Diploma of Engineering
Shape the future at Australia’s #1 Engineering Faculty.*
What is a Diploma?
A UNSW College Diploma of Engineering is more than just a qualification – it’s your pathway to UNSW Sydney, Australia’s most employable university, and the #1 engineering faculty in the country.*
In just 12 months, this supportive program prepares you to transition seamlessly into the second year of a UNSW Engineering degree.
Designed for students who have missed the entry requirements, the Diploma of Engineering offers smaller classes, personalised support, and additional learning time to help you excel in fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering.
Take the first step toward a successful engineering career with UNSW Sydney and join a faculty renowned for shaping future innovators and leaders.
*Most employable students for five years in a row - AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
*QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024.
Intakes
May
Duration
12 months (3 terms)
Weekly class time
Approximately 20-25 hours
Progression
Second Year, Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at UNSW Sydney
Delivery mode
On-campus
Your journey with a Diploma program
- Overview
- Progress to UNSW Sydney
- Program structure
- Entry requirements
- Key dates
- Fees & payment options
Who is this program for?
Our Diplomas are specially designed for students who narrowly missed direct entry to UNSW Sydney, offering a supportive and focused pathway to academic success and university life, with:
- First-year equivalence: Your Diploma mirrors UNSW’s first-year degree curriculum. It’s developed in collaboration with UNSW, with access to the same world-renowned facilities and resources as undergraduate students.
- Personalised attention: Small class sizes (around 20 students) and up to 20% more teaching time than first year at UNSW mean more focused support.
- Tailored support: Access to weekly tutor sessions, interactive study clubs, leadership development opportunities, and wellbeing programs - all designed to provide a strong foundation for success and help you thrive.
Why study engineering at UNSW Sydney?
Work with robots, boost energy production or design bionic limbs.
UNSW are world leaders in engineering education and research, and have the No.1 Engineering faculty in Australia. Add in a recent $1 billion facilities upgrade, and you have everything you need to build a successful future in this field.
UNSW provides world-class education and a career-focused student experience. As a UNSW student, you’ll join a vibrant and connected community, with opportunities to expand your network socially and professionally through clubs, societies, and industry events.
Choose from a wide range of majors in your Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and explore diverse ideas while preparing for a future full of possibilities.
Career opportunities
- Aerospace Engineer
- Bioinformatics Engineer
- Chemical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Computer Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Environmental Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Mechatronic Engineer
- Mining Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Telecommunications Engineer
Your future at UNSW Sydney
Once you successfully complete a Diploma (and meet the entry requirements), you will progress directly to second year of your chosen degree at UNSW Sydney.
The Diploma of Engineering is designed to provide you with a pathway straight into second year of a Bachelor of Engineering where you will have the option to choose a degree major from the following:
Bachelor of Engineering majors
- Aerospace Engineering
- Bioinformatics
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemical Product Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Geoenergy and Geostorage Engineering - new
- Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Photovoltaics & Solar Energy
- Quantum Engineering
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Robotics & Mechatronics Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Surveying
- Telecommunications
Note: Diploma of Engineering students must achieve a Satisfactory Grade for the Communication and Academic Literacy course and a minimum pass for all other courses to progress to second year of the relevant degree program at UNSW. If you wish to study a major not on this list, you may be eligible to receive credit for subjects that are common.
Be part of a global top 20 university
Successfully complete a Diploma and progress directly to the second year of your dream degree at UNSW Sydney, like 90% of our graduates.
Most Employable Graduates
Voted as having the most employable students at the AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024
Leading Innovation
#1 University in Australia attended by start-up founders.
Program structure
Diploma of Engineering students learn the fundamentals before specialising and focusing on their future studies at UNSW Sydney. With first-year equivalent subject content and equal learning outcomes, you will enter the second year fully prepared and on equal footing with your peers.
For more information on each major, see below.
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What is aerospace engineering?
This specialisation is all about the design, analysis and operation of various types of spacecraft such as aeroplanes, helicopters, rockets and satellites. Aerospace engineers are responsible for testing their designed prototypes and ensuring that they function according to specifications. If this is your chosen career path, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge technologies and the opportunity to travel.
Aerospace engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is bioinformatics?
This field links engineering to the analysis of living organisms. Bioinformatics engineers develop technologies and software that are used to analyse and interpret biological data. You must have a good understanding of computing and the life sciences in order to gather, process and analyse vast amounts of data. Bioinformatics engineers work in research areas in the pharmaceutical industry, medical technology, biotechnology, computational biology, proteomics, computer information science, and medical informatics.
Bioinformatics Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and two of the following:
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is chemical engineering?
Chemical engineering involves the design and development of large-scale processes which enhance the manufacture of products formed from chemicals, microorganisms and other raw materials. It is used in industrial, biological and environmental fields for the production of materials such as fuels, fertilisers, foods, alcohol, polymers and pharmaceuticals.
