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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Engineering Technology in Chemical Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101007  Diploma in Engineering Technology in Chemical Engineering 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 240)  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  240  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2032-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
This qualification is intended for process or chemical engineering technicians working in the process related industries. Learners achieving this qualification have the competence to apply existing process technology to chemical engineering problems in chemical processes and plant operations.

Rationale:
The qualification prepares learners to work as technicians in the process related industries. Including use of information technology for application of Scientific Engineering Knowledge. Learners who qualify in this field of study will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of chemical engineering in the society, economy, industrial and physical environment. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is done following the institution RPL Policy. In cases of learners not complying with the formal entry requirements, RPL will be determined following the policy and guideline of the institution concerning the recognition of other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. Recognition takes place only where prior learning corresponds to the required National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level, and in terms of applied competencies relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification. Through Recognition of Prior Learning, learners may gain access on condition that they continue their studies at the institution.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum requirement is:
  • National Senior Certificate, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 and 6, totalling to 284 Credits.
    Compulsory Modules, Level 5,178 Credits:
  • Physics (Practical), 4 Credits.
  • Physics (Theory), 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Practical, 6 Credits.
  • Mathematics, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Engineering Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Process Industries, 12 Credits.
  • Physics (Practical), 4 Credits.
  • Communication Studies, 9 Credits.
  • Physics (Theory), 12 Credits.
  • Computer Skills, 9 Credits.
  • Chemistry (Theory), 12 Credits.
  • Chemistry (Practical), 6 Credits.
  • Physical Chemistry, 12 Credits.
  • Organic Chemistry, 12 Credit.
  • Drawing: Chemical Engineering, 12 Credits.
  • Statistics, 11 Credits.
  • Mathematics, 12 Credits.
  • Communications Studies, 9 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 106 Credits:
  • Thermodynamics: Chemical Engineering, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Process Design: Principles, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Plant, Credits 12.
  • Management Skills, 5 Credits.
  • Thermodynamics: Applied, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Engineering B Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Engineering A Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Management Skills, 5 Credits.
  • Process Control, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Plant, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply engineering principles to diagnosed and solve well-defined engineering problems systematically.
    2. Knowledge apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve well-defined engineering problems.
    3. Perform procedural design of components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs usually within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
    4. Conduct investigations of well-defined problems through locating and searching relevant codes and catalogues, conducting standard tests, experiments and measurements.
    5. Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools including information technology for the solution of well-defined engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
    6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing within an engineering context.
    7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by defined procedures.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and apply these to one's work, as a member and leader in a technical team and to manage projects.
    9. Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
    10. Understand and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of technical engineering practice. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria are applied in an integrated manner to the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Apply relevant mathematic, scientific and engineering principles in solving specific engineering problems.
  • Demonstrate the application of existing monitoring techniques (e.g. Statistical Process Control (SPC), rating equipment) to evaluate the process.
  • Apply existing monitoring techniques (e.g. SPC, rating equipment) to evaluate the process.
  • Identify the crucial parameters for the operation of process equipment when solving process-related problems.
  • Analyse a given design problem, identify the theoretical principles involved, do calculations, and propose alternative solutions.
  • Produce sensible and workable drawings (flow sheets, P & IDs and isometrics) for modifications to the process/plant.
  • Correctly specify and select equipment, e.g. pumps, heat exchangers or any other equipment concerning applicable codes, materials of construction and duty requirements.
  • Complete the process section of datasheets for pumps, pressure vessels, tanks, heat exchangers distillation columns, relief valves, etc., according to requirements.
  • Check the hydraulics of a distillation column or packed tower and identify flooding and up rating opportunities.
  • Rate heat exchangers for fouling.
  • Correctly specify sizing of pipes (pressure drop calculations).
  • Write safe operating procedures.
  • Establish clear priorities, schedule activities to ensure optimum use of time and resources, monitor performance against objectives.
  • Plan and monitor handling activities by using relevant safety and hazardous information on materials/chemicals to safeguard the environment.
  • Submit an operating budget.
  • Determine priorities and deadlines with multi-tasking.
  • Identify possible problems or conflicting demands in time so that contingent action can be taken.
  • Work effectively as an individual, in a team and multidisciplinary environments.
  • Plan and conduct investigations and experiments using appropriate equipment to test the feasibility of proposed options.
  • Analyse, interpret and derive information from data.
  • Evaluate possible alternatives through economic justification and their impact on social, legal, health, safety and environmental aspects.
  • Write a report in the required format on a specific design problem.
  • Present, facilitate and exchange information on the above to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Identify the main aspects of chemical processing activities that impact on the safety and health of people and the environment.
  • Identify the Safety Health and Environmental (SHE) risks applicable to the use of a chemical for a particular activity given the Material Safety Data sheet.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of Environmental legislation (water act, air pollution act) to a given problem.
  • Apply the methodology of hazard identification and waste minimisation to a given environmental situation.
  • Evaluate the results of appropriate methods and demonstrate information technology skills in the application of tools.
  • Demonstrate computer literacy by accessing, processing and storing appropriate information.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The qualification is coherently aligned in that all teaching, learning and assessment activities are linked to module and qualification outcomes. Assessment methods are varied and include a summative and formative assessment to enhance applied competence from learners and facilitate authentic assessment and learning. Assessment will not only be used to determine whether outcomes were achieved but also to generate data for grading and provide feedback in order to improve the curriculum. In order for all the assessment purposes to be achieved, class tests, assignments, project work, tutorials will be utilised. Work Integrated Learning (WIL) (Practical experiential learning, simulated learning, laboratory work, practical excluding workplace-based learning) forms part of the assessments methods. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) has responsibility for the professional accreditation of engineering qualifications and is also a signatory of the Sydney Accord. The signatories are committed to development and recognition of good practice in engineering education. The Sydney Accord is specifically focused on academic qualifications dealing with engineering technology. The Accord acknowledges that accreditation of these academic qualifications is a crucial foundation for the practice of engineering technology in each of the countries or territories covered by the Accord. It recognises the importance of the roles engineering technologists as part of a wider engineering team. Even though the term engineering technologist is used, it is mindful that these are often termed differently within the specific jurisdictions. It also includes roles such as; certified or applied science technologists, which may also be called associate or incorporated engineers. Currently the signatories that make up the Sydney Accord include Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, USA, Malaysia, Korea and South Africa. The Exit Level Outcomes and level descriptors defined in the institution's qualification are aligned with the International Engineering Alliance's Graduate Attributes and Professional Competencies, and thus provide for transfer and employment within those countries party to the agreement. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for both vertical and horizontal articulation options:
    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Level 7.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Engineering Technology in Extraction Metallurgy, Level 6.
  • Diploma in Engineering Technology in Industrial Engineering, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. University of Johannesburg 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.