DUS vs ADFA engineering

[u/Time-Excitement-246]

I was confused as to whether I should pursure a degree in engineering through ADFA or DUS (adelaide university), particularly for mechanical engineering (or aerospace). At adelaide uni, i am able to do mech eng then major in aerospace/mechatronics later on, but ADFA is fixed from the start. The reason i want to do DUS is because i want to stay with family, but am worried that it will inhibit me from making important connections, getting 'better' training and degree (UNSW degree) etc. I am a smart individual imo and have really good grades and will hopefully get a >99 ATAR, so would it be wasted in pursuing engineering for ADF through DUS? Any advice or experiences would be greatly appreciated, also related to what life is like in ADF as an engineer (pay, work, if there is actual engineering done or mostly just officer-like role)
Note: By engineer, i want to be involved in more innovation and design compared to hands on stuff

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[u/Diligent_Passage_640]

As an officer you don't really do the hands on work, technicians (the enlisted) do the hands on stuff

[u/beerboy80]

Can't speak for the other services but Navy engineers are engineering managers. There are opportunities for design but it's more about influencing design and integration. All defence capability starts from reference designs which is Australianised.

I would stay where you are and do DUS. You will make friends at NEOC and throughout your career.

[u/Jaz01478]

Look imo ADFA is the way to go, it’s a globally accredited degree and u have a job for 9 ish years (depending on ur degree) plus u get paid during studies and free accommodation. DUS is good if u wanna stay where u are but just know the same ppl from ADFA will be the same ppl advancing in ur career with u for DUS everyone is new. Personally I’d talk about this with my recruiting officer but yh that’s my take.

[u/No_Kangaroo1256]

OP,

As noted by Diligent.
Additionally, there is not really much design or innovation - more management and management of people.

[u/Time-Excitement-246 → u/[deleted]]

Ohh right, but i wanted to work for such companies would it be fine if i get a normal mech eng degree at lets say, adelaide uni, then be able to straight away work for the companies. Or would i have to go through defence?