Industrial engineering is an interdisciplinary field, requiring knowledge in mathematics, physics, engineering and even social sciences, such as psychology. Industrial engineers apply science, mathematics and engineering methods to complex system integration and operations to eliminate wastefulness.

Industrial engineers develop, design and refine systems and processes focused on improving quality and productivity. This includes systems and processes relating to people, money, information, equipment and energy.

Due to the nature of the work, industrial engineers have expertise in engineering and mathematics principles and methods, and in business fundamentals such as logistics and operations management.

They are also regarded for their strong interpersonal skills and their ability to work well with people to achieve optimised work processes and systems.

This course provides you with a combination of technical depth and business fundamentals.

In this course, you will be involved in major industrial engineering research projects where you will be able to apply your acquired skills to help meet the challenges and opportunities that exist in the real world. In particular, you will have the skills to manage big data and apply business analytics to modern industry.

You will also study systems for total quality management and learn how to apply models to large-scale industrial problems. 

This major sits within the Master of Science (Science) degree. To apply for this major, you will apply for the Master of Science (Science).

Why study

• Gain the skills to use your mathematical training to increase productivity, improve quality and operate less wastefully.
• Take advantage of the strong demand for professionals with higher degree qualifications in this vibrant field.

There is a strong demand for professionals with higher degree qualifications in industrial engineering from government departments such as those relating to agriculture, treasury, transport and infrastructure and the Forest Products Commission. Graduates also find work in government agencies such as CSIRO and DSTO, and commercial companies involved in the industries of mining and petroleum, banking, communications, defence, transport, logistics and manufacturing.