Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Purpose

The qualification is undertaken by learners who complete a thesis on a topic of their choice, which has been approved by the institution. The thesis must make a distinct contribution to knowledge in mechanical engineering. Its contents may report the results of an original investigation or review, or criticise some aspect of mechanical engineering knowledge, or present a mechanical engineering design or solution involving the application of new or known techniques to a mechanical engineering problem of significance. The research path to a doctorate remains the most common in way of obtaining a Doctorate in South Africa. A research doctorate involves the thesis being produced under the supervision of a professor or promotor. This qualification offers a great deal of flexibility, but demands a high degree of personal initiative and responsibility. The qualifying learner will have the ability to:

1. Collect and organise information in the selected field/area of research;
2. Apply research methods and techniques appropriately and correctly;

And

1. Make a significant contribution by recommending improvements to existing Mechanical Engineering Science and Technology.

Rationale

Doctoral qualification is vital for future economic development in South Africa as emphasised by the skills shortage experienced in the country. The technological integration of our modern society and economy continues to rapidly accelerate, permeating all areas, and reinforcing the importance of STEM-based education and applied innovation at all institutions.

The qualification provides a more vocationally oriented Doctorate in Engineering than the traditional Doctor of Philosophy and is better suited to the needs of industry. Learners develop a range of skills, including independent thinking, project management, data analysis and critical thinking, as well as refined communication skills. Learners also learn how to develop hypotheses and design experiments to test them, and to analyse, write about and publish scientific data. This a qualification for practising researchers who aim to lead and innovate the development of products, processes and services in industry; research engineers develop academic strengths and leadership skills, both technical and managerial. Learners from this qualification by research are well-equipped for careers in commercial engineering in their specialisms and most enjoy engineering-related careers ranging from consulting to research and development, both nationally and internationally. Others enter the spectrum of professions which value a high ability in mathematical modelling, systems analysis and design.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

A panel of experts review the learner's portfolio of evidence of prior learning and the outcome is communicated to the Registrar indicating whether or not the learner will be allowed to register for the qualification. If the outcome is negative the learner may appeal against the outcome. The final decision rests with the Senate of the institution.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, NQF Level 9.

Or

• Master of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering, NQF Level 9.

• Full Dissertation, 360 Credits.

1. Make an original contribution to knowledge in a specialised field of Mechanical Engineering study.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• The listed and cited records of the literature survey and the exposition of the research reflects familiarity with relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field.
• Models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies in the chosen field are analysed, explained, and juxtaposed correctly in oral presentations and the written record of research.
• Information sources are used correctly and appropriately and includes a range of media.
• Information technology skills are applied effectively in information searches, data-analyses, data presentation, and the production of the dissertation.
• The appropriate mathematical and statistical methods are applied correctly to quantitative and qualitative data.
• Information technology skills are applied effectively in information searches, data-analyses, data presentation, and the production of the dissertation.
• The appropriate mathematical and statistical methods are applied correctly to quantitative and qualitative data.
• The inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and statistical analyses are both original and valid.
• Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in communicating the research problem, its investigation, outcome and recommendations, clearly.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification fosters the development of independent research skills, making it ideal preparation for those looking to undertake further research and pursue a career in research. There is a formal formative assessment of progress throughout the study for both full-time and part-time candidates, in accordance with institution's rules. The final integrated assessment of the dissertation is done by a panel of at least two external assessors of which one is international.