Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering)

Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering)

POSTGRADUATE

Develop the skills to take a leading role in automotive engineering design, manufacturing and testing.

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Student type:
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

Not applicable*

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Part-time 4 years
Fees:

Commonwealth Supported Places

Next intake:
Not applicable
Location:
Melbourne City
Bundoora
Learning mode:
On campus
Entry score:

See admissions

Duration:
Full-time 2 years
Fees:

AU$ 46,080 (2025 annual)

Next intake:
Not applicable
Location:
Melbourne City
Bundoora

Designed to meet the needs of the global automotive industry, this degree develops the skills you need to take a leading role in automotive engineering design, control systems, numerical simulations, manufacturing and testing.

During your studies, you will have the flexibility to specialise in either advanced automotive design and development or automotive manufacturing.

Using contemporary engineering methods and computational and experimental tools, including advanced computer-aided engineering software such as LS-DYNA, you’ll gain hands-on experience in several state-of-the-art experimental facilities – including the full-scale Vehicle Wind Tunnel, Driverless Vehicles Lab, Green Engines Research Laboratory and Vehicle NVH Laboratory.

The Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering) promotes hands-on practice by incorporating a project that will enable you to apply the learned technologies to a real-world automotive system application.

This degree focuses on sustainable design and manufacturing practices based on the entire lifecycle (from 'cradle to grave') of vehicles. This incorporates the design for disposal and recycle, disassembly, lifecycle assessment, alternative fuels, and powertrains and light structures.

Through project-based learning and the exploration of real-life problems with industry peers, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of the product lifecycle and systems design of modern automobiles and associated technologies. You’ll also have the opportunity to complete work experience with multinational companies, enhancing your employment opportunities in the global job market. 

Why choose engineering at RMIT?

World-class facilities

Gain practical experience before you graduate by learning in our purpose-built, state-of-the-art experimental facilities.

Find your focus

With the option to specialise in advanced automotive design and development or automotive manufacturing, study what interests you.

Gain real-world skills

Undertake a comprehensive placement incorporating research experience at leading automotive companies worldwide.

Details

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You'll learn how to manage innovation in automotive design.

Take the lead in both automotive manufacturing and automotive testing. The integration of classroom learning and workplace experience provides you with the opportunity to apply your knowledge and problem-solving skills in a real workplace setting.

You'll also have access to highly qualified visiting staff from overseas industry and universities who are well-versed in current and future trends in the global automotive industry.

In addition you will have the opportunity to complete a comprehensive work placement program that incorporates research experience at leading automotive companies worldwide.

Learning at RMIT

The types of classes you have will depend on the course you’re studying. Classes are offered in various formats designed to provide meaningful engagement with staff, industry and peers and provide for access and use of spaces where learning can be applied and active, including an array of specialised equipment.

Most RMIT courses do not include passive large-scale classes such as lectures, instead the content traditionally provided in lectures is made available online. This may be in the form of readings, videos or other on-demand learning materials. This content will also support the basis of interactive learning that takes place in on-campus classes.

RMIT Capabilities

The world is constantly changing, and there are universal skills that can help you adapt to the evolving nature of work and global engagement.

As part of your study experience at RMIT, we provide 6 future-focused RMIT Capabilities:

  • Ethical Global Citizens
  • Connected
  • Adaptive
  • Digitally Adept
  • Expert
  • Critically Engaged.

RMIT Capabilities are built into your course as well as some of our extracurricular experiences. They inform the design and delivery of your learning activities and assessments, so by the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to apply these capabilities in your life and work.

The Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering) was initially developed after a two-year worldwide consultation with a range of automotive companies and educational institutions.

During this period the School of Engineering obtained strong support from both the automotive industry and government organisations for the development of the degree, including companies such as Ford Motor Company Australia and Air International (Futuris).

The University of Applied Sciences Ingolstadt in Germany also supported the proposed degree strongly and provided support for collaboration with both VW and Audi.

The degree was also supported by both Australian and Victorian governments, and by the Automotive Industry Strategic Action Group (AISAG), VCAMM.

