Department of Mechanical Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers undergraduate programmes the new HEQSF aligned Diploma and Advanced Diploma.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers an Extended Diploma.

The programmes offered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering are listed:

The programmes offered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering are:

Department

Programmes Offered

Duration

Delivery Sites

Department of Mechanical Engineering   

Diploma: Eng (Mechanical, Extended Programme)   

4 years

Chiselhurst

Diploma: Eng (Mechanical)

3 years 

Chiselhurst

Advanced Diploma: Eng (Mechanical)

1 year (Full-Time)
2 years (Part-Time)  

Chiselhurst 

Department Staff

HoD

Mr S Mawisa, BTech (Mech Eng) (Pen Tech), ND (Mech Eng) (Pen Tech), Pr. Tech Eng (ECSA), MSAIMechE, MNSBE

Telephone +27 (0)  043 709 4051, Email smawisa@wsu.ac.za

Secretary

Ms N Sonamzi, BTech: Bus Admin (WSU) NDip: Omtech (WSU)

Telephone +27 (0) 43 709 4078, Email nsonamzi@wsu.ac.za

Minimum Requirements

Grade 12/Matric

Senior Certificate Requirement

  • An E-symbol for English (2nd language) on the Higher Grade. In addition, an E-symbol on the Higher Grade or a D-symbol on the Standard Grade for Mathematics and Physical Science.

National Certificate Requirement

  • An N3 certificate with C-symbols for at least four subjects including Mathematics and Engineering Science or a D-symbol at N4 level as well as the language requirements as specified for the Senior Certificate.

National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4

Requirements as defined in Government Gazette 32743 (26 November 2009) with specific requirements as set out below:

  • Must meet NC(V) level 4 statutory requirements
  • Must obtain 50% in the three fundamental subjects which in the case of this programme are required to be:
  • English, as it is the university’s language of learning and teaching (LOTL); Mathematics (not Mathematics Literacy)
  • Life Orientation
  • 60% for three of the following compulsory vocational modules (in any combination): 
    • Engineering Processes
    • Engineering Technology 
    • Fitting and Turning
    • Automotive Repair & Maintenance
    • Engineering Fabrication – Boilermaking or Sheet Metal Worker Welding
    • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Process Electro-Technology
    • Computer Integrated Manufacturing Mechatronic Systems
  • All NC(V) 4 applicants are required to participate and perform satisfactorily in the Placement Tests as conducted by the Department.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

  • RPL may be used to demonstrate competence for admission to this programme.
  • This qualification may be achieved in part through recognition of prior learning processes.
  • Credits achieved by RPL must not exceed 50% of the total credits and must not include credits at the exit level.
  • The provision that the qualification may be obtained through the recognition of prior learning facilitates access to an education, training and career path in engineering and thus accelerates the redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities.

Diploma: Mechanical Engineering

Entrepreneurship & Professional Development of Students

It is part of the Department of Mechanical Engineering mission to instil entrepreneurial skills in their graduates to support their academic talents.

Therefore, compulsory ongoing entrepreneurial exposure will be presented via successful local business people and other entrepreneurial experts.

Business principles will permeate throughout the programme on an informal basis.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering also encourages students and staff to become members of the various professional and institutional bodies. While studying towards the diploma qualification, students are encouraged to join various institutions and professional bodies.

More information is available from the HOD.

Students are encouraged to visit the ECSA, SAIMechE and NSBE websites for more information.

Career Opportunities

The job opportunities for graduates in Mechanical Engineering include the management and control of all mechanical related design, construction, manufacturing, testing, commissioning and maintenance of equipment and systems.

This career also offers challenging opportunities in the following Mechanical Engineering Fields:

  • Computer applications (CAD/CAM)
  • Design and development of mechanical components
  • Quality control and Condition monitoring
  • Management of industrial projects and production lines
  • Design of hydraulic/pneumatic systems
  • Retail, design or development of air conditioning equipment
  • Engineering supervisor
  • Management of maintenance teams and production services
  • Technical education.

Purpose of the Qualification

The primary purpose of this vocationally-oriented qualification is to provide learners with the necessary knowledge, and understanding of Mechanical Engineering and to equip them with skills required to become a registered Candidate Engineering Technician with the Engineering Council of South Africa and acceptance as a candidate to write the examinations for Certificated Engineers.

