Electrical engineering profoundly impacts the world by driving innovation and improving our daily lives. As one of the most fascinating technical and scientific fields available, it encompasses the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. All of these are rapidly leading advancements in communication, technology and energy.
From powering homes and businesses with reliable energy solutions to enabling global connectivity through advanced telecommunications, the crucial role played by electrical engineering is undeniable. Consider how innovations in medical devices, renewable energy, and automation have transformed industries and enhanced efficiency and sustainability – this is how having an electrical engineering degree can shape the world and improve the quality of life for society.
Having an electrical engineering degree has long been known for leading to highly esteemed career paths. For generations, the engineering field has been associated with intellects and lucrative earning potential and this is most certainly, still true today.
In this guide to electrical engineering colleges in Johannesburg, you will not only find out about the requirements for electrical engineering admission, but why it is still a compelling career choice today.
Furthermore, you will be encouraged to note that there are many quality electrical engineering courses in Johannesburg, where job opportunities are also in abundance.
Whether you are considering an electrical engineering degree or need extra support with your current electrical engineering modules, this article is for you.
Admission Requirements for Electrical Engineering Colleges in Johannesburg
To be accepted into an electrical engineering course in Johannesburg, high school students typically need strong performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Information Technology or Computer Applications Technology.
- Mathematics: Achieving high marks in Mathematics is very important, as electrical engineering relies heavily on calculus, algebra, and trigonometry. Proficiency in these areas demonstrates your ability to tackle complex problem-solving and analytical tasks essential for engineering studies.
- Physical Sciences: Excelling in Physical Sciences is vital because it provides the foundational knowledge for many electrical engineering principles, including electromagnetism, circuits, and signal processing. High marks indicate your ability to understand and apply these fundamental concepts.
- Information Technology (IT) or Computer Applications Technology (CAT): Courses in IT or CAT are beneficial due to the growing importance of programming and software in engineering. High performance in these subjects shows you are ready to engage with complex technical aspects of modern engineering.
Of course, maintaining a strong overall academic record and participating in extracurricular activities related to science and technology can also strengthen your application.
Reasons to Study Engineering
Engineering isn't just about mastering complex maths and science; it also requires creativity to design and innovate solutions. By using both, engineers tackle real-world problems with their blend of technical skills and inventive thinking, making it a fulfilling career for many.
if you’re considering electrical engineering colleges in Johannesburg, you may want to know more about the types of electrical engineering modules that they offer too. As already mentioned, mathematics and science form the bedrock for addressing the practical challenges encountered in engineering. Beyond these, the subject matter is bound to excite and challenge you at the same time.
Universities and Electrical Engineering Colleges in Johannesburg
Fortunately, as the commercial hub of South Africa, there is no shortage when it comes to excellence electrical engineering courses in Johannesburg. Below is information about the region’s most prominent universities and colleges as well as details on programme duration, costs and the electrical engineering modules you can expect to cover.
Whether you are still looking for the right institution for an electrical engineering degree or are already enrolled, at some point it is likely that you may need the extra support of a private tutor.
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BScEng) in electrical and information engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Science in Engineering (MScEng), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in electrical engineering.
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Power Engineering: Generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power.
- Electronics: Analogue and digital circuits, microelectronics.
- Control Systems: Automation, robotics, industrial control.
- Telecommunications: Signal processing, communication networks.
- Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, and other sustainable energy systems.
Programme Duration:
- Undergraduate Degrees: 4 years.
- Postgraduate Degrees: MScEng (1-2 years), PhD (3-4 years).
Cost:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Approximately R60 000 - R80 000 per year.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Approximately R50 000 - R70 000 per year.
The University of the Witwatersrand is known for its rigorous academic standards and research-intensive environment and the electrical and information engineering programmes at Wits are no exception.
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BScEng) in electrical and electronic engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Engineering (MEng), Master of Science in Engineering (MScEng), PhD in electrical engineering.
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Electrical Systems: Power systems analysis, electrical machines.
- Electronic Systems: Circuit design, semiconductor devices.
- Digital Systems: Digital signal processing, embedded systems.
- Control and Automation: Control theory, robotics.
- Telecommunication Systems: Communication networks, wireless systems.
Programme Duration:
- Undergraduate Degrees: 4 years.
- Postgraduate Degrees: MEng and MScEng (1-2 years), PhD (3-4 years).
Cost:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Approximately R60 000 - R80 000 per year.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Approximately R50 000 - R70 000 per year.
UJ, which focuses on practical application and industry relevance, offers comprehensive electrical engineering courses in Johannesburg and is a good option if an electrical engineering degree is the goal. In addition, students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and opportunities for research and collaboration with industry partners.
Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: National Diploma in Electrical Engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Advanced Diplomas in Electrical Engineering.
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Electrical Technology: Power systems, electrical installations.
- Electronics: Circuit analysis, digital electronics.
- Control Systems: PLC programming, industrial automation.
- Energy Systems: Renewable energy technologies.
Programme Duration:
- National Diploma: 3 years.
- Advanced Diploma: 1-2 years.
Cost:
- National Diploma: Approximately R30 000 - R50 000 per year.
- Advanced Diploma: Approximately R40 000 - R60 000 per year.
Vaal University of Technology emphasises practical skills and industry experience to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce upon graduation. Here, electrical engineering modules are structured to equip students with hands-on training and theoretical knowledge relevant to modern electrical engineering practices.
Note that requirements for electrical engineering diplomas are generally less onerous than those required by degree courses, this means that this illustrious field is accessible to a wide range of students.
You could even look into online electrical engineering programmes.
Job Prospects and Requirements for Electrical Engineering
In South Africa, engineering is in high demand across many industry sectors. One indicator of this are the government's initiatives to streamline visas for foreign engineers. This positive sign means that there are robust job opportunities, both for local and international professionals all over South Africa. In fact, did you know that the growth rate for engineering positions surpasses the national average which underscores the accessibility of the field compared to other professions.
Engineering Salaries in South Africa
There’s no doubt, engineers in South Africa enjoy competitive salaries. These average around R1 600 000 per year which is significantly higher than the national median. Starting salaries hover around R1 100 000 annually, with senior engineers earning upwards of R2 300 000 depending on expertise and industry.
Like most fields, salary variations are influenced by specialisation, job role, company size, and industry sector. Of course, positions in larger companies within lucrative industries typically offer higher remuneration compared to entry-level roles in smaller firms.
Engineering offers ample opportunities for career growth and financial reward which makes it a compelling choice for aspiring professionals in South Africa.
What's Next?
If you meet the requirements for electrical engineering, it is a field of study that offers a wealth of opportunities. From prestigious institutions such as the University of the Witwatersrand, University of Johannesburg to the Vaal University of Technology there are electrical engineering courses in Johannesburg for every level of student
While each institution provides a unique blend of academic rigor, practical training, and research opportunities tailored to meet the demands of the industry, Superprof is also available to act as extra support for aspects of the course that challenge you.
Finally, whether your goal is to specialise in power systems, electronics, telecommunications, or renewable energy, these universities and colleges in Johannesburg are well-equipped to support your educational journey in electrical engineering.
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