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The Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental Engineering) (Honours) is an integrated double degree that combines rigorous environmental science with accredited professional engineering training. Students learn to understand the interactions within natural and built environments and apply that knowledge to design, build and manage technical solutions to complex environmental problems — from water and air pollution control to waste management, climate change mitigation, land remediation and ecosystem restoration. The dual qualification equips graduates with both the scientific literacy to interpret environmental systems and the engineering capability to deliver sustainable solutions, making them uniquely versatile in a competitive job market. Typically spanning five years of full-time study, the degree is structured so that students build a foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry and environmental science before progressively specialising in engineering disciplines such as hydrology, geomechanics, fluid mechanics, geospatial systems and sustainable engineering design. An Honours research thesis in the final year deepens graduates' analytical and research skills, preparing them for senior technical or leadership roles. The course is fully accredited by Engineers Australia at the level of Professional Engineer, and this accreditation is recognised internationally under the Washington Accord, opening global career pathways. Employers of graduates include government agencies such as state Environmental Protection Authorities, the Bureau of Meteorology, local councils, Parks authorities, water utilities and transport infrastructure bodies, as well as private sector consultancies, mining and resources companies, construction firms, renewable energy developers and environmental remediation specialists. Graduates are also eligible for membership of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ) and Engineers Australia, supporting ongoing professional development throughout their careers.
Australia is facing unprecedented environmental pressures — from managing the impacts of climate change and drought on water resources, to transitioning to clean energy, rehabilitating mining-affected land and meeting ambitious net-zero commitments. These challenges are generating sustained demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between environmental science and engineering practice. The Australian engineering labour market has identified a significant skills shortage at mid and senior levels, and disciplines tied to the clean energy transition, water infrastructure, construction and environmental compliance are forecast to remain in high demand for the foreseeable future. With Australia's 2050 net-zero commitment driving massive investment in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure and green technology, environmental engineers are increasingly seen as essential contributors to national development priorities. The double degree structure of this qualification is a strategic advantage: graduates do not simply hold one credential — they hold two accredited qualifications that allow them to operate as both a registered professional engineer and a credentialled environmental scientist. This breadth is rare in the market and makes graduates highly employable across consulting, government, research, industry and international development sectors. The industry-wide skills gap, combined with the growing complexity of environmental regulation in Australia, means that graduates who can translate scientific understanding into engineered solutions are among the most sought-after professionals in the country.
Domestic students typically require an ATAR (or equivalent selection rank) for competitive entry into this double degree. Most Australian universities require students to have completed senior secondary education including Units 3 and 4 of Mathematics (Mathematical Methods or equivalent) as a prerequisite, with Physics and Chemistry also strongly recommended or assumed. English requirements must also be met, typically a minimum study score of 25 in English (other than EAL) or 27 in EAL at VCE level, or equivalent in other state curricula. Competitive ATARs for this combined degree typically range from the high 70s to mid-80s, though selection ranks vary by institution and may be higher at research-intensive universities. Adjustment factors may be applied for equity, educational disadvantage, regional background or strong performance in relevant subjects such as Mathematics, Sciences or Information Technology. International students must demonstrate English language proficiency, typically an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no individual band below 6.0, or equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE or other accepted tests. Alternative pathways exist for mature-age applicants and those without a recent ATAR, including the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT), completion of a relevant TAFE or VET qualification at Certificate IV level or above, prior higher education study, or foundation studies programs. Some universities also accept internal transfers from related bachelor degrees once prerequisite mathematics units have been completed. Meeting minimum entry requirements does not guarantee an offer, as entry is competitive and applicants are ranked by merit including any applicable adjustment factors.
This course may be offered in different study modes depending on the university, campus location, course structure and student type. Students should check the available delivery mode before applying, as not every study option is available at every institution.
On-campus study is the traditional mode of delivery where students attend classes, lectures, tutorials, workshops or seminars at the university campus. This option may suit students who prefer face-to-face learning, access to campus facilities, networking with classmates, practical workshops, group projects and direct engagement with academic staff.
Some universities may offer programs fully online or with online subject options. Online study can be attractive for students who need flexibility due to work, family, location or other commitments. Online study may suit domestic students, working professionals or students who want to study from outside Australia.
Hybrid or blended study usually combines online learning with some on-campus classes, workshops, intensive sessions or practical components. This mode may suit students who want flexibility but still want some face-to-face interaction. The exact structure varies between institutions.
Programs in Australia may have different intake structures depending on the university. The most common intake systems are semester, trimester and block mode.
