UNISA

Advanced Diploma in Industrial Engineering

Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose:

The specific purpose of the Advanced Diploma in Industrial Engineering is designed to meet this qualification is to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practicing Professional Engineering Technologist. The qualification design reflects the new standard for engineering technologists as required by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). The qualification serves to provide learners with the knowledge in fundamental engineering. The knowledge emphasises industrial engineering principles and application. Also the qualification provides learners with an in-depth knowledge base in a particular field or discipline and the ability to apply their knowledge and skills to particular career or professional contexts, while equipping learners to undertake more specialised and intensive learning. Professional Engineering Technologists are characterised by the ability to apply established and newly developed engineering technology to solve broadly- defined problems, develop components, systems, services and processes. They provide leadership in the application of technology in safety, health, engineering and commercially effective operations and have well-developed interpersonal skills. They work independently and responsibly, applying judgment to decisions arising in the application of technology and health and safety considerations to problems and associated risks. Professional Engineering Technologists will therefore have a specialised understanding of the engineering science that underpins specific technologies together with financial, commercial, legal, social and economic, health, safety and environmental matters. The qualification is an area of study which prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of physical systems used in manufacturing and end-product systems used for specific uses, including manufacturing equipment; stationary power units and appliances; housings and containers; hydraulic and electric systems for controlling movement; and the integration of computers and remote control with operating systems.

Rationale:

The Advanced Diploma in Industrial Engineering is developed in line with the mission of the institution to offer quality education; lead, challenge, create, and explore knowledge; and contribute to national objectives regarding skills development. This qualification supports the improvement of stature and quality of the scientific and technology qualifications offered by the institution. The qualification will increase the institutional reputation, attract more international learners, especially from Africa, leading to an improved international scholarly output. This qualification prepares its graduates for professional registration as technologists in the industrial engineering field. The qualification design reflects the standard for engineering technologists as required by the Engineering Council of South Africa (referred to as the ECSA hereafter). The qualification supports the improvement of stature and quality of the scientific and technology qualifications offered by the institution. This qualification provides aspiring industrial engineering technologists with knowledge to operate and improve industrial engineering processes in an efficient, safe and profitable way. This qualification tends to have a strong vocational, professional or career focus and holders of this qualification are usually prepared to enter a specific niche in the labor market. The Advanced Diploma in Industrial Engineering qualification is consonant with the institution's mission, forms part of institutional planning and resource allocation, meets national requirements, the needs of learners and other stakeholders, and is intellectually credible. It is designed coherently, and articulates well with other relevant qualifications where possible. This qualification provides, namely:

  • Preparation for careers in engineering and areas that potentially benefit from engineering skills, for achieving technical proficiency and competency to make a contribution to the economy and national development.
  • The educational base required for registration as a Candidate and/or a Professional Engineering Technologist with ECSA.
  • Possible admission to an appropriate Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours or a Bachelor of Engineering qualification.

Outcomes

  1. Apply engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
  2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
  3. Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly defined components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  4. Define and conduct investigations and experiments of broadly-defined problems.
  5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
  6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the affected parties.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation and the need to act professionally within own limits of competency.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member or leader in a diverse team and to manage projects.
  9. Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
  10. Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of engineering practice within own limits of competence.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  1. The problem is analysed and defined, with criteria identified for an acceptable solution. Various approaches are considered, formulated, modelled, and analysed, with the best solution selected.
  2. An appropriate mix of fundamental and specialist knowledge is applied to solve engineering problems. Theories, principles, and laws are used and communicated effectively. Formal analysis and modelling are performed.
  3. The design problem is formulated to meet user needs, standards, and legislation. The design process is planned, managed, and evaluated. Alternatives are assessed for implementation, with a preferred solution selected based on techno-economic analysis.
  4. Investigations and experiments are planned, conducted, and reported. Relevant literature is evaluated, analysis is performed, and conclusions are drawn from evidence.
  5. Methods, skills, or tools are selected, applied, and critically assessed for applicability and limitations. Computer applications are used as required in the discipline.
  6. Written and oral communication is appropriate for the purpose and audience. Graphics and visual materials enhance communication. Accepted methods are used to provide information effectively.
  7. The impact of technology on society, health, safety, and the environment is considered. Personal, social, economic, and cultural values are taken into account.
  8. Principles of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling are explained. Individual and team work is carried out effectively, with contributions supporting team output.
  9. Learning tasks are managed autonomously and ethically, with reflection on learning requirements and strategies. Relevant information is sourced, organized, and applied critically.
  10. Ethical dilemmas and implications are described, with ethical reasoning applied to evaluate engineering solutions. Continued professional development is understood and embraced.

Integrated Assessment:

  • An effective integrated assessment strategy is used, with clear components addressing summative assessment of Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Evidence is derived from major work or multiple instances of limited scale work.
  • Formative Assessment includes continuous assignments and progress reports.
  • Summative Assessment examines the ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge.
  • Assessors credit evidence of learning acquired through formal, informal, and non-formal learning and experience.

Qualification Details

Type
Advanced Diploma
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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Description
UNISA, short for the University of South Africa, is a distance education institution based in South Africa. It is the largest university on the African continent and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study. UNISA provides flexible learning options, allowing students to study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. The university is known for its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population. UNISA also conducts research and collaborates with other institutions to contribute to the development of knowledge and skills in South Africa and beyond.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.