Mechanical engineering courses in Australia: Your pathway to PR

Studying mechanical engineering in Australia not only equips you with world-class skills but also opens doors to incredible career opportunities—and maybe even a long-term life here. 

In this guide, we’ll explore why mechanical engineering is a career worth considering, what courses Australia has to offer, and how this degree could lead to permanent residency.

Book your IELTS test now

Whether you're just starting out or aiming to advance in mechanical engineering, Australia offers programs tailored to your goals:

Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (4 years)

This undergraduate degree covers essential topics like mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science. You’ll also get practical experience through lab work, industry placements, and engineering projects.

Master of Mechanical Engineering (1.5 – 2 years)

For those with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, this program focuses on advanced topics like renewable energy systems, robotics, and advanced manufacturing techniques. 

It prepares you for leadership roles in research, development, or project management.

Master of Engineering Management (1 – 2 years)

This program combines technical knowledge with business and leadership skills. 

It’s designed for engineers who want to move into management roles, like leading teams or overseeing major engineering projects.

Whatever program you’re eyeing, Australia is an awesome place to dive into mechanical engineering. 

The universities here don’t just teach you—they place you into real-world projects, so you’re not left scratching your head on your first job. 

And let’s not forget, their qualifications are respected worldwide, so your resume will stand out.

Plus, with so many universities to choose from, there’s bound to be one that fits your situation—whether you’re fresh out of high school or ready to conquer the next big career move.

Picture this: It’s your first job, and your boss asks you to explain why a machine stopped working. 

You proudly stood up, but couldn’t find the right words to explain what happened. 

Silence. Awkward stares. And your boss decides to ask someone else.

In the real world, clear communication is a dealbreaker. Solid English skills help you excel in your job, whether you’re fixing machines, writing reports, or pitching ideas.

If you’re planning to study mechanical engineering in Australia, IELTS is your best bet for proving your English skills. It’s one of the most trusted tests out there, accepted by universities all over the world, especially in Australia.

Australian universities love it because it proves you’re ready for the challenges of uni, like understanding tough lectures, writing reports, and working on group projects.

If engineering’s on your radar, you’ll have to pass the IELTS score requirements for this course. 

Here’s what you need to know about the IELTS requirements:

• Overall Band Score: 6.5 

• Individual Band Scores: Each section—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—usually needs to be at least 6.0.

Meeting these IELTS requirements not only gets you through the admissions process but also ensures you’re prepared for the challenges of university life in Australia. 

While 6.5 is a common benchmark, some universities or specialised programs might require higher scores, especially for postgraduate degrees.

If you’re unsure about what score you need or which university fits you best, don’t worry. That’s what we’re here for! 

We can help you confirm the exact IELTS requirements for any university you’re eyeing. Plus, we’ll guide you step by step through the application process. Talk to our education experts at IDP for free today!

Australia isn’t just about beaches and barbecues. It’s a hub for innovation and industry. 

Mechanical engineers play a key role in powering some of the country’s biggest sectors, like mining, manufacturing, construction, and energy. 

These industries are thriving, and they need skilled professionals to keep things running smoothly.

But here’s the kicker: mechanical engineers are on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). 

Translation? The demand for your skills is sky-high, and it could even pave the way to permanent residency. 

A mechanical engineering degree from Australia doesn’t just open doors—it gives you the keys to industries shaping the future. 

Whether you love the thrill of designing sleek machines or the challenge of solving complex problems, there’s a career waiting for you.

Here are some exciting roles you could pursue:

• Mechanical Engineer

• Aerospace Engineer

• Automotive Engineer

• Robotics Engineer

• Manufacturing Engineer

• HVAC Engineer

All these universities offer the basic four-year undergraduate BE (Hons), which you’ll need to work as an engineer. There are also Master's and PhD-level mechanical engineering courses which allow you to specialise further, adding to your employability.

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

UNSW is the top university for mechanical engineering in Australia, ranked 31st globally (QS 2024). Known for its cutting-edge research and practical focus, it’s a hub for engineering excellence.

