Major overview
Examine vital frameworks, principles and tools to develop practical skills and apply these in real-life case studies.
You’ll apply specialised engineering knowledge and skills with an emphasis on the integration of energy, water and resource recovery systems into Smart Cities and sustainable communities.
3 reasons to study Environmental and Sustainable Systems Engineering at Murdoch University
- Gain practical experience with industry through Work Integrated Learning, site visits and industry focused projects.
- Complete your Master's degree in 1.5 years by studying in intensive mode.
- Five-star rating and #1 university in Western Australia for learner engagement, teaching quality and skills development for Engineering and Technology at postgraduate level by the Good Universities Guide 2026.*
What you’ll learn
- The circular economy and innovation
- Hydrology and Water Cycle Management
- Design of water treatment unit operations
- Integrated waste management for resource recovery
- Land use planning and green infrastructure
- Industrial ecology (symbiosis)
- Hydrogen systems
I use what I learned at Murdoch University every day. The field visits taught us how the industry really works – not just the technology, but what employers look for in people.
Rohit Bomma, Master of Renewable and Sustainable Energy
Read full student story
Your future career
Graduates can find employment in the water, waste management, resource recovery, land development and green infrastructure industries.
Start dates
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online | Mixed mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | No | No |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
Major Structure
Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.
To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.
| Unit code | Unit name | Credit points |
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How to Apply
Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.
Master of Engineering Practice
Are you looking to advance your career in engineering? A Master of Engineering Practice is for you. Upskill in emerging areas such as renewable and sustainable energy, environmental and sustainable systems, intelligent and autonomous systems, and industrial control.