Graduate Diploma in Engineering specialising in Systems Engineering

Postgraduate | 2026

Degree hero banner
Mode icon
Mode
On campus
Start date icon
Start date
February, July
Duration icon
Duration
1 year(s) full-time
Program code icon
Program code
GDENG
Study as icon
Study as
Full time or part time
Fees
Indicative annual fees
SATAC code icon
SATAC code
Prerequisites icon
Prerequisite
None
Assumed knowledge icon
Assumed knowledge
None
  1. Brochure download icon
  2. Enquire enquire icon
  3. Apply arrow-right-white icon

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or higher from a recognised higher education institution and in a field relevant to the chosen engineering specialisation.

Why Graduate Diploma in Engineering?

Gain the skills to manage complex systems.  

In industries where safety and efficiency are critical, systems engineers are key in managing the complexities related to modern technological projects.  Their skills and knowledge are valuable across a range of sectors but are particularly sought after in the defence industry. 

This graduate diploma equips you with the skills to monitor and maintain existing systems to ensure optimal performance, as well as identify issues and opportunities for enhancement.  Emerge with confidence, necessary knowledge and practical expertise to thrive in systems-focused roles in your industry. 

program overview

Overview

Designed for engineering or technology professionals, our Graduate Diploma in Engineering specialising in Systems Engineering prepares you to enter rapidly growing sectors – including defence and telecommunications. 

You’ll learn how to apply a systems engineering approach to engineering projects and build an understanding of data-driven decision-making.  

Be empowered with the knowledge to conduct test and evaluation processes for complex systems and explore core competencies of engineering management.  

Get real-world experience through structured industry opportunities. Through immersive learning experiences you’ll link theory with practice. 

You’ll graduate ready to lead systems engineering initiatives and drive business success.  

What you'll learn

The Graduate Diploma in Engineering specialising in Systems Engineering provides you with a combination of theoretical and practical learning opportunities.  

You’ll explore the fundamentals of engineering management and develop knowledge and skills in leadership, entrepreneurship, management and engineering. You’ll build technical knowledge around project management and understand concepts of data-driven decision-making, including big data analytics and machine learning.  

Essential skills and knowledge such as effective test and evaluation processes and how to apply systems engineering approaches to projects is also covered.  

Two core work-integrated courses will provide you with the opportunity to put theory into practice. You’ll build your confidence in managing professional relationships, understanding engineering challenges and developing solutions. 

You’ll have the flexibility to select two electives that align with your interests including: 

  • Engineering Economic Analysis 
  • Enterprise Resource Planning 
  • Industry 4.0 
  • Intelligent Production Systems 
  • Operations Management 
  • Principles of Submarine Design 
  • Total Quality Management.

You can choose to exit early with a Graduate Certificate or undertake further study in the Master of Engineering. 

Specialisations 

The Graduate Diploma in Engineering is also available with specialisations in the following: 

  • Biopharmaceutical 
  • Chemical Engineering 
  • Civil Engineering 
  • Electrical Engineering 
  • Energy Resources Engineering 
  • Environmental and Water Resources Management 
  • Management 
  • Maritime Engineering 
  • Materials Engineering 
  • Mechanical Engineering 
  • Mechatronic Engineering 
  • Mining Engineering 
  • Telecommunications Engineering.

What courses you'll study

Complete 48 units comprising:

  • 0 to 12 units for Program Electives, and
  • 24 to 48 units for Specialisation, and
  • 0 to 12 units from Work integrated learning

Complete 12 units comprising:

  • 12 units for all Specialisation courses

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Principles of Systems Engineering
Course code
ENGP5004
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Principles of Test and Evaluation
Course code
ENGM5002
Units
6

Complete 0 to 12 units from the following:

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Masters Professional Engineer Career Preparation
Course code
ENGI5900
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Masters Professional Engineer Engagement with Professional Practice
Course code
ENGI5901
Units
6

Complete 0 to 12 units comprising:

  • 0 to 12 units from Program electives

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Professional Engineering Management
Course code
ENGI5003
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Engineering Data Analytics
Course code
ENGI5006
Units
6

Complete 12 to 36 units comprising:

  • 12 to 36 units from Specialisation selectives

Course name Course code Units
course icon
Course name
Enterprise Resource Planning
Course code
BUSI6035
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Total Quality Management
Course code
ENGI5010
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Engineering Economic Analysis
Course code
ENGI5012
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Operations Management
Course code
ENGI6022
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Intelligent Production Systems
Course code
ENGIX408
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Principles of Submarine Design
Course code
ENGIX501
Units
6
course icon
Course name
Industry 4.0
Course code
ENGMX400
Units
6

Ready to apply?

search

Find your program

Discover the programs and explore the opportunities.

Checklist

Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Future student

Consider your preferences

To prepare for your future and to maximise your success consider adding additional preferences.

How to Apply

How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University in 2026 are now open. 

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.  

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources. 

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them. 

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more. 

Student services 

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including: 

  • Career advice and mentoring services 
  • Personal counselling 
  • LGBTQIA+ support 
  • Academic support 
  • Fees and finance help 
  • Security services 
  • Accommodation services 
  • Common rooms 
  • Prayer rooms. 

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces. 

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week. 

 

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: 

  • Case studies  
  • Essays and assignments  
  • Examinations  
  • Group projects  
  • Internships and placements  
  • Practicals  
  • Presentations  
  • Reports and project documentations 
  • Research projects 
  • Workplace and classroom contributions. 
Graduates

Explore Adelaide University

Accommodation options

Considering calling Adelaide home? Explore accommodation options to find a place that's right for you.

Rundle Mall shopping

Life in Adelaide

Discover why Adelaide is one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Ebenezer Place shopping and cafes, bikes, bicycles

Scholarships

Our scholarships can provide the helping hand you need to transition into university life.

Taken during Orientation Week