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School of Engineering & Architecture

Higher Certificate in Mechatronic Engineering

 

This qualification will be offered in 2026

Qualification / Course Information

Minimum Duration:

1 Year

Minimum Credits:

140

NQF Level:

5

SAQA:

122730

MODE:

Contact Learning

CAMPUS:

Durbanville (Cape Town)

LANGUAGE:

English

QUALIFICATION OVERVIEW

Mechatronic Engineering is the perfect blend of mechanical, electronic, computer and control engineering to design and develop smart systems and technologies. Think robots, automated cars, drones, and even advanced manufacturing equipment – all brought to life by mechatronics. If you love solving problems, tinkering with tech, or dreaming about the future, Mechatronic Engineering is for you. 

The Higher Certificate in Mechatronic Engineering programme aims to provide students with a strong mechanical and electronic engineering foundation, focusing on integrating these fields to design, build, and maintain advanced automation systems and robotic technologies. Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field combining mechanical engineering, electronics, computer, and control engineering elements to develop smart machines and automated systems. The programme is an excellent way to start a career in the rapidly growing field of automation, robotics, and smart technologies. The skills learned during the programme are highly applicable in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and even healthcare industries, where advanced machinery and automation are becoming increasingly vital. With a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, this programme prepares students for an exciting career in the cutting-edge field of mechatronics. 

The modules covered in this qualification will prepare students to produce a basic design and fundamental knowledge required to work within the Mechatronic Engineering field. This programme has received endorsement from the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). ECSA will be invited to accredit this programme once offered to assist graduates with professional registration with ECSA.

 

What is Contact Learning?

Entry Requirements

THE ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR THE HIGHER CERTIFICATE IN MECHATRONIC ENGINEERING ARE:

  • a Senior Certificate (SC); OR

  • a National Senior Certificate (NSC);

    • English, Afrikaans or isiXhosa (Home language or first language) on at least level 4 (50-59%);

    • NSC Achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Mathematics;

    • NSC Achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Physical Science; OR

  • a National Senior Certificate – Vocational Level 4 (NC(V))

    • English, Afrikaans or Relevant (First additional language) on at least level 3 (40-49%);

    • NCV Achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Mathematics;

    • NCV Achievement rating of at least 4 (50-59%) for Physical Science.

 

To find out more about alternate access routes at STADIO, please click HERE

QUALIFICATION OUTCOMES

This programme’s competencies are aligned with the engineering profession’s competencies, specifically those defined in the standard for a Higher Certificate in Engineering as prescribed by the Engineering Council of South African (ECSA)*.


On the completion of this programme a student will be able to:

  1. Identify, formulate, analyse, and solve specifically defined mechatronic engineering problems.

  2. Apply knowledge of mathematics, natural sciences and engineering sciences to wide practical procedures and practices to solve specifically defined mechatronic engineering problems.

  3. Perform procedural design and synthesis of components, systems, engineering works, products, or processes within specifically defined mechatronic engineering environment.

  4. Demonstrate competence to design and conduct investigations and experiments related to specifically defined mechatronic engineering problems.

  5. Demonstrate competence to use appropriate engineering methods, skills, and tools, including those based on information technology for the solution of specifically defined mechatronic engineering problems, with an awareness of the limitations.

  6. Demonstrate competence to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with engineering audiences and the community at large.

  7. Demonstrate critical awareness of the sustainability and impact of engineering activity on the social, industrial, and physical environment.

  8. Demonstrate competence to work effectively as an individual, in teams and in multidisciplinary environments.

  9. Demonstrate competence to engage in independent learning through well-developed learning skills.

  10. Demonstrate critical awareness of the need to act professionally and ethically and to exercise judgment and take responsibility within own limits of competence.

  11. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of engineering management principles and economic decision-making.

 

ECSA accreditation will occur once the programme has been offered and first students completed the qualification. Following accreditation, graduates from this programme will be eligible to register in Specified Category with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).

* This qualification has been endorsed by the Engineering Council of South African (ECSA).

QUALIFICATION CURRICULUM

  • Electromechanic Technology I

  • Engineering Mathematics I

  • Engineering Physics I

  • Engineering Professional Skills

  • Mechanotechnology

  • Mechatronic Design Project

  • Mechatronic Systems

  • Smart Manufacturing

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Below are some key career opportunities that you may consider once you have completed this qualification:

 

  • Engineer Support Staff In Mechatronic Engineering Field

  • Engineering Technical Assistant On Mechatronic Establishments

  • Mechatronic Engineering Technical Assistant

  • Mechatronic Engineering Technical Assistant To Engineering Contractors

 

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