Tshwane University of Technology

Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering

Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design

Purpose and Rationale

Rationale

South Africa is currently experiencing unprecedented economic growth, resulting in a high demand for human resources, particularly in scarce categories like engineering professions. The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) and the Engineering Association of South Africa have proposed a specific engineer to technologist to technician ratio for the South African context. The launch of the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for SA (AsgiSA) aimed to increase growth capacity and identified resolving the shortage of skilled labor as a priority intervention. This led to the establishment of the Joint Initiative on Priority Skills Acquisition (JIPSA) to address the skills shortage.

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering program is designed based on key recommendations of JIPSA, focusing on providing priority skills, enhancing education and training systems, and addressing obstacles within the system. The qualification aligns with national requirements, as Civil Engineering Professionals are listed on the National Scarce Skills list. Stakeholders such as Civil Engineering contractors, Consultants, ECSA, and the South African Institute of Civil Engineers have been consulted in the design of the qualification. It meets the standards published in the Government Gazette and specified by ECSA.

The program aims to prepare learners to become competent practicing civil engineering technologists who can contribute to the South African economy and development.

Purpose

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Civil Engineering degree aims to train civil engineering technologists to meet the advanced technical workforce needs of South Africa. The program focuses on integrating theory and practical skills over three years to produce highly skilled technologists. The qualification is industry-oriented, emphasizing the application of general principles and technology transfer.

The purpose of the program is to provide learners with advanced knowledge and practical techniques in engineering to work as professional civil engineering technologists. It aims to prepare learners for engineering careers, achieving technical proficiency, contributing to the economy and national development, and potentially registering in a Specified Category with ECSA. Graduates can also progress to NQF level 8 programs in engineering.

The qualification ensures that learners demonstrate competence in all ECSA Exit Level Outcomes, including problem-solving, application of scientific knowledge, procedural design, investigation, communication, understanding the impact of engineering on society, teamwork, lifelong learning, and professionalism.

Outcomes

  1. Apply engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
  2. Application of scientific and engineering knowledge: Apply knowledge of Mathematics, Natural Science and Engineering Sciences to wide practical procedures and practices to solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
  3. Perform procedural design of broadly-defined components or processes to meet desired needs within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  4. Investigation: Conduct tests, experiments and measurements of broadly-defined engineering problems by applying relevant codes and manufacturer guidelines.
  5. Use appropriate established techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools including information technology for the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations.
  6. Professional and Technical Communication: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing within an engineering context.
  7. Impact of Engineering Activity: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity on society and the environment.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of basic engineering management principles.
  9. Engage in independent and life-long learning.
  10. Understand and commit to ethics, responsibilities and norms of engineering practice.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • The problem is defined and the criterion for an acceptable solution is identified.
  • Relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills are identified for solving the problem.
  • Various approaches are considered and formulated that would lead to workable solutions.
  • Solutions are identified in terms of strengths and weaknesses for the overall problem.
  • Solutions are prioritised in order of suitability.
  • The preferred solution is formulated and presented in an appropriate form.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • An appropriate mix of knowledge of Mathematics, Natural and Engineering Science at a fundamental level and in a Civil and Structural area is brought to bear on the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems.
  • Applicable principles and laws are applied.
  • Appropriate engineering materials, components or processes are selected.
  • Concepts and ideas are communicated effectively.
  • Reasoning about engineering materials, components, systems or processes is performed.
  • Work is performed within the boundaries of the civil and structural area.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • The design problem is formulated to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  • The design process is planned and managed to focus on important issues and recognises and deals with constraints.
  • Knowledge, information and resources are acquired and evaluated in order to apply appropriate principles and design tools to provide a workable solution.
  • Design tasks are performed that include component testing to relevant premises, assumptions and constraints.
  • Alternatives are evaluated for implementation and a preferred solution is selected on an elementary, technical and cost basis.
  • The design logic and relevant information is communicated in a report.
  • Occupational health and safety and environmentally related risks are identified and appropriate measures considered.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Tests, experiments and measurements are conducted within an appropriate discipline.
  • Available literature is identified and selected for suitability to the task.
  • Equipment is used in accordance with original equipment manufacture's specifications.
  • Information is interpreted and derived from available data.
  • Conclusions are drawn from an evaluation of all available evidence.
  • The purpose, process and outcomes of the task are recorded in a report.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • The appropriate method, skill or tool is selected and applied to achieve the required result.
  • Results produced by the method, skill or tool are verified against requirements.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • The structure, style and language of written and oral communication are appropriate for the purpose of the communication and the target audience.
  • Graphics used are appropriate and effective in enhancing the meaning of text.
  • Visual materials are used to enhance oral communications.
  • Information is provided in a format that can be used by others involved in the engineering activity.
  • Oral communication is delivered with the intended meaning being apparent.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • The engineering activity is considered in terms of the impact on public health and safety.
  • The engineering activity is considered in terms of the impact on occupational health and safety.
  • The engineering activity is considered in terms of the impact on the natural environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

  • The principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling are explained.
  • Individual work is carried out effectively and on time.
  • Individual contributions made to team activities support the output of the team as a whole.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

  • Learning tasks are identified, planned and managed.
  • Independent learning is undertaken and knowledge acquired outside of formal instruction is comprehended and applied.
  • Awareness is displayed of the need to maintain continued competence through keeping abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques available in the workplace.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

  • The ethical implications of the impact of engineering decisions are known and understood.
  • Responsibility is accepted for consequences stemming from own actions or failure to act.
  • Decision making is limited to the area of current competence.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Formative assessment forms an integral part of the interactive and blended learning strategy followed by the Faculty and is a critical element of teaching and learning.
  • Examples of how formative assessment is applied include tutorials, internet assignments, small group practical exercises and demonstrations, multiple questionnaires and rubrics, practical tests, and constructing practical work pieces or projects as per templates.
  • Summative assessments are guided by the institution's policy attached and a minimum of four assessments are required for semester-based modules and at least six assessments for year modules offered.
  • The various ECSA exit level outcomes, as indicated per module descriptor, will be assessed for competence.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
420
SAQA Source
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Tshwane University of Technology
Description
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) is a higher education institution located in Pretoria, South Africa. It was established in 2004 through the merger of three separate institutions. TUT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields of study, including engineering, business, science, arts, and technology. The university is known for its focus on practical and career-oriented education, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen professions. TUT also has a strong emphasis on research and innovation, contributing to the development of new technologies and solutions. With a diverse student body and state-of-the-art facilities, Tshwane University of Technology is committed to providing quality education and making a positive impact on society.

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.