Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Photovoltaics and Solar Energy)
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1, 2 & 3
- Duration
- 4 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 425200
- Program code 3707
- CRICOS code 056835E
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $7,500*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $35,000*
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2024 Indicative first year full fee
- $54,500*
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2024 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $238,000*
Fees
Fees
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Specialised curriculum
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Project-based learning
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Industry training
International application pause for 2025 intakes
Applications for international students to study at UNSW in 2025 are currently paused. Please submit your expression of interest to join our application waitlist so we can contact you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- Double degrees
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
In this degree, you'll immerse yourself in the manufacture and use of solar cells, which capture and convert sunlight into electricity. Courses in technology development, manufacturing, quality control, reliability, policy, system design and more will prepare you for varied, high-level work in an industry that is vital for humanity's future.
Your study looks beyond the sun as a source of energy, encompassing a wider range of technologies and their uses. It also addresses the important areas of solar architecture and the design of energy-efficient buildings and appliances. To get you work-ready, you'll apply your skills through 60 days of approved industry training.
Key features
UNSW Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Photovoltaics & Solar Energy) is a four-year full-time degree that'll teach you how to carve out a career that works towards a more sustainable future.
This undergraduate degree is globally recognised and is accredited by Engineers Australia. Part of your study involves applying your skills through 60 days of approved industrial training in Australia or overseas. Your industrial training will give you a taste of a real-world professional engineering setting and the hands-on experience to become career-ready.
Make a difference to disadvantaged communities through our Humanitarian Engineering projects, electives and minors on offer. Humanitarian Engineeringworks to provide disadvantaged individuals and communities withengineeringsolutions that improve lives and livelihoods. These solutions may provide essential services such as food, water, shelter, energy and information where they are unavailable.
You can complete a Flexible First Year when you study this degree. Flexible First Year allows you to explore different engineering fields before choosing your specialisation. The first year of engineering study has a core of common subjects, plus a wide choice of electives, so you can figure out which one is right for you.
Why study this degree at UNSW?
For over twenty years UNSW has been a world leader in research and commercialisation of high-performance silicon solar cells. The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) is a leading provider of world class education and research; specialising in education for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
UNSW academics in the photovoltaic field have been consistently ranked amongst global academic leaders through peer review. Our research has produced world record solar cells for a range of materials and technologies – including silicon, perovskite, CZTS and concentrating photovoltaics.
UNSW is known for its graduate employability, with UNSW awarded the Most Employable Students Award in the AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards for 5 consecutive years (2020-2024).* We have close industry ties with industry partners including Suntech, China Sunergy, LG Electronics, Tongwei, Adani, CSR, BlueScope, AECOM and the NSW Government
At UNSW Engineering you’ll benefit from a diverse and welcoming community with plenty to keep you busy. UNSW Engineering boasts 16 student societies including a society for each school. Get involved in Queer Students in Stem, Women in Renewable Energy Society or Robogals. UNSW’s Women in Engineering (WIE) society runs social and industry events as well as programs designed to mentor and develop female engineers.
As part of a range of student led projects on offer you can take part in SunSwift Solar. Sunswift is a student-led project run by UNSW students who are pushing the limits of solar technology to inspire sustainable action. They design, build and race solar-electric vehicles in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge. Student volunteers from all areas of engineering come together to build a solar car from start to finish.
*AFR Top100 Future Leaders 2024
3707
056835E
Kensington
425200
192
Want to see more from UNSW Engineering?
Entry requirements
90.0
13.0
34.0
82.45
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- The 2024 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024.
- The 2024 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.
- The 2024 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2024. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2024 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
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At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.
To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.
We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
Assumed knowledge
Mathematics Extension 1, Physics
Adjustment Factors
We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.
Admission pathways
This degree is eligible for admission through ourPortfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme. Complete a submission to demonstrate your passion and performance in relevant subjects. Successful applicants will receive an early conditional offer with an adjusted ATAR entry requirement.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
International direct entry
We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please for more information.
Please for direct entry requirements.
Admission pathways
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with . UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
Program structure
This degree is a four-year degree, which can be studied part time or full time. You’ll gain a solid background in mathematics, natural sciences and computing that’ll prepare you to learn knowledge and skills in Photovoltaics and Solar Engineering.
