Bachelor of Aerospace Systems Engineering (Honours) / Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours)

Aerospace systems engineering involves a systems approach to the design, efficient operation and modification of high-tech devices for the aeronautical and defence industries. A key challenge for the development of aerospace systems is the need to be as light-weight as possible, yet highly reliable. Aerospace systems engineers need to understand and control the response of aerospace vehicles to complex interactions between sensors, controllers, actuators and other aircraft subsystems to ensure trouble-free, safe and efficient operations. Aerospace systems engineering principles deal with the complementary design of aircraft subsystems to ensure they work in unison, without conflict and to ensure the high levels of reliability required in aerospace operations.

The aerospace companies who maintain and upgrade Australia's new F-35 Joint Strike Fighters are based in Newcastle. This degree was designed in collaboration with industry partners to serve the unprecedented local and international demand for specialist aerospace systems engineering skills.

Mechanical engineers work to improve the design, safety and energy efficiency of the machines that support industry and society - machines such as vehicles, aircraft, mechanical prostheses, wheelchairs, lifts and industrial plant. It is perhaps the broadest of all engineering disciplines and allows students to choose from the widest possible range of specialisations.

On successful completion of the program students will have:

• Comprehensive, theory-based understanding of engineering fundamentals and/or the underpinning natural and physical sciences as applicable to the engineering discipline.
• Conceptual understanding of the mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics and computer and information sciences which underpin the engineering discipline.
• In-depth understanding of specialist bodies of knowledge within the engineering discipline.
• Discernment of knowledge development and research directions within the engineering discipline.
• Knowledge of contextual factors impacting the engineering discipline.
• Understanding of the scope, principles, norms, accountabilities and bounds of contemporary engineering practice in the specific discipline.
• Application of established engineering methods to complex engineering problem solving.
• Fluent application of engineering techniques, tools and resources.
• Application of systematic engineering synthesis and design processes.
• Application of systematic approaches to the conduct and management of engineering projects.
• Ethical conduct and professional accountability.
• Effective oral and written communication in professional and lay domains.
• Creative, innovative and pro-active demeanour.
• Professional use and management of information.
• Orderly management of self, and professional conduct.
• Effective team membership and team leadership.