Central University of Technology

Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours in Mechanical Engineering

Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose:

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours Degree is a Postgraduate qualification designed to prepare learners for industry and research. This qualification is intended for individuals who have completed a Bachelor's Degree, Advanced Diploma, or relevant Level 7 qualification. The program aims to deepen the student's expertise in a specific discipline, develop research skills, and enhance their theoretical engagement and intellectual independence. The Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours Degree in Mechanical Engineering specifically aims to provide learners with a strong foundation in Mechanical Engineering, engineering management principles, and the ability to pursue further specialized Postgraduate studies.

The program aims to:

  1. Prepare learners for research careers in Mechanical Engineering and related areas.
  2. Develop leadership skills for managing projects involving technology, safety, health, and effective operations.
  3. Equip learners with interpersonal skills to work independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  4. Cultivate judgment and decision-making skills in applying technology and health and safety considerations to engineering problems.

Rationale:

The qualification is designed to address the documented need for engineering qualifications in South Africa, highlighted by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). With a low engineer to population ratio compared to other countries, there is a significant demand for skilled engineers in various industries. By offering this Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours Degree, the institution aims to support government initiatives, contribute to national development goals, and bridge the skills gap in engineering fields.

Specifically, the qualification aims to:

  1. Support research and development and apply specialist knowledge to meet admission requirements for a related Master's Degree.
  2. Provide essential skills for industries such as automotive, mining, power stations, and renewable energy projects.
  3. Contribute to the goals of the National Development Plan by developing skilled engineers.
  4. Address the need for engineering skills outlined in the National Development Plan for education, skills, and innovation.
  5. Build regional capacity within the Free State and contribute to the overall human resource needs of South Africa.
  6. Leverage the institution's experience, partnerships, research reputation, and infrastructure to meet national engineering demands effectively.

By offering this qualification, the institution aims to play a vital role in developing skilled engineers, supporting industry needs, and contributing to the socioeconomic development of South Africa.

Outcomes

  1. Identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex engineering problems creatively and innovatively.
  2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to the conceptualisation of engineering models and to solve complex engineering problems.
  3. Perform creative, procedural and non-procedural design and synthesis of components, systems, engineering works, products or processes of a complex nature.
  4. Conduct investigations of complex engineering problems including engagement with the research literature and use of research methods including design of experiments, analysis and interpretation of data and synthesis of the information to provide valid conclusions.
  5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of complex 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 community at large.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activities society, economy, industrial and physical environment.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles.
  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.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Analyse and define the problem and identify the criteria for an acceptable solution.
  • Identify relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills for solving the problem.
  • Generate and formulate possible approaches that would lead to a workable solution for the problem.
  • Model and analyse possible solutions.
  • Evaluate possible solutions and select the best solution.
  • Formulate the solution and present it in an appropriate form.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Apply an appropriate mix of knowledge of Mathematics, Numerical Analysis, Statistics, Natural Science and Engineering Science at a fundamental level and in a specialist area to bring solutions to complex engineering problems.
  • Use theories, principles, and laws.
  • Perform formal analysis and modelling on engineering materials, components, systems, or processes.
  • Communicate concepts, ideas, and theories.
  • Handle uncertainty and risk.
  • Perform work within the boundaries of the practice area.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Formulate the design problem to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice, and legislation.
  • Plan and manage the design process to focus on important issues and deal with constraints.
  • Acquire and evaluate knowledge, information, and resources to apply appropriate principles and design tools for a workable solution.
  • Perform design tasks including analysis, quantitative modelling, and optimization.
  • Evaluate alternatives and select a preferred solution based on techno-economic analysis.
  • Assess the selected design in terms of social, economic, legal, health, safety, and environmental impact.
  • Communicate the design logic and relevant information in a technical report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Plan and conduct investigations and experiments within an appropriate discipline.
  • Search available literature and evaluate material for suitability.
  • Perform analysis as necessary.
  • Select and use equipment or software appropriately.
  • Analyse, interpret, and derive information from available data.
  • Record the purpose, process, and outcomes of the investigation in a technical report or research project report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Assess the method, skill, or tool for applicability and limitations.
  • Apply the method, skill, or tool correctly to achieve the required result.
  • Test and assess results produced against required results.
  • Create, select, and use computer applications as required.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Ensure appropriate structure, style, and language for written and oral communication.
  • Use graphics to enhance meaning.
  • Use visual materials for oral communications.
  • Use accepted methods for providing information.
  • Deliver oral communication fluently with clear meaning.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Explain the impact of technology on society.
  • Analyse engineering activity in terms of health, safety, and environmental impact.
  • Consider personal, social, economic, and cultural values in engineering activities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

  • Explain principles of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling.
  • Carry out individual work effectively and on time.
  • Demonstrate functioning as a team leader.
  • Organize and manage projects effectively.
  • Communicate effectively in individual or teamwork settings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

  • Manage learning tasks autonomously and ethically.
  • Reflect on learning and determine personal strategies.
  • Source, organize, and evaluate relevant information.
  • Apply knowledge acquired outside formal instruction.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

  • Describe ethical dilemmas and implications.
  • Apply ethical reasoning to evaluate solutions.
  • Maintain competence through professional development.
  • Accept responsibility for consequences.
  • Make judgements in decision-making and justify designs within current competence.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Implement assessment through various methods.
  • Assess analytical, design, and implementation skills.
  • Use diverse assessment methods such as case studies, problem-solving assignments, portfolios, projects, presentations, exams, practical exercises, and demonstrations.
  • Ensure evidence of professional competencies is demonstrated.
  • Assess foundational, practical, and reflexive competence for applied skills.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

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Central University of Technology
Description
The Central University of Technology (CUT) is a public university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It was established in 1981 and is one of the largest universities of technology in the country. CUT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields including engineering, health sciences, business and management, information technology, and applied sciences. The university is known for its focus on practical and industry-oriented education, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. CUT also has a strong research culture and collaborates with industry partners to address real-world challenges and contribute to the development of the region.

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.