Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

The Doctor of Engineering (DEng) is a postgraduate qualification at NQF Level 10. It is an advanced research-based programme aiming towards independent, advanced, and original research and/or creative work that would make a substantial contribution towards new knowledge in mechanical engineering science, technology, and/or practice. Career pathways include:

  • Advanced Academic & Research Leadership: Professors, Principal Researchers, and Research Directors, leading groundbreaking investigations into additive manufacturing, advanced materials characterisation, thermal energy management, and aerospace component design.
  • Strategic Engineering Consultancy: Distinguished Engineering Consultants and Technical Fellows, providing expert advisory services on complex national and international manufacturing processes, sustainable energy systems, and advanced mechanical design.
  • Technology Innovation & Industry Leadership: Chief Engineers, Directors of Innovation, and Technical Advisors in aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing sectors, driving transformative change and Industry 4.0 integration in mechanical engineering practice.
  • Policy Development & National Infrastructure Planning: Senior Policy Advisors and Strategic Planners, shaping national manufacturing strategies, sustainable industrial frameworks, and resilient mechanical engineering standards for future generations.
Thesis

Investigating the production of polypropylene powder suitable for additive manufacturing

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Thesis

Optimal energy management of the ice thermal storage-based air conditioning systems

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Thesis

Redesign and characterisation of the nose wheel fork of a light aircraft

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Thesis

Production and characterisation of Ti-6Al-4V samples manufactured by laser powder bed fusion

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Doctorate : Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

D_ENGM

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

2 years (Minimum; full-time) or 4 years (Minimum; part-time) or 4 years (Maximum; full time) or 6 years (Maximum; part-time)

360

10

Minimum Credits Required: 360

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification

A Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or an equivalent qualification) at NQF Level 9 from a recognised higher education institution.

Required Academic Performance

  • A minimum average of 65% at Master’s-level or equivalent (NQF Level 9).
  • Demonstrated capacity for independent, advanced, and original research at the doctoral level.

Programme Regulations & Structure

  • Dissertation Credits: The total credit value of the doctoral dissertation must add up to 360 SAQA credits at NQF Level 10.
  • Intake & Registration: Only one intake per year in January, with registrations possible until 31 March.
  • Award: After successful completion of this qualification, the Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering degree will be awarded during an official graduation ceremony of CUT.

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.

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