Chemical engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
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What is chemical product engineering?
This field forms a link between research and industrial-scale chemical engineering. Industrial chemists look at the synthesis of small-scale chemical reactions and create processes to manufacture the chemicals at an industrial scale. They also have a broad understanding of chemistry and environmental sustainability and work in pharmaceutical companies, polymer manufacturing, petrochemical processing, manufacturing industries and in food science.
Chemical product engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is civil engineering?
Civil engineers are responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of infrastructure. They work in a range of different industries involving buildings, roads, tunnels, airfields, railways and mines. Civil engineering is very broad and opens up the opportunity for further specialisation.
Civil engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Communication & Academic Literacy
And one of the following:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Design in Application of Materials in Science and Engineering
- Mathematics 1A
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What is computer engineering?
Covering the design, development and application of computer systems, computer engineering is a constantly evolving industry. It offers careers in the development of hardware/software systems to work with consumer electronics, transport systems, medical equipment, telecommunications and many more.
Computer engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Communication & Academic Literacy
And one of the following:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Mathematics 1A
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What is electrical engineering?
This field deals with the research, design, development, manufacturing and management of complex systems for many different uses. Electrical engineering has a wide array of employment opportunities including areas such as telecommunications, solar energy conversion and microprocessors.
Electrical engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subject:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is environmental engineering?
Environmental engineers look at the natural world and identify environmental problems to develop effective solutions. They also coordinate activities of various specialist groups – such as biologists, ecologists and geologists – within major projects. Environmental engineering has an emphasis on management, system design, water, geotechnical and transport engineering.
Environmental engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Communication & Academic Literacy
And one of:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is materials science & engineering?
Focused on improving existing materials and developing new ones, materials science & engineering experts understand how to manipulate materials to benefit technological advances in engineering, manufacturing and health. This branch of engineering combines chemistry, physics and biology with mathematics and the principles of mechanical, chemical and electrical engineering.
Materials science & engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Design in Application of Materials in Science and Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
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What is mechanical & manufacturing engineering?
Mechanical & manufacturing engineers develop products and the machines that build them. This specialisation focuses on industrial technology and automation, production processes, finance and decision making, and computer-aided design and manufacturing. Mechanical & manufacturing engineers work within a wide range of careers from automotive, defence and aerospace to just about any industry that turns raw materials into useable products.
Mechanical & manufacturing engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is mechanical engineering?
Mechanical engineers use mechanical power to operate machines and tools to develop new machinery. During your studies you will learn how to design and manage the construction, operation and maintenance of machines used in many industries.
Mechanical engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
-
What is mining engineering?
The discipline of mining engineering involves the study of safe, economic and environmentally responsible recovery of mineral resources, followed by the processing, marketing and financial management of these resources. Mining engineers have an understanding of geomechanics, ventilation, mining planning and mineral processing.
Mining engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and one of the following:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is photovoltaics & solar energy engineering?
Involving the manufacture of solar cells that convert light into electricity, photovoltaics & solar energy engineering finds new and creative ways to harness the vast amount of energy in our sun. This fills a big demand of our increasingly energy-hungry world. People in this field use their skills and creative thinking to solve one of the world’s greatest problems – creating a sustainable energy source.
Photovoltaics & solar energy engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and one of the following:
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is quantum engineering?
Quantum engineering involves the application of fundamental physics to major engineering problems. More specifically, it involves the use of quantum mechanics to the context of quantum computing, quantum communications and quantum sensing, to name a few applications. It is a field that is undergoing explosive growth and considered to be one of the most rapidly expanding technology spaces.
Quantum engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Possible other subject:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Mathematics 1A
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What is renewable energy engineering?
This area looks at all the renewable energy technologies including solar, thermal systems, photovoltaics, wind and biomass. A career in renewable energy can encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including designing, installing and operating renewable energy generating systems. It can also include inspecting the design and construction of buildings to ensure they are energy efficient.
Renewable energy engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Communication & Academic Literacy
and one of the following:
- Engineering Mechanics 1
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is robotics & mechatronic engineering?
Mechatronic engineers are involved in creating smart machines and autonomous systems, such as robots, self-operating cars and automated industrial machines. This evolving industry also covers software development to control sophisticated machinery. Understanding the conception process, design, construction, maintenance and integration of smart machinery and systems is integral to working as a mechatronic engineer, and can lead you to a career in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, mining, cargo handling and agriculture.
Robotics & Mechatronic engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Mathematics 1A
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What is software engineering?
