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Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) (23R)

Overview (2027)

Duration

Minimum 4 years, up to a maximum of 9 years.

This course is available to study as both part-time or full-time
Duration
Duration refers to the minimum and maximum amounts of time in which this course can be completed. It will be affected by whether you choose to study full or part time, noting that some programs are only available part time.

Location

Launceston
AMC MT Main Block 1, AMC MT Main Block 3, Semester 1
Online
Semester 1, Semester 2

“AMC offers a great study environment; the facilities are really good, and everyone here is really supportive. My course is very practical and well delivered. I have learned lots of different things in my first two years of study. My highlights were welding and machining, I also really enjoyed pre-sea"

Meloney Gibbs, Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering)

If you're aiming for a career as a Marine Engineering Officer, this course combines engineering knowledge with practical maritime training to prepare you for work on commercial vessels.

Throughout your studies, you'll learn how to operate, maintain and manage the complex engineering systems that keep ships running safely and efficiently. You'll build knowledge in areas such as:

  • marine engineering systems
  • ship operations and vessel structure
  • maintenance and fault finding
  • shipboard safety and emergency response
  • marine legislation and regulatory requirements
  • vessel and engineering management
  • marine survey and inspection processes.

This course combines classroom learning, practical training and industry experience.

In your first year, you'll complete your pre-sea training on campus at the Australian Maritime College (AMC) in Launceston. You'll develop core engineering skills through practical workshops, simulation training and hands-on learning in specialist maritime facilities.

As you progress through your course, you’ll gain knowledge and practice the skills required of engineering officers working at sea. You'll learn how marine propulsion systems operate, how to manage engineering operations onboard a vessel, and how to respond to operational and emergency situations.

Many units include practical learning experiences that replicate real shipboard environments, helping you build confidence before heading to sea.

This course is designed to align with the requirements to receive an Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Certificate of Competency (subject to meeting AMSA requirements) and to meet the training and educational standards of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, ensuring your qualification aligns with internationally recognised maritime industry requirements.

Industry experience at sea

A key part of your course is gaining professional sea-time experience.

During your studies, you'll complete 36 weeks of sea service while employed with a shipping company as a trainee engineering officer.

This industry experience allows you to apply what you've learned in real operating environments, work with experienced maritime professionals, and develop the practical competencies required for certification.

Sea-time is an essential step towards obtaining an AMSA Certificate of Competency and becoming a qualified Marine Engineering Officer.

Study location

The on-campus components of this course are delivered at the Australian Maritime College in Launceston, Australia's national centre for maritime education, training and research and a specialist institute of the University of Tasmania. Here you'll have access to specialist maritime teaching facilities and learn together with students preparing for careers across the maritime industry.

Launceston offers a welcoming student experience, combining city convenience with access to Tasmania's renowned outdoor lifestyle, food culture and natural environments. Learn more about living and studying in Launceston.

There are a number of entry pathways available into this course, please view the course structure section for more information.

Course Intake and Commencement Dates:

Please note, all courses are based on campus at the Australian Maritime College, Launceston unless otherwise stated.

Pathway

On Campus

Online

Pre-Sea – Engine (Year 1)

23 February (Semester 1)

n/a

Engineer Watchkeeper –

(Year 2)

2 February (AMC MT Main Block 1)

15 June AMC MT Main Block 3

n/a

Class 2/Class 1 Chief Engineer (Year 3)

2 February (AMC MT Main Block 1)

15 June AMC MT Main Block 3

n/a

Conversion

 

23 February (Semester 1)

6 July (Semester 2)

ETO (Non-Award Enrolment Only)

2 February (AMC MT Main Block 1)

15 June AMC MT Main Block 3

n/a


Watch our course information webinar

Thinking of studying this course in 2025 and want to learn more? This webinar explores course structures, career opportunities, and the student experience to support your study journey.

