Mechanical -

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering is a broad-based engineering discipline that encompasses topics such as Mechatronics, Machine Design, Material Engineering and Metallurgy, Renewable Energy, Fluid Dynamics and Aerospace.

Programmes

Bachelor of Science Engineering (Mechanical Engineeering)

The degree of Bachelor of Science in Engineering in the field of Mechanical Engineering is an Honours equivalent, professional Bachelors degree that extends over four years. Instruction is through lectures, tutorials and laboratory practicals. Extensive use is made of computers in well-equipped facilities.

A student is expected to be capable of accurate and analytical thought, and to possess motivation, creativity and technical aptitude and with ability in Mathematics and Science at school, this suggests that a rewarding career in Mechanical Engineering should be considered. The Mechanical Engineering programme is designed to give the student a solid foundation in the basic subjects as well as specific preparation for his or her future work as a Mechanical Engineer.

Entry requirements:

NSC degree pass with Maths and Physical Science Level 5 (65%), English and Life Orientation Level 4 (50%) and three other subjects from the designated list
Application Performance Score (APS) range:

33 - 48
This is how you calculate your APS

CASSE

CASSE is an Alternative Access and Academic Support Programme that caters for prospective students whose academic potential was not realised due to a disadvantaged educational background.

Entry requirements:

NSC degree pass with Maths, English, Life Orientation and Physical Science Level 4 (50%)
Application Performance Score (APS) range:

26 - 48
This is how you calculate your APS

How to Apply

All first-time South African applicants to UKZN for entry into degree/ diploma study (Grade 12s and undergraduate transfer students from other institutions) must apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO).

Master of Science in Engineering

At the postgraduate level, students can specialise in their field by studying for a Master of Science (MSc) degree. Generally, students will use this degree to expand on their undergraduate studies and develop a more in-depth knowledge and understanding of their chosen discipline.

Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy programme is offered where students engage in novel research supervised by academic members of staff. This is typically three years of fulltime study and normally follows on from a Master of Science Degree.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted to our College office. Visit the College website to see the steps to follow, download the application pack/ forms and access the link to apply online.

Research

Research Areas

We are a research-led institution, producing knowledge for the rapidly-changing and information-rich world.

Research Groups

We have a number of research groups that specialise in areas of research in Mechanical Engineering.

Student dissertations

UKZN Research Space was developed to increase the visibility, availability and impact of tour students’ research output.

Academic staff

Prof Glen Snedden

Academic Leader: Mechanical Engineering
sneddeng@ukzn.ac.za | 031 260 1215

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Mr Avern Athol-Webb

Programme Co-ordinator: Mechanical Engineering
AtholWebbA@ukzn.ac.za | 031 260 1214

View profile

Facilities

Computer LAN Facilities

The Mechanical Engineering Department houses 2 computer LAN facilities. The Venter computer LAN can accommodate up to 90 students and the final year computer LAN can accommodate up to 40 students. A wide range of simulation and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is made accessible to all students.

Lecture Venues

Modern lecture venues are made used for lecturing and are ideally suited for teaching and learning. The lecture venues are fully fitted with appropriate lighting, projectors, blackboards, whiteboards and other media tools. All lecture venues include tiered seating and lecture benches. The lecture venues fully cater for heuristic teaching and lecturing to students. Venue caters up to 90 students per lecture venue.

Research Laboratories

State-of-the-art research laboratories are used in the designing and manufacturing of research projects used in testing and experimental analysis. Laboratories are available for all postgraduate students with regards to their research groups and centers. Research laboratories in combination with research office space help generate favorable academic conditions for research output.

Research Office Space

Research office space is provided for all full-time and part-time post-graduate students and staff. The office spaces is maintained in conjunction with research laboratories for research and knowledge production. These office spaces provide the perfect environment for researchers to work and produce research for publications in conferences and journals, thesis/dissertation requirements, etc.

Teaching & Learning Laboratories

In the Mechanical Engineering Department student spend a considerable part of their time doing a wide range of coursework practicals and laboratory work. The departments teaching and learning laboratories are outfitted with up to date equipment to cater for the academic needs of the students. Working in laboratories provides students with ‘hands-on’ training and practical classes are established to allow students to develop their skills in discipline-based techniques.

Workshops

Workshops are managed by an experienced technician team from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. The workshop manager oversees the different operations utilized in the workshop, from lathes, welding, woodwork, workshop training, etc. All workshops are maintained to preserve a professional and academic learning environment for students and staff.

Student resources

These resources are for current students in the Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering disciplines. They’re meant to be used as tools throughout your. academic journey.