Learn the theoretical and practical skills to work in the mechanical and manufacturing industries.
Not applicable
AU$21,500 (2025 annual)
At RMIT, you’re learning in a world-class university environment.
In this advanced diploma, you’ll gain the theoretical and practical skills to work as a technical officer or engineering supervisor in the mechanical and manufacturing industries.
You’ll develop an understanding of technical and managerial concepts, and be able to work in small, medium and large enterprises, as well as the defence forces.
Mechanical engineering is a diverse and challenging field where you will be responsible for designing, improving and building mechanical devices, systems and machines to solve problems across a range of industrial sectors and within general society.
From computer-aided drafting to fabrication, you'll develop a broad suite of skills using the latest equipment and programs.
Undertake a simulated industry-based engineering project and learn about real-life industry developments.
An advisory committee, made up of leading industry representatives, ensures that this degree reflects current industry needs.
RMIT University is ranked in the top 10 universities in Australia for engineering [QS rankings by subject 2024].
With Industry 4.0, digital twins, artificial intelligence, robotics, 3D printing and generative design creating new opportunities in engineering, how will you be ready for what’s next?
This training is delivered with Victorian and Commonwealth Government funding.
RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches, including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work.
You'll have access to online resources through the student portal.
Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes examinations, essays, reports, oral classes, presentations, group projects, research projects, laboratory projects and practical assignments.
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.
You’ll complete a simulated industry-based project (or equivalent) as part of the program.
This program has a strong Industry Advisory Committee (IAC), which links the program and real life industry developments, and is comprised of staff from local manufacturing, automotive, refrigeration and air-conditioning industries. It provides regular feedback on the program and the changing needs of industry.
The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this advanced diploma and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.
The advanced diploma covers engineering skills including drafting, computer-aided drafting, and use of hand and power tools, machining and manufacturing processes.
You’ll learn skills in basic machining operations and fabrication tasks, as well as how to select, set up and use a range of test equipment.
You’ll also be introduced to engineering mathematics, scientific principles and materials engineering. You may also learn to apply computer-aided manufacturing processes and programming.
Specialist areas include:
Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.
Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.
Upon graduation, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to be employed as a technical officer, engineering assistant, supervisor or manager. You may work in offices, technical laboratories, workshops or manufacturing plants.
Mechanical and manufacturing paraprofessional engineers:
Jobs and Skills Australia projects that work opportunities for industrial, mechanical and production engineers are set to increase by 13.1% to 2028.
This program is accredited by Engineers Australia. Graduates of the program will be eligible for membership of Engineers Australia at Engineering Associate level.
Australia is a signatory to the International Engineering Alliance, also known as the Dublin Accord, for engineering technicians. Graduates of the program will be recognised in all countries that are signatories to the accord.
You need to satisfy all of the following academic (entry) requirements to be considered for entry into this course.
Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) (or equivalent)
OR
Successful completion of Post-Secondary studies in a related field (Certificate II or above)
OR
At least 6 months of full-time work experience in a related field as per a detailed resume (or part-time equivalent).
Successful completion of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) (or equivalent)
OR
Successful completion of Post-Secondary studies in a related field (Certificate II or above)
OR
At least 6 months of full-time work experience in a related field as per a detailed resume (or part-time equivalent).
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.
You must have successfully completed a qualification recognised by RMIT as equivalent to the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) with a minimum average of 50% (see calculator below).
Equivalent qualifications may also include completion of the RMIT Foundation Studies program or a recognised post secondary diploma in the relevant discipline with the required grades.
Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee entry. Your application will still need to be assessed and accepted.
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 program you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:
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).
Undertaking a certificate, diploma, advanced diploma or associate degree can help you meet the entry requirements for your preferred degree. These qualifications often provide credit, reducing the duration of your bachelor degree.
This course offers pathway options. If you don’t meet the entry requirements, a formal pathway might be your way in.
Guaranteed Pathways gives you the option to preference pathway packages in VTAC.
If you apply and are successful in gaining a place in a Guaranteed Pathway package, you will progress straight into the Bachelor Degree upon successful completion of the relevant vocational degree (otherwise known as TAFE) first.
With a Guaranteed Pathway package, you can graduate with two internationally-recognised RMIT qualifications.
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.
Graduates of this course will be guaranteed entry into the courses below.
For more information, explore our Pathway finder, or contact Study@RMIT.
You can gain entry to this advanced diploma from RMIT Foundation Studies or a range of vocational study programs.
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.
You are guaranteed entry into the Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) (Honours) with three semesters of advanced standing (equivalent to 144 credit points) when you successfully complete the Advanced Diploma of Engineering (Mechanical).
Alternatively, you may be eligible for entry into other RMIT undergraduate programs.
The tuition fees you will pay for this program will depend on whether you are offered a Victorian Government subsidised place or a full-fee place. To find out if you are eligible for a government subsidised place, follow the steps at How to check if you are eligible.
*Fees shown are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at the time of enrolment.
Use our fee finder to get an estimate of your fees for this program.
The student tuition fees as displayed by the fee finder are indicative only and subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.
The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.
For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.
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.
The Australian Government provides financial assistance via the VET Student Loans scheme, which allows eligible students in eligible programs to defer payment of their tuition fees, up to the maximum loan amount for their program.
If your VET Student Loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT your tuition fees on your behalf, up to the maximum loan amount for your program.
Your VET Student Loan becomes part of your VETSL debt. You will start repaying your accumulated VETSL debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is adjusted each year (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.
The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology advises that:
For more information see VET Student Loans or Study Assist.
If your program is eligible for the VET Student Loan scheme and has a loan cap that doesn’t cover the total amount of the tuition fees for your program, then you’ll need to pay RMIT the difference by the due date once you exceed the cap.
It’s easy for you to keep track of your VET Student Loan debt, and you can choose to make upfront payments at any time before the census date.
For vocational and undergraduate students studying property, accounting, commerce, economics, finance, and financial planning who are from a diverse background and/or can demonstrate circumstances which impact their study; worth up to $40,000.
RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Acknowledgement of Country
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.
Acknowledgement of Country
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.
