Rationale

VCE Systems Engineering promotes innovative systems thinking and problem-solving skills through the Systems Engineering Process, which takes a project-management approach. It focuses on mechanical and electrotechnology engineered systems.

The study provides opportunities for students to learn about and engage with systems from a practical and purposeful perspective. Students gain knowledge and understanding about, and learn to appreciate and apply technological systems.

VCE Systems Engineering integrates aspects of designing, planning, fabricating, testing and evaluating in a project management process. It prepares students for careers in engineering, manufacturing and design through either 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, manufacturing and evaluation techniques. These skills, and the ability to apply systems engineering processes, are growing in demand as industry projects become more complex and multidisciplinary.

Aims

This study enables students to:

• develop an understanding of the Systems Engineering Process and the range of factors that influence the design, planning, production, evaluation and use of a system

• understand the concepts of and develop skills in the design, construction, fault-finding, diagnosis, performance analysis, maintenance, modification, and control of technological systems

• acquire knowledge of mechanical, electrical/electronic 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 use, security, health, education and transport

• acquire knowledge of new developments and innovations in technological systems

• develop skills in the safe use of tools, measuring equipment, materials, machines and

  processes, including using relevant information and communications technologies, and

  understand the risk management processes

• acquire knowledge of project management, and develop problem-solving and analytical skills

• gain an awareness of quality and standards, including systems reliability, safety and fitness

  for the intended purpose.

 

​Structure

The study is made up of four units:
Unit 1: Introduction to mechanical systems
Unit 2: Introduction to electrotechnology systems
Unit 3: Integrated systems engineering and energy
Unit 4: Systems control and new and emerging technologies