Mechanical engineers design and maintain machines, manufacturing systems, vehicles, and equipment. South Africa's manufacturing, mining, and automotive industries create strong demand. A 4-year BEng/BSc Mechanical Engineering is the standard pathway, with ECSA registration required for professional practice.
Mechanical engineers create engineering drawings using CAD software, test and troubleshoot machinery, manage maintenance programmes, design equipment upgrades, and work on product development for manufacturing.
Mathematics (Level 6+), Physical Sciences (Level 5+), English (Level 4+)
Use the free Career Helper APS Calculator to calculate your exact score for each SA university.
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
Programme names and requirements vary by institution. Always verify directly with the university before applying.
Achieve APS 32+ with Mathematics Level 6+ and Physical Sciences Level 5+. BEng Mechanical Engineering at UP, Wits, Stellenbosch, and UCT. UoTs offer Diplomas for lower APS scores.
Complete the 4-year degree covering thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, manufacturing processes, and machine design. Work in industry during vacation periods.
Register with ECSA, complete Candidate Engineer experience, and qualify as a Pr.Eng. Work in automotive, mining, manufacturing, energy, or consulting.
What APS do I need for Mechanical Engineering?
What industries hire mechanical engineers in South Africa?
What do mechanical engineers earn in South Africa?
Salary ranges are indicative for South Africa 2026 based on market data. Actual salaries vary by employer, location, and experience.