Many Australian universities follow a two-semester academic calendar. The main intakes are commonly Semester 1 (around February or March) and Semester 2 (around July). Semester-based study usually allows students to complete a set number of subjects over approximately 12 to 14 weeks.
Some universities use a trimester system, which generally provides three study periods a year — around February/March, June/July and October/November. Trimester study may provide more flexibility and may help some students complete their course faster.
Some institutions may offer selected subjects or programs in block mode, where students focus on one subject at a time over a shorter, more intensive teaching period. Block mode may suit students who prefer concentrated learning or working professionals managing study around employment.
Some online or professionally focused programs may offer more frequent start dates or flexible entry points throughout the year. Students should not assume that every course has monthly or multiple intakes — availability depends on the institution, course structure and student type.
Graduates of this double degree are exceptionally well-positioned in the Australian job market, holding dual credentials that enable them to pursue careers spanning environmental consulting, government agencies, resources and mining, water utilities, construction and infrastructure, renewable energy, research and policy. Employers range from state and federal environmental protection authorities, local councils, the Bureau of Meteorology and water corporations to global and national engineering consultancies, mining companies, property developers, energy firms and not-for-profit environmental organisations. The breadth of the double degree means graduates can take on technically complex engineering roles while also leading environmental compliance, assessment and management functions — a rare combination that is increasingly valued as regulatory, sustainability and community expectations converge.
Entry Level
Graduate / Assistant Engineer
Graduate Environmental Engineer, Graduate Environmental Scientist, Environmental Technician, Junior Contaminated Land Consultant, Graduate Water Resources Engineer
Early Career
Engineer / Officer / Coordinator
Environmental Engineer, Environmental Compliance Officer, Water Quality Officer, Remediation Engineer, Environmental Project Coordinator, Sustainability Officer
Mid-Level
Senior Engineer / Adviser / Specialist
Senior Environmental Engineer, Senior Environmental Consultant, Environmental Impact Assessment Specialist, Hydrogeologist, Catchment Management Specialist, Waste Management Engineer
Senior Level
Principal / Manager / Senior Adviser
Principal Environmental Engineer, Environmental Project Manager, Environmental Manager, Principal Contaminated Land Consultant, Water Resources Manager, Sustainability Manager
Leadership
Director / Head / Chief Adviser
Director of Environmental Engineering, Head of Sustainability, Chief Environmental Officer, Technical Director (Environmental), General Manager Environment, National Practice Lead
Salaries for environmental engineering graduates in Australia vary by experience, sector, location and specialisation, with strong growth potential across a career.
Melbourne
Melbourne is home to a large concentration of environmental engineering consultancies, state government agencies such as the EPA Victoria and Melbourne Water, and major infrastructure projects that require environmental oversight. The city's strong engineering and sustainability sector, combined with its diverse university precinct and active professional networks through Engineers Australia and EIANZ, make it one of Australia's premier destinations to study and launch an environmental engineering career.
Sydney
Sydney offers unmatched access to major infrastructure projects, environmental consultancies and government bodies including the NSW EPA, Sydney Water and Transport for NSW, all of which are significant employers of environmental engineers. As Australia's largest city, Sydney drives major urban development and sustainability initiatives, providing graduates with exceptional exposure to complex environmental engineering challenges across water, contamination, climate adaptation and construction.
Brisbane
Brisbane and South East Queensland are undergoing transformative infrastructure growth, accelerated by the 2032 Olympic Games preparations, creating enormous demand for environmental engineers across construction, transport, water and urban planning sectors. The city also provides access to Queensland state government agencies, the resources sector in regional Queensland, and a growing clean energy and sustainability consulting industry.
Perth
Perth is a strategic hub for environmental engineering given Western Australia's dominant mining and resources sector, which requires continuous environmental impact assessment, remediation, water management and regulatory compliance services. The city also offers access to state government agencies, coastal and marine environmental projects, and a growing renewable energy sector, making it particularly well-suited for students interested in resources, land and water environments.
Adelaide
Adelaide offers a collaborative and affordable study environment with strong ties to South Australia's water management, defence, renewable energy and land remediation industries. The city is at the forefront of Australia's energy transition, including significant investment in solar and wind infrastructure, and provides students with proximity to diverse natural environments — from arid regions to marine ecosystems — that are central to environmental engineering practice.
Canberra
Canberra is uniquely positioned for students interested in the intersection of environmental engineering, policy and government, housing the headquarters of federal agencies including the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, CSIRO, and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. Graduates in Canberra have direct access to policy-shaping roles, national research programs and environmental regulatory bodies that influence practice across the entire country.
Before choosing a course, students should compare:
International students who want to study in Australia should also consider additional requirements before applying.
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