SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
112987  Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering 
ORIGINATOR
North West University 
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 primary purpose of the qualification is to provide a well-rounded, broad education that equips qualifying learners with the knowledge base, theory and methodology of Mechanical Engineering. And to enable them to demonstrate initiative and responsibility in an academic or professional context. This qualification prepares learners for professional training, Postgraduate studies or professional practice in the field of Engineering. The qualification provides learners with a foundation in the education, philosophy, principles and skills in the Mechanical Engineering profession. Also, it provides learners with the ability to apply these to professional or career contexts.

Rationale:
Engineering is a discipline and profession that serves the needs of society and the economy. The qualification is designed to contribute to meeting this need by developing engineering competence. The qualification, with its broad fundamental base, is the starting point of a career path in one of many areas of engineering specialisation through structured development and lifelong learning. The broad base allows maximum flexibility and mobility for the holder to adjust to changing needs. Skills, knowledge, values and attitudes reflected in the qualification are building blocks for the development of learner engineers towards becoming competent engineers. To ultimately lead complex engineering activities and solve complex engineering problems, thus contributing to economic activity and national development. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Where applicants do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. The institution applies RPL according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment (CHE 2016) and the institutions' policy.
  • The institution implements quality assurance processes, which addresses the RPL process.
  • The RPL process includes the applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems, and that administrative and support systems, both prior and after RPL assessment, are in place.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • A National Senior Certificate granting access to Bachelor studies, NQF Level 4.
    Or
  • A Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4.
    Or
  • Conditional matriculation endorsement/exemption. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 600 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 152 Credits:
  • Academic Literacy Development, 12 Credits.
  • Programming for Engineers, 12 Credits.
  • Engineering Graphics I, 12 Credits.
  • Introductory Algebra and Calculus I, 12 Credits.
  • Introductory Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, 12 Credits.
  • Basic Physics I, 12 Credits.
  • Statics and Mathematical Modelling, 12 Credits.
  • Electrotechnique I, 8 Credits.
  • Engineering Graphics II, 12 Credits.
  • Materials Science I, 16 Credits.
  • Introductory Algebra and Calculus II, 12 Credits.
  • Basic Physics II, 12 Credits.
  • Practical Engineering Practice, 8 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 156 Credits:
  • Dynamics I, 8 Credits.
  • Differential Equations, 8 Credits.
  • Electrotechnique II, 8 Credits.
  • Strength of Materials I, 12 Credits.
  • Engineering Materials I, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Calculus I, 8 Credits.
  • Linear Algebra I, 8 Credits.
  • Understanding the Technological World, 12 Credits.
  • Dynamics II, 8 Credits.
  • Numerical Methods, 8 Credits.
  • Thermodynamics I, 12 Credits.
  • Manufacturing Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Applied Computer Methods, 8 Credits.
  • Engineering Analysis, 8 Credits.
  • Fundamental Engineering Application Programme II, 24 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 156 Credits:
  • Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations, 16 Credits.
  • Thermodynamics II, 12 Credits.
  • Fluid Mechanics I, 12 Credits.
  • Strength of Materials I, 12 Credits.
  • Engineering Statistics, 16 Credits.
  • Control Theory I, 16 Credits.
  • Principles of Measurement, 12 Credits.
  • Fluid Mechanics II, 8 Credits.
  • Structural Analysis, 12 Credits.
  • Machine Design, 12 Credits.
  • Mechanical Design, 16 Credits.
  • Science, Technology and Society, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 136 Credits:
  • Thermal Machines, 16 Credits.
  • Heat Transfer, 12 Credits.
  • Fluid Machines, 12 Credits.
  • Failure of Materials/Aircraft Design, 16 Credits.
  • Systems Engineering, 12 Credits.
  • Machine Dynamics, 16 Credits.
  • Thermal Fluid System Design, 16 Credits.
  • Vacation Training Seniors, 8 Credits.
  • Engineering Management, 12 Credits.
  • Project (year module), 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate competence to identify, assess, formulate and solve convergent and divergent 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. Demonstrate competence to design and conduct investigations and experiments.
    5. Demonstrate competence to use appropriate engineering methods, skills and tools, including those based on information technology.
    6. Demonstrate competence to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the community at large.
    7. Demonstrate critical awareness of the impact of engineering activity on the social, industrial and physical environment.
    8. Demonstrate competence to work effectively as an individual, in teams and multidisciplinary environments.
    9. Demonstrate competence to 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. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyses and defines the problem identifies the criteria for an acceptable solution.
  • Identify necessary information and applicable engineering and other knowledge and skills.
