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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101732  Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 
ORIGINATOR
Monash South Africa 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

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.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The qualification is focused on a transformational journey for the learner to:
  • Develop an enquiring mindset.
  • Achieve personal and societal development.
  • Develop a personal and professional ethical compass.
  • Integrate a stakeholder approach to problem solving.
  • Appreciate of the challenges and opportunities of globalisation including the need to enhance global communications skills and cultural awareness.
  • Facilitate personal and professional development including the ability to understand and practice all the professional competencies defined in the outcomes.
  • Enhance their strategic thinking.
  • Develop scientific and business research skills through undertaking an individual research project.

    The purpose of the qualification is to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practicing engineer. In the first two years learners will focus on the principles so that that they will establish a mindset embracing fundamental formulae and laws that are invariably required to approach any engineering problem or challenge. Learners will also focus on applying such principles to structured problems and further depth in the subjects to enable them to gain practice and experience with the advantage of being able to measure progress against benchmarks (given solutions), so that they will be equipped to tackle the real world problems with more certainty and confidence.

    The qualification combines academic and practical laboratory based activities that are designed to display the principles learnt in a physical environment. Furthermore, learners will be exposed to the role of engineering in the real world and to have a first-hand experience of the value that engineering in the form of fundamental science and mathematics to improve the quality of lives in communities. In particular the qualification requires the learners to interact with various community stakeholders and in the process they will be exposed to many non-engineering aspects such as social, environmental, safety and financial factors. In the final year learners will be required to undertake a research work based project to demonstrate the effectiveness of the four year programme. As part of this research work the learner will be required to undertake an investigation in the industry in the area where his/her research work can be applied and they will need to identify the improvement or optimisation opportunities that his/her research can bring to the industry concerned.

    The typical learners in this qualification will be able to demonstrate competence in mathematics and science. The learner will acquire sound analytical skills, creative instincts, and a penchant for the solving of complex engineering problems.

    Rationale:
    The engineering skills shortage has a widespread effect in South Africa. It affects the level of economic productivity and reduces the country's capacity to develop a knowledgeable society. This, in turn, affects the country's functioning in the current globalised business environment and economy. This qualification provides learners with the skills, knowledge and insights to reach a deeper understanding of managing the built environment through the application of the principles learnt in the tertiary phase. This qualification is internationally recognised through the compliance with the requirements of the Washington Accord which enables the Engineer to practice and be recognised and valued internationally.

    Graduates may take jobs with large corporations, with small or mid-size companies and non-profit organisations. Other career options include consulting positions or entrepreneurship. The Degree includes a prescribed level of understanding and knowledge of the electrical discipline which is in practice closely associated with the role of the Mechanical Engineer.

    The Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering will provide learners with:
  • Preparation for careers in Engineering and Related Areas, for achieving technical leadership and to make a contribution to the economy and national development.
  • The educational requirement towards registration as a Professional Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa so that learners can develop their professional careers in engineering and related fields.
  • A thorough grounding in mathematics, natural sciences, engineering sciences, engineering modelling, engineering design and the abilities to enable applications in fields of emerging knowledge together with an appreciation for the world and society in which engineering is practised.
  • An appropriate level of achievement in the qualification, the ability to proceed to Postgraduate studies in both course-based and research Masters qualifications.

    On completion of the Degree the graduate will be able to commence a rewarding career in many of the opportunities available to enhance both the profession and the economy of the country, while providing an assurance of an expected standard of living and the satisfaction of progressing through a career in both a technical and managerial capacity. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution adheres to national requirements for the RPL and has an RPL policy and procedures in place. In this context, the learning institution will allow for an educationally appropriate alternative access to the qualification. In so doing, it will recognise the following fundamentals:
  • Formal learning, such as a course offered by a professional body, enterprise, private educational institution, or by any other accredited provider recognised by Monash South Africa (MSA). These may include professional development or on-the job-training.
  • Experience of approximately three to five years working within the industry may be considered in conjunction with the academic record of the candidate based on the institutional policy of Recognition of Prior Learning.

    Credit for subjects (modules) passed, with satisfactory grades, at other recognised higher education institutions will be granted if:
  • The subject is considered to be equivalent in content and standard.
  • It is relevant to the planned course/programme of study.

    Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

    Entry Requirements:
  • National Senior Certificate granting access to Bachelor's Degree admission and with appropriate subjects and levels of achievement.
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement.
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV) at Level 4 granting access to Bachelor's Degree admission and with appropriate subjects and levels of achievement.
  • A Higher Certificate, Advanced Certificate or Diploma in a cognate field with appropriate levels of achievement may satisfy the admission requirements. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8, totalling 600 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 5, 156 Credits:
  • Basic Mathematical Concepts, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Mathematical Concepts, 12 Credits.
  • Basic Concepts in Physics, 12 Credits.
  • Basics of Electrical and Optical Physics, 12 Credits.
  • Mechanics: The Interaction of Forces, 12 Credits.
  • Engineering Design Graphics, 16 Credits.
  • Chemistry of Engineering Materials, 12 Credits.
  • Chemical Reactions in Engineering, 12 Credits.
  • Innovation and Creative Thinking, 8 Credits.
  • Multidisciplinary Applied Community Projects, 16 Credits.
  • Programming in Java, 8 Credits.
  • Basic Accounting and Analysis, 12 Credits.
  • Financial Accounting, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 6, 152 Credits:
  • Differential and Integral Calculus, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Differential and Integral Calculus, 12 Credits.
  • Strength of Materials under Simple Loading Conditions, 12 Credits.
  • Fundamental Principles in Machine Dynamics, 12 Credits.
  • Mechanics of Fluid Flow Systems, 8 Credits.
  • Thermodynamics Properties of Fluids, 8 Credits.
  • Electromagnetic Theory, 8 Credits.
  • Electrical Engineering Fundamentals, 16 Credits.
  • Basic Analogue Electronics, 12 Credits.
  • Digital Electronics, 8 Credits.
  • Financial Management for Engineers, 12.
  • Economic Decision Making for Sustainability, 12.
  • Sociological Perspectives of Development, 12.
  • C++ for Engineers, 8.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 7, 148 Credits:
  • Numerical Methods, 12 Credits.
  • Statistical Methods, 8 Credits.
  • Material Science and Properties, 8 Credits.
  • Advanced Mechanics of Fluid Flow Systems, 12 Credits.
  • Thermal Machinery for Industrial Application, 12 Credits.
  • Machine Dynamics for Engineering Systems, 12 Credits.
  • Manufacturing Techniques, 12 Credits.
  • Strength of Material under Complex Loading Conditions, 12 Credits.
  • Basic Concepts in Structural and Machine Design, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Concepts of Machine Systems Design, 12 Credits.
  • Experimental Methods in Mechanical Engineering 1, 8 Credits.
  • Experimental Methods in Mechanical Engineering 2, 8 Credits.
  • Communication for Development, 12 Credits.
  • Software Engineering Principles and Practice, 8 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 8, 120 Credits:
  • Dynamic Behaviour of Fluids, 12 Credits.
  • Power Generation and Renewable Energy, 16 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship for Engineering, 12 Credits.
  • Project Management, 8 Credits.
  • Design Project, 36 Credits.
  • Research Project, 36 Credits.