Watch now

  • 1 Manage the main propulsion system of a ship and determine the role of the auxiliary systems using marine engineering knowledge to ensure the safe operation of a commercial ship.
  • 2 Assess and solve marine engineering problems in standard operational and emergency scenarios by analysing and interpreting a range of data sources to meet stakeholders requirements.
  • 3 Ensure the safe operation of a ship and care for its people by applying management theories and leaderships skills required as a senior engineering officer.
  • 4 Execute professional stewardship through the use of ethical codes and regulatory frameworks relevant to marine engineering to maintain the safety of persons and the protections of the environment.

Immerse yourself in the Southern Hemisphere’s most advanced maritime and research facilities

The Australian Maritime College’s specialist facilities are used by students, researchers, defence organisations, government bodies and international industry partners, who rely on them to innovate and develop new designs, undertake research to improve efficiency and safety train seafarers and students in work safety. These include the engineering simulators, Electro-technology lab, Electronics lab, Thermo-fluids lab, and our fleet of training vessels.

Even as an undergraduate you will take full advantage of our world class facilities as an essential part of your studies, this not only empowers our students to safely operate and maintenance shipboard marine engineering systems, but also develop a holistic understanding of their role in the broader maritime industry.

Become a Student Ambassador

Improve your communication, teamwork and leadership skills, meet new people, inspire and help others, and developing lasting friendships and networks as a student ambassador. Our ambassadors proudly represent the University throughout Tasmania in schools, at University and community events, and support a range of recruitment and engagement activities. Through the Student Ambassador Program you will have many opportunities for training and professional development, experience in real-world community engagement and outreach, networking, and public speaking, plus end up with a key point of distinction on your CV.

AMC has strong connections with the Australian maritime and shipbuilding industry. This means when you study at AMC, you’ll get opportunities for unmatched hands-on learning experiences that are deeply connected to industry.

Sea-time is a built-in phase of your AMC marine engineering qualification. You will be encouraged to gain employment as a trainee engineer officer with a shipping company in order to obtain qualifying sea service and complete on the job ASMA requirements. You may choose to seek employment before or after Year 1 studies (also known as pre-sea training).

On completion of the relevant phases of study, you will be eligible to undertake the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) examinations. Upon successful completion, you obtain the required certificate of competency to serve on ships.

Our long-standing links with industry ensure that our courses are relevant to you as a graduate while meeting the needs of employers and the broader maritime industry. Each AMC course is informed by an Industry Advisory Committee. Membership of the advisory committee includes industry leaders, associations and past graduates.

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA)

The Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) and nested Advanced Diploma of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) is approved by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for eligibility towards the following Certificates of Competency: Engineer Watchkeeper, Class 2 Engineer, Class 1 Engineer.

Career outcomes

AMC has a good reputation, which is one of the main reasons I chose to study here. My qualification has given me a kick start in the industry as an Engineer Watchkeeper. After completing my initial course and working at sea for 9 years, I decided to return to AMC to further my career prospects and obtain my Class 2 Engineer qualification”

Rohan Luckie, Marine Engineer

Employment opportunities for seafarers are growing across a range of industries, with demand for maritime professionals projected to increase by a further 2.16% by 2028. Industry Skills Australia reports indicate that adverts for Marine Transport Professional jobs have tripled since 2020.

Engineer Class 1/Class 2 (Motor)

AMC’s Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) is the recognised pathway to becoming an AMSA Certified Class 1 and 2 Marine Engineer. Upon graduating from this degree, you will be competent with advanced industry knowledge and a sought-after skill set which will prove to be advantageous as you seek a career at sea.

Our professional engineering graduates are also qualified with additional knowledge and skills that they are likely to require to take up senior shore-based professional positions such as:

  • Governmental or intergovernmental regulators and organisations such as AMSA, EMSA (European Maritime Safety Agency), IMO (International Maritime Organization)
  • Senior position in a shipyard, technical manager in a shipping company
  • Marine superintendent or safety manager in a shipping company
  • Product, R&D, sales and service managers in companies manufacturing marine engines and equipment
  • Surveyor in a Classification Society
  • Marine Surveyor with a Port State Control authority such as AMSA
  • Work in Marine insurance companies
  • Maritime Education and Training, research and teaching positions
Engineer Watchkeeper (Motor/Steam)

For those wanting to to embark on a career as an Engineer Watchkeeper, you can exit the degree after two years of study with an Advanced Diploma.

