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 Technology Honours in Computer Engineering |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
118644 | Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours in Computer Engineering | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
Cape Peninsula University of Technology | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
- | HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
Honours Degree | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Engineering and Related Design | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 120 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 08 | Regular-Provider-ELOAC |
REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
Registered | SAQA 137/22 | 2022-02-03 | 2025-02-03 | |
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
2026-02-03 | 2029-02-03 |
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 prepare learners for research-based postgraduate study. The qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learner's expertise in a particular discipline, and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of that discipline. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence. In some cases, a Bachelor Honours Degree carries recognition by an appropriate professional or statutory body. The Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours Degree enhances the application of research and development as well as contextual knowledge to meet the minimum entry requirement for admission to a cognate master's degree. This qualification prepares for careers in engineering itself and areas that potentially benefit from engineering skills, for achieving technological proficiency and to contribute to the economy and national development. The current Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Computer Engineering is a broad computer engineering qualification that provides a strong broad computer engineering foundation for the specialization that is proposed in this computer engineering honours degree. Therefore, the purpose of this qualification is twofold, namely: Upon the completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to: The successful graduate will be able to: Rationale: This qualification is an Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) standard qualification governed by ECSA standard document E-09-PT rev.6 published on the 29th of January 2019. Engineering is a discipline and profession that serves the needs of society and the economy. The qualification is designed to provide a foundation of research capacity in modern computer engineering technology and a pathway to access the research higher degrees of Masters and Doctorate that are currently offered by the department as well as other universities. The research project will be underpinned by an appropriate selection of advanced modern computer engineering technology subject electives. These electives include the rapidly developing field of Artificial Intelligence that, together with Next Generation Networks are key drivers in the 4th Industrial Revolution. The Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Computer Engineering is a broad computer engineering qualification that provides a strong broad computer engineering foundation for the specialization. This qualification is designed to produce the exit level outcomes and achieve the purpose of the qualification by providing an appropriate balance of mathematics and physics foundation together with research methodology and ethics, entrepreneurship, and engineering management together with a flexible selection of specialized, advanced and modern computer engineering sciences that are appropriate to the learner's chosen field of specialization, as guided by the chosen research project topic. The focus of the specialized modern computer engineering elective subjects is on the sustainable economic, environmental, and social impact of modern computer engineering and promotes the development of technology innovation and graduate engineering leadership capacity that applies to local, national, and international challenges. The qualification is beneficial to the economy and society as it addresses some of the training needs indicated in the Higher Education and Training Framework for the National Skills Development Strategy (NSDSIII). Skilled electrical engineers are required to meet the developmental needs of the country in all manufacturing and electrical engineering production fields. The industry demand for graduates with 21st-century computer engineering technology specialization is high. The qualification intends to provide enough highly specialised and competent graduates to satisfy growing industrial demands in the computer engineering technology industry. Recent advances in and widespread applications of digital electronic technology, especially in the fields of Artificial Intelligence, Next Generation Networks and Distributed Computer Systems are resulting in significant industry expansion in the areas of Mobile Communication Systems, Wireless Sensor Networks and Satellite Technology with growing applications in Geographical Information Systems. The established research initiatives in Satellite Technology are making a significant contribution to growth in this area. The qualification will provide a strong theoretical background in mathematics, physical science, information technology and relevant engineering sciences as well as appropriate engineering communication skills, ethics, entrepreneurship and engineering management skills required to drive the local, national and international computer engineering industry into the 4th industrial revolution. This industrial revolution will drive the economic and social changes needed to address the challenges we face in the 21st century and to bring about a more equitable and accessible distribution of wealth and well-being, regionally, nationally, and internationally. The institution consulted the following relevant stakeholders: The qualification will target Artisans, Supervisors, Inspectors and Entrepreneurs in the country. Also, the qualification will provide opportunities in the different disciplines of engineering, offering access towards Technicians, Technologists, Engineers and Researchers. Upon qualifying learners are prepared to be able to register with ECSA as Professional Engineering Technologist and Certificated Engineer. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with regards to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification. RPL for access: RPL for exemption of modules RPL for credit: Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: Or Or |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 140 Credits.
