Fundamentals of Electrical Systems
Credit points
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Prerequisites
NEF1102 - Engineering Physics 1
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
Electricity is at the heart of modern engineering, powering everything from infrastructure to advanced technology. In this unit, you will explore the core principles of electrical circuit theory and electromagnetism, developing the analytical skills to design, interpret, and troubleshoot DC and AC circuits.
You will investigate key electrical concepts such as Ohm’s Law, Kirchhoff’s Laws, and circuit theorems, applying them to real-world scenarios through circuit simulation tools and practical experimentation. By bridging theory with hands-on applications, you will gain valuable insight into how electrical power is generated, transmitted, and distributed—fundamental knowledge for engineers in all disciplines. By the end of this unit, you will have learned the foundational skills to analyse, model, and optimise electrical systems.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Explain and apply fundamental principles of electrical circuit theory and electromagnetism;
- Analyse and design both DC and AC electrical circuits;
- Apply circuit theorems to practical electrical engineering problems; and
- Collaborate effectively in a team setting to model and analyse electrical systems using simulation tools.
Assessment
For Melbourne campuses
Assessment type: Portfolio | Grade: 30%
Portfolio of circuit analysis exercises. (Individual) (900 words)
Assessment type: Report | Grade: 20%
Laboratory report focusing on accurate analysis and interpretation of experimental results. (Group) (1800 words)
Assessment type: Test | Grade: 50%
Problem solving scenario test on fundamental engineering principles. (Individual) (90mins)
Portfolio: Structured portfolio of problem-solving tasks with progressive skill development supported by regular feedback and validation discussions.
Report: This secure assessment ensures accountability through structured reflection, documented collaboration, and detailed explanation of techniques, with in-class progressive milestone checks linked to individual students also being used to enhance security. These milestones are recorded and incorporated into the overall marking process. Explicit evaluation of individual contributions further support the secure assessment and assurance of each student’s achievement of learning outcomes.
Test: This is an invigilated in class secure assessment with unpredictable questions that test deep understanding, require explanation of reasoning and process, and include application to new scenarios.
Required reading
Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.
As part of a course
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):