Mechanical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the design, manufacture and maintenance of mechanical components and moving systems. Areas of study within the course include a foundation in physical and engineering sciences, along with materials science, manufacturing, and mechanical design. The course includes a particular focus on project based and practical learning and provides numerous opportunities for students to extend practical skills development. Students taking this course also have the option to undertake a specialist stream in motorsports. This option provides a special focus on automotive design and motorsports engineering. Students should consult the course coordinator if they are interested in pursuing this option. The program focuses on the development of knowledge and skills relevant to professional engineering practice and along with a sound theoretical base, includes strong elements of practical problem solving, team work and project development. As a result, as well as having multiple technical and transferable skill competencies, graduates will gain strong analytical skills, and have the ability to lead complex projects. The course provides a sound basis in mechanics, mathematics, and the principles of engineering design in the first two years of study, along with development of relevant knowledge in computer aided design and manufacturing, materials science, statics and dynamics, industrial maintenance, and mechanical design. In the final two years of study, a range of specialist mechanical engineering topics are covered, including electromechanical systems, structural analysis, and advanced mechanical design, providing students with relevant knowledge and skills to enable them to contribute in the workforce as soon as they graduate. The first year of this course includes a set of eight units that are common across all engineering honours courses. This allows students the opportunity to develop a better understanding of the various engineering disciplines on offer and the flexibility, if desired, to switch to another engineering discipline/course without penalty after the first year of study.

Graduates will have competencies in all major areas of mechanical engineering, and be able to participate in and lead complex multidisciplinary projects. Mechanical engineers have diverse employment opportunities in most sectors of industry including product design and development, manufacturing, road and transport, mining and resource, public utilities, agriculture, defence, aerospace, and consulting.