University of Pretoria

Bachelor of Engineering in Mining Engineering

Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design

Purpose and Rationale

Graduate-Level Whole Qualification in Engineering

The graduate-level whole qualification in engineering aims to foster understanding, creativity, lifelong learning, and applied competence in the broad field of engineering. Engineering is defined as a profession that applies knowledge of mathematical and natural sciences, acquired through study, experience, and practice, with sound judgment to develop ways to economically harness the materials and forces of nature for the benefit of humanity.

Specific Focus on Mining Engineering

This qualification also focuses on providing specific knowledge and applied competence in mining engineering, tailored to meet the unique needs of the South African minerals industry. Mining engineers in this context are involved in the design, development, management, and research related to mineral resource engineering. They are required to possess skills in both technical aspects of mining operations and the management of people involved in the production of minerals.

Alignment with Professional Engineering Standards

The curriculum of this qualification must meet the academic requirements for registration as a Professional Engineer, set forth by the Accreditation Standards of the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). Additionally, the program aims to align with internationally accepted engineering accreditation standards as set out by ECSA.

This comprehensive graduate-level qualification in engineering and mining engineering equips students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to succeed in these fields, contributing to the advancement of the minerals industry in South Africa and meeting the global standards of engineering excellence.

Outcomes

  1. Solve Engineering problems by identifying, assessing, formulating and solving convergent and divergent engineering problems creatively and innovatively.
  2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, basic science and engineering science from first principles to solve engineering problems.
  3. Perform creative, procedural and non-procedural design and synthesis of components, systems, works, products or processes.
  4. Investigation, experimentation and data analysis.
  5. Use engineering methods, skills, tools and information technology.
  6. Communicate effectively in professional and in general terms.
  7. Understand and appreciate the impact of engineering activity on society and the environment.
  8. Work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary environments showing leadership and performing critical functions.
  9. 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.
  10. 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

Skills Development in an Engineering Qualification

  1. Problem-Solving Skills:

    • Solve engineering problems through case studies, experimentation, and design projects.
    • Utilize mathematical, statistical, and physical laws to analyze and model engineering components and systems.
    • Deal with uncertainty and risk using probability and statistics.
  2. Design and Synthesis Skills:

    • Identify design problems and formulate solutions meeting user needs and standards.
    • Manage the design process, evaluate alternatives, and communicate design logic effectively.
    • Assess impacts and benefits of designs on social, legal, health, safety, and environmental aspects.
  3. Integrated Development:

    • Apply research methods, conduct experiments, and analyze data in laboratory exercises and thesis projects.
    • Develop interdisciplinary literacy and fundamental knowledge to work across engineering disciplines.
  4. Computer Skills and Application:

    • Use engineering methods, tools, and computer packages effectively.
    • Develop computer applications, assess package limitations, and enhance personal productivity through information technology.
  5. Communication Skills:

    • Communicate effectively with engineering audiences and the community through oral and written methods.
    • Provide information for engineering activities and enhance teamwork through computer networks and applications.
  6. Ethics and Environmental Sensitivity:

    • Understand the impact of engineering on society and the environment.
    • Integrate ethical considerations into engineering analysis and design processes.
  7. Responsibility and Life Skills:

    • Emphasize individual and group responsibility through cooperative learning activities.
    • Develop multidisciplinary skills related to life skills, management, and economics.
  8. Critical Thinking and Lifelong Learning:

    • Foster thinking skills, scientific logic, and innovation for lifelong learning.
    • Encourage understanding of concepts rather than memorization.
  9. Ethical and Professional Development:

    • Develop ethical and professional attitudes through an Ethics and Engineering Practice module.
  10. Assessment Methods:

    • Conduct workplace assessments, written and oral examinations, and various assignments.
    • Include formative and summative assessments, with a focus on integration of acquired skills in capstone projects.

This integrated approach to skills development in an engineering qualification ensures that learners are equipped with the necessary knowledge, abilities, and attitudes to excel in the field of engineering.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
SAQA Source
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University of Pretoria
Description
The University of Pretoria is a leading research-intensive university located in Pretoria, South Africa. Established in 1908, it is one of the largest universities in the country and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and social impact. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, with numerous clubs, societies, and sports facilities. The University of Pretoria is also recognized for its research contributions and collaborations with national and international partners.

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.