Where Do I Find Electrical Engineering Courses In South Africa?

Bybursariesafrica

If you’re a South African citizen with a passion for electronics, circuits, and problem-solving, then an electrical engineering qualification could be the perfect fit for you.

This in-demand field promises exciting opportunities across various industries, from power generation and telecommunications to robotics and automation.

What Qualifications Are Available in Electrical Engineering?

Electrical engineering qualifications in South Africa range from certificates and diplomas to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

The level you choose depends on your desired career path and existing qualifications.

  1. National Certificate in Electrical Engineering (NC(V)): This introductory qualification equips you with the foundational knowledge and skills for basic electrical work.
  2. National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (ND(V)): Building upon the NC(V), this qualification goes deeper into electrical principles and prepares you for technician roles within the field.
  3. Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering (BEng): This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of electrical engineering theory and practice. It qualifies you for professional registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
  4. Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electrical Engineering (BEngTech): This degree focuses more on the practical application of electrical engineering principles compared to the BEng. It equips you for various industry roles.
  5. Postgraduate Degrees (Honours, Masters, PhD): These advanced qualifications cater to individuals seeking careers in research, academia, or highly specialized engineering fields.

Where to Find Electrical Engineering Courses at the TVET College Level?

TVET Colleges (Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges) are excellent institutions for acquiring practical skills and qualifications in electrical engineering.

Many colleges offer the National Certificate (NC(V)) and National Diploma (ND(V)) programs. This is how to find them:

  1. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website: The DHET website provides a list of accredited TVET Colleges across South Africa. Use the search function to filter colleges by province and program offering (NC(V) or ND(V) in Electrical Engineering).
  2. Provincial Departments of Education: Each province in South Africa has its own Department of Education website, which often lists TVET Colleges within their jurisdiction. You can explore these websites for specific colleges and their programs.
  3. TVET College websites: Many TVET Colleges have their own websites showcasing their programs and admission requirements. Searching online can lead you directly to the relevant information.

Can I Find Electrical Engineering Courses at Universities?

Yes. Universities offer Bachelor of Science (BSc Eng) and Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) degrees in electrical engineering.

These programs provide a more theoretical and research-oriented education compared to TVET College programs.

To find these courses, you can explore the websites of public and private universities in South Africa.

Many universities have dedicated engineering faculties showcasing their electrical engineering programs.

What are the Admission Requirements for Electrical Engineering Courses at TVET Colleges?

Admission requirements for electrical engineering courses at TVET colleges vary slightly depending on the specific program and qualification level.

However, some general requirements include:

  1. A valid South African Identity Document (ID) or passport.
  2. A Grade 12 certificate with a pass in Mathematics and Physical Science.
  3. Meeting the college’s specific English language proficiency requirements (if applicable).
  4. Some programs may require an aptitude test or portfolio submission.

TVET colleges offering electrical engineering courses

South Africa boasts a network of excellent TVET colleges offering electrical engineering programs. Here are a few good examples:

  1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT): CPUT offers a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, renowned for its strong industry linkages and focus on renewable energy technologies.
  2. Durban University of Technology (DUT): DUT’s National Diploma in Electrical Engineering program emphasizes power systems, control engineering, and machine drives, preparing graduates for diverse electrical engineering roles.
  3. Central University of Technology (CUT): CUT offers a National Diploma in Electrical Engineering with a specialization in Power Systems, providing graduates with expertise in the design, operation, and maintenance of power grids.
  4. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT): TUT’s National Diploma in Electrical Engineering program is known for its well-equipped laboratories and focus on industrial automation and instrumentation.

Are There Online or Distance Learning Electrical Engineering Courses Available?

While full electrical engineering degrees are uncommon through online or distance learning, some universities offer specific electrical engineering modules or short courses online.

Additionally, the University of South Africa (UNISA) provides a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Electrical Engineering through distance learning.

This program requires a strong foundation in mathematics and science and emphasizes self-directed learning.