Many students often ask this question:
Which university is the best for engineering in Australia?
Choosing the right university for engineering studies is important because it can significantly impact your career and personal development.
Australia has world-class universities that offer excellent engineering programs. Each university has its own strengths and specialties. And the criteria to apply for each university are different.
So, if you are planning to pursue engineering education in Australia and don’t know which university is right for you, read this blog.
Which University is the Best for Engineering in Australia?
Choosing the right or best university depends upon several factors, especially on the individual circumstances. However, here I’ve listed the top engineering universities in Australia in 2025:
- Monash University
- University of Melbourne
- University of New South Wales (UNSW)
- University of Sydney
- The University of Queensland (UQ)
- Australian National University (ANU)
- University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
- RMIT University
However, before we proceed, it is important to first understand the evaluation criteria used to rank the top universities in Australia.
Factors to Consider for the Best Engineering University in Australia
While choosing the best university for engineering in Australia, consider these important factors:
- Academic excellence
- Variety of courses
- Industry connections
- Research opportunities
- Student support services
Academic Excellence
Academic excellence tells about a university’s faculty, programs, successful graduates, and advanced facilities. Employers often choose graduates from well-known universities because they believe that these students have received quality education.
Academic excellence or reputation is measured by rankings that organizations publish to evaluate universities worldwide.
Variety of Courses
Different universities offer various engineering programs. Therefore, it’s important to choose a university that offers an engineering course you are interested in, such as mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering.
Similarly, if you are interested in aerospace engineering, choose the university that offers strong programs in that area.
Industry Connections
Choose universities with strong industry connections, as it can help students to get more internships and job placements. Gaining practical knowledge is essential because it allows students to apply what they’ve learned in theory classes.
Moreover, having the practical experience attracts future employers. So, the chances of getting jobs are increased.
Research Opportunities
Access to research projects and facilities will improve your learning experience. Moreover, you will be able to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Research projects not only enhance a student’s abilities to innovate or make discoveries but also improve their resume.
Student Support Services
Good universities offer resources like career counseling, academic support, and mentorship programs to help students succeed. They provide guidance and assistance when students face challenges, whether academic or personal.
So, this is also an important factor to consider before selecting the university for your engineering course in Australia.
Now, you would have an idea about things to consider when choosing the best university for engineering in Australia.
Now for a brief description of each of these universities, continue reading.
Monash University
Monash University is famous as one of the leading institutions for engineering in Australia. It ranks 37th globally as the best institute for engineering and technology. The university has world-class facilities, including advanced labs and a dedicated makerspace where you can gain practical experience.
Monash University offers amazing engineering facilities like the New Horizons Research Centre and the Woodside Building for Technology and Design. These centers help you with advanced research in areas like renewable energy and robotics.
Additionally, Monash has strong industry connections that facilitate internships and job placement and increase your employability chances.
Below are the courses and specializations that Monash University offers:
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical, Aerospace, and Mechatronics Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering
University of Melbourne
The University of Melbourne is ranked 13th globally in the QS World University Rankings. It is known for its strong engineering programs. It offers a variety of engineering programs with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
The University of Melbourne has top-notch facilities like the Melbourne Centre for Nanofabrication and the Advanced Manufacturing Precinct. These help students with practical learning and research.
The university has a strong alumni network and many industry partnerships, which help students find internships and jobs.
Below is a list of engineering courses and specializations that international students can pursue at the University of Melbourne:
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil, Structural, and Architectural Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, and Mechatronic Engineering
- Software Engineering
University of New South Wales (UNSW)
UNSW is famous for its research facilities and strong industry connections. It is ranked 1st in Australia and 19th globally in the QS rankings for engineering. The university provides excellent student support services, including academic counselling and career development programs.
UNSW offers great research facilities like the Tyree Energy Technologies Building and the UNSW Water Research Laboratory. These support research in sustainable energy and water management.
The university’s strong industry connections facilitate internships and job opportunities for students. UNSW also offers numerous scholarships and support services to enhance student success throughout their studies.
Look at the courses below that UNSW offers to international students.
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Aerospace Engineering
- Bioinformatics Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Software Engineering
Take a break ! Here, I have compared these universities based on above mentioned factors. Have a look!
University of Sydney
The University of Sydney is famous due to its comprehensive engineering programs across various disciplines, such as aerospace, chemical, civil, and mechanical engineering. It is ranked 18th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025.
