Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Career Opportunities & Professional Pathways

The Master of Engineering is a research-based postgraduate qualification at NQF Level 9, aiming towards the development of a candidate’s ability to conduct independent scientific and technological investigations and interpret the results to lead to advanced problem-solving capabilities in practice. The programme prepares candidates for research careers in specialisation fields of mechanical engineering and areas that would potentially benefit from advanced engineering skills. Career pathways include:

  • Advanced Mechanical Engineering Research & Academia: Senior Mechanical Engineering Researchers, Academic Lecturers, and PhD Candidates, conducting independent scientific investigations into additive manufacturing, materials science, thermofluids, and structural optimisation.
  • Specialist Engineering Consultancy: Principal Mechanical Engineers, Stress Analysis Specialists, and Thermal Systems Consultants, applying advanced research findings to solve complex, non-routine engineering problems in aerospace, automotive, and heavy industrial environments.
  • Technology Innovation & R&D Leadership: R&D Directors and Chief Engineers in manufacturing and energy sectors, driving the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as laser powder bed fusion, topology optimisation, and advanced composite materials.
  • Strategic Infrastructure & Policy Development: Engineering Policy Advisors and Strategic Planners, utilising deep technical expertise to guide national manufacturing strategies, sustainable energy systems, and resilient industrial infrastructure development.
Thesis

Development and characterisation of a Ti6Al4V additive manufactured component

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Thesis

Topology optimization of hierarchical honeycomb structures to improve energy absorption

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Thesis

Developing laser powder bed fusion Ti6Al4V-reinforced composites

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Thesis

Performance assessment of a Ti6Al4V(ELI) light aircraft nose wheel fork

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Thesis

Thermal behaviour of fire-resistant ceiling boards in a novel cellular structure

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Masters : Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

M_ENGM

Campus

Duration of Programme

SAQA Credits

NQF Level

Bloemfontein Campus

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

180

9

Minimum Credits Required: 180

Programme-Specific Requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification

An appropriate professional Bachelor’s Degree (BSc Eng or BEng), Honours Degree (BEngTech Hons), or an Advanced Diploma/BTech in Mechanical Engineering (or a relevant discipline) from an ECSA-accredited programme in South Africa.

International applicants: A 3-year (minimum) Mechanical Engineering degree from a university recognised within the Washington, Sydney, and/or Dublin Accords may also be considered.

Required Academic Performance

  • A minimum overall average of 60% in the prerequisite Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma.
  • A minimum average of 60% specifically in the final year of that programme (at NQF Level 7 or 8, as applicable).

Programme Regulations & Structure

  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): In cases where a candidate does not meet the 60% average requirement, RPL may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that RPL grants admission only and does not provide exemption from individual subject modules, in accordance with the CUT RPL Policy.
  • Dissertation Credits: The total credit value of the research dissertation must add up to 180 SAQA credits.
  • Intake & Registration: Only one intake per year in January, with registrations possible until 31 March.
  • Award: After successful completion of this qualification, the Master 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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