Where Can I Study Aerospace Engineering in Australia?

Aerospace engineering is one of the most dynamic and innovative areas of study, shaping the future of flight, space exploration, and cutting-edge technology. From designing more fuel-efficient aircraft to developing spacecraft capable of interplanetary travel, aerospace engineers are at the forefront of solving some of the most pressing global challenges.

Whether you’re interested in designing next-generation aircraft, working with satellite technology, or exploring the possibilities of space travel, Australian universities provide the foundation, resources, and industry connections needed to launch a successful career in aerospace engineering.

Learn more about Australia’s best aerospace engineering programmes below (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025) and to find your best-fit aerospace engineering degree, contact StudyIn for a free consultation on your future.

Contact StudyIn about your application

Top Five Australian Universities for Aerospace Engineering

1. The University of New South Wales

The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Aerospace Engineering focuses on the science and practice of air and space flight, including the design, development, testing, and production of aerospace vehicles.

Throughout the course, students develop expertise in aerodynamics, propulsion, flight mechanics, and aircraft structures, equipping them for future careers in Australia’s growing aerospace industry. In the final year, students collaborate on a team project that integrates all aspects of aircraft design to meet a specific mission specification. Additionally, students complete 60 days of approved industry training to gain practical experience.

UNSW Sydney is ranked 1st in Australia and 31st globally for Engineering and Technology (QS World University Rankings by Subject). The university’s state-of-the-art engineering facilities, including a flight simulator and aerodynamics laboratory, offer students hands-on experience. Through the ChallENG program, students engage in real-world projects, collaborating with academics and industry partners.

Course in focus: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Aerospace Engineering)

2. The University of Sydney

The University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Aeronautical Engineering) offers students a comprehensive understanding of aircraft design and operation both within the Earth’s atmosphere and in space. The course covers key areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, structural design, avionics, and stability control systems.

Graduates can pursue careers in aerospace design, aircraft manufacturing, engineering management, and aerospace technologies. With professional accreditation from Engineers Australia, graduates are recognised internationally, opening global career opportunities. The course is offered at the Camperdown/Darlington campus.

Course in focus: Bachelor of Engineering Honours (Aeronautical Engineering)

3. The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne offers a Master of Mechanical Engineering, designed for students to build tomorrow’s machines and systems, from small-scale devices to air and spacecraft. The program covers key areas such as mechanical design, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.

Students with a non-engineering background complete foundation subjects in their first year, while those with relevant prior study may start in the second year. In later stages, students focus on energy, power, and motion, with opportunities for industry projects.

Course in focus: Master of Mechanical Engineering

4. Monash University

Monash University’s Bachelor of Aerospace Engineering (Honours) prepares students for a dynamic career in the design, development, and maintenance of flight vehicles.

Students engage in practical activities like wind tunnel testing and computational modelling, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge technologies. Aerospace engineers from Monash often work in design, manufacturing, research, or airworthiness operations, with opportunities in aerospace companies, airlines, government labs, and even Formula One teams.

Covering key areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and material science, this degree equips graduates with the skills to tackle future global challenges, from environmentally friendly aircraft to space exploration.

Course in focus: Aerospace Engineering

5. The University of Queensland

The University of Queensland’s Aerospace Engineering major, offered within the Mechanical Engineering specialisation, focuses on designing and manufacturing cutting-edge aircraft, satellites, spacecraft, and drones. Students develop expertise in fuel-efficient aircraft, modern GPS satellite fleets, and next-generation space missions, including those aimed at Mars.

The program integrates industry-based projects, helping students build professional networks and gain valuable real-world experience. Graduates enjoy diverse career opportunities, locally and globally, with leading companies like Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Raytheon. Ranked 2nd in Australia for aerospace engineering, UQ provides a globally recognised education, preparing students for dynamic careers in aerospace and engineering sectors.

Course in focus: Aerospace Engineering

Entry Requirements

International students typically need to have completed secondary school with strong results in mathematics and physics to gain entry into undergraduate aerospace engineering programmes. Most universities require:

Minimum academic score: Equivalent to an Australian ATAR of 80–90 (e.g. GPA of 3.0–3.5 or 75–90% depending on the country’s grading system)
English language proficiency: IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0; or TOEFL iBT score of 85–90; or PTE Academic score of 58–64
Additional requirements: Some universities may request a personal statement, academic references, or an interview for competitive programmes

Postgraduate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, or a closely related engineering field, with a minimum GPA equivalent to 60–70%, and meet similar English language requirements.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for international students studying aerospace engineering in Australia vary by university and programme level:

Undergraduate aerospace engineering degrees: AUD 38,000–48,000 per year
Postgraduate degrees (Master’s programmes): AUD 40,000–52,000 per year

Living expenses are typically AUD 20,000–30,000 annually, depending on location and lifestyle. Most universities offer scholarships for international students, including merit-based, equity-based, and faculty-specific awards.

Visa Requirements

International students must apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study full-time in Australia. Key requirements include:

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian university
Proof of financial capacity: Funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel (approx. AUD 62,000 for one year)
English proficiency: As per university admission standards
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory for the duration of stay
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement: Demonstrating intent to study and return after graduation

Visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during official holidays. Students in research-based master’s or doctoral programmes may work full-time throughout their studies.