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 Professional Engineering (Telecommunications)?
Telecommunications engineers develop and maintain the many complex communications systems that help us stay connected – no matter where we are.
High-speed internet, cellular networks, telehealth capability, satellite systems, encryption technologies and so much more would not be possible without the expertise of these engineers.
If you’re an electrical engineer wanting to extend your skills, our Master of Professional Engineering (Telecommunications) is for you.
Apply advanced theory and complete professional experience in industry settings. Graduate ready to take your engineering career to the next level.
Overview
Our Master of Professional Engineering (Telecommunications) is designed to challenge and extend, getting you ready to take your electrical engineering career to the next level.
With our elective-driven degree structure, you can tailor your studies to your specific telecommunications interests and career goals. Whether that’s advanced signal processing, telecommunication device security, terahertz technology – or something else entirely – there are plenty of options.
Core courses in engineering management and data analytics enable you to hone your project management expertise.
Put your learning into practice through capstone design projects, a major research project and up to 450 hours of industry placement.
These experiences will ensure you graduate with the advanced technical and professional skills to achieve your career aspirations.
Key features
Extend yourself with higher-level courses in advanced signal processing, terahertz technology, telecommunication system security, information theory and coding. - Explore specialised elective courses, tailored to your specific interests and career goals.
- Undertake up to 450 hours of industry professional experience.
- Sharpen your project management skills through courses in engineering management and data analytics.
- Complete a capstone design and research projects that will deepen 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
This degree is structured with a foundation year and an extension year. Depending on your specific combination of professional experience and qualifications, you may be eligible to receive credit for the first year of your studies and progress straight into second year.
The first year of this degree covers essential electrical engineering knowledge, with courses available in:
- Advanced signal processing
- Antennas and propagation
- Digital communication
- Radio frequency (RF) engineering
- Telecommunication system security.
You’ll also complete courses in engineering data analytics and engineering management.
Professional industry placement will be available in your first year. You’ll complete up to 450 hours of placement in a relevant industry setting.
In second year, you’ll take advanced courses in:
- Information theory and coding
- Mobile communications and wireless access
- Modern communications
- Terahertz technology.
You will also complete one elective course. An elective is available in telecommunication device security. Alternatively, an elective can also be taken from the list of first year courses.
In your last year, you’ll also complete both a major research project and capstone engineering design project.
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:
- Chemical
- Civil
- Electrical
- Energy Resources
- Environmental and Water Resources Management
- Mechanical
- Mechatronic
- Mining
- Structural.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 60 units for all Core courses, and
- 12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
- 24 units from Electives
Complete 60 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | 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
Professional Engineering Management
|
Course code
ENGI5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Mobile Communications and Wireless Access
|
Course code
ENGE6009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Information Theory and Coding
|
Course code
ENGE6010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Optical Communications and Photonics
|
Course code
ENGE6013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Terahertz Technology
|
Course code
ENGE6014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Design Project
|
Course code
ENGE6004
|
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 exactly 24 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Microwave Engineering
|
Course code
ENGE5001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Digital Communications
|
Course code
ENGE5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Telecommunication System Security
|
Course code
ENGE5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Signal Processing
|
Course code
ENGI5008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Antennas and Propagation
|
Course code
ENGE5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Telecommunication Device and Network Security
|
Course code
ENGE6318
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Telecommunications engineers design, implement and maintain the many complex systems and technologies that enable communication over long distances.
You could expand and optimise 5G networks, providing higher speeds, broader coverage and more reliable connectivity for users. Maybe you’ll research and help build early-stage quantum computing networks, to providing ultra-secure communication channels for high-security data transmission. Or perhaps you’ll lead efforts in low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations to provide reliable, high-speed internet access on a global scale.
Careers are available in a wide range of sectors including:
- Automotive
- Aviation
- Defence and security
- Energy and utilities
- Government and public sector
- Healthcare (telemedicine)
- Information technology services
- Manufacturing
- Media and entertainment (streaming services, broadcasting)
- Research and development
- Telecom equipment manufacturing
- Telecommunications (service providers)
- Transportation.
Industry trends
Rapid advancements in technology and increasing demands for connectivity are driving up demand for telecommunications engineers. Projects may include expanding and optimising 5G networks and early R&D into 6G networks. You might work on quantum communication and zero trust security models to enhance network security. You could work across projects on satellite constellations and Internet of Things (IoT) networks. All will require the expertise of telecommunications engineers to bring to fruition.
The World Economic Forum (2023) suggests that as industries continue to rely on digital technologies for innovation and growth, demand for qualified electrical and electronic engineers is only expected to increase.
Globally and in Australia, there is an engineering skills shortage – with demand for qualified engineers across all sectors continuing to outstrip supply (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.