This degree has dual master agreements with the Ingolstadt University of Applied Sciences in Germany and the University of Applied Science in Aachen, Germany.

Five students per year have the opportunity to take part in the dual master program and receive degrees from both institutions. Eligibility and selection criteria for admission into the dual award apply as follows:

  • Eligibility: Applicants must be enrolled in the single award program, Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering)
  • Selection: Academic merit (based on cumulative GPA)

Students who are interested in the dual master program will be invited to submit an expression of interest to the Program Manager by week 10 of their first semester of study at RMIT.

Students who select to pursue the RMIT International Industry Experience and Research Program (RIIERP) will have the opportunity for an industry placement with a major overseas automotive manufacturer or supplier such as Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Bosch or Siemens.

Most lectures take place at the Melbourne City campus, with some practical classes running at the Bundoora campus.

Some projects in the Master Research Project subject may require travel to the Bundoora campus. Alternative projects based at the Melbourne City campus are available.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering) consists of 192 credit points.

In this degree, you'll complete specific subject(s) that focus on work-integrated learning (WIL). You'll be assessed on professional or vocational work in a workplace setting (real or simulated) and receive feedback from those involved in industry with capital-intensive assets and engineering systems.

You'll work with practitioners in the automotive industry environment, using complex software and equipment, analysing real automotive design and manufacturing case studies, and proposing and evaluating new automotive designs.

The capstone Masters Research Project, which is undertaken in second year, involves WIL through an industry-relevant project.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering)
Program code: MC230
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering)
City Campus
4 semesters full time or 8 semesters part time
MC230
079935M
Location
City Campus
Duration
4 semesters full time or 8 semesters part time
Plan code
MC230
CRICOS
079935M
View plan
Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering)
City Campus
4 semesters full time
MC230
079935M
Location
City Campus
Duration
4 semesters full time
Plan code
MC230
CRICOS
079935M
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

The Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering) will prepare you to a play an important role within the global automotive industry.

Our graduates are employed across the automotive industry, working for respected companies such as Ford, FEV, BMW, as well as related large companies in Asia and the Middle East.

As a graduate, you will be able to work effectively as an automotive engineering specialist, leading technological innovation in cross-disciplinary teams. You’ll likely work within and between geographically and culturally diverse settings, applying your broad understanding of the complex automotive supply chain and logistics involved.

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Engineers Australia is the professional body responsible for the accreditation of higher education programs that prepare students to practise as professional engineers.

Engineers Australia is a signatory to the Washington Accord. This means that the degree is internationally recognised, and graduates can practise as professional engineers in many countries around the world.

Graduates of the Master of Engineering (International Automotive Engineering) are eligible for graduate and/or professional membership of Engineers Australia.

Entry requirements and admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

Successful completion of an Australian bachelor degree (or international equivalent) in one of the following fields: Aerospace, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Sustainable Systems or Automotive Engineering with a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0.

Applicants who have a successfully completed a relevant degree (as above) with a GPA of at least 1.5 out of 4, will be considered if they have at least 3 years of relevant industry experience.

OR

Successful completion of an Australian postgraduate qualification (or international equivalent) in a related discipline (as above).

OR

Applicants without any relevant prior qualification will be considered if they have at least 10 years of relevant industry experience.

If you wish to have industry or employment experience assessed as part of meeting the entry requirements you will need to provide a detailed CV/resume listing previous positions, dates of employment and position responsibilities; a statement from your employer confirming these details (or contact details of employer so RMIT can seek confirmation); and evidence of any relevant professional development undertaken.

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

Successful completion of an Australian bachelor degree (or international equivalent) in one of the following fields: Aerospace, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Mechatronics, Sustainable Systems or Automotive Engineering with a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0.

Applicants who have a successfully completed a relevant degree (as above) with a GPA of at least 1.5 out of 4, will be considered if they have at least 3 years of relevant industry experience.

OR

Successful completion of an Australian postgraduate qualification (or international equivalent) in a related discipline (as above).

OR

Applicants without any relevant prior qualification will be considered if they have at least 10 years of relevant industry experience.

