Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics at Nelson Mandela University

Programme overview

Mechatronic Engineering is a multidisciplinary branch of engineering that includes a combination of precision mechanical engineering, electronics and computer systems. A typical mechatronic system is characterised by close integration of computer controllers, mechanical components, electrical sensors, mechanical and electrical actuators and software into products and systems useful to man and society. In order to combine all these elements in an optimal way (cost-effective, flexible, and with the highest performance), mechatronic engineers must have insight in each of these disciplines.

Faculty: Engineering, the Built Environment and Technology | Duration: 4 years | Study mode: full-time | Location: Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa

What you will study

The purpose of the qualification is to build the necessary knowledge, understanding, abilities and skills required for further learning towards becoming a competent practising engineer, and to provide graduates with: · A thorough grounding in mathematics, basic sciences, engineering sciences, engineering modelling, and engineering design together with the abilities to enable applications in fields of emerging knowledge; · Preparation for careers in engineering and related areas, for achieving technical leadership and to make a contribution to the economy and national development; · The educational requirement towards registration as a Professional Engineer with the Engineering Council of South Africa as well as to allow the graduate to make careers in engineering and related fields; · For graduates with an appropriate level of achievement in the programme, the ability to proceed to postgraduate studies in both course-based and research masters programmes. Learning outcomes of the Bachelor of Engineering Mechatronics qualification : A graduate in engineering should be able to apply the following skills on the advanced level: · Problem-solving: Demonstrate competence to identify, assess, formulate and solve convergent and divergent engineering problems creatively and innovatively. The published curriculum is an NQF Level 8 qualification of 572 credits.

Career pathways

Career fields listed on the page: Mechatronic Engineer.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Minimum APS: 410. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR CURRENT GRADE 12 LEARNERS Minimum NSC statutory requirements for degree entry must be met. An applicant with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics requires a minimum Applicant Score of 410. NSC achievement rating of at least 60% for Mathematics. NSC achievement rating of at least 65% for Physical Sciences. Alternatively: Applicants who completed all modules in the Higher Certificate in Mechatronic Engineering qualification or Higher Certificate in Renewable Energy Engineering qualification, with an academic average of 75% or above, and with minimum of 75% for Mathematics (MAT1011) may be considered. No credits will be given for any modules completed as part of the Higher Certificate in Mechatronics Engineering or Higher Certificate in Renewable Energy Engineering qualification. ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICANTS WHO MATRICULATED PRIOR TO 2008 Senior Certificate with matriculation exemption/endorsement and an aggregate of 60%. Mathematics (minimum HG=C) and Physical Science (minimum HG=D). Learners must score at least 29 points on the university’s SPS rating scale. Only those applicants who meet the direct entry criteria will be considered for this course. Reading, speaking and writing competence in the language of instruction, which would be English. Adults from engineering-related jobs/occupations and fields of activity with appropriate prior learning may also apply for admission.

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 the 2027 academic year opened on 13 April 2026. Applications for MBChB, Bachelor of Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing Extended, BPharm and Bachelor of Radiography (Diagnostic) close on 30 June 2026.

Early applications for 2027 (excluding MBChB, Nursing, BPharm and BRad) close on 03 August 2026; late applications close on 30 September 2026.

International student applications for 2027 (excluding MBChB, BPharm and BRad) close on 30 September 2026. The application fee for international students is R500 per year; online applications by South African applicants carry no application fee.

Student accommodation applications for 2027 close on 30 September 2026.

2026 down-payments before registration: R10 600 full-time (R6 200 part-time) for degrees, postgraduate diplomas, advanced diplomas, Masters and Doctorates; R7 500 full-time (R5 200 part-time) for diplomas and certificates; enrolment fee R1 770. International students pay 100% upfront.

Apply through the official page: https://applyonline.mandela.ac.za

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