To exit after the second year, you will need to show evidence of an additional 10 week of workshop training completed in an AMC recognized training facility. For further details please contact the Years 1 & 2 coordinator Rabiul Islam.

Postgraduate study

If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas and Masters by coursework and research. Filter the course list by Postgraduate to view the current courses available.

Course structure

The Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) requires the completion of 300 credit points:

Year 1 (Pre Sea – Engine) - 93.75 credit points.  Comprises core units (22 credit points), short course units (21.75 credit points) and practical units (50 credit points).

Year 2 (Watchkeeper – Engine) - 106.25 credit points.  Comprises core units (81.25 credit points), short course units (25 credit points) and an At Sea unit (6.25 credit points).

Year 3 (Class2 Class1 Chief Engineer) - 100 credit points, consisting of all core units

We have a team of Student Advisers available to help you structure your studies to meet your desired outcomes. For enrolment assistance please contact us via U Connect today.

Alternative Entry points

A number of defined entry pathways are available into this course which recognise that students may be commencing the course with existing experience and/or qualifications or intending to apply for specific professional licenses or Certificates of Competency. If entering the course via alternative pathway entry points please contact a Student Adviser via U.Connect@utas.edu.au for individual enrolment advice.

Electro Technical Officer (ETO) Qualification*

Students completing 23R can also achieve an ETO qualification by enrolling in additional units from the list of short courses (not required for award).    

If you intend to qualify with an ETO CoC only, please contact the Course Coordinator for further details.

* Note, if you wish to complete these units you do so in addition to the requirements of 23R.  You will enrol in these units as non-award.  

 

Entry requirements

We encourage you to apply for the courses you most want to study. If you are not eligible to enter your chosen course right now, the University’s admissions team will work with you to find the best pathway option.

Enquire online for more advice on the application process and the available pathways to enrol and study at the University of Tasmania.

Schools Recommendation Program

Australian year 12 students can apply for this course via our Schools Recommendation Program (SRP). Rather than an ATAR, your application is based on a recommendation by your school teachers. This can factor in your year 11 results, an assessment of your capabilities, and other considerations.

Through the SRP, you can receive and accept an offer prior to completing year 12. You will still need to finish your year 12 studies – including any exams – to commence your studies. In addition, this course requires you to pass specific pre-requisite subjects in Year 12 (or equivalent), see below for details.

If you don’t receive an offer for this course through the Schools Recommendation Program, you will be re-assessed for a higher preference offer once your ATAR is released.

Domestic applicants who recently completed secondary education

Applicants are ranked by ATAR and offers are made based on the number of places available. We anticipate that the lowest ATAR that will receive an offer for this course in 2027 will be 65.

Applicants who have recently completed senior secondary studies but have not received an ATAR may still be eligible for admission. We will consider your subject results on a case-by-case basis when we assess your application.

Domestic applicants with higher education study

To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have:

  • Partially completed an undergraduate course at Diploma level or higher (or equivalent). Applicants must have completed at least two units of study (equivalent to 25 University of Tasmania credit points). If an applicant has failed any units, the application may be subject to further review before an offer is made; O
  • Completed the University of Tasmania University Preparation Program (or an equivalent qualification offered by an Australian university).

Domestic applicants with VET / TAFE study

To be eligible for an offer, applicants must have completed a Certificate IV (or equivalent) in any discipline.  

Domestic applicants with work and life experience

This course does not admit students on the basis of work or life experience.

Please enquire online for advice on pathways, or alternative course options.

Subject Pre-requisites

These prerequisites apply to students from all educational backgrounds.