A qualified learner will be able to:

  • Apply knowledge of Mathematics, Natural Science and Engineering Sciences to applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve well-defined engineering problems.
  • Perform procedural design of well-defined components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
  • Conduct investigations of well-defined problems through locating and searching relevant codes and catalogues and conducting standard tests, experiments and measurements.

Graduate Attributes and Associated Assessment Criteria of the Programme

Graduate Attribute (GA) 1: Apply engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve well-defined engineering problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 1

1. The problem is analysed and defined and criteria are identified for an acceptable solution.

2. Relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills are identified and used for solving the problem.

3. Various approaches are considered and formulated that would lead to workable solutions.

4. Solutions are modelled and analysed.

5. Solutions are evaluated and the best solution is selected.

6. The solution is formulated and presented in an appropriate form

Graduate Attribute (GA) 2: Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve well-defined engineering problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 2

1. An appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics, statistics, natural science and engineering science knowledge at a fundamental level is brought to bear on the solution of well-defined engineering problems.

2. Applicable principles and laws are used.

3. Engineering materials, components, systems or processes are analysed.

4. Concepts and ideas are presented in a logical and methodical manner.

5. Reasoning about engineering materials, components, systems or processes is performed.

6. Procedures for dealing with uncertain/ undefined/ill-defined variables are outlined and justified.

7. Work is performed within the boundaries of the practice area


Graduate Attribute (GA) 3: Perform procedural design of components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 3

1. The design problem is formulated to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.

2. The design process is planned and managed to focus on important issues and recognises and deals with constraints.

3. Knowledge, information and resources are acquired and evaluated in order to apply appropriate principles and design tools to provide a workable solution.

4. Design tasks are performed that include analysis and optimisation of the product, or system or process, subject to relevant premises, assumptions and constraints.

5. Alternatives are evaluated for implementation and a preferred solution is selected based on techno-economic analysis and judgement.

6. The design logic and relevant information is communicated in a technical report.

7. Procedures are applied to evaluate the selected design and assessed in terms of the impact and benefits.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 4: Conduct investigations of well-defined problems through locating and searching relevant codes and catalogues, conducting standard tests, experiments and measurements.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 4

1. The scope of the investigation is defined.

2. Investigations are planned and conducted within an appropriate discipline.

3. Available literature is searched and material is evaluated for suitability to the investigation.

4. Relevant equipment or software is selected and appropriately used for the investigation.

5. Data obtained is analysed and interpreted.

6. Conclusions are drawn from an analysis of all available evidence.

7. The purpose, process and outcomes of the investigation are recorded in a technical report.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 5: Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools including information technology for the solution of well-defined engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 5

1. The method, skill or tool is assessed for applicability and limitations against the required result.

2. The method, skill or tool is applied correctly.

3. Results produced by the method, skill or tool are tested and assessed

4. Relevant computer applications are selected and used.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing within an engineering context.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 6

1. The structure, style and language of written and oral communication is appropriate for the purpose of the communication and the target audience.

2. Graphics used are appropriate and effective in enhancing the meaning of the text.

3. Visual materials used to enhance oral communications.

4. Information is provided in a format that can be used by others involved in the engineering activity.

5. Oral communication is delivered with the intended meaning being apparent.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 7: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by defined procedures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 7

1. The impact of technology is demonstrated in terms of the benefits and limitations to society.

2. The engineering activity is analysed in terms of the impact on occupational and public health and safety.

3. The engineering activity is analysed in terms of the impact on the physical environment.

4. The methods to minimise/mitigate impacts outlined in 2 and 3 above reconsidered.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 8: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and apply these to one’s own work, as a member and leader in a technical team and to manage projects.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 8

1. The principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling are explained.

2. Individual work is carried out effectively, strategically and on time.

3. Individual contributions made to team activities support the output of the team as a whole.

4. Functioning as a team leader is demonstrated.

5. A project is organised and managed.

6. Effective communication carried out in the context of individual and teamwork.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 9: Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 9

1. Learning tasks are identified, planned and managed.

2. The requirement for independent learning is identified/ recognised and demonstrated.

3. Relevant information is sourced, organised and evaluated

4. Knowledge acquired outside of formal instruction is comprehended and applied.

5. Awareness is displayed of the need to maintain continued competence through keeping abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques available in the workplace.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 10: Understand and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of engineering technical practice

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 10

1. The nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas are described in terms of required practices, legislation and limitations of authority.

