SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
118684	Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering
ORIGINATOR
University of South Africa
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Doctoral Degree	Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology		Engineering and Related Design
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	360	Not Applicable	NQF Level 10	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0333/25	2025-07-10	2028-07-10
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-07-10		2032-07-10

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 defining characteristic of the Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering is that the learner is required to demonstrate high-level research capability and to make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of a discipline or field. The work must be of a quality to satisfy peer review and merit publication. The qualification may be earned through pure discipline-based or multidisciplinary research or applied research. This qualification requires a minimum of two years' full-time study. The qualifying learner should be able to supervise and evaluate the research of others in the area of specialisation concerned.

The purpose of the qualification will enable an academic career and allow the learner to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis.
This qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learner's expertise in a particular discipline and develop high-level expertise in research projects. Furthermore, it will develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of that discipline.

The qualification would assist the qualified engineering technologist or engineer in continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity, and valuable contribution to society. The qualifying engineer will be able to function in a variety of contexts, for example, career advancement in various fields of Engineering. Engineers who completed this qualification will be better equipped to apply their skills and knowledge in their respective professions. This qualification further opens up access for historically disadvantaged incumbents as well as other learners in the Engineering environment up to the highest levels of qualification.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering qualification will allow access to the various disciplines of Engineering related to the topic of the dissertation. The qualification is a very high national, higher education and industry priority and cannot be overstated. It will facilitate admission to learners with diverse backgrounds and thereby widening the profile of beneficiaries.

Rationale:
The qualification reflects the need and demand within the Engineering environment for Research and Development capabilities to raise the overall Engineering capabilities in the country. The graduates would be able to function within a complex environment after acquiring the knowledge, skills, and the ability to solve new problems that do not have pre-existing solutions. This qualification will provide professional engineers and technologists with the knowledge and competencies to perform research and create new knowledge or methodologies.

The institution has a strategic plan to promote research and to "create a vibrant, pure and applied research culture and conduct relevant and responsive research that impacts positively on development in Africa, globally and in the service of humanity." To this end, the School of Engineering has a pivotal role to play in imparting knowledge and skills for the economy, generating new knowledge, capacity building and driving innovation in the field of engineering.

The shortage of highly skilled people in most professions, particularly engineering, is well known. Skills at NQF levels 9 and 10 are especially of concern, as elaborated in a publication by the Council of Higher Education (Postgraduate Studies in South Africa, 2009). the institution, therefore, endeavours to contribute by providing professionals with competent skills and capabilities to ensure sustainable development and enhancement of the engineering field.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part or in whole through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning and work experience. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through informal and non-formal learning. RPL is applied in terms of the policy and criteria of the institution. The necessary documentary evidence will have to be provided and a formal RPL process will be followed. The institution will apply in this qualification the RPL for both access and credits in line with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of RPL (Amended in March 2019).

RPL for Access:
Learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements of the required qualification may be considered for RPL. There are two options:

Advanced Standing, in which case the minimum entry requirements are waived by the admitting institution based on evidence of prior learning, work experience or any other relevant circumstances that may apply to an individual learner. No portfolio is required.
OR

Applicants may provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that the applicant has acquired sufficient relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies to be able to reasonably meet the expectations for learning demanded by the qualification for which they are seeking access.

In instances where RPL is applied for the purposes of access, no credits will be awarded for any previous learning. However, the candidate may choose the option of being assessed for credit.

