Mechanical Engineering is concerned with the management of people and resources, the development and use of new technologies and the design and development of new processes and products, which mainly involve 'things that move', such as motor vehicles, aircraft systems, engines, pumps, gas turbines, industrial plants, airconditioning/refrigeration systems, manufacturing processes, building services and even space stations. Mechanical engineers offer expertise in the fields of combustion, noise and vibration control, energy technology, vibrations, control systems, robotics, quality management, bioengineering, aeronautics or fluid mechanics, water supply, mining, manufacturing, production planning, maintenance planning, consumer product design, pollution control and new materials.
Design is the backbone of the program. It begins in earnest in the second year with a design and build project, followed by a more advanced project in third year and a large design/research project in the final year. This activity is supported by both design and engineering science courses, including, in second year, courses on thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, machine dynamics, control, mechatronics, materials, manufacturing and design for strength and function. In the third year these courses are extended and students prepare for the final professional year, which deals with specialist courses. The academic program also develops written and oral communication skills and familiarity with project management.
Science studies may be chosen from chemistry, physics and mathematics.
You must not have completed more than 4 years full time equivalent university study (96 units). You must have gained a 'Recorded Achievement' in four SACE Stage 2 HESS (Higher Education Selection Subjects) General subjects (or interstate/International Baccalaureate equivalents). For a full list of SACE subjects and their HESS status please refer to the SATAC Tertiary Entrance Booklet. You compete for a place with your Tertiary Entrance Rank (TER).
You must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent higher education study. A Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated for each separate program you have undertaken (apart from some double degree programs where the GPA is combined). You compete on the basis of your best GPA.
You must meet the following criteria: you must be 21 years or over on January 1st of the year that you will be studying*, you must not hold a completed higher education level award, and if you have been enrolled in a course leading to a higher education level award in the last 3 years, you must not have completed more than 2 years full time equivalent university study. If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Your STAT result is weighted such that the verbal component contributes 35% and the quantitative component contributes 65% to your overall score. Personal Competencies (PC) and Employment Experience (EE) statements may also contribute to your rank. If you submit a PC or EE statement, and one of these ranks higher than your STAT score, then the highest ranking statement will contribute 50% to your overall rank and the STAT will contribute the remaining 50%. If you do not submit a PC or EE statement, or if the statements have a lower rank than the STAT, then you will compete for a place on the basis of your STAT result only. *The age restriction is 19 years or over if you have completed either the Flinders Foundation course or the UniSA Foundation Studies program or the UniSA Program for Adult Learners. Indigenous applicants may be eligible for entry through the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Access Scheme. See Wilto Yerlo for further information.
* Students who have undertaken SACE Stage 2 Specialist Maths will be required to enrol in Maths IA followed by Maths IB. Students who have not taken SACE Stage 2 Specialist maths will be required to enrol in Maths IMA followed by Maths IA and Maths IB in summer semester to complete the requirements at Level 1.
The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.
Last updated:
Monday, 22 Dec 2008
Program Talks
The World of Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics
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Learn how the right choice of program can prepare you for a challenging and rewarding career. This discussion will highlight the future of engineering and computer science and the importance of mathematics in relation to relevant issues such as sustainability, renewable energy, the mining boom and information and communication technology industries.
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