2. The ethical implications of engineering decisions are described in terms of the impact on the environment, the business, costs and trustworthiness.

3. Judgements in decision making during problem-solving and design are ethical and within acceptable boundaries of current competence.

4. Responsibility is accepted for consequences stemming from own actions or inaction.

5. Decision making is limited to the area of current competence.

Graduate Attribute (GA) 11: Demonstrate an understanding of workplace practices to solve engineering problems consistent with academic learning achieved.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 11

1. Orientation to the working environment is described in terms of company structure and conventions, rules, policies, working hours, dress codes and reporting lines.

2. Labour practices used in the workplace are described in accordance with relevant legislation.

3. Workplace safety is described in terms of the application of relevant safety, health and environmental legislation.

4. General administration procedures are described in terms of how they operate and the key purpose.

5. Work activities are conducted in a manner suited to the work context. The range of work activities include assisting, contributing, observing and applying at least four of the specific practices below:

  • Engineering processes, skills and tools, including measurement.
  • Investigations, experiments and data analysis.
  • Problem-solving techniques.
  • Application of scientific and engineering knowledge
  • Engineering planning and design
  • Professional and technical communication
  • Individual and teamwork or
  • The impact of engineering activity on health, safety and the environment.

6. Knowledge and understanding gained from the work-integrated learning period is reported in a prescribed format, using appropriate language and style.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

This qualification promotes, in particular, the following Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

In the problem-solving process, the student is expected to be both creative and critical.
Working effectively with others as a member of a group, organisation and community, for example, demonstrate effectiveness in:

  • Individual work and the ability to function in a team situation.
  • Communication, including receiving advice from supervisors.
  • Self-management by organising and managing oneself and one’s activities responsibly and effectively.
  • Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion when presenting design and investigations.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  • Demonstrating and understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation by taking technical, social, economic, environmental factors into account.

Minimum Admission Requirements

National Senior Certificate

APS: 30

Required NSC Subjects (Compulsory)

  • NSC achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for English at a Home Language or First Additional Language level NSC Achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Mathematics (not Mathematics Literacy)
  • NSC achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Physical Sciences.

Recommended NSC Subjects (Not Compulsory)

  • Engineering Graphics and Design
  • Mechanical Technology

Other

  • Minimum statutory NSC requirements for diploma entry must be met.
  • Applicants are required to participate in National Benchmarking Tests.

Grade 12/Matric

Senior Certificate Requirement
An E-symbol for English (2nd language) on the Higher Grade. In addition, an E-symbol on the Higher Grade or a D-symbol on the Standard Grade for Mathematics and Physical Science.

FET Colleges

National Certificate Requirement
An N3 certificate with C-symbols for at least four subjects including Mathematics and Engineering Science or a D-symbol at N4 level as well as the language requirements as specified for the Senior Certificate.

National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4
Requirements as defined in Government Gazette 32743 dated 26th November 2009 with specific requirements as set out below:
Must meet NC(V) level 4 statutory requirements
Must obtain 50% in the three fundamental subjects which in the case of this programme are required to be:

  • English, as it is the university’s language of learning and teaching (LOTL)
  • Mathematics (not Mathematics Literacy)
  • Life Orientation

60% for three of the following compulsory vocational modules (in any combination):

  • Engineering Processes
  • Engineering Technology
  • Fitting and Turning
  • Automotive Repair & Maintenance
  • Engineering Fabrication – Boilermaking or Sheet Metal Worker Welding
  • Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Process
  • Electro-Technology
  • Computer Integrated Manufacturing
  • Mechatronic Systems.

All NC(V) 4 applicants are required to participate and perform satisfactorily in the Placement Tests as conducted by the Department.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL may be used to demonstrate competence for admission to this programme.

This qualification may be achieved in part through recognition of prior learning processes. Credits achieved by RPL must not exceed 50% of the total credits and must not include credits at the exit level.


The provision that the qualification may be obtained through the recognition of prior learning facilitates access to an education, training and career path in engineering and thus accelerates the redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities.


Evidence of prior learning must be assessed through formal RPL processes through recognised methods.

