Nelson Mandela University

Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering

Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design

Purpose and Rationale

Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) in Mechanical Engineering

Purpose

The BEngTech in Mechanical Engineering is designed to cultivate the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities, and skills required to become a competent practicing Mechanical Engineering Technologist in alignment with the Sydney International Accord or a Technician as per the Dublin International Accord. Upon completion, the qualifying learner will be able to:

  • Apply Mechanical Engineering principles, innovative skills, advanced problem-solving techniques, and managerial skills to broadly-defined problems in Mechanical Engineering while adhering to relevant standards and codes.
  • Utilize established and newly developed engineering technology to solve broadly-defined problems, develop components, systems, services, and processes.
  • Demonstrate leadership in applying technology to safety, health, engineering, and commercially effective operations, along with possessing well-developed interpersonal skills.
  • Work independently and responsibly, apply judgment to decisions related to the application of technology, health, safety considerations, problems, and associated risks.
  • Apply specialized knowledge of engineering sciences, along with a deep understanding of specific technologies, financial, commercial, legal, social, economic, health, safety, and environmental aspects.

Rationale

In the field of engineering, the continuous and rapid advancement of complex technology necessitates practitioners to possess a high level of conceptual understanding for solving complex, well-defined engineering problems. Adaptability to new technologies relies on the ability to apply fundamental conceptual knowledge to address modern engineering challenges and promote sustainable development.

The demand for Engineering qualifications in South Africa is substantiated by various sources. According to the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), South Africa's Engineer to population ratio is 1:3100, compared to more favorable ratios in countries like Germany (1:200), Japan, Great Britain, and the United States of America (1:310). This highlights the need for South Africa to significantly increase its engineering workforce to compete globally.

Mechanical Engineering encompasses the conceptualization, planning, designing, testing, and manufacturing of a wide range of components and devices essential for energy conservation, renewable energy, material processing, transportation, communication, environmental conservation, and medical applications.

The qualification will equip individuals with crucial skills to enhance existing automotive and related businesses, as well as support new enterprises preparing for involvement in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ). The Eastern Cape is poised for various new developments such as Fuel and Manganese refineries, Marine Engineering projects, a new Nuclear Power Station at Thyspunt, and renewable energy projects in the Eastern and Northern Cape. These ventures will necessitate highly skilled Technicians, Technologists, and Engineers.

Effective engineering endeavors are typically team-oriented, encompassing a blend of Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Industrial disciplines. Graduates will possess the necessary engineering skills and technical proficiencies to contribute significantly to the economy and national development.

Outcomes

  1. Apply Mechanical Engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined engineering problems.
  2. Apply knowledge of Mathematics, Natural Science and Engineering Sciences to defined and applied Mechanical Engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve broadly-defined Electrical engineering problems.
  3. Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly defined Mechanical Engineering components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  4. Conduct investigations of broadly defined Mechanical Engineering problems through locating, searching and selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, designing and conducting experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.
  5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including Information Technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly defined Mechanical Engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
  6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with Mechanical Engineering audiences and the affected parties.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of Mechanical Engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.
  8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Mechanical Engineering management principles and apply these to one's own work, as a member and leader in a 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 Mechanical Engineering technology practice.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Analyse and define a problem
  • Identify criteria for an acceptable solution
  • Identify relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills
  • Generate possible approaches for a workable solution
  • Model and analyse possible solutions
  • Evaluate possible solutions and select the best solution
  • Formulate and present a solution in an appropriate form

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Demonstrate a mix of knowledge in mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, natural science, and engineering science
  • Use theories, principles, and laws
  • Perform formal analysis and modelling on engineering materials, components, systems, or processes
  • Communicate concepts, ideas, and theories
  • Reason and conceptualise engineering materials, components, systems, or processes
  • Manage uncertainty and risks within the practice area

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Formulate a design problem to satisfy user needs, standards, codes of practice, and legislation
  • Plan and manage a design process focusing on important issues and constraints
  • Acquire and evaluate knowledge, information, and resources
  • Perform design tasks including analysis, modelling, and optimization
  • Evaluate alternatives and select a preferred solution based on techno-economic analysis
  • Assess the social, economic, legal, health, safety, and environmental impact of the design
  • Communicate design logic and information in a technical report

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Plan and conduct investigations and experiments within an appropriate discipline
  • Search literature and critically evaluate material for suitability
  • Select and use equipment or software for investigations
  • Analyse, interpret, and derive information from available data
  • Draw conclusions from the analysis of evidence
  • Record the purpose, process, and outcomes of the investigation in a technical report

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Assess the applicability and limitations of methods, skills, or tools
  • Apply methods, skills, or tools correctly
  • Test and assess results against required outcomes
  • Create and use computer applications as required

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

  • Apply appropriate structure, style, and language for written and oral communication
  • Use graphics effectively to enhance text meaning
  • Use visual materials to enhance oral communications
  • Use accepted communication methods for providing information
  • Deliver oral communication fluently with intended meaning apparent

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

  • Identify and address the impact of technology on society
  • Analyse the impact of an engineering activity on Occupational and Public Health and Safety
  • Analyse the impact of an engineering activity on the physical environment
  • Consider personal, social, economic, cultural values and requirements of those affected

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

  • Explain the principles of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling
  • Carry out individual work effectively and strategically
  • Demonstrate functioning as a team leader
  • Organize and manage a design or research project
  • Carry out effective communication in individual and team work contexts

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

  • Manage learning tasks autonomously and ethically
  • Reflect on learning undertaken and determine individual learning requirements and strategies
  • Source, organize, and evaluate relevant information
  • Apply knowledge acquired outside formal instruction
  • Challenge assumptions critically and embrace new thinking

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

  • Describe the nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas
  • Describe the ethical implications of decisions made
  • Apply ethical reasoning to evaluate engineering solutions
  • Maintain continued competence through ongoing learning
  • Accept responsibility for consequences resulting from actions
  • Make judgments on decision-making during problem-solving and design

Integrative Assessment:

  • Capstone Project Mechanical 302 module provides an opportunity for comprehensive integrative assessment
  • Formative assessment includes individual and collaborative tutorials, assignments/projects, class tests, computer-based simulations, and interactive feedback
  • Summative assessment includes closed/open book tests, individual/group projects and assignments, presentations, and examinations.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
420
SAQA Source
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Nelson Mandela University
Description
Nelson Mandela University is a comprehensive university located in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of three institutions, and it is named after the iconic South African leader, Nelson Mandela. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law. It is known for its commitment to social justice, transformation, and community engagement. Nelson Mandela University strives to provide quality education, promote research and innovation, and contribute to the development of the region and the country as a whole.

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.