Programme Overview

Mechanical engineers design, develop, analyse and maintain mechanical systems and equipment used across a wide range of industries. This practical qualification combines engineering theory with hands-on learning to prepare you for a career as a Mechanical Engineering Technologist. Through the programme, you will gain:

  • Practical mechanical engineering knowledge aligned with industry needs
  • Technical skills in engineering design, manufacturing and maintenance systems
  • Exposure to modern engineering technologies, CAD and simulation software
  • Problem-solving, analytical and project management skills
  • A pathway towards professional Engineering Technologist registration and postgraduate study

At a glance

Course Intakes
Intakes
February 23, 2027
July 27, 2027
Course Study
Study Mode
  • Blended: On Campus – Online
Course Location
Location
  • Midrand
Course Duration
Duration
  • 3 Years Full-Time
Course Type
Course Type
  • Bachelor of Engineering Technology

The field of mechanical engineering is concerned with the design, analysis and application of mechanical systems and technologies.

Mechanical engineers apply their skills across a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, energy, mining, transportation and industrial engineering. Their work can involve mechanical design, manufacturing processes, maintenance systems, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, automation, and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems.

With this qualification, you will acquire the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to solve broadly defined mechanical engineering problems and contribute effectively to engineering teams. More importantly, you will be able to pursue registration as a Mechanical Engineering Technologist after completing the prescribed post-qualification experience requirements.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of mechanical engineering through a carefully structured programme:

Year Module Name NQF level CREDITS
Year 1 Engineering Mathematics 1 5 15
Electrical Circuit Theory and Analysis 5 15
Engineering Dynamics and Mechanics 5 15
Engineering Design and Drawing 5 15
Industrial Experience Research Project – Part A 5 10
Engineering Mathematics 2 6 15
Engineering Programming 6 15
Hydraulics and Pneumatics 6 15
Physics and Chemistry for Engineers 6 15
Industrial Experience Research Project – Part B 6 10
Year 2 Pumps, Seals, Compressors and Turbines 6 15
Mechanics of Machines 6 15
Engineering Mathematics 3 7 15
Process Plant Layout, Piping and Pipeline Systems 6 15
Project Planning, Management and Costing – Part A 6 10
Mechanical Design 6 15
Fluid Mechanics 6 15
Thermodynamics 6 15
Automation, Measurement and Control 6 15
Project Planning, Management and Costing – Part B 6 10
Year 3 Energy Systems 7 15
Lubrication, Maintenance and Condition Monitoring 7 15
Heat and Mass Transfer 7 15
Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning Systems 7 15
Technology, Sustainability and Society – Part A 7 5
Manufacturing Processes and Technology 7 15
Final Year Project (Mechanical Engineering) 7 40
Technology, Sustainability and Society – Part B 7 5
HANDS-ON WORKSHOPS
Hands-on Workshop 1 5 5
Additional Modules Hands-on Workshop 2 5 5
Hands-on Workshop 3 6 5
Hands-on Workshop 4 6 5
Total credits (completed in all three years) 20
TOTAL CREDITS 425

At ECST, you’ll gain industry-focused, hands-on learning that equips you with the skills and knowledge employers truly value. Our programmes are designed by industry professionals to meet the demands of the local and global engineering sectors.

What makes ECST different:

  • Industry-aligned curriculum built by experts
  • Blended learning model (on-campus & online)
  • Real-world experience through workshops and projects
  • Clear progression pathway to international master’s degrees
  • Centrally located campus in Midrand
  • Supportive environment with dedicated Learning Support Officers and experienced lecturers

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• National Senior Certificate, National Certificate, or equivalent (NQF Level 4)
• English ≥ 50%
• Mathematics/Technical Mathematics ≥ 60%
• Physical/Technical Science ≥ 50%
• Basic computer literacy

Alternative Entry:
• Applicants with previous work experience, relevant learning and knowledge could enter the programme through a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process
• Applicants who will be 23 years of age or older in their first year of study may be considered, subject to obtaining an exemption certificate from the Matriculation Board.

• Applicants aged 45 years and above may be considered, subject to obtaining a mature age exemption from the Matriculation Board.
Support to meet requirements: ECST provides guidance for students needing to upgrade English or Mathematics skills.

Graduates will have diverse employment opportunities to pursue careers in mechanical engineering and engineering technology. They can work across manufacturing, energy, mining, transportation, industrial operations and consulting, in roles such as:

  • Mechanical Engineering Technologist
  • Mechanical Design Engineer
  • Manufacturing Engineer
  • Production Engineer
  • Maintenance Engineer
  • Project Engineer
  • Plant Engineer
  • Engineering Consultant
  • Technical Sales Engineer
  • Operations Engineer
  • Asset Management Engineer
  • Quality Assurance Engineer

Professional Engineering Technologist registration is subject to meeting the prescribed post-qualification experience requirements and applicable ECSA requirements.

Designed to develop the next generation of mechanical engineering professionals, this programme supports students from diverse educational backgrounds who want to build practical, industry-focused careers in mechanical engineering.

  • School leavers interested in pursuing a career in mechanical engineering
  • TVET graduates seeking to articulate into higher education
  • Individuals pursuing careers in manufacturing and industrial engineering sectors
  • Future engineering technologists and engineering professionals
  • Students seeking practical and industry-focused engineering education

Our flexible, blended learning approach combines face-to-face teaching, online learning, practical activities and hands-on workshops to provide a practical and industry-focused learning experience.

Blended Learning Approach:

  • Year 1: Fully face-to-face classes
  • Year 2: Face-to-face and online classes
  • Year 3: Fully online with contact workshops

Contact Sessions: Lectures, practical activities, workshops, tutorials and collaborative learning.

Online Delivery: Online learning activities, virtual and remote laboratories, simulation software and independent study.

Hands-on learning is at the heart of the Mechanical Engineering programme, giving you opportunities to apply engineering theory to real-world mechanical systems, equipment and industrial challenges.

  • Hands-on workshops covering practical equipment handling, experimentation, safety and teamwork
  • Practical engineering activities focused on mechanical design, manufacturing, maintenance and mechanical systems
  • Remote and virtual laboratories supporting practical learning and engineering simulations
  • Industry-relevant software and technologies used to develop technical and problem-solving skills
  • Project-based learning that allows you to apply mechanical engineering principles to real-world challenges

At ECST, students have access to a range of learning materials and academic resources designed to support their studies and enhance their learning experience. Recommended textbooks and reference materials are available through the campus library and electronic platforms.

Students also benefit from digital learning tools that provide access to relevant and credible academic content, supporting independent study and helping students develop the knowledge and skills required throughout the programme.

ECST students benefit from dedicated academic and learning support throughout their studies, helping them navigate both their academic programme and learning environment.

  • Technical support for learning management systems and online learning resources
  • Dedicated Learning Support Officers to provide guidance throughout the student journey
  • Academic support from experienced lecturers to assist with learning and coursework
Week Date Event
Week 0 – Orientation Week Tuesday, 23 February 2027 Registration Day
Wednesday, 24 February 2027 Operations Orientation
Thursday, 25 February 2027 Academic Orientation
Friday, 26 February 2027 Fun Day
Week 1 – Campus Opens Monday, 1 March 2027 Campus Opens 


  































			
            
    
    

    		
		


																																													

Engineering College of Science and Technology