Future Students

Meet Brenden Chemical Engineering: What subjects did you study at school?

Throughout school I was very much a maths and science person which was reflected in the subjects I did for my HSC. My favourite was engineering studies, where I could apply all the theories I’d learnt in my other subjects. That’s when I decided I wanted to do engineering at university. I had an amazing chemistry teacher whose enthusiasm rubbed off and the more I researched chemical engineering the better it sounded.

The course is interesting, challenging and diverse. There’re opportunities to travel, do something positive for society and work in an array of industries. The job prospects are great.

Why did you choose Sydney?

I visited universities in different states and decided on Sydney Uni because it had a very good reputation, good facilities and, most importantly, a good atmosphere. Everyone at Sydney seemed to love being there.

What has your first year been like?

It has probably been the best and most challenging year of my life. Academically, I enjoyed it thoroughly. Taking part in the Advanced Engineering project gave me a chance to use my creativity and knowledge to help society.

Socially, I made lots of new friends both through engineering and living at St John’s College on campus. The social calendar of the colleges provides plenty of opportunities to meet non-engineering students as well as other engineers, many of whom have become my best mates.

International Students

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Flexible first year

We give you the flexibility to choose

Thinking of studying engineering at the University of Sydney but unsure what area you’d like to specialise in?

Now you can explore a number of areas before deciding upon your ultimate specialisation. All streams of engineering and IT in the Faculty are included in the Flexible First Year so you have the opportunity to discover your strengths and interests before committing to one stream.

Full details on the flexible first year program, including course maps, is available in the 2010 Engineering Undergraduate Brochure.

How do I apply for Flexible First Year?

Apply through UAC. All relevant information will be available in the 2010 UAC Guide. The Flexible First Year UAC Code is: 511756 HECS

How does Flexible First Year work?

Flexible First Year allows change at the end of Semester One or the end of first year to one of the many specialisations we offer. You will still complete your degree in the normal time and, as a graduate, you will emerge fully qualified in the area of your choice with as much in-depth knowledge as those from other less flexible courses. We keep all your options open, so you change direction without affecting the duration of your course.

What is the ATAR likey to be?

In 2009 the ATAR equivalent was 86. Please note that the UAI/ATAR does vary from year to year.

Will I be able to get into a higher UAI course in second year after having completed the Flexible First Year?

It will be possible, depending on your UAI and academic performance in your first year. Generally, you will need a credit average (65 per cent) for ATAR streams in the low 90s range and a distinction average (75 per cent) for those in the high 90s range. If you have already achieved the required ATAR for a stream, entry into that stream is assured.

Will I be able to do combined degrees in Commerce, Science, Arts, Law and Medical Science with the Flexible First Year?

Yes, provision has been made for elective units in the new program to enable you to complete the requirements of your other degree, for example, Accounting for Bachelor of Engineering/Bachelor of Commerce students.

Will I be able to do the Advanced Engineering or IT Talented Student options with the Flexible First Year?

Yes! There is no UAC entry into advanced engineering or talented student programs. Students with a ATAR of 98 or above are invited by the Dean to undertake an Advanced Engineering project or join the IT Talented Student program. This can be done as a replacement for, or in parallel with, Science based subjects that may already have been adequately covered in High School.

The University of Sydney - Engineering & Information Technologies

Flexible first year

We give you the flexibility to choose