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What Subjects are Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer

What Subjects are Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer

If you’re looking to pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering in South Africa, it’s crucial to know the subjects and APS (Admission Point Score) required for different institutions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the entry requirements at major universities, such as Wits, VUT, UJ, DUT, and the College of Cape Town.

Subjects Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer in South Africa

Below are the high school (grade 10 – grade 12) subjects required as well as relevant APS scores, to become a Mechanical Engineer in South Africa based on the requirements from different institutions:

  • Mathematics and Physical Sciences are compulsory for all institutions, with a minimum requirement typically between Level 4 (50%) and Level 5 (60%).
  • English is also a key subject, with universities requiring at least Level 4 (50%) or Level 5 (60%).
  • The APS score varies, with institutions like Wits requiring 42+ and VUT requiring 24+ for their diploma and 27+ for their degree programme.

If you’re preparing to apply for mechanical engineering, focus on excelling in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English to meet these requirements.

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

  • Minimum APS: 42+
  • English Home Language or First Additional Language: Level 5 (60%)
  • Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
  • Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)

While the minimum requirement is Level 5 in English, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences, applicants with Level 6 in these subjects have a better chance of being accepted.

More on Wits Mechanical Engineering Requirements


Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

  • Mathematics: Level 4 (50%)
  • Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50%)
  • English: Level 4 (50%)
  • APS: 24+

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

  • Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
  • Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)
  • English: Level 4 (50%)
  • APS: 27

Applicants with a National Certificate (Vocational) also need a bachelor’s pass with a minimum of 50% in English, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences.

More on VUT Mechanical Engineering Requirements


University of Johannesburg (UJ) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

BEng in Mechanical Engineering

  • Minimum APS: 32
  • English: Level 5 (60%)
  • Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
  • Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)

UJ offers a four-year BEng in Mechanical Engineering, and a strong performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English is essential to qualify.

More on UJ Mechanical Engineering Requirements


Durban University of Technology (DUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BET) in Mechanical Engineering

  • English: Level 4 (50%)
  • Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
  • Physical Science: Level 5 (60%)

DUT also allows alternate admissions for applicants who don’t meet the requirements but score a combined 100% in Mathematics and Physical Science or present relevant N4 subjects.

More on DUT Mechanical Engineering Requirements


College of Cape Town Mechanical Engineering Requirements

National Certificates N4–N6: Mechanical Engineering Studies

  • Mathematics
  • Physical Science
  • English

Students must have completed Grade 12 or have an equivalent qualification to enter the N4 level. Upon completing the N4–N6 certificates, students are qualified to work as technicians or apprentices in mechanical engineering and can pursue further studies.

More on College of Cape Town Mechanical Engineering Requirements


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