Systems Engineering

Technologies

VCE

Go back

VCE Systems Engineering involves the design, production, operation, evaluation and iteration of integrated systems, which mediate and control many aspects of human experience. Integral to VCE Systems Engineering is the identification and quantification of systems goals, the generation of system designs, trial and error, justified design trade-offs, selection and implementation of the most appropriate design. Students test and verify that the system is well-built and integrated. They evaluate how well the completed system meets the intended goals and reflect on the systems engineering process to create a satisfactory design outcome.
This study can be applied to a diverse range of engineering fields such as manufacturing, transportation, automation, control technologies, mechanisms and mechatronics, electrotechnology, robotics, pneumatics, hydraulics, and energy management.

This study enables students to:
• develop an understanding of the systems engineering process and factors that influence the creation and use of a system
• develop skills and conceptual understandings important to effective design, planning, production, diagnosis, performance analysis, maintenance, modification and control of technological systems
• acquire knowledge of mechanical, electrotechnological and control systems and apply this knowledge to solve technological problems
• develop an understanding of how technologies have transformed people’s lives and can be used to solve challenges associated with climate change, efficient energy generation and use, security, health, education and transport
• deepen their knowledge of new developments and innovations in technological systems
• develop skills in the safe, efficient and effective use of tools, equipment, materials, machines and processes, including digital technologies
• critically engage in risk management processes
• extend knowledge of project management and develop problem-solving and analytical skills
• use virtual and physical modelling to develop designs
• gain an awareness of quality and mandated standards, including system’s reliability, safety and fitness for the system’s intended purpose.

Assessment activities

  • documentation of the systems engineering process using one or more of:
    – multimedia/simulation presentations
    – electronic portfolios
    – brochures
    – a posters
    – written report
  • production work to create mechanical systems
  •  practical demonstrations
  •  oral presentations
  • exams

Selection advice

VCE Systems Engineering is based on integrated mechanical and electro technological engineered systems. It provides opportunities for students to learn about and engage with systems from a practical and purposeful perspective.

Links to further pathways

VCE Systems Engineering integrates aspects of designing, planning, producing, testing and evaluating in a project management process. It prepares students for careers in engineering, manufacturing and design through a university or TAFE vocational study pathway, employment, apprenticeships and traineeships. The study provides a rigorous academic foundation and a practical working knowledge of design strategies, production processes and evaluation practices. People with these skills, and the ability to apply systems engineering processes, are in increasing demand as participants in teams that are engaged with complex and multidisciplinary projects.