Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems — from household wiring to power stations, renewable energy systems, and industrial control systems. Given South Africa's energy crisis, electrical engineers are in extremely high demand. The BEng/BSc Electrical Engineering takes 4 years; ECSA registration is required for professional practice.
Electrical engineers design circuit systems, manage electrical installation projects, troubleshoot faults, assess energy consumption, review compliance with electrical standards, and work on renewable energy projects.
Mathematics (Level 6+), Physical Sciences (Level 6+), English (Level 4+)
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Achieve APS 32+ with Mathematics and Physical Sciences both at Level 6+. BEng Electrical Engineering at Wits, UP, UCT, or Stellenbosch. TUT and Vaal University offer Diploma routes.
Complete the 4-year BEng degree covering circuit theory, electronics, power systems, control systems, and signal processing. Specialise in power, electronics, or communications.
Register with ECSA, complete 2 years as a Candidate Engineer, and qualify as a Professional Engineer. High demand in power utilities, mining, renewable energy, and defence.
What APS do I need for Electrical Engineering?
Are electrical engineers in demand in South Africa?
What do electrical engineers earn?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.