Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The purpose of this graduate-level qualification is to provide students with an in-depth understanding, creativity, life-long learning skills, and applied competence in the broad field of engineering. Engineering involves the application of knowledge in mathematical and natural sciences, acquired through study, experience, and practice, with discernment to develop innovative solutions that economically utilize the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of humanity.
Specifically, this qualification aims to offer specialized knowledge and applied competence in mechanical engineering to meet the unique requirements of the South African industry. Mechanical engineers play a crucial role in the design, development, manufacturing, maintenance, and research of mechanical equipment. Additionally, they are required to possess skills in people management and an understanding of the manufacturing processes needed for mechanized consumer products.
Moreover, the contents of this qualification are designed to fulfill the academic criteria for becoming a registered Professional Engineer, as prescribed by the Accreditation Standards of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). These standards also align with internationally recognized engineering accreditation benchmarks.
Outcomes
- Solve Engineering problems by identifying, assessing, formulating and solving convergent and divergent engineering problems creatively and innovatively.
- Apply of knowledge of mathematics, basic science and engineering science from first principles to solve engineering problems.
- Perform creative, procedural and non-procedural design and synthesis of components, systems, works, products or processes.
- Investigation, experimentation and data analysis.
- Use engineering methods, skills, tools and information technology.
- Communicate effectively in professional and in general terms.
- Understand and appreciate the impact of engineering activity on society and the environment.
- Work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary environments showing leadership and performing critical functions.
- Engage in lifelong learning through well-developed learning skills and to understand the need to maintain continued competence and to keep abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques.
- Act professionally and ethically and to take responsibility within his/her own limits of competence and is competent to exercise judgment commensurate with his/her knowledge and experience.
Assessment Criteria
Engineering Problem Solving
- Solve engineering problems through assignments like case studies, laboratory experiments, and design projects.
- Apply mathematical, numerical analysis, and statistical knowledge to engineering problems by:
- Formal analysis, modeling, and communication using mathematics.
- Reasoning and conceptualizing engineering components with mathematical concepts.
- Handling uncertainty and risk through probability and statistics.
- Use physical laws and knowledge as the foundation for solving engineering problems through formal analysis and modeling.
Design and Synthesis Skills
- Develop design skills by:
- Identifying and formulating design problems to meet user needs and standards.
- Planning and managing the design process while considering constraints.
- Acquiring and evaluating knowledge and resources, applying correct principles and tools.
- Perform design tasks, evaluate alternatives, and assess impacts while communicating the design logic.
Integrated Development
- Develop skills through laboratory exercises and thesis projects by applying research methods and analyzing data.
- Use appropriate engineering methods, tools, and computer packages effectively.
- Develop effective communication skills and create computer applications as needed.
Sensitization and Responsibility
- Modules like Ethics and Environmental Management sensitize learners to the impact of engineering on society and the environment.
- Emphasize individual and group responsibility through cooperative learning activities.
Thinking Skills and Ethics
- Focus on developing thinking skills, scientific logic, and innovation for lifelong learning.
- Incorporate an Ethics and Engineering Practice module to develop ethical and professional attitudes.
Assessment
- Integrated assessment methods include workplace assessments, written and oral examinations, assignments, tutorials, presentations, and self-assessment.
- Summative assessment in the final year includes capstone projects to integrate acquired skills.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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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.