Central University of Technology, Free State campus

Engineering

Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering at Central University of Technology, Free State

Central University of Technology, Free State, South Africa

Programme overview

The Doctor of Engineering (DEng) is a postgraduate qualification at NQF Level 10. It is an advanced research-based programme aiming towards independent, advanced, and original research and/or creative work that would make a substantial contribution towards new knowledge in mechanical engineering science, technology, and/or practice.

Faculty: Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology  |  Department: Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering  |  Duration: 2 years (Minimum; full-time) or 4 years (Minimum; part-time) or 4 years (Maximum; full time) or 6 years (Maximum; part-time)  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Intake: January  |  Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa

What you will study

Dissertation Credits: The total credit value of the doctoral dissertation must add up to 360 SAQA credits at NQF Level 10.

Career pathways

Career pathways listed by the programme page include Advanced Academic & Research Leadership; Strategic Engineering Consultancy; Technology Innovation & Industry Leadership; Policy Development & National Infrastructure Planning.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum Prior Qualification: A Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or an equivalent qualification) at NQF Level 9 from a recognised higher education institution. Required Academic Performance: A minimum average of 65% at Master’s-level or equivalent (NQF Level 9). Demonstrated capacity for independent, advanced, and original research at the doctoral level. Programme Regulations & Structure: Dissertation Credits: The total credit value of the doctoral dissertation must add up to 360 SAQA credits at NQF Level 10. Intake & Registration: Only one intake per year in January, with registrations possible until 31 March. Award: After successful completion of this qualification, the Doctor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering degree will be awarded during an official graduation ceremony of CUT.

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Applications for doctoral degrees close at the end of March.

Applications for the 2027 academic year opened in April 2026 and closed on 30 September 2026 for undergraduate, advanced diploma, honours and structured master's programmes; no late or walk-in applications are accepted.

There is no application fee and no residence application fee; applications are made through the online portal.

Apply through the official page: https://www.cut.ac.za/application-process

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