Master of Systems Engineering

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Systems Engineering is to develop an engineer with abilities in applying fundamental engineering sciences and design, synthesis and relate principles to specific engineering systems problems of society at large. One of the main objectives in this process is to enable learners to develop the capability to conduct fundamental systems engineering and engineering research independently. It also promotes a lifelong learning approach.

Systems engineering concepts are essential requirements for creation of complex solutions to industrial applications. In this regard, the qualification comprises a comprehensive module component and an applied research component. The modules will equip the learners with specialised theoretical foundations bearing underpinnings of critical thinking and innovative application of knowledge. This qualification will develop well-rounded, academically equipped, adept and mature engineers with technical leadership and high capabilities that are expediently responsive to modern societal needs of the industry.

Rationale

The current absence of a coursework Master of Systems Engineering is a gap that would normally leave qualifying learners, full-time postgraduate research learners and other working professionals within the region, with no opportunity to acquire academic knowledge from the institution. The qualification will fill this gap and provide an opportunity for engineering learners and professionals to advance their knowledge and grow their careers in the engineering sector.

The qualification has been designed to target the working professionals, consisting of experienced young engineers, recently qualified learners and engineers who are ambitious and interested in academic advancement through postgraduate studies. The main stakeholders of this qualification are the public and private sectors of the engineering industry and higher education institutions. Typically, these sectors require Senior Engineers, Managers, Entrepreneurs, and Leaders or Administrators and Researchers. These career levels normally require technical and analytical capabilities for which this qualification has been carefully designed for graduate specialists in the field.

In 2009, the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA, 2013a) launched an initiative to increase the number of engineering graduates. Through government support initiatives (such as increasing infrastructure capacity at institutions, increasing the available engineering bursaries at provincial levels etc.), there has been an increase in the intake and graduation of engineers.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL is managed according to the University's RPL policy, which will be applied as follows for purposes of this qualification as set out in the Faculty policy:

• Through RPL a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status.
• Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied.
• RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements.

> Is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience.

> Is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF Level.

> Takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.

> Considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor Honours degree within engineering, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Technology that is supported by considerable research experience and postgraduate learning or work experience.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 180 Credits

• Engineering Management, 15 Credits.
• Engineering Systems Management, 15 Credits.
• Cyber Systems, 15 Credits.
• Product Development and Marketing, 15 Credits.
• Reliability Management, 15 Credits.
• Systems Optimisation, 15 Credits.
• Minor Dissertation, 90 Credits.

1. Solve Systems engineering problems creatively and innovatively by applying relevant knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering sciences.
2. Apply appropriate technology management principles related to the engineering product development process.
3. Plan and conduct applicable levels of investigation, research and/or experiments, by applying appropriate theories and methodologies, within the field of systems engineering.
4. Evaluate appropriate Systems Engineering methods, skills, tools, technology and information technology effectively and critically in engineering research/development practice.
5. Critically evaluate the impact that engineering research/development practice has on society and the environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Identify and analyse the correct integrated systems engineering knowledge required to resolve complex problems.
• Use appropriate mathematical and computing techniques.
• Demonstrate the application of numerical analysis and optimisation methods accurately.
• Complete a discipline-specific modelling and optimisation project successfully.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Demonstrate clearly the integration of commercial, service and technological areas of engineering product development, within an interdisciplinary context.
• Demonstrate the application of appropriate technology management principles to real-world case scenarios.
• Develop a reliability strategy that is effective and sustainable.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Investigate and conduct research within the systems engineering discipline.
• Use appropriate methodologies within the study.
• Analyse and articulate the findings of the research clearly.
• Work independently, with minimal supervision.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Evaluate and apply the appropriate decision-making processes when planning relevant systems.
• Demonstrate the impact of data securit, software security, system security, human security, organisational security, and societal security within real-world scenarios.
• Demonstrate accurately the methods relating to the protection and maintenance of security properties.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Demonstrate knowledge of ethical procedures and principles, in relation to systems engineering planning and implementation.
• Critically discuss the environmental legislation in relation to engineering research and development.
• Debate social impact legislation or polices in relation to engineering research development.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment will take place in accordance with the University's Assessment Policy. The Department uses continuous assessment (C).

• The assessment is undertaken to determine the learners' applied competence and successful completion of learning.
• The number and range of assessment methods are included in the learning guides.

The coursework consists of different forms of formative assessments consisting of project reports, case studies, assignments etc., depending on the nature of the module. Each intermediate or progress assessment will be awarded a mark, which will be combined with the final summative assessment based on pre-determined weightings for the module.

For the dissertation component, two assessors will be required, one of whom will be an internal assessor and the other, an external assessor, as per institution policies. During dissertation, regular meetings between the learner and supervisor are scheduled to assess work progress and provide improvements. A learner may be required to submit progress reports regularly. On the other hand, a learner may submit draft sections of his /her completed work for review by the supervisor.