Engineering Study Checklists
Here is a checklist for a person wishing to study engineering in South Africa:
- Choose a field of engineering. There are many different branches of engineering, so it’s important to choose one that you’re interested in and that has good job prospects. Some popular engineering fields in South Africa include civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and chemical engineering.
- Meet the entry requirements. Each university has its own entry requirements for engineering programs. These requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as certain grades in math, science, and English.
- Apply to universities. Once you’ve chosen a field of engineering and met the entry requirements, you can start applying to universities. Be sure to research the different programs available and choose one that’s a good fit for you.
- Take the National Benchmarking Examination (NBE). The NBE is a compulsory test for all engineering students in South Africa. It assesses your knowledge of math, science, and English, and it’s required for admission to most engineering programs.
- Start your studies! Once you’ve been accepted to an engineering program, it’s time to start your studies. Engineering is a challenging but rewarding field, and with hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals.
Tips for Prospect Engineers
Here are some additional tips for studying engineering in South Africa:
- Get involved in extracurricular activities related to engineering. This is a great way to learn more about the field and meet other students who are interested in engineering.
- Network with engineers. Attend engineering events, meet with engineers in your field, and ask them for advice.
- Get involved in research. This is a great way to gain experience and learn more about the field of engineering.
- Internships and work experience. These are great ways to gain experience and learn more about the field of engineering.
- Stay up-to-date on the latest engineering news and trends. This will help you stay ahead of the curve and be a more competitive engineer.
Tradesmen
Engineering is a challenging but rewarding field many prefer a more hands on approach, if that is you then perhaps you are a future craftsman.
- Choose a trade. There are many different trades in the engineering sector, so it’s important to choose one that you’re interested in and that has good job prospects. Some popular trades in South Africa include:
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Carpenter
- Welder
- Mechanic
- HVAC technician
- Painter
- Glazier
- Bricklayer
- Stonemason
- View all Engineering Trades
- Meet the entry requirements. Each trade has its own entry requirements. These requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as certain grades in math, science, and English.
- Apprenticeship. The most common way to become an artisan in South Africa is through an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a paid training program that combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships typically last for three to four years.
- NFQ Level 4 qualification. Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you’ll need to obtain a NFQ Level 4 qualification in your trade. This qualification is required for most jobs in the engineering sector. Some opportunities require up to N3 before an apprenticeship is granted.
- Continuing professional development. It’s important to keep your skills up-to-date by participating in continuing professional development (CPD). CPD can include attending workshops, taking courses, or reading industry publications.
- Network with other artisans. Networking with other artisans is a great way to learn more about the industry and find job opportunities. You can network by attending industry events, joining professional organizations, or simply connecting with other artisans on social media.
- Get involved in your community. Getting involved in your community is a great way to give back and build your reputation. You can get involved by volunteering for engineering-related projects, mentoring young people, or serving on industry boards.
A great way to decide on a career path is to browse engineering libraries and investigate there functions and role in the economy.