We place a strong emphasis on gaining hands-on experience of working with solar energy devices, modules and systems. You’ll study the following areas:
Technology development
Manufacturing
Quality control
Reliability
Cell interconnection and encapsulation
Policy development
Life-cycle analysis
System design
Innovative teaching techniques have been developed to enhance the learning environment including the 'Virtual Production Line' and 'Virtual World Solar Car Challenge'.
A unique feature of this degree is that in Year 2, you can select a strand to complement your education in Photovoltaics and Solar Energy. The strands available cover areas such as computing, electronics, mathematics, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, physics, chemical engineering, and architecture.
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- Photovoltaics and Solar Energy
Full program structure
Degree structures can vary depending on your specialisation of choice, the number of courses you choose and timetabling, to give you an indication you can consider the below.
In your first year you mightstudy:
Two introductorycoursesin Mathematics
An introductory course in Physics,
and an introductory course in Computing
You may also study an introductory course related to your specialisation of choice. These courses equip you with the skills required for the rest of your Engineering degree.
All studentsstudyENGG1000 “Introduction to Engineering Design and Innovation”.In this courseyou’lllearn to think the way that engineers think,developingsolutionswith limitedbudget, time and resources.
In your second yearyou’ll undertake:
Courses from your selected specialisations
Corecourses to give you the fundamental knowledge in your area of interest
Inyour third and fourth year you’ll develop your knowledge further with a range of core and elective courses.
Duringyour degree you’llbe required tocompletetwoGeneral Education electives.These courses help youbroadenyoureducation by completingseveralcourses from outside the engineering faculty strengthening yourcross-disciplinary thinking, developing a flexible approach and enhancing your critical analysis skills.
This degree also requires youto complete 60 days of industrial training, which gives you some on the job experience before graduating.This multidisciplinary educational approach connects students, academics and industry enablingyouto develop the essential technical and professionalskills,soyouthrive inyourfuture career.
Future careers
Photovoltaic engineers can be involved in developing and refining cell production methods, installing and maintaining systems and further integrating photovoltaics into everyday life. Graduates from our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are at the forefront of this transition to a renewable energy future.
Opportunities are found in many fields. These include:
Refining cell production technology
Researching and developing multi-junction cells
Concentrated solar power
Multi-axis tracking
Thin film technologies
Grid-connection and integration
Utility scale developments
Independent system design
Building integrated photovoltaics
Our graduates are equipped to work in large engineering companies or small start-up companies.
Potential careers
- Manufacturing
- Quality control and reliability
- Computer-aided design of devices and systems
- Policy formation
- Programs for developing countries
- Energy utilities
Accreditation
This degree is globally recognised and is accredited by Engineers Australia and acknowledged by the Washington Accord.
Part of this degree involves applying your skills through 60 days of approved industrial training in Australia or overseas. Your industrial training will give you a taste of a real-world professional engineering setting and the hands-on experience to become career-ready.
Double degrees
Combine your unique talents and passions to embark on opportunities suited to your strengths. Despite the name, double degrees are not double the workload! You'll study core courses in two areas of expertise, graduating with two qualifications in less time than it takes to complete two consecutive degrees.
Double your knowledge, skills, and career options with the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and:
- Advanced Mathematics (Honours)
- Advanced Science (Honours)
- Arts
- Commerce
- Computer Science
- Engineering Science
- Fine Arts
- Law
- Science
*Double Degree only available with some Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) specialisations.
How to apply
Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Visit the Apply section of the and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.
On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted viaour service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencementdate. Formore information visitour .
*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. .
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 2
*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the university and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year.
The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only - other fees and charges are not included.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Featured scholarships
Women in Engineering Scholarships
UNSW provides a wide range of Women in Engineering scholarships to support high-achieving female students throughout their degree.
and search for ‘Engineering’ in the keywords.
Engineering Rural Scholarship
The Faculty of Engineering Rural Scholarships Program aims to assist high achieving high school students from rural or isolated areas to study in the Faculty of Engineering at UNSW.
and search for‘Engineering’ in the keywords.
QS World University Rankings, 2025.
AFR Top 100 Future leaders Award.
#1 Australian uni attended by start-up founders.
I love that everything in the world is being engineered by somebody.
