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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Engineering in Electro-Mechanical Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
91111  Bachelor of Engineering in Electro-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  588  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  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   2034-06-30  

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:
The purpose of the programme is to provide an educational approach where emphasis is placed on integrated studies and on the production of graduates who are generalists, rather than specialists. It aims to meet the increasing demand for engineers with cross-disciplinary skills, particularly in the fields of mining, manufacturing and electro-mechanical power systems:
  • A thorough grounding in mathematics, basic sciences, engineering sciences, engineering modelling and engineering design together with the abilities to enable applications in fields of emerging knowledge.
  • 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 as well as to allow the graduate to make careers in engineering and related fields.
  • For graduates with an appropriate level of achievement in the programme, the ability to proceed to Postgraduate studies in both course-based and research masters programmes.

    Current research indicates that the world as a whole is moving from a traditionally product driven market to a services market. This presents unique requirements in terms of the analysis and design of such systems as traditional engineering specialities have difficulty in transferring product skills to system skills without considerable experience. From market research there is a large requirement for engineers with specialist skills in the design, development, analysis and optimisation of processes as it pertains to the services industry within South Africa.

    To this end a qualification in Electro-Mechanical engineering is proposed that will have a strong focus on engineering in medium to large factories and mining sectors. A strong focus on interdisciplinary nature of electrical and mechanical engineering disciplines throughout the program will ensure that candidates are adequately exposed to the expectations of the department of minerals and industry with regard to the certificate of competency.

    Rationale:
    There has been a growing need for more graduate engineers not only in South Africa but Globally. Institutions of higher learning are expected to contribute toward producing more graduates in engineering. In response to this situation the institution introduce new qualifications to complement the existing qualifications in engineering. This qualification aim is to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practicing engineer in mines and large factories as required by the Republic South Africa department of mineral resources. For the past years, a lot of entry-level engineers failed to acquire the competence needed for placement in mines and large factories. A relevant 4 year Degree will guarantee the level of competence needed by the mines and large factories for placement. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners have achieved:
  • The level of numeracy and literacy skills associated with the entry requirements into the qualification is assumed to be in place.
  • Good oral and written communication skills in place in the relevant medium of instruction at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL will be in accordance with the institutional RPL policy and will be dealt with on an individual basis. See the attached RPL policy.

    Access to the Qualification:
    For admission to Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial) Degree studies the following are prescribed minimum entry requirements:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
  • A National Certificate Vocational (NCV) at NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consist of modules at NQF Level 5 with 148 Credits, NQF Level 6 with 160 Credits, NQF Level 7 with 144 Credits and at NQF Level 8 with 136 Credits totalling 588 Credits.

    NQF Level 5 (Total Credits 148):
  • Professional Practice I, 24 Credits.
  • Mechanics, Oscillations, Waves and Theory of Heat, 12 Credits.
  • Engineering Graphics I, 12 Credits.
  • Introductory Algebra and Analysis I, 12 Credits.
  • Programming for engineers I (C++), 12 Credits.
  • Introductory Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, 12 Credits.
  • Introduction to Academic Literacy, 0 Credits.
  • Materials Science I, 16 Credits.
  • Electricity, Magnetism, Optics, Atomic and Nuclear Physics, 12 Credits.
  • Statics and Mathematical Modelling, 12 Credits.
  • Introductory Algebra and Analysis II, 12 Credits.
  • Engineering Graphics II, 12 Credits.

    NQF Level 6 (Total Credits 160):
  • Electrotechnics, 16 Credits.
  • Strength of Materials, 12 Credits.
  • Dynamics I, 8 Credits.
  • Differential equations and numerical methods, 8 Credits.
  • Analysis III, 8 Credits.
  • Linear Algebra I, 8 Credits.
  • Professional Practice II, 12 Credits.
  • Understanding the Technological World, 8 Credits.
  • Electrical Systems I, 16 Credits.
  • Electronics I, 12 Credits.
  • Thermodynamics I, 12 Credits.
  • Measure and Control, 12 Credits.
  • Professional Practice II, 12 Credits.
  • Numerical analysis, 8 Credits.
  • Linear Algebra II, 8 Credits.

    NQF Level 7 (Total Credits 144):
  • Electrical Systems II, 16 Credits.
  • Engineering Statistics, 16 Credits.
  • Thermodynamics II, 12 Credits.
  • Strength of Materials II, 12 Credits.
  • Reliability Engineering, 12 Credits.
  • Power Systems I, 16 Credits.
  • Control Theory I, 16 Credits.
  • Fluid Mechanics, 8 Credits.
  • Electro-Mechanical Design (3rd year design), 16 Credits.
  • Science, Technology and Society, 12 Credits.
  • Labour Law, 8 Credits.

    NQF Level 8 (Total Credits 136):
  • Power Systems II, 12 Credits.
  • Air conditioning and Refrigeration, 16 Credits.
  • Heat Transfer, 12 Credits.
  • Fluid Machines, 12 Credits.
  • Project, 8 Credits.
  • Introduction to Project Management, 8 Credits.
  • Power Electronics, 16 Credits.
  • Thermal Fluid System Design, 16 Credits.
  • Machine Dynamics, 16 Credits.
  • Project, 16 Credits.
  • Vocational Training, 0 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify, assess, formulate and solve convergent and divergent engineering problems creatively and innovatively.
    2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, basic science and engineering sciences from first principles to solve 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. 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. Apply the fundamental knowledge of electromagnetic power conversion applications to deal with synchronisation of synchronous machines.
    8. Apply the knowledge on power and refrigeration cycles.
    9. Demonstrate an understanding of Elements of the employment law i.e. commencing employment, during employment, termination of employment.
    10. Demonstrate fundamental knowledge of project management activities for all project management functions during each life cycle phase.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
    The Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are embedded in the qualification and will be assessed appropriately. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Fundamental knowledge and insight into the properties of matter and compounds, molecular interaction, aqueous solutions, chemical equilibriums, acids and bases, formation of precipitates and electron transfer reactions is demonstrated.
  • The knowledge to write and name chemical formulae and balance reaction equations is applied.
  • Tendencies and relationships are explained according to the Periodic Table.
  • Skills in applying laboratory and safety regulations are demonstrated.
  • Chemical phenomena are observed and explained and calculations relating to these are done and results communicated scientifically.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Mathematical knowledge of the fundamental concepts like: force, work, energy, momentum, elasticity, simple harmonic motion, waves, hydrostatics, hydrodynamics and the study of heat is demonstrated.
  • A variety of problems of the above-mentioned topics are solved.
  • Skills in the measuring, processing and reporting natural science processes selected from an area wider than Physics only are developed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Polynomials, rational functions, partial fractions and complex numbers are explained.
  • Rational functions are resolved into partial fractions.
  • Basic calculations with complex numbers are performed.
  • Different mathematical functions as well as their limits, whether they are continuous or not and proofs of a representative sample of properties are calculated.
  • Both elementary- and non-elementary functions are differentiated.
  • Both standard and non-standard integrals are integrated through the use of appropriate selection of integration techniques.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The suitability of some important engineering materials for certain applications on their properties is evaluated.
  • Fundamental knowledge of the engineering properties of materials and their basic testing, as well as the typical application in mechanical design of these materials is demonstrated.
  • Materials for simple mechanical designs are specified, taking cognisance of requirements relating to failure, corrosion and impact on the environment.
  • Experimental data is analysed and interpreted in the laboratory.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Techniques of differentiation for solving extreme value problems and definite integration for calculating lengths of curves, surface areas and volumes of revolution are applied.
  • Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to create graphic models of parts and assemblies are used.
  • CAD is used to create working detailed drawings of modelled parts showing the skill to add dimensions and annotations to manufacture the part.
  • Engineering software tools like Excel and EES are used to solve heat transfer problems.
  • Technical design solutions are created using sketching and CAD.
  • The applicable engineering tools such as the software package EES and the specialist flow network solver Flownex are used to solve problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Own points of view in class and in group discussions in written and oral presentations in a coherent and logical, ethically sound and value-based manner are presented.
  • Basic knowledge of learning strategies, academic vocabulary and register, as well as reading and writing academic texts in order to function effectively in an academic environment is demonstrated.
  • Sketches, drawings and a formal engineering design report are communicated in writing to the technical audiences.
  • Basic academic texts is interpreted and evaluated to implement academic conventions of appropriate academic genres in a coherent way to write accurate and appropriate scientific texts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Knowledge of electrical circuits, electromagnetic converters, transformers, induction motors and synchronous machines is applied.
  • Phasor diagrams and equivalent models of electrical machines are used to describe their functioning and determine their performance.
  • Magnetic circuits with non-linear elements, the process of electromagnetic energy conversion and electrical machines are analysed.
  • Magnetic circuits with non-linear elements, the process of electromagnetic energy conversion and electrical machines are mathematically described.
  • Physics and the theory of transformers, induction motors and synchronous machines are used in practical applications.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Variables such as: dry bulb temperature, relative humidity and specific humidity in analysing processes performed on air are used.
  • The First Law on processes performed on air is applied.
  • The Psychometric Chart in the calculation and analysis of processes performed in the conditioning of air is used.
  • The combustion reaction is balanced.
  • The energy released (work or power) in combustion reactions is calculated.
  • Thermodynamic relations is use to calculate the value of internal energy, enthalpy and entropy for components used in thermodynamic systems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • A well-rounded and systematic knowledge base of Labour Law with special reference to the principles governing the contract of employment; procedures required by legislative provisions, the individual and collective labour relationships and the influence of the constitution on these fields are articulated.
  • Problems are solved by analysing sets of facts, identify the sources of Labour Law applicable to a specific scenario, gather information and apply/integrate information coherently in the formulation of solutions with reference to an own argument/motivation to applicable Case Law and legislative provisions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • An overview of the full life cycle of a product from inception to phase-out is presented.
  • Conceptual design of a product is performed.
  • Preliminary design is applied during product development.
  • Principles of general and acquisition management on a design project are used.
  • Capability to perform detail design is expressed.
  • Design guidelines and constraints to the design are applied.
  • The development specification and allocation of requirements to the design are interpreted.
  • Basic project management is performed.

    Integrated Assessment:
    A range of formative and summative assessment methods will be used to permit students to demonstrate their applied competencies.
    Formative assessment: Students will complete tests with a range of types of questions and tasks, write assignments and reports, do oral presentations, posters and team assignments.
    Summative assessment: Students will complete unseen examinations with a range of different types of questions.
    Integrated assessment: In the final year of study students individually plan, design and complete a project.

    In all modules the following Integrated Assessment methods will be used:
  • Individual and group assignments that may include one of the following types:
    > Solution of problems.
    > Investigations.
    > Simulations and Modelling.
    > Application of computer packages.
    > Designs.
  • At least three practical assignments are required for the completion of the non-mathematical modules. Practical assignments involve lab work, processing of data and interpretation of results. Lab reports, which the students have to complete either individually or as a group, have to be submitted for grading. Groups are kept small to ensure effective participation of all group members.
  • At least one of the practical reports in each module must be a full-length report while the remainder are so-called "short" reports. The full-length report is not only assessed for content but also for the writing ability of the student.

    In the design and synthesis modules the following methods of assessment are used:
  • A number of interim reports during the semester by which students' understanding of different sections of the work are assessed.
  • A design assignment involving the design of a complex system. The outcomes are assessed by means of a design report.
  • The execution of an engineering project involving research, design and experimental investigation and/or the construction of equipment. The outcomes are assessed by means of a project report, an oral presentation and a poster presentation.
  • Design assignments are usually done in groups while the final year project is done individually. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The University of Otago in New Zealand offers a Bachelor of Engineering in Technology. The qualification is in response to high demand of engineers around the world. The qualification can be completed with a specialty in Electrical Engineering or Electronics.

    Modules:

    Common Compulsory:
  • Engineering Computing.
  • Engineering Mechanics.
  • Engineering Communication.
  • Engineering Mathematics.
  • Engineering Design and Drawing.
  • Professional Engineering Development.
  • Professional Engineering Practice.
  • Engineering Development Project.

    Civil Major Compulsory Courses:
  • Land Surveying.
  • Materials and Structures.
  • Civil Materials.
  • Fluid Mechanics.
  • Engineering Site Investigation.
  • Engineering Management Principles.
  • Project Management Principles.
  • Civil Engineering Detailing and Modelling.
  • Civil Engineering Construction Practices.
  • Basic Structures.

    Mechanical Major Compulsory Courses:
  • Electrical and Electronic Principles.
  • Materials Science.
  • Strength of Materials.
  • Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer.
  • Fluid Mechanics.
  • Mechanics of Machines.
  • Mechanical Design 1.
  • Advanced Thermodynamics.
  • Strength of Materials 2.

    Electrical Major Compulsory Courses:
  • Electrical and Electronic Principles.
  • Electrical and Electronic Principles 2.

    Learners choose electives according to the major compulsory courses.
    Electives available: Engineering Management Principles, Project Management Principles, Applied Computational Modelling, Product Design Enterprise, Quality and Reliability, Manufacturing Processes and Production, Engineering Mathematics 2, Energy Engineering, Mechanical Design 2, Vibration and Seismic Design for Mechanical Plant and Fluids Power and Advanced Fluid Mechanics.

    The RMIT University in Melbourne Australia offers a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering)/Bachelor of Design (Industrial Design). The Degree equips learners with mechanical engineering and industrial. The design programme gives learners the technical and creative skills to engage at a professional level with the design and development of advanced manufactured products. The graduate stands an opportunity to be employed to work in mechanical and industrial design areas like biomedical, automotive and electro-mechanical product design.

    Modules:
  • Engineering, Society and Sustainability.
  • Engineering Mechanics.
  • Engineering Mathematics C.
  • Industrial Design Communications 1.
  • Design Studies 1 Industrial Design.
  • Solid Mechanics and Materials 1.
  • Manufacturing Systems.
  • Design Studio 2 Industrial Design.
  • Industrial Design Communications 2.
  • Mechanics of Machines 1.
  • Thermo-Fluid Mechanics.
  • Design Studio 3 Industrial Design.
  • Renewable Energy Systems.
  • Further Engineering Mathematics C.
  • Mechanical Design 1.
  • Thermo-Fluid Mechanics 2.
  • Design Studies 2 Industrial Design.
  • Mathematics and Statistics for Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering.
  • Solid Mechanics and Materials 2.
  • Mechatronics Principles.
  • Design Studies 3 Industrial Design.
  • Mechanical Design 2.
  • Design Studies 4 Industrial Design.
  • Design Studio 5 Industrial Design.
  • Thermo-Fluid Mechanics 3.
  • Solid Mechanics 3.
  • Dynamics and Control.
  • Design Studio 6 Industrial Design.
  • Mechanics of Machines 2.
  • Introduction to Computational Engineering.
  • Engineering and Enterprise.
  • Methods in Design Research and Practice.
  • Mechanical Design 3.
  • Applied Heat and Mass Transfer.
  • Remote Area Power Supply.
  • Computational Engineering 1.
  • Industrial Design Pre-Major Project 7.
  • Vehicle Power Systems.
  • Advanced Robotics.
  • Advanced Engineering Control.
  • Computational Engineering 2.
  • Industrial and Vehicle Aerodynamics.
  • Mechatronic Design.
  • Computational Fluid Dynamics.
  • Industrial Design Major Project 8.

    The Concordia University in Canada offers a Bachelor in Industrial Engineering which is integrated with the mechanical engineering department to allow learners a better understand of technical processes. The Industrial Engineering curriculum is therefore designed to give students the background needed to define and solve problems related to the conception, improvement, integration and implementation of industrial systems.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification develop individuals with a diverse base of mathematical and scientific knowledge to design, improve and install integrated systems of people, material, information, equipment and energy. They also learn how engineering theories are applied in real situations. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal articulation possibilities include the following qualifications at NQF Level 8:
  • Bachelor of Engineering Honours.
  • Postgraduate Diploma: Engineering Manufacturing.
  • Postgraduate Diploma: Engineering Management.

    Vertical articulation possibilities include any Master's Degree in Engineering at NQF Level 9, on condition that the Modules in Research Methodology have been completed. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Each module is subject to moderation as described in the relevant Faculty Procedures. Summative assessment examination paper is moderated internally or externally for measuring the appropriate module outcomes at the appropriate NQF level. Internal moderation by a person that is not presenting the module is used for modules where the outcomes are not at an exit level. External moderation is used for all modules at an exit level of the programme. Non-exit level modules may be selected for external moderation on an ad-hoc basis, e.g. when an exceptionally low throughput is evident or when student feedback indicate that additional quality measures are necessary. External moderators are suggested by staff and approved by the School director, where after letters of appointment are sent. Exam answer papers are archived for Engineering Council of South Africa audit purposes. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    The assessor must:
  • Have a higher education qualification that is one level above the modules being assessed.
  • Be an experienced tutor with experience in the particular module. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    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.