Master of Engineering in Civil 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 civil engineering. Its contents may report the results of an original investigation or review, criticise some aspect of civil engineering knowledge, or present a civil engineering design or solution involving the application of new or known techniques to a civil engineering problem of significance. The qualifying learner will have the ability to collect and organise information in the selected field/area of research; apply research methods and techniques appropriately and correctly; and make a significant contribution by recommending improvements to existing Civil Engineering Science and Technology.

Rationale

Engineering is vital for future economic development in South Africa as emphasised by the skills shortage experienced in the country. The technological integration of the modern society and economy continues to rapidly accelerate, permeating all areas, and reinforcing the importance of STEM-based education and applied innovation at all the institutions. The institution can no longer fulfil its mission to its learners, staff, industry, and nation without Postgraduate qualifications in Engineering, both for its own sake and to realise the full potential of a broad spectrum of its existing, ongoing research and education. 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. Learners from this qualification 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 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

• Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Civil Engineering, NQF Level 8 (or an affiliated Engineering field).

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering, NQF Level 8 (or an affiliated Engineering field).

This is a research-based qualification at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

1. Manage the stock and logistics of a retail business following current industry practices for ethics and corporate governance.
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the field/area of investigation and apply research methods and techniques appropriately and correctly.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Develop appropriate strategic stock and logistics plan, which will demonstrate knowledge of the logistics function for a business.
• Plan effectively the stock and logistics of a retail business including effective stock and logistic objectives, policies, strategies, action plans and a logistics budget for a year.
• Design an effective stock control system.
• Compile a supplier specification policy to ensure the right supply of prescribed products at the required conditions.
• Determine the best possible way of transporting products from the supplier to the business.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Use the listed and cited literature of the literature survey, and the exposition of the research, reflect 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 justified correctly in oral presentations and the written record of research.
• Literature surveys, experimentation, correlation, and/or causal analysis is justified fully and correctly in oral presentations and the written record of research.
• Define and identify the research problem and develop a detailed research proposal.
• The stated hypothesis directs the investigation. Logical interpretation of data reflects clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.
• Use Information sources correctly and appropriately and include a range of media.
• Apply information technology skills effectively in information searches, data-analyses, data presentation, and the production of the dissertation.
• Apply the appropriate mathematical and statistical methods correctly to quantitative and qualitative data.
• The inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and statistical analyses are valid.
• Apply language and numeracy skills effectively and correctly in clearly communicate the research problem, its investigation, outcome and recommendations.

Integrated Assessment

The program fosters the development of independent research skills, making it ideal preparation for those looking to undertake further research through a Doctor of Engineering program and/or 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 the institution's rules. A panel of at least two external assessors does the final integrated assessment of the dissertation summatively.