  • Generates and formulates possible approaches to the solution of a problem.
  • Models and analyses possible solution(s).
  • Evaluates possible solutions and selects the best solution.
  • Formulates and presents the solution in an appropriate form.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify and formulate the design problem to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  • Plan and manage the design process: focus on essential issues, recognises and deals with constraints.
  • Acquire and evaluate the requisite knowledge, information and resources: applies correct principles, evaluate and use design tools.
  • Perform design tasks including analysis, quantitative modelling and optimisation.
  • Evaluate alternatives and preferred solution: exercises judgment, tests implementation and performs techno-economic analyses.
  • Assess the impact and benefits of the design: social, legal, health, safety, and environmental
  • Communicate the design logic and information.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Plan and conduct investigations and experiments.
  • Conduct a literature search and critically evaluates material.
  • Perform necessary analyses.
  • Select and use appropriate equipment or software.
  • Analyse, interpret and derive information from data.
  • Draw conclusions based on evidence.
  • Communicate the purpose, process and outcomes in a technical report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Select and assess the applicability and limitations of the method, skill or tool.
  • Apply the technique, skill or tool; properly.
  • Test and evaluate the end-results produced by the method, skill or tool critically.
  • Create computer applications as required by the discipline.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Use appropriate structure, style and language for purpose and audience.
  • Use effective graphical support.
  • Apply methods of providing information for use by others involved in engineering activity.
  • Meet the requirements of the target audience.
  • Use appropriate structure, style and language.
  • Use relevant visual materials.
  • Deliver fluently.
  • Meet the requirements of the intended audience.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
    The learner identifies and deals with an appropriate combination of issues in:
  • The impact of technology on society.
  • Occupational and public health and safety.
  • Impact on the physical environment.
  • The personal, social, cultural values and requirements of those affected by engineering activity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Identify and focus on objectives.
  • Work strategically.
  • Execute tasks effectively.
  • Deliver completed work on time.
  • Make individual contribution to team activity.
  • Perform critical functions.
  • Enhance the work of fellow team members.
  • Benefit from the support of team members.
  • Communicate effectively with team members.
  • Deliver completed work on time.
  • Acquire a working knowledge of co-workers' discipline.
  • Use a systems approach.
  • Communicate across disciplinary boundaries.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Reflect on your learning and determines learning requirements and strategies.
  • Source and evaluate information.
  • Critically challenges assumptions and embraces new thinking.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Be aware of requirements to maintain competence and to keep abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques;
  • Display an understanding of the system of professional development.
  • Accept responsibility for own actions;
  • Display judgment in decision making during problem solving and design;
  • Limit decision making to area of current competence;
  • Reason about and make judgment on ethical aspects in case study context;
  • Discern boundaries of proficiency in problem solving and design.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative assessment:
  • Homework, class tests, semester tests, practical reports, assignments.
    Summative assessment:
  • Examination. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
  • Country: United Kingdom.
  • Institution: University of Manchester.
  • Qualification Title: Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering.

    The qualification is similar to the qualification at the University of Manchester, as it provides the qualifying learner with an excellent foundation in the knowledge and experience of the most fundamental engineering disciplines. It is preparing the qualifying learner for a variety of careers in engineering, technology, business and management. Both qualifications aim to provide the mechanical engineers of the future with an education that covers the breadth of this diverse subject. It imparts the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills so that they can operate effectively in their initial appointment and develop their career.
  • Country: New Zealand.
  • Institution: University of Auckland.
  • Qualification Title: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering.

    The University of Auckland in New Zealand offers a similar Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering qualification the one offered by the institution in terms of purpose and the duration of the study. Both these qualifications focus on the discipline's foundations so that qualifying learners can adapt to its rapid pace of change and fulfil the need for professionals in an increasingly broad range of industries. Qualifying learners in both qualifications are enabled to use science and technology to design and produce mechanical devices, machinery and systems. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Engineering in Electro-Mechanical Engineering, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    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. North West University 


    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.