Diploma in Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

The purpose of this qualification is to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, and skills required for a student’s progression towards becoming a competent practising Engineering Technician. Graduates are empowered to apply an integration of theory, proven techniques, and practical experience to solve well-defined problems in the field of Mechanical Engineering, whilst operating within relevant standards and codes. Career pathways include:

  • Mechanical Design & Drafting: Mechanical Design Technician, CAD Draftsperson, and Product Development Assistant, applying systematic knowledge from Mechanical Engineering Design and Mechanical Drawing to create precise technical solutions.
  • Manufacturing & Materials Science: Manufacturing Technician, Materials Testing Assistant, and Quality Control Inspector, utilising practical expertise in Manufacturing, Materials Science, and Strength of Materials to ensure structural integrity and production efficiency.
  • Thermofluids & Energy Systems: Thermofluids Technician, HVAC Assistant, and Fluid Power Specialist, leveraging specialised skills in Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics to support power generation, cooling systems, and hydraulic infrastructure.
  • Machine Mechanics & Maintenance: Mechanical Maintenance Technician, Plant Fitter Assistant, and Mechanics of Machines Support, applying core competencies in Mechanics and Mechanics of Machines to maintain and optimise industrial machinery.
  • Professional Registration Pathway: Upon completion of the diploma and 1-year of appropriate experiential learning/industry exposure, graduates meet the strict requirements for registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) as a Candidate Engineering Technician.
Diploma : Diploma in Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering

DP_MEC

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

2 years (full-time)

280

6

Minimum Credits Required: 280

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification

A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Diploma pass (or higher), achieving a minimum score of 27 on the CUT scoring scale, plus a minimum pass mark of 50% (Rating 4) in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English.

Required Prior Instructional Offerings & Prerequisites

  • Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for any Engineering discipline.
  • NCV Applicants: Will be selected according to the specific requirements approved by Senate.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): May be considered on a case-by-case basis for candidates who do not meet the minimum admission requirements, in accordance with the CUT RPL Policy.

Selection Process & Additional Requirements

Admission to this learning programme is subject to selection. This is a two-year programme with only one intake per year, in January. The Diploma will be issued upon the successful completion of 280 SAQA credits. Please note the following strict graduation and enrolment requirements:

  • No student will be allowed to graduate without successfully completing the compulsory Academic Literacy and Communication Studies module and Personal Information Management.
  • Students must achieve competency in all ECSA Graduate Attributes before they will be allowed to graduate.
  • Students may not enrol for a subject if the prerequisite subject was not passed, and may not enrol for subjects that involve timetable clashes.

Note for candidates who matriculated in 2007 or before: Please refer to the official CUT Student Calendar for the specific Senior Certificate (SC) scoring scale and admission requirements applicable to your qualification.


Need the Full Programme Details? Consult the Student Calendar

We know that choosing your future is a big step! While this page gives you the key highlights, the official CUT Student Calendar is your complete, authoritative guide. We highly recommend reviewing it to see full details on this programme, including admission criteria, complete module structures, assessment rules, and what to expect during your studies.

 View the Student Calendar →

Accreditation & Professional Registration

This programme is officially accredited and designed to meet the highest industry standards, ensuring your qualification is recognised by the leading statutory body for engineering in South Africa:

  • ECSA Accreditation: Fully accredited by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
  • Graduate Attributes: The programme complies with all ECSA standards and is specifically designed to meet the Graduate Attribute outcomes required for professional registration as a Candidate Engineering Technician.

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