Software Engineering involves the processes, methods, and tools for designing and developing high-quality, reliable software systems. This involves the study and application of software specification, design, implementation, testing, and documentation. Target systems may range from simple software applications to mission-critical real-time systems. Software Engineers are skilled in writing code to design programs that fulfil needs and solve problems.
Software engineering Diploma subjects
View an example of the core subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Software Engineering Fundamentals
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subjects:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Design and Application of Materials in Science and Engineering
- Engineering Mechanics
- Chemistry 1A
- Chemistry 1B
- Electrical and Telecom Engineering
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Mathematics 1A
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What is surveying?
Surveying supports all construction activity and infrastructure engineering in urban and rural environments, as well as mapping and monitoring the natural environment. Activities include defining land boundaries, engineering and mining surveying, offshore surveys, digital mapping, precise positioning and property development. Surveying is a perfect combination of indoors and outdoors that involves the use of hi-tech tools such as GPSs, laser scanners, mapping drones and surveying robots to create high-definition 3D models of the built and natural environment.
Surveying subjects
View an example of the core subjects you will be studying in your Diploma of Engineering below.
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Physics 1A OR Higher Physics 1A
Other possible elective subjects:
- Communication & Academic Literacy
- Physics 1B OR Higher Physics 1B
- Chemistry A: Atoms, Molecules and Energy
- Chemistry B: Elements, Compounds and Life
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Molecules, Cells and Genes
- Design & Application of Materials in Science & Engineering
- Software Engineering Fundamentals
- Engineering Mechanics
- Electrical and telecom engineering
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What is telecommunications?
The study of how information is transferred from one point to another, telecommunications is a wide-ranging discipline. It covers many application spaces in the area of communications including those which are based on fibre optics, wireless, satellite, deep space and internet technologies.
Telecommunications Diploma subjects
View an example of the subjects you will be studying in your Diploma in Engineering below.
Telecommunications subjects
- Mathematics 1A
- Mathematics 1B
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation
- Introduction to Programming
- Higher Physics 1A
- Higher Physics 1B
- Electrical and Telecommunications Engineering
- Communication & Academic Literacy
Other possible subject:
- Computer Systems Fundamentals
- Mathematics 1A
Academic calendars
The academic calendar consists of important dates throughout your study period such as Orientation, census dates, study weeks, exam weeks and breaks for your program or course of study.
| Orientation | Start of Week One | Census | Finish | Start at UNSW |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8-May-25 | 12-May-25 | 6-Jun-25 | 1-May-26 |
Term 2 - 01 Jun 2026 |
2025 tuition fees
A$38,016
| Program name | Total units of credit | Subjects to complete | 2025 Indicative Fees Per Subject ($AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Engineering | 48 | 8 | $4,752 |
This program is currently offered as a full-fee paying course, and FEE-HELP is not available. Fees are charged per term, based on the subjects you are enrolled in.
Please note: This information is provided as a general guide and applies to full-fee paying domestic students.
If you are a domestic student who received a slipback offer to study a UNSW Diploma under the Gateway Admissions Pathway, these fees do not apply. Please refer to this page for more information: 
Gateway Admissions Pathway | UNSW College.
Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF)
The Student Services & Amenities Fee (SSAF) is payable when you enrol in a Diploma Program. The fee covers non-academic services including counselling, career and financial advice, health and food services, sports activities and more.
Full-time: $117.00/term
Part-time: $87.75/term
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The program tuition fee that is quoted on your Letter of Offer is indicative and takes into account a range of factors such as:
- The calendar year in which you undertake your study in the course. For example, you may have commenced your Diploma in 2025, however you may undertake courses in 2026.
- Studying elective courses outside of your main program area. For example you may be enrolled in the Diploma of Business however you may have undertaken an elective unit from the Diploma of Media and Communication.
- Potential course variations to your Diploma studies.
Fees are reviewed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed, so it’s important to remember that indicative tuition fees shown above are not guaranteed. Any update to fees is effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are for tuition only – other fees and charges are not included.
When you enrol into new courses in your subsequent study terms at UNSW College, a fee statement will be generated in myUNSW indicating the precise tuition fee amount that you will need to pay.
Why study with UNSW College?
Be part of a global top 20 university
Successfully complete a Diploma and progress directly to the second year of your dream degree at UNSW Sydney, like 90% of our graduates.
Your proven pathway to success
With over 50 years of experience, UNSW College has guided 40,000+ graduates to university and beyond.
Unmatched support
Full 360° wrap-around support across academics, accommodation, health and wellbeing, welfare and disability, and more.
"Completing my diploma at UNSW College prepared me immensely for university life. I thrived in the diverse environment, honed my time management skills, and embraced the higher standard of education and dedication."
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Diploma & Foundation Studies
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From 26 August 2024, UNSW College™ will commence delivery of Diplomas under its own CRICOS Provider Code - 01020K and TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).
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