The University of Sydney has world-class research and innovation centers such as the Engineering and Technology Precinct, which includes the Sydney Nanoscience Hub and the Australian Centre for Field Robotics.
The university prepares students for successful careers in engineering fields by emphasizing research and practical learning. The curriculum includes opportunities for internships through partnerships with leading industries, which help students gain hands-on experience while studying.
These are some of the famous engineering courses and specializations that students can pursue in the University of Sydney.
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering Honours
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Space Engineering
The University of Queensland (UQ)
The University of Queensland is ranked 40th in the world in the QS World University Rankings. UQ is known for its strong research output and top-notch facilities. The campus in Brisbane is beautiful and serene, with lots of green spaces.
UQ has world-class facilities like the Advanced Engineering Building and the Dow Centre for Sustainable Engineering Innovation. These support research in sustainable energy and materials engineering.
UQ encourages students to participate in international exchange programs and research collaborations. The university also provides robust support services, including career counseling and wellness programs.
The university allows students to participate in groundbreaking projects that tackle global challenges such as sustainability and climate change.
You can learn the following engineering courses and programs at the University of Queensland.
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Software Engineering
Australian National University (ANU)
This university is ranked 30th globally in the QS World Rankings. It focuses on research and industry partnerships. It is located in Canberra and offers unique opportunities to engage with government and policy-making processes.
The Australian National University offers excellent innovation facilities like the Research School of Engineering and the ANU MakerSpace. These institutes the university supports research and hands-on learning.
The university engages students in meaningful research initiatives, especially related to environmental issues, while providing them with hands-on learning through practical projects. ANU also offers scholarships specifically for international students to support their studies in Australia.
You can pursue the following courses at the Australian National University (ANU):
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electronic and Communication Systems Engineering
- Renewable Energy Systems Engineering
- Mechatronic Systems Engineering
- Software Engineering
University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
The University of Technology is ranked 88th in the world in the QS Rankings and is known for its practical approach to education. It focuses on practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
The University of Technology Sydney has advanced facilities like the UTS Tech Lab and the Data Arena. These centers support research and innovation in fields like data science and sustainable engineering.
Students benefit from strong industry links that facilitate internships with leading tech companies. It also provides opportunities for collaborative projects that enhance students’ learning experiences.
Below is the list of engineering courses and programs that UTS offers:
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Process Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Data Science Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Software Engineering
RMIT University
RMIT is ranked 123rd globally in the QS World Rankings and is famous for its strong industry connections. RMIT University is known for its applied research within technology-driven fields such as telecommunications and biomedical engineering.
The university’s curriculum focuses on practical learning through internships and live projects during studies that prepare students for real-world challenges.
RMIT has advanced facilities like the Advanced Manufacturing Precinct and the MicroNano Research Facility. These support research in advanced manufacturing and nanotechnology.
You can choose the following engineering courses to study at RMIT University in Australia.
Engineering Courses
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
- Master of Engineering
- PhD in Engineering
Specializations
- Aerospace Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Infrastructure Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
So, these universities not only offer excellent engineering programs but also provide employment opportunities for international students in Australia.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, various universities stand out as the best options for studying engineering in Australia. Each university offers unique strengths based on academic reputation, course offerings, industry connections, research opportunities, and student support services.
However, before choosing a university, consider your specific interests. Check whether your chosen university offers your desired course and how it will shape your future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which university in Australia is best for engineering?
The University of New South Wales (UNSW) is often considered the best university in Australia for engineering. It ranks highly in global engineering rankings and offers a wide range of engineering disciplines.
Which Australian university is cheapest for international students?
Federation University Australia is one of the cheapest universities for international students, with tuition fees starting from around AUD 18,000 per year. The other cheapest universities include the following:
- University of the Sunshine Coast.
- University of Southern Queensland.
- Charles Sturt University.
- Federation University Australia.
- Southern Cross University.
- Australian Catholic University.
- Edith Cowan University.
- Central Queensland University (CQU)
Which university in Australia accepts the most international students?
Federation University Australia has the highest percentage of international students, with around 52% of its student body being international. This makes it a popular choice for students from around the world.
What is the cost of studying engineering in Australia?
The cost of studying engineering in Australia ranges from AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 per year. However, the exact cost depends on the university, the specific engineering program, and the location.
I, Samavia Shahid, am a researcher and content writer at The Migration. I create easy-to-understand and informative content for people who want to move to Australia. My goal is to make the migration process simpler and less stressful for everyone.