• Mechanical Engineering

• Mechatronic Engineering

• Manufacturing Engineering

• Aerospace Engineering (related to mechanical)

University of Technology Sydney (UTS)

As a young and innovative university, UTS emphasizes hands-on learning and research that solves real-world problems. It’s a great choice for forward-thinking engineers.

• Mechanical Engineering

• Mechatronics Engineering

• Advanced Manufacturing and Design

University of Wollongong

The University of Wollongong ranks in the top 150 globally for materials science and is renowned for its close industry ties, ensuring graduates are job-ready.

• Mechanical Engineering

• Materials Engineering (closely linked to mechanical)

• Engineering Management

Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT)

RMIT is all about industry-led learning, with a strong focus on practical experience through labs, placements, and projects. Its mechanical engineering programs are designed to meet industry needs.

• Mechanical Engineering

• Mechanical and Automotive Engineering

• Mechanical Systems Design

Monash University

Monash is a global leader in research and innovation, especially in aerospace and mechanical engineering. It’s ideal for students who want to push the boundaries of engineering.

• Mechanical Engineering

• Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

• Mechanical and Energy Engineering

Did you know studying mechanical engineering in Australia can be your stepping stone to permanent residency?

With the country’s strong demand for skilled engineers, there are several visa pathways to help you stay and build a future here. Let’s break it down:

Student Visa (subclass 500)

This visa lets you live and study in Australia for the duration of your course, giving you the foundation to explore career and migration opportunities.

Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485)

Once you graduate, this visa allows you to work in Australia for up to two years. It’s a great chance to gain hands-on experience and build a network in your industry.

Temporary Visas Leading to PR

• Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482): Work in Australia for up to 4 years with a job offer from an approved employer.

• Skilled Work Regional Visa (subclass 491): Live and work in regional Australia for up to 5 years and enjoy priority migration benefits.

• Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa (subclass 494): Work in regional areas with employer nomination and access pathways to PR.

Permanent Residency Visas

• Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189): A points-tested visa for eligible graduates without requiring employer sponsorship.

• Skilled Nominated Visa (subclass 190): Gain state or territory nomination to secure this PR pathway.

• Employer Nomination Scheme Visa (subclass 186): Transition to PR with a permanent job offer and employer nomination.

• Regional Sponsor Migration Scheme Visa (subclass 187): For graduates who’ve worked in regional Australia under a temporary visa.

Each pathway has its unique requirements, but with a mechanical engineering qualification, you’re already on the right track. Whether you’re eyeing PR or just starting your journey, your skills are in demand—Australia needs you!

Meeting IELTS requirements is crucial for securing your spot in a mechanical engineering course in Australia.

It’s completely normal to feel the pressure, but there’s a solution. 

With IELTS by IDP, you’ll gain access to expert-led preparation courses, practice tests, and personalised feedback designed to fit into your busy schedule.

And please stop saying “I’ll review later”!  

Picture this: if you start with just one practice task for 5 minutes each day, you will have completed 35 minutes of focused prep in a week—and that’s equivalent to mastering key question types and being one step closer to your dream engineering program!

Make reviewing for IELTS a part of your daily habits so you don’t feel too burdened by it. 

Read a review material with your morning coffee, while watching Netflix, or listen to our podcasts while you run! There are many ways to make learning fun.

By taking small steps, you’ll be surprised by how much you can improve. Don’t let your career goals get delayed. Ace your IELTS test to secure your mechanical engineering course in Australia!

Visas, university applications, career, and PR pathways can all crowd into your head and feel like a tangled mess!

You deserve peace of mind.

In this crucial time of your life, reaching for your dreams should be stress-free and exciting.

We make that happen. At IDP, we help with your university applications, course-matching, and visa applications. Plus, we offer IELTS review services to ensure you get the band score you need or higher. When you’re ready to take the test, we help you find a testing centre near you!

Basically, it’s all your problems solved!

Ready to take the first step in studying Mechanical Engineering in Australia? Talk to our education counselors today.