From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Why Master of Engineering (Biopharmaceutical)?
Biopharmaceutical engineers have a critical role to play in improving global health. They use their advanced knowledge of biology, chemistry and engineering principles to create treatments for various diseases and medical conditions. Life-saving vaccines, treatments and medications are made possible by biopharmaceutical engineers.
Whether you’re a chemical engineer looking to extend your skills or an engineer wanting to cross-train in an additional discipline, our Master of Engineering (Biopharmaceutical) is right for you.
Combine advanced theory with professional placement hours to graduate equipped with the skills to be at the forefront of improving global health.
Overview
Our Master of Engineering (Biopharmaceutical) is suitable for chemical engineering and biological science graduates, as well as engineers with relevant work experience.
With our elective-driven degree structure, you can tailor your studies to your specific chemical engineering interests and career goals. Whether that’s drug discovery and development, application of next generation sequencing, science commercialisation and innovation – or something else entirely – you’ll find plenty of options.
Core courses in engineering management and data analytics enable you to deepen and formalise your project management expertise.
Put your skills to practice in capstone design and major research projects, and through up to 450 hours of industry placement. You will graduate ready to play a leading role in cutting-edge biopharmaceutical engineering anywhere in the world.
Key features
Study advanced courses in batch and continuous biomanufacturing, upstream bioprocessing and bioformulation, downstream bioprocessing and more. - Complete specialised elective courses in biopharmaceutical principles and techniques.
- Gain comprehensive awareness of global biopharmaceutical market.
- Develop high-level problem-solving and communication skills.
- Sharpen your research skills through capstone design and research projects.
- Gain a deep understanding of the industry’s social and environmental impacts.
What you'll learn
Depending on your specific combination of professional experience and educational qualifications, you may be eligible to receive credit for the first year and progress straight into year two of the degree.
The degree covers essential biopharmaceutical engineering knowledge, with courses in:
- Advanced technologies in biopharmaceutical processing
- Batch and continuous biomanufacturing
- Downstream bioprocessing
- Good manufacturing practice, validation and regulation
- Principles of biopharmaceutical engineering
- Quality by design and process analytical technology
- Upstream bioprocessing and bioformulation.
Courses in engineering data analytics and engineering management will further sharpen and broaden your project management skills.
Undertake up to 450 hours of professional industry placement with supervision and mentorship from one of our world-class research-active academics and recognised industry experts.
You’ll take advanced courses, tailored to your specific interests and career goals. Courses are available in a wide range of areas, such as:
- Advanced engineering of biomaterials
- Application of next generation sequencing
- Business management systems
- Drug discovery and development
- Research methods and statistics
- Science commercialisation and innovation.
You’ll also complete significant projects in your final year, drawing on real-world contemporary issues in the biopharmaceutical industry, and critically reflecting on biopharmaceutical principles and techniques.
Assessments for this degree include reports, case studies, presentations, essays and assignments, online quizzes, examinations, industry-relevant research projects, lab/practical team-based projects, e-portfolios and reflective practice.
You’ll be able to complete majority of first year common courses at either our Adelaide City or Mawson Lakes Campus with some potential cross-campus study required. Throughout your degree, you’ll gain access to cutting-edge facilities across both campus locations to enhance your overall learning experience.
Specialisations
The Master of Engineering is also available with specialisations in the following:
- Engineering Management
- Materials
- Maritime.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 36 units from Core courses, and
- 36 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 24 units from Electives
Complete exactly 36 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Quality by Design and Process Analytical Technology
|
Course code
ENGP6030
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Downstream Bioprocessing
|
Course code
ENGP6007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Upstream Bioprocessing
|
Course code
ENGP6006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Batch and Continuous Biomanufacturing
|
Course code
ENGP6031
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Technologies in Biopharmaceutical Processing
|
Course code
ENGP6032
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Good Manufacturing Practice, Validation and Regulation
|
Course code
SCIE6000
|
Units
6
|
Complete exactly 36 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Biopharmaceutical Engineering Research Project Part A
|
Course code
ENGP7070A
|
Units
0
|
|
|
Course name
Biopharmaceutical Engineering Research Project Part B
|
Course code
ENGP7070B
|
Units
36
|
Complete exactly 24 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Principles of Biopharmaceutical Engineering
|
Course code
ENGP6033
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Engineering of Biomaterials
|
Course code
ENGP6034
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Drug Discovery and Development
|
Course code
PHAR5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Commercialisation and Innovation
|
Course code
SCIE5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Application of Next Generation Sequencing
|
Course code
BIOL6001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Business Management Systems
|
Course code
ENGE5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Methods and Statistics
|
Course code
STAT5009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Project Management Fundamentals
|
Course code
PROJ5000
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Biopharmaceutical engineers specialise in developing biological products and therapies – like vaccines, medicines and other kinds of treatments. Career paths are many and varied, as their unique expertise enables them to work at any stage of the biopharma development lifecycle.
You could develop processes that enable production of personalised medicines, tailored to an individual patient’s genetic profile. Maybe you’ll specialise in RNA therapies, developing treatments to stop neurodegenerative diseases in their tracks. Or perhaps you’ll undertake breakthrough work in 3D bioprinting, producing functional organs for patients requiring life-saving transplants.
Whatever your area of interest, career paths are available in a wide range of sectors including:
- Agriculture and food science
- Biotechnology
- Consulting and advisory services
- Contract research and manufacturing
- Energy and biofuels
- Environmental biotechnology
- Healthcare and medical devices
- Non-profit and advocacy organisations
- Pharmaceuticals
- Regulatory and quality assurance
- Research and development
- Venture capital and investment.
Industry Trends
Technological innovation, regulatory changes and the evolving needs of healthcare are driving transformation in the biopharmaceutical engineering sector. Projects focused on bioprinting and regenerative medicine, advanced gene and cell therapies, mRNA technology, continuous manufacturing and microbiome research all rely on the expertise of biopharmaceutical engineers.
The World Economic Forum (2023) suggests that as industries continue to rely on digital technologies for innovation and growth, demand for biopharmaceutical engineers is only expected to increase. With the demand for qualified engineers across all sectors continuing to outstrip supply, you’ll graduate in demand Engineers Australia, 2023).
Accreditation
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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.
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.
