Associate Degree in Engineering Technology (Electrical/Electronics)

2 years full-time

Learning and teaching

RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work. These are primarily in English.

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes examinations, essays, reports, oral classes, presentations, group projects, research projects, laboratory projects and practical assignments.

Program structure

Year 1

First year introduces basic AC motors, electronic concepts and PLC operation.

You'll learn CAD programming and how to create and interpret basic electrical and mechanical engineering drawings.

You'll be introduced to the use of engineering materials like metals, composites, plastics and adhesives. There's a strong focus on suitability and the environmental impact of materials.

Year 2

Second year extends electrical theory and includes RC, RL and RLC, circuit analysis, AC fundamentals, coupled circuits and DC and AC motor control principles.

You'll be introduced to the design and installation of wired and wireless local area networks (LAN) and wide area networks (WAN). You'll develop practical skills in testing and problem solving.

Also covered is:

• electrical/electronic design digital and analogue interfacing
• microprocessor programming and automation
• programming language
• how to problem-solve scenarios related to the development of computer programs
• how to understand embedded systems including the design, implementation, testing and fault-finding of microprocessor-based systems.

This program combines lectures and seminars with practical laboratory and workshop sessions, including simulation and animation tools. You'll also undertake an engineering project.

The following program structure(s) is an example of what students are currently studying in this program.

In final semester you'll undertake an engineering project, where you'll be required to design, develop and present a product.

The project involves designing and building a process control system, including:

• identifying each machine and interfacing requirements
• assessing risk and designing safety measures
• designing PLC software and producing code
• setting up and configuring an ethernet network and graphical user interfaces
• preparing technical files.

Your project is completed when there is a working demonstration of the control of a manufacturing process.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

With electrical and electronic technology part of daily life, graduates are in high demand. There are diverse job opportunities in areas including:

• electrical/electronics design
• electronic communications
• microprocessor programming
• interfacing, automation and process control.

Employment can be found in the following industries:

• automotive
• computer designing and manufacture
• aviation and biotechnology
• middle management engineering roles.

The engineering project is carried out either in conjunction with industry or simulates a real engineering work environment.

Professional recognition and accreditation

This program is fully accredited by Engineers Australia. Graduates are eligible to seek membership of Engineers Australia at the engineering officer level.

You have the opportunity to apply for a 1-semester exchange with VIA University College Denmark in the final year of the program.

You must meet the University entry requirements for this type of program.

Program entry requirements

Prerequisites

Current Year 12 prerequisite units 3 and 4—Mathematical Methods (CAS) and a study score of at least 25 in English (ESL), or at least 20 in any other English.

Selection tasks

Form: Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online.

1. Check program entry requirements and confirm you're eligible.

2. Check and complete the selection tasks (if applicable) by the relevant closing date - these tasks are listed in the program entry requirements.

3. Check the table below for how to apply.

4. Apply using the appropriate method by the closing date.

Application method

Equity access

If circumstances have interrupted or disadvantaged your access to education, RMIT offers equity access schemes that allow selection officers to give applicants extra consideration, which may improve your prospects of studying at RMIT.

Tuition fees vary according to program and are adjusted annually.

In a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) your tuition fee is shared between you and the Commonwealth Government - if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Fee assistance

As a Commonwealth supported student, you may be able to either:

• pay all or part of your student contribution up front and receive a 10% discount, or
• defer your tuition fees through the HECS-HELP loan scheme.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds. Learn more about RMIT Scholarships.

Other fees

In addition to tuition fees you will also pay the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF). You may be able to defer the fee through the SA-HELP loan scheme.

There may be other additional expenses and administrative fees associated with your studies.

Graduates of the Associate Degree in Engineering Technology (Electrical/Electronics) who achieve a grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or greater are guaranteed entry with 2 years' exemption (equivalent to 192 credit points) into the following degrees:

• Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical and Electronic Engineering)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Engineering)
• Bachelor of Engineering (Electronic and Communication Engineering).

Graduates with a GPA of less than 2.0 can still apply, and may be eligible for exemptions if successful in gaining a place.

Learn more about pathways or if you are eligible for credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.

Engineering (TAFE)

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