Electrical engineers are critical when it comes to powering our daily lives. They ensure the kind of connectivity that sustains life, advancing renewable energy solutions and much more. Their expertise which spans traditional and emerging technologies, makes electrical engineering a pivotal career path for sustainability and the future of the planet.
If you're considering pursuing an electrical engineering course in Durban, this article will guide you through the available programmes offered by various institutions, typical salaries, job prospects, and essential high school subjects needed to enter this dynamic field.
Why Study Electrical Engineering?
Studying electrical engineering offers a compelling blend of intellectual challenge, creative exploration, and meaningful impact on sustainability, all of which make it a highly attractive career path for aspiring engineers.
Whether you pursue a diploma or degree in electrical engineering you can expect to benefit from the following:
1. The Intersection of STEM Disciplines: Electrical engineering is at the intersection of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). It integrates knowledge from these fields to innovate and solve complex problems. By studying electrical engineering, students gain a deep understanding of how to apply scientific principles to real-world applications, whether that is in designing electrical systems, developing renewable energy solutions, or enhancing communication networks.
2. Creative Problem-Solving: While rooted in science and logic, electrical engineering also requires creativity. Engineers often face intricate challenges that demand innovative solutions. From designing efficient power grids to developing cutting-edge electronics, creativity is central to crafting solutions that are both functional and efficient.
3. Contribution to Sustainability: Electrical engineering courses provide the foundation for advancing sustainability efforts. They are instrumental in developing renewable energy technologies such as solar power systems, wind turbines, and energy-efficient electrical devices. By harnessing sustainable practices, electrical engineering contributes directly to reducing negative environmental impacts and promoting a greener future.
4. Lucrative and Challenging Career Path: Engineering, particularly electrical engineering, offers promising career prospects. In answering the question is electrical engineering in demand in South Africa, the answer is a resounding yes. Whether armed with a diploma or a degree in electrical engineering, graduates enter a field with high demand across various industries which ensures job stability and competitive salaries. The challenging nature of engineering work—solving complex technical problems and optimising systems—provides continuous intellectual stimulation and career growth opportunities.

5. Purpose in Sustainable Development: The role of electrical engineers in sustainability is of extreme importance. Not only do they drive innovations that mitigate environmental impact, but they optimise energy usage, and enhance infrastructure efficiency at every stage of the supply chain. This purpose-driven aspect of the profession appeals to those who seek to make a tangible difference in global sustainability efforts.
6. Logical and Analytical Approach: Electrical engineering requires a meticulous and logical approach to problem-solving. Engineers analyse data, conduct experiments, and apply mathematical models to understand and predict the behaviour of electrical systems. This analytical mindset not only enhances technical proficiency but also develops critical thinking and decision-making skills essential for addressing complex engineering challenges.
Studying electrical engineering offers a multifaceted career path that combines STEM education, creative problem-solving, sustainability impact, lucrative opportunities, and rigorous intellectual challenges. Aspiring engineers drawn to innovation, sustainability, and making a meaningful global impact will find electrical engineering a fulfilling and rewarding field of study.
Keep reading to find out more about electrical engineering colleges in Durban. But before that, let’s look at the electrical engineering subjects in High School that could help you gain entrance to them.
Electrical Engineering Subjects in High School
If you're convinced that you want to pursue electrical engineering courses in Durban, you might be curious about the types of electrical engineering subjects in High School required for this field.
To gain admission to electrical engineering courses in Durban and to obtain a degree in electrical engineering, high school students typically need strong academic performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and either Information Technology (IT) or Computer Applications Technology (CAT).
- Mathematics: Achieving excellent grades in Mathematics is crucial as electrical engineering heavily relies on calculus, algebra, and trigonometry. Proficiency in these areas demonstrates your aptitude for tackling intricate problem-solving and analytical tasks essential in engineering studies.
- Physical Sciences: Excelling in Physical Sciences is essential as it provides the foundational knowledge for many electrical engineering principles, including electromagnetism, circuits, and signal processing. Strong performance in this subject indicates your ability to grasp and apply these fundamental concepts effectively.
- Information Technology (IT) or Computer Applications Technology (CAT): Courses in IT or CAT are advantageous due to the increasing role of programming and software in engineering. High achievement in these subjects show that you are ready to engage with the complex technical aspects prevalent in modern engineering practices.
Careers With a Degree in Electrical Engineering
A degree in electrical engineering opens doors to diverse career paths across various industries. From specialising in power systems and working on generation to transmission and distribution of electrical energy, opportunities are varied, and jobs are in demand.
Alternatively, you could delve into electronics and design analogue and digital circuits or microelectronics. In addition, control systems offer opportunities in automation, robotics, and industrial control, while telecommunications focus on signal processing and communication networks. In addition, renewable energy sectors seek engineers for sustainable solutions in solar, wind, and other energy systems. These career avenues showcase the versatility and breadth of opportunities awaiting electrical engineering graduates.
Did you know that you could study electrical engineering online?
Where Can I Study Electrical Engineering in Durban
If you have searched ‘where can I study electrical engineering in Durban’ then this list of top electrical engineering colleges in Durban is for you:
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BScEng) in Electrical Engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Science in Engineering (MScEng), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Electrical Engineering.
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Power Engineering, Electronics, Control Systems, Telecommunications, Renewable Energy.
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.

Durban University of Technology (DUT)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) in Electrical Engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Engineering (MEng), Doctor of Engineering (DEng).
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Electrical Systems, Electronic Systems, Digital Systems, Control and Automation, Telecommunication Systems.
Programme Duration:
- Undergraduate Degrees: 3 years.
- Postgraduate Degrees: MEng (1-2 years), DEng (3-4 years).
Cost:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Approximately R50 000 - R70 000 per year.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Approximately R40 000 - R60 000 per year.
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: National Diploma in Electrical Engineering, Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Electrical Engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Technology (MTech) in Electrical Engineering.
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Electrical Technology, Electronics, Control Systems, Energy Systems.
Programme Duration:
- National Diploma: 3 years.
- BTech: 1 year.
- MTech: 1-2 years.
Cost:
- National Diploma: Approximately R30 000 - R50 000 per year.
- BTech: Approximately R40 000 - R60 000 per year.
- MTech: Approximately R50 000 - R70 000 per year.

In answering the question, where can I study electrical engineering, it is clear, these electrical engineering colleges in Durban provide robust educational opportunities to equip graduates with the skills to excel in this essential field. Focussing on both practical application and theoretical knowledge, these electrical engineering courses in Durban can prepare students for successful careers.
Tutoring Support for Studying Electrical Engineering
Even with the best electrical engineering colleges in Durban available, pursuing a degree in electrical engineering, can be challenging due to the rigorous demands of maths and science. In addition, most students struggle to keep up with the complex concepts and coursework at some point in the journey.
Thankfully, Superprof offers a solution with expert tutors who specialise in various engineering disciplines and STEM subjects. Whether you're grappling with difficult coursework, preparing for exams, or seeking to improve your overall study habits, Superprof tutors provide expert guidance in electrical engineering subjects. Their personalised approach ensures you gain a thorough understanding of challenging material which will ultimately boost your confidence and academic performance.
By working with a Superprof tutor, you can navigate the difficulties of your engineering studies more effectively which will lead to better grades and a deeper knowledge of the subject matter. Superprof understands that finding a tutor with whom you are compatible is key to your private tuition success, which is why free introductory sessions are encouraged and the credentials of all tutors are pre-verified for your peace of mind. You’ll also find that budgeting options are varied according to tutors' qualifications and experience, ensuring that there is a tutor for every pocket and situation.










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