To be an eligible for an offer, you must have completed studies or have experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subjects:

 

  • General Mathematics (MTG315123); and
  • Chemistry (CHM415115) or Physics (PHY415115) or Physical Sciences (PSC315118) and
  • Australian Year 10 pass in English (or equivalent) or higher

You can enquire online for information on interstate and international equivalents to the Tasmanian senior secondary subject above. If you need assistance to meet the prerequisites, we offer foundation units that you can complete before you start your course.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

We believe university education should be an option for everyone, no matter your background. If your ability to access or participate in education has been affected by circumstances beyond your control, you can apply for special consideration as part of your application. We will consider a range of factors, including economic hardship, a serious medical condition, or disability.

We can only approve applications for special consideration if we are confident that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in your studies. If your application is not approved, the University admissions team will work with you to find the best alternative pathway to your chosen course. Special consideration is not available for international applicants.

COURSE PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS 

This course includes compulsory Work Integrated Learning (professional experience placements). In order to participate in placements, all students must:

  • Complete a Safe to Practice Agreement declaring they have the medical, physical or psychological capacity to safely participate in professional experience practice. 

English Language Requirements

This degree requires an IELTS (Academic) of 6.0, with no individual band less than 5.5, or a PTE Academic score of 50, with no score lower than 42 or equivalent.

For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship or prior studies in English in an approved country, evidence of an approved English language test completed within the last 2 years must be provided.

See the English Language Requirements page for more information.

General Entry Requirements

Admission to undergraduate courses at the University of Tasmania requires the completion of qualifications equivalent to a year 12 education in Australia.

Please review the equivalent undergraduate entry requirements to see the minimum requirement relevant to your country. The ATAR information for this course is located in the “For Domestic Students” section of the entry requirements on this page.

You can also meet the General Entry Requirement for this course with the following qualifications or prior studies:

  • Completion of an equivalent AQF Certificate IV or above
  • Complete or incomplete (minimum 25 credit points) of previous tertiary study at Diploma level or higher

Course Specific Requirements

These prerequisites apply to students from all educational backgrounds.

To be an eligible for an offer, you must have completed studies or have experience equivalent to a satisfactory achievement in the following Tasmanian Senior Secondary subjects:

  • General Mathematics (MTG315123); and
  • Chemistry (CHM415115) or Physics (PHY415115) or Physical Sciences (PSC315118) and
  • Australian Year 10 pass in English (or equivalent) or higher

You can enquire online for information on interstate and international equivalents to the Tasmanian senior secondary subject above. If you need assistance to meet the prerequisites, we offer foundation units that you can complete before you start your course.

COURSE PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS 

This course includes compulsory Work Integrated Learning (professional experience placements). In order to participate in placements, all students must:

  • Complete a Safe to Practice Agreement declaring they have the medical, physical or psychological capacity to safely participate in professional experience practice. 

 

How to apply for a credit transfer

Applications for credit can be made in your course application. Find out more information about how to apply for a credit transfer/advanced standing at Recognition of Prior Learning.

Talk to us on 13 8827 or enquire online about your credit transfer.

 

Students who have completed the Advanced Diploma of Applied Science (Marine Engineering) can articulate to this degree with full credit.

Professional pathways are also available for Seafarers with qualified sea time to enter this degrees in 2nd or 3rd year.

  • Seafarers with qualified sea time may be eligible to enrol directly into Year 2 and qualify as a Engine Watchkeeper on completion of Phase 3.
  • Seafarers with qualified sea time and a Engine Watchkeeper licence may be eligible to enrol directly into Year 3 and qualify as Class 2/1 Engineer on completion of Phase 5.

 

If you successfully complete this course, you may be also be eligible to apply for a range of other postgraduate courses including Graduate Certificates and Graduate Diplomas and Masters by coursework and research. 

If you meet the minimum ATAR but haven't completed the required pre-requisite unit(s), we offer foundation units to help you bridge the gap. Many run in spring and summer school so you can meet a prerequisite and not delay the start of your Bachelor level studies. HECS scholarships may also be available for domestic students.

If you do not meet the minimum ATAR you should consider enrolment in the Diploma of University Studies (Science Specialisation), which includes the mathematics and chemistry foundation units, as a pathway to this degree:

If you do not meet the University General Entry Requirements, you should consider enrolment in the Diploma of University Studies (Science Specialisation) or the University Preparation Program.