Compulsory Modules, Level 7,10 Credits: Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 70 Credits: Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits (Select four modules from the following): |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Apply mathematical modelling and analysis to complex computer engineering and multidisciplinary problem solving and design.
2. Apply advanced engineering physics and principles of modern computer engineering technology to the analysis and design of complex and advanced computer engineering systems using current and emerging electrical engineering technology in areas such as wireless sensor networks, quantum and optoelectronics, mobile communication systems and satellite technology. 3. Analyse and design solutions to relevant modern technical challenges using appropriate computer engineering technology, theory, circuits, and techniques as well as associated programming and software applications. 4. Formulate, manage, and conduct relevant computer engineering technology research under close supervision and guidance. Investigate the problem, the availability and suitability of computer engineering technology solutions and perform relevant experiments and associated data analysis using appropriate engineering methods, skills, and tools to compare and confirm their suitability in the solution. 5. Communicate engineering information effectively both verbally and in writing, using the formal modalities of reports and presentations while making effective use of engineering standards, specifications, codes of practice and relevant legislation. 6. Apply innovative new solutions to new and existing problems using an integration of appropriate modern computer engineering technologies, advanced engineering physics and mathematics as well as research methodologies and entrepreneurial techniques and skills to provide economically and environmentally sustainable computer engineering technology solutions. The learner will demonstrate independent learning as well as effective teamwork and communication across disciplinary, language and cultural boundaries. 7. Demonstrate engineering professionalism, ethics, and management skills as well as independent learning through self-study assignment work, project work and relevant industry liaison. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7: |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
International comparability of this qualification is ensured through compliance with the ECSA standard ECSA Qualification Standard for Bachelor of Engineering Technology Honours E-09-PT Rev 6 (Published 29th January 2019)
National and international comparability studies were conducted to determine the extent qualification and subject structures compared with similar offerings at similar institutions. The institution conducted the international comparability study in terms of institutional requirements and guidelines which include the following: The institution ensured the international comparability of the engineering education qualifications through the members of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA): The institution adopted the Dublin standards in designing this engineering technician education qualification. There is evidence of alignment of Exit Level Outcomes and level descriptors defined in this qualification with the International Engineering Alliance's Graduate Attributes and Professional Competencies, which in turn aligns with the Sydney Accord governing international standards for Professional Engineering Technologists. ECSA is a member of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA) and a founding signatory to the Sydney Accord together with Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. International Engineering Alliance's Graduate Attributes and Professional Competencies are as follows: > Identify, formulate, analyse, and solve complex engineering problems creatively and innovatively > Demonstrate competence to apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science, and engineering sciences to the conceptualization of engineering models and to solve complex engineering problems. > Demonstrate competence to perform creative, procedural, and non-procedural design and synthesis of components, systems, engineering works, products, or processes of a complex nature. >Graduate Attribute 4: Investigations, Experiments and Data Analysis. > Demonstrate competence to conduct investigations of complex engineering problems including engagement with the research literature and use of research methods including design of experiments, analysis and interpretation of data and synthesis of information to provide valid conclusions. > Demonstrate competence to use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of complex engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints. > Demonstrate competence to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the community at large. >Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activities society, economy, industrial and physical environment. > Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles. > Demonstrate competence to engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills. > Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of engineering practice. Two similar one-year Computer Engineering honours qualifications from the following institutions were considered for international comparison. Country: Malaysia Institution: Asian Pacific University of Technology and Innovation Qualification Title: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Computer Engineering Systems Total credit points: 120 Duration: Four years Entry requirement: Minimum MUET Band 2 and Pass Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) or equivalent with minimum Grade C (CGPA 2.0) in Mathematics and one (1) relevant science subject OR Recognised Diploma in Engineering or Engineering Technology or equivalent with minimum CGPA 2.0 OR