Engineering and Surveying

The career-ready placement requirements for students in our engineering and surveying programs are as follows. Please note that, within these study areas, career-ready placement experiences are referred to as Industrial Experience (IE).

Note: This following information applies to students based at Callaghan or those studying online. Students enrolled through the Newcastle Australia Institute of Higher Education (NAIHE) in Singapore are advised to consult this website for more information about their requirements.

ProgramCommencementRequirements
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or surveying (excluding those in Software Engineering, or the Mining Transfer Program) 2023 or later Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience through the 0-credit course ENGG3050 Industrial Experience (you will be auto-enrolled in this course), and the course ENGG3000 Engineering Work Integrated Learning.
Bachelor’s degree in engineering or surveying (excluding those in Software Engineering, or the Mining Transfer Program) Prior to 2023 Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience.
Bachelor of Software Engineering 2023 or later Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience through the 0-credit course ENGG3050 Industrial Experience (you will be auto-enrolled in this course), and the courses SENG3150 Software Project 1: Requirements and Design and SENG3160 Software Project 2: Software Implementation, Testing and Maintenance.
Bachelor of Software Engineering Prior to 2023 Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience.
Bachelor of Engineering (Mining Transfer Program) All years Undertake practical experience through either the University of New South Wales (UNSW) or the University of Wollongong (UOW in final two years of study. (Note this program is split with the first two years completed at the University Newcastle and final two years at either UNSW or UOW.)
Master of Professional Engineering All years Complete 12 weeks Industrial Experience.
All other postgraduate programs All years N/A

Additional information about the placement requirements for the above programs can be found on the College of Engineering, Science and Environment’s Professional Experience website.

Industrial Experience (IE) offers diverse opportunities to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks and enhance your employability. IE can be a combination of different experiences rather than a single, continuous placement. You have the flexibility to fulfill your IE requirements through various opportunities, such as multiple industry placements, relevant employment, or even study abroad programs.

You will be responsible for seeking out IE opportunities in a field related to your studies. Start exploring IE options early in your studies to meet graduation requirements and make the most of this invaluable learning experience.  Visit Sourcing your experience for tips on how to find opportunities.

For guidance on organising your IE, refer to the relevant Industrial Experience Manual. Remember, all IE applications must be submitted for pre-approval in Sonia Online before starting, to ensure your IE meets your degree requirements and that you are covered by the appropriate insurance. Approval is at the discretion of the IE Coordinator and is not guaranteed. Additionally, you will need to liaise with your host employer/s to complete the Industrial Experience Application form available in Sonia Online.

Below are some of the different kinds of Industrial Experience you may undertake:

  • Industry placement / employment: You can complete all or some of your IE in an industry placement (paid or unpaid) or through relevant employment. Please note that if you do an unpaid placement, you will be covered by the University of Newcastle’s insurance once the IE application has been approved. If you are completing paid IE (that is, if you are employed by the organisation), you are not covered by university insurance and must confirm insurance coverage with the employer.
  • Prior work experience: You may apply to have recent work experience counted towards some or all your IE total requirements, provided it was undertaken in a suitable and relevant profession.
  • Study abroad program and overseas Industrial Experience: All or part of your IE can be completed overseas, provided the experience is relevant. All students considering undertaking an overseas internship or placement should research and select an experience that suits their needs and interests. The University of Newcastle works with third-party providers to connect students with relevant overseas opportunities. There is also funding available to support international exchange. Visit Global Experience to learn more.

ENGG3000 Engineering Work Integrated Learning

For undergraduate engineering and surveying students, except for those in software engineering or the Mining Transfer Program.

Through ENGG3000 Engineering Work Integrated Learning, you will gain additional exposure to a range of industry relevant topics associated with contemporary professional practice. Note that you will not complete placement as part of this course but through the 0-credit course ENGG3050 Industrial Experience.

SENG3150 Software Project 1: Requirements Engineering and Design & SENG3160 Software Project 2: Software Implementation, Testing and Maintenance

For B Software Engineering students.

Through SENG3150 and SENG3160 you will apply your knowledge and skills to a substantial practical team project. SENG3150 concentrates on the requirements engineering and design phases. SENG3160 concentrates on the implementation, testing, and maintenance phases.

If you undertake placement with NSW Health, there are certain checks and clearances you will need to complete before you can do this. This ensures your safety and the safety of other students, staff and patients.

These processes can take 8 weeks or more. It is recommended that you submit your documents well in advance of your proposed placement dates to avoid delays.

Learn more

The Professional Experience Unit (PEU) for the College of Engineering, Science and Environment can provide advice and support regarding Sonia Online, the placement management system, as well as processes and documentation requirements.

Email: CESE-PEU@newcastle.edu.au
Phone: (02) 4921 7302
Location: W357, Callaghan Campus (interactive campus map)

Face-to-face and virtual appointments with the PEU are available at both Callaghan and Ourimbah campuses. For more information, visit their website.

The Careers Service can support you with finding industrial experience or placement opportunities. Visit Sourcing your experience for more information.

If you are having trouble finding or securing  an industrial experience or placement opportunity, please seek advice from the following:

  • For B Engineering programs (except for Software Engineering and the Mining Transfer Program): Contact your IE Coordinator.
  • For B Software Engineering: Contact your IE Coordinator or the SENG4001A/B Course Coordinator (you can find their contact details on the ARBE3030 Canvas site).