In all cases, contact us to discuss an option best suited to your needs.

Engineer Watchkeeper

Trainee Engineer. Holds a workshop skills equivalent qualification. There are 11 relevant trades specified or another approved qualification that includes workshop skills as specified with STCW Code Table A-III/1 column 1

Engineering Experience Training (for a person with a unrestricted State/Territory issued Engineer Class 3 or Engineer Class 3 NC) as determined by the training organisation taking into account any relevant education, skills or practical experience as specified with STCW Code Table A-III/1column 1Advice from AMSA may be sought to establish whether your qualification qualifies for this entry pathway. AMSA's response can then be forwarded as part of your application.

Class 2/Class 1 Engineer

Australian Engineer Watchkeeper Certificate of Competency (or equivalent)

OR

Engineer Class 3 - refer to AMSA Marine Order 72

Conversion Pathway

Engineer Class 1

OR

AMC's 3 year J2W Advanced Diploma (Marine Engineering) with Certificate of Competency (CoC)

Note: must have studied up to STCW Management level prior to commencement of the conversion pathway

OR

Western Australia’s South Metropolitan TAFE (SM TAFE) Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations to Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering)

This conversion pathway provides an opportunity for Australian and International Ship Officers to convert their existing professional and academic qualifications to a Bachelor of Applied Science (Marine Engineering).

To be eligible students must have completed: STCW Management level (Chief Engineer Class 1/ STCW A-III/2) studies; and MAR60215 Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Marine Engineering Class 1). For this pathway eligible students will need to complete six units as consisting of two compulsory units and four elective units.

Detailed admissions information and advice for all undergraduate courses, including comprehensive, course-level student profiles, is available from UTAS Admissions.

Fees & scholarships

Domestic students

Commonwealth supported places (CSP) are available for this course. For eligible domestic students, this means your fees will be subsidised by the Australian Government. You’ll only need to pay the student contribution amount for each unit you study within the course.

Commonwealth Supported Place indicative annual fee: $9,642.98

How is this calculated?

This is an estimate. The calculation is based on the average full-time enrolment for this course in 2026. All figures are indicative only for 2027. Actual tuition fees will depend on specific unit enrolment, and are subject to annual increases each year. You can find the complete fee details for each unit of study on the individual unit pages. The units for this course are found in the course structure section of this page.

These figures do not include other costs such as the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). For further information, please visit Scholarships, fees and costs.

HECS-HELP loans

You may be able to defer payment of the student contribution amount by accessing a HECS-HELP loan from the Government. If eligible, you’ll only have to pay your tuition fees once you start earning above a specific amount.

Further information on student loans and a CSP eligibility checker can be found at Australian Government Study Assist.

International students

2027 annual international student tuition fee: $21,460 AUD

The standard year of study for this course is 75 credit points.

Indicative total tuition fee for international students: $ 90,201 AUD.

This total tuition fee is indicative only. Please visit fees and costs for further information on how this is calculated.

International students are charged the Student Services and Amenities Fee but this fee is incorporated in the annual rate. International students do not have to make any additional SSAF payments.

Domestic scholarships

Scholarships for domestic students

Each year, the University offers more than 900 awards to students from all walks of life, including: those who have achieved high academic results, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, students with sporting ability, students undertaking overseas study, and students with a disability.

Many of the scholarships listed below are made available through generous sponsorship from our industry partners. These scholarships are specifically for AMC students however there are many other University scholarships available for which AMC students can apply.

For information on all scholarships available at the University of Tasmania, please visit the scholarships website.

Applications for most awards commencing in Semester 1 open at the beginning of August and close strictly on 31 October in the year prior to study.

Scholarships for international students

There are a huge range of scholarships, bursaries and fee discounts available for international students studying at the University of Tasmania. For more information on these, visit International Scholarships.

Additional costs

Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) Fees (not included in tuition fees)

Sea time Assessment / Oral Examination / Optional Short Courses / Sea Safety Certificate.
Find out more at the AMSA website.

How can we help?

Do you have any questions about choosing a course or applying? Get in touch.