materials Science and Engineering/Bachelor of Engineering Science is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.