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus at RMIT University Pathways (RMIT UP).

Additional information

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Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

Pathways

You can gain entry to this masters degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs, if you meet the entry requirements.

You may be eligible for advanced standing based on industry experience or academic results in your previous studies.

Credit, recognition of prior learning, professional experience and accreditation from a professional body can reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant experience.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this masters degree, you may be eligible to undertake further studies in related programs at RMIT University, including postgraduate research programs, subject to the program's entrance requirements.

You can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Coming from a partner institution?

RMIT has pathway arrangements with many partner institutions around the world.

If your institution has a pathway arrangement with RMIT you may be able to receive credit and reduce the time it will take to complete your preferred RMIT program.

Find out if your institution has a pathway arrangement with RMIT

If you have qualifications from an institution that is not an RMIT partner, credit into your RMIT program will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Credit

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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Entry for this program is primarily through Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs).

Government financial assistance is available to eligible students regardless of the type of place you enrol in.

2025 indicative fees

Commonwealth supported places

  • 2025 Commonwealth supported places (CSP) range from AU$4,627 to AU$16,992*. 

Full-fee places

  • AU$37,440 (2025 annual fee)*.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$365 maximum fee for 2025*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

  • You may be eligible to apply for a HELP loan, which can be used to defer payment of up to the full amount of your student contribution fees. You may also be eligible to apply to defer payment of your SSAF through the SA-HELP loan scheme.
  • For more information and to learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees see postgraduate study fees.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are subsidised by the Australian Government.

Your share of the fee (student contribution) is set on an annual basis by the government and is determined by the discipline areas (bands) of your individual enrolled courses, not the overall program.

How much can I expect to pay for my Commonwealth supported place?

The Australian Government has introduced changes to university funding and student contribution fees under its Job-ready Graduates Package. 

The fees in the table below apply to students who commence their program in 2025. Fees for continuing students are available at fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Each course (subject) falls into a band. The band determines the student contribution amount for the course.

Amounts listed in the table below are based on a standard, full-time study load (96 credit points per year) with all courses in the same band. A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load or for enrolment in courses (subjects) from a combination of bands.

You can learn how to calculate your exact tuition fees for units from different bands at Fees for Commonwealth supported students.

Maximum student contribution amount for Commonwealth supported places in 2025 for commencing students

Student contribution band by course (subject)

Maximum annual student contribution amount (per EFTSL) in 2025
Education, Postgraduate Clinical Psychology, English, Mathematics, Statistics, Nursing, Indigenous and Foreign Languages, Agriculture $4,627 per standard year
$578 per standard (12 credit point) course
Allied Health, Other Health, Built Environment, Computing, Visual and Performing Arts, Professional Pathway Psychology, Professional Pathway Social Work, Engineering, Surveying, Environmental Studies, Science, Pathology $9,314 per standard year
$1,164 per standard (12 credit point) course
Dentistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science $13,241 per standard year
$1,655 per standard (12 credit point) course
Law, Accounting, Administration, Economics, Commerce, Communications, Society and Culture $16,992 per standard year
$2,124 per standard (12 credit point) course

Student Learning Entitlement

On 1 January 2022, the Government implemented the Student Learning Entitlement (SLE).

  • The SLE allows students 7 years of full-time subsidised study in Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP).
  • Your total SLE amount will be reduced in accordance with your overall study load in a CSP. 
  • Once you have utilised all your SLE, you can not longer study in a CSP.

For more information about SLE, visit Study Assist.

If you are offered a full-fee place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your course, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from course to course.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

This program is approved for income support.

You may be eligible for student income support payments from the Commonwealth Government if you are undertaking a graduate certificate, graduate diploma or an approved professionally oriented masters by coursework program. For more information see Income support for Masters students.

If you are enrolled in an eligible program you will also need to satisfy all other student payment eligibility requirements. You can contact Centrelink or Services Australia for further information about student income support entitlements, your eligibility and how to apply.

You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.

See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.

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

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In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Student services and amenities fee (SSAF)

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2025 is $365. 

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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