Recognised related Technical / Vocational / Skills Diploma with minimum CGPA 2.0 Similarities: The qualification is comparable with the South African qualification in that both qualifications have 120 credits and in the following aspects. Purpose/Rationale: Like the South African qualification, this qualification provides learners with the essential knowledge and skills to enable them to specify, design, model, implement, program, and test integrated hardware and software systems as creative solutions to engineering problems. Computer Engineering is a field with significant career potential because wherever there are computers, there will be jobs for computer engineers. Computer Engineering graduates find positions in industries where starting salaries are among the highest offered to university graduates. Learners shall learn both the hardware and software aspects of a computer system, as well as the electronic or electrical components that come with it. Learners will also be exposed to creating/ connecting the computer systems interface with the real world. In addition, learners will be exposed to designing, implementing and maintaining virtualised data centres and software-defined networking to support enterprise data demands. Since Cloud computing is the future of data centre operations, these skills will be extremely valued. Computer Systems Engineering learners can specialize in areas such as computer systems, system administration, computer networks, embedded system design, programming languages, real-time computing and control, cloud computing, signals and systems, machine learning and system software. Learners will also be equipped with the required tools that enable them to be part of a design team for creating and establishing integrated digital hardware and software systems in a broad scope of application fields. Career Prospect Qualification structure: Similar to the South African qualification, the qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules. Compulsory Modules: Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Foreign Language 1. Semester 4 Semester 5 Semester 6 Elective Modules: Semester 7 Semester 8 Elective Courses Differences: Country: Australia Institution: Queensland University of Technology Qualification Title: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Computer Engineering Total credit points: 192 Duration: Two years Similarities: The South African qualification is comparable with the Australian qualification in the following aspects. Purpose/Rationale: Computer engineers design computers and/or computer systems, hardware, and software to control sensors, embedded devices and manufacturing or industrial plants. This field of engineering not only focuses on how computer systems themselves work but how they integrate into the larger picture. Computer engineers can choose to work in many areas such as networking, control and automation, multimedia, image processing, machine vision and intelligent systems. They work across a wide range of sectors including manufacturing, medical, transport, telecommunication, government, mining and finance, any industry which requires personnel with expertise in the design and applications of computer hardware, especially the interfacing of computers with other machinery. Learning outcomes Similar to the South African qualification, on completion the qualification, learners will be able to: Learners will study a common first year allowing them to learn more about engineering and its different fields. The common first year provides learners with sound fundamentals in mathematics, statistics, physics, chemistry, computing, engineering science and communication, mechanics, materials, and fluids. Learners then focus on the chosen major study from the second year. The degree includes a 12-week hands-on industry placement. Learners may gain credit for relevant work experience, either in Australia or overseas, by participating in our Professional Options Program. Engineers work in a variety of industries, for example, construction, mining, resources, aeronautical, electronics, engineering management, telecommunications, power generation and distribution, renewable energy, aerospace, water resource management, robotics and manufacturing, railroad and shipbuilding. Qualification structure: Similar to the South African qualification, in the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Computer Engineering learners will study electrical engineering, software design and hardware-software integration, from the development of supercomputers to circuit design. Learners will acquire specialist expertise in the fields of computer architecture and software design to combine hardware and software solutions to solve practical problems. After completing two years of physics, maths, computer programming, circuit theory and general engineering-based subjects, the later years of the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Computer Engineering focus on the development of high-level computer engineering capabilities including: From second year learners also have the option to complete a double major, combining two engineering disciplines. Available double major combinations include: To qualify for the award of the degree of Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) with a major, complete 192 credit points and satisfy all course requirements outlined in the course structure. Differences: Conclusion: The Computer Engineering Honours degree of these universities was found to be similar in structure, having a core, fundamental and elective components of similar credit proportions, offering a similar level of specialization and type of specialist elective subject choices and containing some significant research project component or capstone project component. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: |
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. |
NONE |
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. |