National Certificate
(Engineering and related Design) Qualification

What is the National Certificate (Engineering and related Design) Qualification?

The National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design) is a new Engineering and related Design qualification at each of Levels 2, 3 and 4 of the NQF. This qualification is designed to provide both the theory and practice of Engineering and related design. The practical component of study may be offered in a real work place environment or in a simulated workplace environment. It will provide students with an opportunity to experience work situations during the period of study.

What are the minimum entry requirements to the qualification?

For entry into the National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design) at NQF level 2, require:

• A year end school report for Grade 9 or higher, or
• An NQF level 1 qualification, or
• An approved bridging programme designed for the specific purpose to access NQF level 2, or
• A Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment to meet the basic requirements for access to NQF Level 2.

How long is the Qualification?

The National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design) qualification is a full year programme at each of the NQF levels of study. A student is issued with a certificate on the successful completion of each level of study, that is, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4.

Which subjects make up a National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design)?

In order to obtain a National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design), a student is required to take a total of 7 subjects. These include 3 fundamental subjects and 4 vocational subjects, of which 3 are compulsory and 1 is optional.

Which are the fundamental subjects?

The 3 fundamental subjects are:

• Language – which must be the language of teaching and learning
• Mathematics
• Life Orientation

What are the Vocational subjects in Engineering and Related Design?

The vocational subjects in Engineering and Related Design are:

• Engineering Fundamentals
• Engineering Technology
• Engineering Systems
• Fitting and Turning
• Fabrication and extraction
• Physical Science (optional, subject to availability)
• Automotive Repair and Maintenance

These subjects are offered at each of the different NQF Levels of study in the National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design) qualification.

What vocational activities would this give you access to?

The holder of the National Certificate (Engineering and related Design) will be able to:

• Take part in the manufacturing of tools, machines, engines
• Take part in the operation and maintenance of machines
• Extract metallic and non-metallic minerals

What career opportunities do I have after completing the National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design)?

The National Certificate (Engineering and Related Design) provides an opportunity to access careers in any of the sectors listed below.

• Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering
• Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Geological Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Toolmaking
• Fitting and Machining