RPL for credits:
Learners who do meet the necessary entry requirements for admission to a qualification may be awarded some or all the credits towards the qualification. There are two possibilities:

Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from a module or some modules by providing sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that a level of competency, equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module or modules, has been achieved. Credits will be awarded for such modules.
OR

Learners may apply for RPL to be awarded all the credits required for the qualification. Sufficient evidence must be provided that demonstrates a level of competency equivalent to all the learning outcomes of the qualification.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Master of Philosophy in Engineering, NQF Level 9.
Or

A relevant qualification in the related field, NQF Level 9.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 360 Credits:

Doctoral Dissertation - Engineering, 360 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the construction of knowledge within a relevant field of study and apply that understanding to knowledge creation and application.
2. Demonstrate a thorough familiarity with the relevant literature.
3. Demonstrate the knowledge to independently plan, implement and execute a research activity.
4. Demonstrate the ability to do and publish quality original research.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Demonstrate an understanding of epistemological and methodological issues in drafting a research thesis/dissertation.

Interact with relevant literature in accordance with the research methodologies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Possess the ability to collect, analyse, organise, interpret, and evaluate information.

Use methodologies for the field of study.

Work effectively with other role-players at exploring, analysing and interpreting attained knowledge.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Write a research proposal in accordance with the required research quality standards.

Conduct a critical literature review.

Structure precise research questions.

Select or devise appropriate research methods.

Execute the research.

Apply recognised referencing methods.

Critical analysis of the results emanating from the research.

Write up the research dissertation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Use linguistic skills to pursue and complete an extensive and comprehensive research programme.

Publish research work that significantly contributes to knowledge that meets the prerequisite standards for publication.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Extensive international comparability was conducted with various countries (all signatory of Washington accord) and the following countries were chosen because of their best practice.
South Africa is the only African country part of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA) and signatory of Washington accord, for mutual recognition of engineering qualifications.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering qualification is overseen by the Washington accord rules and regulations, therefore the Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering qualification was compared with New Zeeland, Australian and the United States qualifications. These countries have comparable engineering education systems to South Africa.

Country: Australia:
Institution: James Cook University (JCU)
The Engineering and Related Technologies degree at James Cook University is a qualification of supervised original research. It culminates in the submission of a thesis that demonstrates the ability for critical analysis and research that makes a significant and original contribution to the knowledge and understanding of the field of study.
JCU research areas include:

Biotechnology

Chemical engineering

Civil engineering

Electrical and electronic engineering

Internet of Things and technology

Mechanical and materials engineering

Project management
This s a four-year full-time qualification offered either on campus at JCU's Townsville and Cairns campuses or off-campus.
The off-campus option requires some attendance on campus for confirmation and exit seminars and at least three weeks per year for consultation with the supervisor. This qualification is also available part-time.

Graduates of a Doctoral Degree will have:

A substantial body of knowledge at the frontier of a field of work or learning, including knowledge that constitutes an original contribution

Substantial knowledge of research principles and methods applicable to the field of work or learning.

Cognitive skills to demonstrate expert understanding of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on that theory and practice

Cognitive skills and use of intellectual independence to think critically, evaluate existing knowledge and ideas, undertake systematic investigation, and reflect on theory and practice to generate original knowledge

Expert technical and creative skills applicable to the field of work or learning

Communication skills to explain and critique theoretical propositions, methodologies, and conclusions

Communication skills to present cogently a complex investigation of originality or original research for external examination against international standards and to communicate results to peers and the community

Expert skills to design, implement, analyse, theorise, and communicate research that makes a significant and original contribution to knowledge and/or professional practice.

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Technology Sydney
Qualification Title: The Doctor of Philosophy in Engineering and Information Technology

This qualification is awarded to learners who, through original investigation, make a distinct and significant contribution to knowledge in their field of specialisation.

The qualification enables learners to advance themselves in their career in computing and information technology. It offers flexibility in the choice of the topic of research so it may be closely aligned with learners ' professional careers.

There are three specific stages to the doctoral program to frame and support the progress of the candidate and their study.

The structure includes the formalisation and/or introduction of a number of introductory and advanced modules, including subjects covering research preparation and research methods, to support the research and professional development of the learner.
Research learner progress is supported and reviewed through a doctoral study plan (DSP). Learners design their own DSP in consultation with their supervisor(s). In the first stage, the DSP is based on the learner's academic and professional background and his or her goals. The second and third stages are based on the progress of his or her study. Learners are assessed prior to advancing to the next stage of their candidature and submit, in consultation with their supervisor(s), a review of progress at the end of each session.
Learners are required to submit a thesis for examination under the supervision of their supervisor(s).
Career options include positions in universities and other institutions undertaking research or other academic work, including teaching. Opportunities involving research and development also exist with national and international firms.
UTS research is impact-driven, providing relevant solutions to current national and international problems - what we call practical innovation. The research strengths are grouped in six research theme areas:

Future services, industries, and productivity

Communication and intelligent systems

Health futures

Sustainability and the built environment

Creative industries and civil societies

Business innovation

Country: United States of America
American universities (General Presentation)
Only around 1,500 of the USA's 4,500 award doctoral degrees.

In total the length of a PhD in the USA is usually 4-6 years (full time). Learners spend 1-4 years on the coursework stage of their qualification and 2-4 years working on their dissertation.

Learners who have passed the coursework stage of their qualification are ready to be confirmed as full PhD candidates and to proceed to their doctoral dissertation. This is sometimes referred to as the 'capstone project' for a graduate programme culminating in a PhD.
The first thing to do is to decide upon a research topic. The proposal may be linked to ideas and potential directions indicated in the learners' application.
The topic of the learner's research must be put forward in a dissertation prospectus.

The South African qualification starts at "The dissertation stage" after the learners obtained their Master's degree or an equivalent qualification, therefore the two PhD qualifications are comparable. Both USA and South Africa are signatories of the Washington accord.

Country: United States of America
Institutions: University at Buffalo, The State University of New York School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Engineering from University at Buffalo, The State University of New York School of Engineering and Applied Sciences provides an opportunity for learners to pursue a qualification of research in a specialized area and to develop a dissertation that embodies the results of original research and gives evidence of high scholarship.

The qualification provides an opportunity for learners to pursue a qualification of research in a specialised area and to develop a dissertation that embodies the results of original research and gives evidence of high scholarship.
Computational Engineering Mechanics:

Research in computational engineering mechanics involves the application of the fundamental principles of solid and fluid mechanics to a variety of emerging engineering problems, using state-of-the-science numerical algorithms and high-performance computing technology.

Environmental and Water Resources Engineering: Research in environmental engineering seeks to better understand the physical, chemical, and biological processes that influence the health of our environment and to pursue innovative solutions for its protection.

Geomechanics, Geotechnical, and Geoenvironmental Engineering:

Research in geotechnical engineering addresses computational geomechanics, deep foundations, ground improvement, seismic response of soils, liquefaction, and retrofit of foundations, dams, slopes, and retaining walls.

Structural and Earthquake Engineering: The goal of research in earthquake engineering is to enhance the seismic resiliency of communities through improved engineering and management tools for critical infrastructure systems.
Transportation Systems Engineering:

Research in transportation systems engineering focuses on improving the efficiency, safety, sustainability, and resiliency of surface transportation systems.

County: New Zealand
Institution: The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a programme of advanced, independent, and original research carried out under qualified supervision. The results are presented in a thesis that must be an original contribution to the intellectual knowledge of the field and meet recognised international standards.
Qualification Structure"
Learners are directed and supported by an appointed supervisor while engaged in independent research in one of the following approved subject areas:

Bioengineering.

Chemical and Materials Engineering.

Civil Engineering.

Computer Systems Engineering

Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Engineering Science.

Mechanical Engineering.

Mechatronics Engineering.

Operations Research.

Detailed Programme:
This qualification provide learners with the opportunity to make an original research contribution in the field of study of your choosing. This work must meet internationally recognised standards in that field.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a programme of advanced, independent, and original research carried out under qualified supervision. The results are presented in a thesis which must be an original contribution to the intellectual knowledge of the field and meet recognised international standards.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation:

Doctor of Engineering, NQF Level 10.

Vertical Articulation:

Post-Doctoral Studies.

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.

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