University of Queensland
5 Years
This dual degree combines professional engineering with biotechnology, equipping students with advanced skills in both disciplines. Ideal for those passionate about translating scientific innovations into commercially viable solutions in Australia's life sciences sector.
Applicants must have completed Queensland Year 12 or equivalent with General English, Mathematical Methods, and either Chemistry or Physics at Units 3 & 4 level with a minimum grade C. The minimum ATAR entry score threshold is 84. Specialist Mathematics and both Chemistry and Physics are recommended for increased flexibility. International students must meet English language proficiency requirements (IELTS overall 6.5 or equivalent). Students without Specialist Mathematics may require preparatory courses.
The program covers Chemical Engineering specialization focusing on energy and mass flows, safety, sustainability, and interconnected systems. Students choose from five extended majors: Agricultural Biotechnology (plant and food science, molecular biology, genetics, gene editing); Chemical and Nano Biotechnology (nanotechnology, organic and inorganic chemistry, microbiology, biochemistry); Medical Biotechnology (medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, genetics, diagnostics, personalized medicine); Molecular and Microbial Biotechnology (molecular biology, immunology, genetics, microbiology); and Synthetic Biology and Industrial Biotechnology (engineering design principles, bioinformatics, genetics, product development). Core learning includes lectures, tutorials, research experience, laboratory work, seminars, and workshops with hands-on experience in gene editing, recombinant DNA technology, bioinformatics, and genomics.
University of Queensland is ranked 1st in Australia for biotechnology (Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025) and 1st in Queensland for engineering and technology (QS World University Rankings 2026). The program offers world-class laboratory, research, and computer facilities, strong links to industry and government, practical placements and internships with leading companies, and instruction from leading educators at the frontier of emerging research fields. Students benefit from extensive industry networks and opportunities for professional development.
Graduates can pursue diverse careers in Australia's thriving life sciences sector including roles as bioprocess scientists, product support specialists, field application scientists, biopharmaceutical scientists, bioprocess development engineers, chemical engineers, process engineers, service engineers, technical managers, and biotechnologists. Average annual salaries range from A$80K-$100K for chemical engineers to A$105K-$125K for geotechnical engineers. Graduates are also well-positioned to continue into research-based honours or master's degrees, establishing foundations for rewarding research careers.
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