Any other evidence of prior learning should be assessed through formal RPL processes to recognise achievement thereof.

Learners submitting themselves for RPL should be thoroughly briefed prior to the assessment and will be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) in the prescribed format to be assessed for formal recognition.

While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of learning may be introduced if pertinent to any of the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs).

The structure of this non-unit standard based qualification makes RPL possible if the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this first stage engineering qualification.


Learners who already work in the engineering industry and who believe they possess competencies to enable them to meet some or all of the ELOs listed in the qualification will be able to present themselves for assessment against those of their choice.

International Students

  • Applications from international students are considered in terms of:
    HESA/Institutional guideline document, “Exemption Requirements: Foreign Department Qualifications” institutional equivalence reference document.
  • (Where required) submission of international qualification to SAQA for benchmarking in terms of HEQF.

Mature Age Endorsement

Refer to requirements as per WSU’s General Rules & Regulations – Section 1.6.

 Advanced Diploma: Mechanical Engineering

Entrepreneurship & Professional Development of Students

For details see the same section under National Diploma: Engineering: Mechanical.

Career Opportunities

For details see the same section under National Diploma: Engineering: Mechanical, except that graduates will be able to perform work at the technologist level.

Purpose of Qualification

The primary purpose of this industry-oriented diploma emphasises general principles and application or technology transfer within the field of Mechanical Engineering. T

The qualification provides students with a sound knowledge base in a particular field or discipline of Mechanical Engineering and the ability to apply their knowledge and skills to particular career or professional contexts while equipping them to undertake more specialised and intensive learning.

The programme leading to this qualification have a strong professional or career focus and holders of this qualification are prepared to enter a specific niche in the labour market.

The purpose of this educational programme is to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practicing Mechanical Engineering Technologist.

This qualification provides:

  • Preparation for careers in Mechanical Engineering itself and areas that potentially benefit from engineering skills, for achieving technological proficiency and to make a contribution to the economy and national development
  • The educational base required for registration as a Candidate Engineering Technologist with the Engineering Council of South Africa.

Graduate Attributes (GA) and Assessment Criteria

Graduate Attribute 1: Apply engineering principles to systematically diagnose and solve broadly-defined engineering problems

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 1:
1.1 The problem is analysed and defined and criteria are identified for an acceptable solution.
1.2 Relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills are identified for solving the problem.
1.3 Possible approaches are generated and formulated that would lead to a workable solution for the problem.
1.4 Possible solutions are modelled and analysed.
1.5 Possible solutions are evaluated and the best solution is selected.
1.6 The solution is formulated and presented in an appropriate form.

Graduate Attribute 2:
Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural science and engineering sciences to defined and applied engineering procedures, processes, systems and methodologies to solve broadly defined engineering problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 2:
2.1 An appropriate mix of knowledge of mathematics, numerical analysis, statistics, natural science and engineering science at a fundamental level and in a specialist area is brought to bear on the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems.
2.2 Theories, principles and laws are used.
2.3 Formal analysis and modelling is performed on engineering materials, components, systems or processes.
2.4 Concepts, ideas and theories are communicated.
2.5 Reasoning about and conceptualising engineering materials, components, systems or processes is performed.
2.6 Uncertainty and risk is handled.
2.7 Work is performed within the boundaries of the practice area.

Graduate Attribute 3:
Perform procedural and non-procedural design of broadly defined components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 3:
3.1 The design problem is formulated to satisfy user needs, applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.

3.2 The design process is planned and managed to focus on important issues and recognises and deals with constraints. 3.3 Knowledge, information and resources are acquired and evaluated in order to apply appropriate principles and design tools to provide a workable solution.
3.4 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.
3.5 Alternatives are evaluated for implementation and a preferred solution is selected based on techno-economic analysis and judgement.
3.6 The selected design is assessed in terms of the social, economic, legal, health, safety, and environmental impact and benefits.
3.7 The design logic and relevant information is communicated in a technical report.

