Master of Professional Engineering (Structural)

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City, Mawson Lakes

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MAPST

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$52,300

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115950J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfil 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 4-year bachelor or bachelor honours degree or higher in a field relevant to the chosen engineering specialisation from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

Why Master of Professional Engineering (Structural)?

Structural engineers determine what’s possible in building design. They are experts in designing structures that are secure, strong, and able to withstand the pressures they’ll face across their lifespan.

Industry demand for structural engineers is soaring. With major public infrastructure spend estimated to hit $230 billion, structural engineers are now the most in demand of all engineering specialists (Infrastructure Australia, 2023).

Our Master of Professional Engineering (Structural) is designed for civil engineers looking to extend their skills.

Combining advanced theory with opportunities to hone your skills in professional placement settings, you’ll graduate with everything you need to take your civil engineering career to the next level.

Overview

Our Master of Professional Engineering (Structural) is designed to challenge and extend your knowledge, taking your structural engineering career to the next level.

You’ll study advanced courses in structural engineering, analysis and design, growing your skillset in engineering theories and concepts.

Core courses in construction project management and data analytics enable you to deepen and formalise your project management expertise.

Our extensive range of electives give you the freedom to tailor your studies. Whether that’s structural dynamics, advanced steel design, geotechnical engineering design or adaptive reuse of structures – you'll structure your degree to specific interests and career goals.

Put your skills to practice in up to 450 hours of industry placement, where you’ll build important professional relationships. You’ll also complete a major research and capstone design project, honing your knowledge in engineering practices.

Study a degree that ensures you’ll graduate with the advanced technical and professional skills needed to achieve your career goals.

Key features

Study advanced courses in structural analysis and design.
Graduate job ready - undertake specialised elective courses aligned to your specific interests and career goals.
Apply your skills in industry settings by completing up to 450 hours of professional experience.
Build on your project management skillset through courses in engineering project management and data analytics.
Engage in capstone design and research projects, sharpening your research skills.
Our stackable qualifications mean you can complete your studies at a pace and level of commitment that suits you.

What you'll learn

Our Master of Professional Engineering (Structural) is structured with both a foundation and extension year. If you have previous professional experience and relevant qualifications, you may be eligible to receive credit for the first year and progress straight into year two of the degree.

The first year covers essential structural engineering knowledge and theory in reinforced concrete design, structural steel design, timber and masonry design and structural mechanics. You’ll also complete courses in engineering data analytics and engineering project management – strengthening your project management skills.

Professional industry placement begins in your first year of study, where you’ll eventually complete up to 450 hours of placement in a relevant industry setting. Be prepared to explore a range of opportunities once you graduate by building connections with professionals in industry.

In second year, you’ll take advanced courses, tailored to your specific interests and career goals. Courses are available in a wide range of areas, such as:

Adaptive reuse of structures
Advanced reinforced concrete design
Advanced steel design
Finite element theory
Geotechnical engineering design
Numerical modelling of solids and structures
Prestressed concrete design
Steel concrete composite design
Structural dynamics – wind and earthquake.

In your final year, you’ll also complete both a major research project and capstone engineering design project. You’ll put your skills to practice and collaborate with other students and researchers who are experts in their field.

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 Professional Engineering is also available with specialisations in the following:

Energy Resources
Environmental and Water Resources Management
Mining
Telecommunications
Chemical
Civil
Electrical
Mechanical
Mechatronic

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

66 units for all Core courses, and
12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
18 units for Electives

Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Engineering Data Analytics	Course code ENGI5006	Units 6
Course name Masters Engineering Research Project A	Course code ENGI6023	Units 6
Course name Masters Engineering Research Project B	Course code ENGI6024	Units 12
Course name Reinforced Concrete Design	Course code ENGC5003	Units 6
Course name Structural Steel Design	Course code ENGC5004	Units 6
Course name Structural Mechanics	Course code ENGC5005	Units 6
Course name Timber and Masonry Design	Course code ENGC5013	Units 6
Course name Professional Engineering Management	Course code ENGI5003	Units 6
Course name Civil and Environmental Design Project	Course code ENGI5018	Units 6
Course name Geotechnical Engineering Design	Course code ENGC6002	Units 6

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

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

Complete 18 units comprising:

18 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Prestressed Concrete Design	Course code ENGC6003	Units 6
Course name Advanced Steel Design	Course code ENGC6004	Units 6
Course name Steel Concrete Composite Design	Course code ENGC6005	Units 6
Course name Adaptive Reuse of Structures	Course code ENGC6006	Units 6
Course name Numerical Modelling of Solids and Structures	Course code ENGC6007	Units 6
Course name Structural Dynamics - Wind and Earthquake Engineering	Course code ENGC6008	Units 6
Course name Advanced Reinforced Concrete Design	Course code ENGC6009	Units 6
Course name Finite Element Modelling of Structures	Course code ENGI6006	Units 6

Career outcomes

Structural engineering is one of the broadest areas of engineering, covering construction, geotechnics, transportation, water resource management, consulting, project management, and more.

You could lead seismic retrofitting projects, enhancing the resilience of existing buildings and structures to earthquake activity. Maybe you’ll support space exploration efforts through the design of safe, secure habitats and structures for astronauts. Or perhaps you’ll specialise in advanced materials and composite structures, uncovering new ways to construct more durable, lightweight bridges and buildings.

Whatever your career goal there’s a path for you. You could work in a wide range of sectors including:

Civil construction
Consulting engineering firms
Government agencies
Mining, oil and gas
Renewable energy
Research and development
Transportation.

Industry trends

Adoption of smart technologies including building information modelling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, digital twins and application of AI and machine learning are driving digital transformation in the structural engineering sector. These technologies are being utilised to enable more sustainable, efficient and resilient infrastructure development. Structural engineers with the expertise to leverage these technologies are in high demand by employers.

Globally and in Australia, there is an engineering skills shortage – with demand for qualified engineers across all sectors continuing to outstrip supply. Major public infrastructure spend is projected to reach $230 billion by 2027 in Australia alone. This, combined with a projected shortfall of 229,000 full-time infrastructure workers, makes structural engineers the most in demand engineering specialist by industry (Infrastructure Australia, 2023).

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, spanning assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view the Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

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: