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 Technology in Industrial Engineering 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99031  Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Industrial Engineering 
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela 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  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  420  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  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   2033-06-30  

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 Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Industrial Engineering is specifically designed to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required to become a competent, practicing Industrial Engineering Technologist as per the Sydney International Accord.

This qualification is primarily industry-oriented and will develop and transfer Industrial Engineering knowledge to learners which will serve them in their work as Industrial Engineering Technologists which in turn will assist South Africa in terms of wealth creation and economic sustainability in the country.

The Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Industrial Engineering) will provide learners with an integrated knowledge base in the Industrial Engineering discipline and the ability to apply and evaluate knowledge, skills and values. Upon completion of the qualification learners will be able to register as a professional with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). They will also be equipped to undertake more specialised postgraduate studies.

Upon completion, qualifying learners are able to:
  • Apply established and newly developed engineering technology to identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect upon and solve complex problems in the engineering field and component systems, services and processes.
  • Provide leadership in the application of technology in safety, health, engineering and commercially effective operations and demonstrate well-developed inter-personal skills.
  • Work independently and responsibly, making decisions to solve problems and deal with associated risks arising from the application of technology and health and safety measures in the workplace.
  • Apply specialised understanding of engineering sciences with an integrated knowledge of specific technologies together with financial, commercial, legal, social, economic, health, safety and environmental matters.
  • Apply knowledge of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Engineering Sciences to defined and applied engineering procedures, processes, systems, and methodologies.
  • Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools including information technology, prediction and modelling, with an understanding of their limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Industrial Engineering management principles and apply these to own work, as a member and a leader of a team managing projects.
  • Communicate ideas and opinions in well-formed arguments both orally and in writing to engineering audiences and affected parties.
  • Comprehend and apply ethical principles, professional standards, and the norms of mechanical engineering practice to projects.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of mechanical engineering activity on society, the economy, industry and the physical environment.

    Rationale:
    The need for engineering qualifications in South Africa has been documented by various sources. According to the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), South Africa has an engineering population ratio of 1:3100 compared to Germany (1:200) and Japan, Great Britain and United States of America (1:310). This implies that the number of engineers required in South Africa needs to multiply ten-fold to compete with international economies. Industrial Engineering (IE) is one of the younger and faster growing engineering disciplines and one of the five largest engineering disciplines in terms of graduate output. It is a field of engineering operating in at an integrated manner optimising the productivity of complex man/machine systems and processes, and aiming to make such systems operate better. Industrial engineering is applicable to virtually all industries in the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors of the economy.

    Scarcity in industrial engineering lies in both supply and demand.
    The qualification aims to:
  • Prepare learners for careers in Industrial Engineering and areas that potentially benefit from engineering skills and to make a contribution to the economy and national development.
  • Provide the educational base required for registration as a Candidate and/or Professional Engineering Technologist with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
  • Provide the knowledge and skills necessary for entry to postgraduate studies. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    RPL will be applied in line with the institution's RPL policy.

    The learner's competencies will be evaluated in terms of documented and verified achievement of specified Exit-Level Outcomes. RPL implementation will use a triangulated verification approach using academic records, portfolios and interviews.
    RPL may be used to grant admission to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements and to grants credits towards the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entrance requirements are:
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV) at Level 4 allowing entry to Bachelors' Degree studies.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) allowing entry to Bachelors' Degree studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 420 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5, 140 Credits:
  • Engineering Drawing 101, 14 Credits.
  • Professional Communication Language 101, 14 Credits.
  • Professional Communication Computers 101, 14 Credits.
  • Engineering Skills 102, 14 Credits.
  • Mathematics 101, 14 Credits.
  • Physics 101, 14 Credits.
  • Mathematics 102, 14 Credits.
  • Physics 102, 14 Credits.
  • Engineering Programming Industrial 102, 14 Credits.
  • Operations Engineering 201, 14 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6, 140 Credits:
  • Mathematics 201, 14 Credits.
  • Systems Engineering 201, 14 Credits.
  • Engineering Materials 102, 14 Credits.
  • Engineering Statistics 201, 14 Credits.
  • CAD 201, 14 Credits.
  • Business Engineering 202, 14 Credits.
  • Systems Engineering 202, 14 Credits.
  • Operations Engineering 202, 14 Credits.
  • Quality Engineering 202, 14 Credits.
  • Manufacturing Engineering 202, 14 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7, 140 Credits:
  • Business Engineering 301, 14 Credits.
  • Operations Research 301, 14 Credits.
  • Operations Engineering 301, 14 Credits.
  • Facilities Layout and Materials Handling 301, 14 Credits.
  • Research and Project Management 301, 14 Credits.
  • Corporate Citizenship for Engineers 302, 14 Credits.
  • Automation 302, 14 Credits.
  • Capstone Project Industrial 302, 28 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply Industrial Engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve complex engineering problems.
    2. Perform procedural and non-procedural design of defined Industrial Engineering components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within standards, codes of practice and legislation.
    3. Conduct investigations of complex Industrial Engineering problems through locating, searching and selecting relevant data from codes, data bases and literature, designing and conducting experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.
    4. Use appropriate techniques resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of complex Industrial Engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.
    5. Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to defined and applied Industrial Engineering procedures, processes, systems.
    6. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with Industrial Engineering audiences and the affected parties.
    7. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of Industrial Engineering activity on e society, the economy, industry and the physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Industrial Engineering management principles and apply these to one's work, as a member and leader in a team to manage projects. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The problem is analysed and defined and the criteria are identified for an acceptable solution.
  • Relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills are identified for solving the problem.
  • Possible approaches are generated and formulated that would lead to a workable solution for the problem.
  • Possible solutions are modelled and analysed.
  • Possible solutions are evaluated and the best solution is selected.
  • The solution is formulated and presented in an appropriate form.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The design problem is formulated to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  • The design process is planned and managed to focus on important issues and recognises and deals with constraints.
  • Knowledge, information and resources are acquired and evaluated in order to apply appropriate principles and design tools to provide a workable solution.
  • Design tasks are performed including analysis, quantitative modelling and optimisation of the product, system or process subject to the relevant premises, assumptions, constraints and restrictions.
  • Alternatives are evaluated for implementation and a preferred solution is selected based on techno-economic analysis and judgment.
  • The selected design is assessed in terms of the social, economic, legal, health, safety, and environmental impact and benefits.
  • The design logic and relevant information is communicated in a technical report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Investigations and experiments are planned and conducted within an appropriate discipline.
  • Available literature is searched and material is critically evaluated for suitability to the investigation.
  • Analysis is performed as necessary to the investigation.
  • Equipment or software is selected and used appropriately in the investigations.
  • Information is analysed, interpreted and derived from available data.
  • Conclusions are drawn from an analysis of all available evidence.
  • The purpose, process and outcomes of the investigation are recorded in a technical report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The method, skill or tool is assessed for applicability and limitations against the required result.
  • The method, skill or tool is applied correctly to achieve the required result.
  • Results produced by the method, skill or tool are tested and assessed against required results.
  • Computer applications are created, selected and used as required by the discipline.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • An appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, natural science and engineering science is brought to bear on the solution of a complex engineering problem.
  • Theories, principles and laws of mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, natural science and engineering science are used appropriately to define the problem and are communicated.
  • Formal analysis and modelling is performed on engineering materials, components, systems or processes.
  • Reasoning about and conceptualising engineering materials, components, systems or processes is performed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The structure, style and language of written and oral communication are appropriate for the purpose of the communication and the target audience.
  • Graphics are used appropriately and effectively in enhancing the meaning of text.
  • Visual materials are used to enhance oral communications.
  • Accepted methods are applied for providing information to others involved in the engineering activity.
  • Oral communication is delivered fluently with an apparent intended meaning.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • The impact of technology is identified and dealt with in terms of the benefits and limitations to society.
  • The engineering activity is analysed in terms of the impact on occupational and public health and safety.
  • The engineering activity is analysed in terms of the impact on the physical environment.
  • Personal, social, economic, cultural values and requirements of those who are affected by the engineering activity are taken into consideration.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling are explained.
  • Individual work is carried out effectively, strategically and on time.
  • Contributions to team activities, including at disciplinary boundaries are made to support the output of the team as a whole.
  • Functioning as a team leader is demonstrated.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The Capstone Project with comprehensively detailed Associated Assessment Criteria will provide the opportunity for comprehensive integrative assessment covering the complete spectrum of the learning achieved.

    Both formative and summative assessment processes throughout the duration of Capstone Project will provide an opportunity for the learners to validate that they are able to integrate concepts, ideas and actions across the qualification to achieve the required competence in order to meet the purpose of the qualification. The assessment tools will critically evaluate the learner's knowledge, critical thinking, and evaluation prowess as well as communication and presentation skills.

    Formative Assessment will entail the following:
  • Individual and collaborative group tutorials with memoranda and direct lecturer and/or tutor formative feedback.
  • Individual and collaborative Assignments/ Projects with direct discussions providing formative feedback.
  • Class tests with direct formative feedback via memoranda and discussions.
  • Computer based simulations.
  • Computer based interactive feedback using clicker based systems/Moodle.

    Summative Assessment will entail the following:
  • Closed and/or open book tests including scoring and feedback.
  • Individual projects and assignments including feedback via assessment rubrics and scoring.
  • Group projects and assignments including scoring and feedback via assessment rubrics.
  • Individual presentations including feedback via assessment rubrics, lecturer and peer scoring.
  • Closed or open book examinations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is aligned with the Bologna International Accord and meets the academic requirements of the Sydney International Accord leading to the status of a Professional Engineering Technologist. Graduates with this qualification will meet the academic requirements of the Dublin International Accord leading to registration as a Professional Engineering Technician.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification is designed to be internationally recognised and comparable as its Exit Level Outcomes are developed to comply with international standards and conventions pertaining to industrial engineering as a scientific field. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers no specific horizontal or vertical articulation opportunities with qualifications offered by the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University:

    The qualification offers systemic articulation as follows with qualifications offered by other institutions, provided the learner meets the minimum entry requirements:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Engineering Science, Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Engineering, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours: Industrial Technology and Management, Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering, Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma: Engineering Management, Level 8. 
    		•

    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. Nelson Mandela 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.