Graduate Attribute 4: Conduct investigations of broadly-defined problems through locating, searching and selecting relevant data from codes, databases and literature, designing and conducting experiments, analysing and interpreting results to provide valid conclusions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 4:
4.1 Investigations and experiments are planned and conducted within an appropriate discipline.
4.2 Available literature is searched and material is critically evaluated for suitability to the investigation.
4.3 Analysis is performed as necessary to the investigation.
4.4 Equipment or software is selected and used as appropriate in the investigations.
4.5 Information is analysed, interpreted and derived from available data.
4.6 Conclusions are drawn from an analysis of all available evidence.
4.7 The purpose, process and outcomes of the investigation are recorded in a technical report.

Graduate Attribute 5: Use appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering tools, including information technology, prediction and modelling, for the solution of broadly-defined engineering problems, with an understanding of the limitations, restrictions, premises, assumptions and constraints.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 5:
5.1 The method, skill or tool is assessed for applicability and limitations against the required result.
5.2 The method, skill or tool is applied correctly to achieve the required result.
5.3 Results produced by the method, skill or tool are tested and assessed against required results.
5.4 Computer applications are created, selected and used as required by the discipline

Graduate Attribute 6: Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the affected parties.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 6:
6.1 The structure, style and language of written and oral communication are appropriate for the purpose of the communication and the target audience.
6.2 Graphics used are appropriate and effective in enhancing the meaning of the text.
6.3 Visual materials used to enhance oral communications.
6.4 Accepted methods are used for providing information to others involved in the engineering activity.
6.5 Oral communication is delivered fluently with the intended meaning being apparent.

Graduate Attribute 7:
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the impact of engineering activity on the society, economy, industrial and physical environment, and address issues by analysis and evaluation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 7:
7.1 The impact of technology is explained in terms of the benefits and limitations to society.
7.2 The engineering activity is analysed in terms of the impact on occupational and public health and safety.
7.3 The engineering activity is analysed in terms of the impact on the physical environment.
7.4 Personal, social, economic, cultural values and requirements are taken into consideration for those who are affected by the engineering activity.

Graduate Attribute 8:
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and apply these to one’s own work, as a member and leader in a team and to manage projects.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 8:
8.1 The principles of planning, organising, leading and controlling are explained.
8.2 Individual work is carried out effectively, strategically and on time.
8.3 Contributions to team activities, including disciplinary boundaries, support the output of the team as a whole.

8.4 Functioning as a team leader is demonstrated.
8.5 A design or research project is organised and managed.
8.6 Effective communication is carried out in the context of individuals and teamwork.

Graduate Attribute 9:
Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills. Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 9:
9.1 Learning tasks are managed autonomously and ethically, individually and in learning groups.
9.2 Learning undertaken is reflected on and own learning requirements and strategies are determined to suit personal learning style and preferences.
9.3 Relevant information is sourced, organised and evaluated.

9.4 Knowledge acquired outside of formal instruction is comprehended and applied.
9.5 Assumptions are challenged critically and new thinking is embraced Graduate Attribute

10: Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of engineering technology practice.

Associated Assessment Criteria for GA 10:
10.1 The nature and complexity of ethical dilemmas is described.
10.2 The ethical implications of decisions made are described.
10.3 Ethical reasoning is applied to evaluate engineering solutions.
10.4 Continued competence is maintained through keeping abreast of up-to-date tools and techniques available in the workplace.
10.5 The system of continuing professional development is understood and embraced as an ongoing process.
10.6 Responsibility is accepted for consequences stemming from own actions.
10.7 Judgements are made in decision making during problem solving and design.
10.8 Decision-making is limited to the area of current competence.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

This qualification has the same Critical Cross-Field Outcomes as for Diploma: Engineering: Mechanical.

Minimum Admission Requirements

The minimum admission requirement is that candidates should have accumulated at least one year of appropriate post diploma experience and 

(i) A revised National Diploma: Engineering: Mechanical (S-stream), or its equivalent, OR

(ii) A National Higher Diploma: Mechanical Engineering (T4) with the appropriate courses at this level for the field of specialisation the candidate wishes to pursue, OR

(iii) A National Diploma: Mechanical Engineering (T3) with at least two (2) of the following S4-level courses: Applied Strength of Materials III, Steam Plant III, Hydraulic Machines III, Mathematics III.

Newly qualified diplomats who wish to proceed directly to the BTech programme without the experiential requirements may be admitted if they obtained an average of at least 60% in their Level III courses.

However, admission is not automatic, as candidates will be selected on the basis of their proven academic record and post qualification professional experience.

 

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