    Electives at Level 8, 24 Credits:
    Learners must choose electives totalling to 24 Credits:
  • Control Systems and Automation, 12 Credits.
  • Power Systems, 12 Credits.
  • Mechanical Vibrations Analysis, 8 Credits.
  • Mass and Heat Transfer, 8 Credits.
  • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 8 Credits.
  • Maintenance and Reliability Management, 8 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify, formulate, analyse and solve complex engineering problems creatively and innovatively.
    2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural sciences, engineering fundamentals and an engineering speciality to solve complex engineering problems.
    3. Perform creative, procedural and non-procedural design and synthesis of components, systems, engineering works, products or processes.
    4. Design and conduct investigations and experiments.
    5. Use appropriate engineering methods, skills and tools, including those based on information technology.
    6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the community at large.
    7. Demonstrate critical awareness of the sustainability and impact of engineering activity on the social, industrial and physical environment.
    8. Work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary environments.
    9. Engage in independent learning through well-developed learning skills.
    10. Demonstrate critical awareness of the need to act professionally and ethically and to exercise judgment and take responsibility within own limits of competence.
    11. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and economic decision-making. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate in-depth fundamental and specialized engineering knowledge through application in solving a complex engineering problem within the field of study.
  • Present the solution as a physical or simulation implementation based on suitable mathematical analysis and step-by-step synthesis.
  • Demonstrate creativity, innovation and good engineering decision-making ability based on principles especially in cases where no practice-precedent is available.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Demonstrate the ability to solve complex engineering problems through the application of mathematics and the principles of natural and engineering sciences.
  • Apply models, numerical analysis, statistics and computer programs as needed to present the solution.
  • Demonstrate use of specialist engineering science knowledge which includes cutting-edge and currently researched concepts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Design an engineering project by synthesis of various sub-systems down to the component level.
  • Apply procedural and non-procedural design and synthesis steps based on solution feasibility.
  • Verify that the solutions meet the requirements through demonstration or simulation.
  • Present a complete document summarising the design.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Conduct experiments appropriate to the discipline.
  • Design and conduct engineering discipline-specific investigations aimed at producing knowledge and understanding of a phenomenon.
  • Research discipline-related engineering issues by documenting pertinent information from a literature study or through applying research methodology.
  • Write a report on a proposed investigation, the findings of the analyzed data and the recommended course of action.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and ability to effectively apply a range of methods and tools applicable to specific engineering tasks.
  • Apply the most effective information technology tools through use of programming languages, use of computer aided design packages (for design, modelling, computation or simulation) and use of computer networks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate academic and professional material to a range of audiences, including engineering peers, management and lay persons.
  • Write formal professional reports which include tables, diagrams, engineering drawings, and technical descriptions appropriate to the field of study.
  • Present orally on findings of investigations and analyses, and design synthesis using appropriate audio-visual tools.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Demonstrate an awareness of the impact of engineering solutions on the social, industrial and physical environment.
  • Identify and elaborate on the issues of health, safety and environmental protection; risk assessment and management in relation to engineering activity.
  • Demonstrate application of methods leading to reduced economic, social, cultural, and environmental impact and leading to sustainable solutions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Demonstrate the ability to perform engineering work across or beyond engineering disciplinary boundaries.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work effectively both individually and as a team member.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Demonstrate the ability to self-learn required content to solve engineering problems or complete analysis or synthesis work.
  • Apply the most effective means of independent learning to fit the time constraints of the task.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Demonstrate professionalism in decision-making, bearing cognizance of own ability and competence.
  • Show awareness of applying the code of professional ethics in engineering work and interaction with others.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Apply economic, business management, and project management principles to engineering related projects.
  • Demonstrate ability to manage projects within field of work as well as in multidisciplinary environments.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The Degree is based on an integrated system of assessment, where learners are assessed on an ongoing basis throughout the qualification. Both formative and summative assessment methods are used. The components of the final mark are determined separately for each module.

    In terms of providing feedback to learners, this is provided separately for each module and contains details. Included with the feedback report, learners are informed of both positive and negative aspects of their formative and summative assessments. This is done in such a way as to enable learners to learn from their first attempts, and to be able to improve on their performance in subsequent assessments. To affect this, the feedback provided is detailed and addresses the outcomes of the specific module in question. Each module makes reference to the outcomes and the respective assessment criteria that are to be demonstrated that are specific to that module.

    The following processes are used to perform and meet the requirements of integrated assessment:
  • Portfolios.
  • Simulations.
  • Workplace assessments and practical workbooks.
  • Written assignments.
  • Written tests.
  • Case studies and case presentations.
  • Peer group evaluation.
  • Competency evaluations of clinical skills.
  • Face to face contact with learners.
  • Quality assurance by use of external moderators. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    International comparability of this whole qualification is ensured through the Washington Accord, an agreement for the mutual recognition of professionally-oriented Bachelor's Degrees in Engineering. The standards are comparable with the Washington Accord Graduate Attributes. Washington Accord signatories are: Australia, Canada, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, India, Ireland, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Russia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States of America1. Comparability is audited on a six-yearly cycle by a visiting Washington Accord team. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers specific articulation opportunities with qualifications at this institution.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Computer and Information Sciences (Honours), Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Laws, Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Water Management, Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Philosophy in Computer and Information Sciences, Level 9.
  • Master of Business Administration, Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Integrated Water Management, Level 9.

    The qualification offers systemic articulation with qualifications offered by other Institutions provided the learner meets the entry requirements, they are:
    Vertical Articulation:
  • A cognate Master Degrees, Level 9.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • A cognate Bachelor Degrees, Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    The accreditation of this qualification was transferred from Monash SA to the Independent Institute of Education (IIE) in November 2018. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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. The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 


    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.