Bachelor of Engineering(Chemical Engineering)(Honours)/Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences (CRICOS course code 116911H) is a Bachelor Honours Degree delivered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology over 5 years. This dual qualification combines chemical engineering with pharmaceutical sciences, preparing graduates for roles in bioprocessing, drug development, and process engineering. As a CRICOS-registered course (provider 00122A), it meets Australian Government standards for international student enrolment. Located in Melbourne, Victoria, this program offers a unique blend of engineering and science, with access to state-of-the-art labs and industry partnerships. Whether you aim to work in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or chemical manufacturing, this degree provides a solid foundation. Below you will find detailed information on fees, entry requirements, delivery locations, and student visa guidance to help you plan your study in Australia.
The Bachelor of Engineering(Chemical Engineering)(Honours)/Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences (CRICOS 116911H) is a combined honours degree that integrates chemical engineering principles with pharmaceutical sciences. It is offered by Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), a public university with a strong reputation in engineering and health sciences. The course is registered under CRICOS provider code 00122A and falls under the field of Manufacturing Engineering and Technology (030101). As a dual qualification, students graduate with two degrees in five years, enhancing career prospects in the pharmaceutical and chemical engineering sectors. The program includes both theoretical and practical components, with access to RMIT's advanced laboratories and industry placements available through elective pathways.
This course sits within the broad field of Engineering and Related Technologies, specifically Manufacturing Engineering and Technology. Students learn to apply engineering principles to the design, development, and optimisation of processes for producing pharmaceuticals and chemical products. Typical subjects include transport phenomena, reaction engineering, separation processes, drug formulation, and bioprocessing. At the Bachelor Honours level (AQF Level 8), the curriculum emphasises research skills and advanced technical knowledge, culminating in a major project or thesis. Graduates are equipped to solve complex engineering problems in the pharmaceutical industry, from drug discovery to large-scale manufacturing.
The course is delivered over 5 years (260 weeks) on a full-time basis. Language of instruction is English. This is a dual qualification, meaning students receive two separate degrees upon completion: a Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) (Honours) and a Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences. This structure allows students to gain interdisciplinary expertise without extending the total study time compared to completing both degrees separately. The program does not include a mandatory work component, but students may undertake optional internships or industry projects. Foundation studies are not available through this course; however, RMIT offers pathway programs for students who need to meet entry requirements.
Indicative tuition fees for the entire course are A$273,480, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$1,981, giving an estimated total of A$275,461. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Please confirm current fees on the RMIT website. Note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living costs, and the visa application charge are not included. International students should budget approximately A$20,000–A$30,000 per year for living expenses in Melbourne, including rent, groceries, and transport. The Student visa (Subclass 500) requires evidence of sufficient funds to cover these costs.
Admission to this course typically requires completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent, with prerequisite subjects in mathematics and chemistry. International students must demonstrate English proficiency: IELTS 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (or equivalent in other accepted tests). RMIT may also consider previous tertiary study or work experience. If you do not meet the academic or English requirements, RMIT offers foundation studies and diploma pathways that can lead into this degree. Always check the university's website for the most current entry criteria.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, students are encouraged to seek internships, industry projects, or work-integrated learning opportunities independently or through RMIT's career services. The absence of a compulsory placement offers flexibility for students who prefer to focus on academic study or arrange their own work experience.
The course is delivered at two RMIT campuses in Victoria: Bundoora Campus (Plenty Road, Bundoora VIC 3083) and RMIT University – 124 Latrobe Street, Melbourne. Both locations are easily accessible by public transport, with Bundoora served by trams and buses, and Melbourne City campus near trains and trams. Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, home to over 5 million people, including more than 200,000 international students. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and a moderate cost of living compared to Sydney. There are over 150 CRICOS-registered providers in Victoria, making it a popular study destination.
International students enrolling in this course will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from RMIT, evidence of English proficiency and financial capacity, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. All CRICOS-registered courses are protected under the ESOS Act, ensuring your tuition fees and rights are safeguarded. For detailed visa advice, consult a registered migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs website.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Engineering(Chemical Engineering)(Honours)/Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology:
**Step 1: Research CRICOS-registered providers** – Use HeadStart Academy to explore courses in Engineering and Related Technologies in Melbourne. Compare entry requirements, fees, and locations to ensure this program aligns with your goals.
**Step 2: Apply directly to your chosen institution** – Visit RMIT's website to review the application process. You will need to submit academic transcripts, English test scores, and any required documents. Deadlines vary by intake (typically February and July). RMIT may also ask for a portfolio or interview for some courses.
**Step 3: Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500)** – Once RMIT approves your application, you will receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs, along with proof of OSHC, financial capacity, and a GTE statement. Visa processing times vary, so apply early.
Melbourne is consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, offering a multicultural environment, excellent education infrastructure, and strong job prospects for engineering graduates. The city is home to leading pharmaceutical and chemical companies, providing potential internship and employment opportunities. However, the cost of living is higher than in smaller Australian cities. Indicative weekly expenses: rent A$200–$400 for shared accommodation, groceries A$80–$150, and public transport A$30–$50. With over 150,000 international students, Melbourne has well-established support services including English language centres, student clubs, and dedicated international student advisors. Consider your personal preferences for campus environment: Bundoora offers a suburban setting, while the City campus is in the heart of the business district.
Here are answers to common questions about this course:
Start your study journey in Australia with HeadStart Academy. Explore thousands of CRICOS-registered courses and get expert guidance on visas and applications.
View the full Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology profile →
Bachelor of Engineering(Chemical Engineering)(Honours)/Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences is a CRICOS-registered programme at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. 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.