Engineering
Master of Professional Engineering (MPE)
Learning Mode
Full Time
Duration
3 Years (full-time equivalent for non-cognate Bachelor’s) / 2 Years (for cognate Bachelor’s)
Start date
February, July
Qualification
Master of Professional Engineering
Fees
AUD 49,800
Location
Perth (Crawley Campus), Western Australia
About the Course
The Master of Professional Engineering (MPE) at The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a highly respected and comprehensive postgraduate program designed to develop future engineering leaders. This program builds upon foundational science or engineering knowledge to provide advanced disciplinary expertise, professional engineering skills, and a strong understanding of complex systems. The MPE offers specializations across all major engineering fields, including Civil, Chemical, Electrical & Electronic, Environmental, Mechanical, Mining, and Software Engineering. You will engage with real-world engineering challenges, apply cutting-edge research, and develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary to innovate and contribute to global challenges.
Career prospects
Graduates of the Master of Professional Engineering program are highly sought after across diverse industries, including resources, infrastructure, manufacturing, renewable energy, and technology, both in Australia and internationally. The program prepares students for roles as professional engineers, project managers, consultants, and leaders in their chosen specialization. Our strong emphasis on research-informed teaching, practical application, and professional development ensures graduates are well-equipped for impactful and essential careers in engineering, driving innovation and sustainable solutions.

Why choose UWA for a Master of Professional Engineering?
Industry Connected
Engage with WA’s top engineering sectors through internships, real-world projects, and strong employer connections.
Global Opportunities
Internationally respected degree prepares graduates for engineering careers worldwide with global standards and industry readiness.
Professional Accreditation
Accredited by Engineers Australia, ensuring professional recognition and mobility as a qualified engineer globally.
Course Overview
The Master of Professional Engineering (MPE) program at UWA offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary learning experience, designed to develop highly competent and ethically-minded engineering professionals. The curriculum blends advanced theoretical concepts with extensive practical application through laboratory sessions, design studios, and mandatory industry placements or projects. Students will gain deep knowledge in their chosen engineering specialization, learning to apply scientific and mathematical principles to design, analyze, and implement complex engineering solutions. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and professional communication skills, preparing graduates for the complexities of modern engineering practice and leadership roles.
Course Duration
Length of the course
- 2 years full-time (if holding a cognate Bachelor’s degree, e.g., UWA’s Bachelor of Science (Engineering Science major))
- 3 years full-time (if holding a non-cognate Bachelor’s degree, includes foundational engineering units)
Mode of Study for international students:
- Full-time (on-campus)
Course Curriculum
The Master of Professional Engineering curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive and advanced understanding of engineering principles, with deep specialization and professional practice integration.
- Foundational/Conversion Units (for 3-year pathway):
- For students from non-engineering backgrounds, these units provide the necessary scientific and mathematical prerequisites and fundamental engineering concepts.
- Core Professional Engineering Units:
- Includes units on engineering ethics, project management, sustainable engineering, and advanced problem-solving methodologies.
- Specialization Streams:
- Students choose from a wide range of accredited specializations:
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Each specialization includes advanced disciplinary units, design projects, and relevant practical work.
- Students choose from a wide range of accredited specializations:
- Research Project or Design Project:
- A significant individual or group project, either research-based (dissertation/thesis) or a comprehensive design project, allowing students to apply their advanced knowledge to a complex engineering challenge.
- Professional Practice/Internship:
- Mandatory practical experience components, often including an industry internship or practicum, to integrate academic learning with real-world engineering environments.
Admission Requirements
- Academic qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) from a recognized university.
- A weighted average mark (WAM) of at least 65% (or equivalent) in your undergraduate studies.
- For the 2-year pathway: A Bachelor of Science (Engineering Science major) from UWA, or an equivalent cognate Bachelor’s degree in engineering from another recognised university, with the necessary prerequisites for the chosen MPE specialization.
- For the 3-year pathway: A Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with a strong aptitude for mathematics and science, demonstrated by prerequisite units in Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Physics.
Language Proficiency
- English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- For international students, demonstrated English language proficiency is required. Acceptable tests include IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 6.5 (with no band less than 6.0), or equivalent TOEFL iBT scores (e.g., overall, 82, with minimums: L18, S17, R18, W22).
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees:
- Annual Fees: AUD 49,800
Scholarships and Bursaries:
- The University of Western Australia offers various postgraduate scholarships, including those for academic excellence, research training, and for international students, particularly in STEM and engineering fields. These opportunities can significantly assist with tuition fees and living expenses. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the UWA scholarships website for detailed information and application processes.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Professional Engineering program are eligible for professional engineering registration and are highly sought after for leadership and specialized roles across a wide array of industries. Potential job roles are highly dependent on the chosen specialization, but include: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Electronic Engineer, Environmental Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Mining Engineer, Petroleum Engineer, Software Engineer, Project Manager, Engineering Consultant, and Research & Development Engineer. Industries employing our graduates span mining and resources, oil and gas, infrastructure development, renewable energy, manufacturing, aerospace, defense, and consulting, both in Australia and internationally.
Contact Us
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