Electrical engineers are the masterminds behind the technology we rely on daily. It is thanks to their expertise that we have power, connectivity and are making great strides toward renewable energy solutions. Today, the role of the electrical engineer provides a vital link between traditional and emerging technologies. If you are searching for information on electrical engineering Cape Town, you will be pleased to know it is one of the most important career paths to follow to make an impact on the sustainability of the planet.
In this article, we will look at where to study electrical engineering in Cape Town, as well as salaries, job types and what subjects are needed for electrical engineering.
What Subjects are Needed for Electrical Engineering
If you have already bought into the many good reasons to study electrical engineering in Cape Town, you may be wondering what subjects are needed for electrical engineering. In short, mathematics and science are foundational to tackling the real-world challenges presented in engineering.
In addition to these subjects, you will need to be a logical and lateral thinker who thrives on innovation and problem solving. Fortunately, all of this can lead to a well-compensated career that offers numerous job opportunities as an electrical engineer.
Finding Work as an Electrical Engineer
If you are searching electrical engineering Cape Town, you will be pleased to know that the job market for engineers is robust, with engineering positions growing at twice the rate of the national average across all jobs. While the demand varies by specialisation, engineering and related fields present a promising career path. Specialisations that are in high demand include agricultural engineering, biomedical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, and mining engineering.
Besides Cape Town, jobs are in demand throughout South Africa. In fact, the South African government is streamlining visa processes to allow for foreign engineers. This is a sure indicator of that it is an attractive career option for local South Africans looking for electrical engineering colleges in Cape Town.

How Much Engineers Earn
But, before we get to electrical engineering colleges in Cape Town, it's important to know more about the financial rewards of being an engineer. In short, engineers in South Africa earn competitive salaries, which can vary based on specialisation, experience, and industry. On average, an electrical engineer earns around R2 100 000 annually. More specifically, entry-level engineers can expect to start at approximately R1 740 000, while highly experienced and qualified engineers can earn up to R 2 900 000.
Remember that these figures are averages, so it is important to consider the specific field, job market, and potential salary growth over time. Overall, engineering offers a lucrative career compared to many other fields requiring a similar level of education.
Are There Electrical Engineering Colleges in Cape Town?
Cape Town offers a wide array of engineering courses, from university degrees to vocational qualifications, certificates, and diplomas. Your choice will depend on your career goals, learning preferences, and desired specialisation.
Before we look at university programmes, there are also electrical engineering colleges in Cape Town to consider. The most highly recommended of these is the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) which is known for its practical, industry-focused programmes. CPUT offers various diplomas and certificates in electrical engineering and provides students with essential skills and knowledge for entry-level positions in the field. In terms of what subjects are needed for electrical engineering at CPUT, again it would be a strong foundation in mathematics and science.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) in disciplines such as civil, electrical, mechanical, and mechatronics engineering.
- Diplomas and Certificates: National Diplomas in engineering fields, higher certificates in various technical disciplines.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Engineering (MEng), Doctor of Engineering (DEng).
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Civil Engineering: Construction management, urban engineering, environmental engineering.
- Electrical Engineering: Digital systems, energy systems, robotics.
- Mechanical Engineering: Design engineering, industrial automation, renewable energy.
- Mechatronics Engineering: Robotics, automation, systems integration.
Programme Duration:
- Undergraduate Degrees: 3 years.
- Diplomas and Certificates: 1-3 years depending on the programme.
- Postgraduate Degrees: MEng typically takes 1-2 years, DEng 3-4 years.
Cost:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Approximately R50 000 - R70 000 per year.
- Diplomas and Certificates: Approximately R30 000 - R50 000 per year.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Approximately R40 000 - R60 000 per year.
If you want to study electrical engineering in Cape Town at a university, you are in luck because the programmes at both Stellenbosch University and the University of Cape Town are renowned for their excellence.

University of Cape Town (UCT)
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BScEng) in various disciplines such as civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, and biomedical engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Science in Engineering (MScEng), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Civil Engineering: Structural engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering.
- Electrical Engineering: Power systems, electronics, telecommunications, control systems.
- Mechanical Engineering: Thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, manufacturing processes.
- Chemical Engineering: Process engineering, biochemical engineering, materials engineering, environmental engineering.
Programme Duration:
- Undergraduate Degrees: 4 years.
- Postgraduate Degrees: MScEng typically takes 1-2 years, MPhil 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.
Stellenbosch University
Programmes Offered:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in disciplines like civil, electrical, mechanical, industrial, and mechatronics engineering.
- Postgraduate Degrees: Master of Engineering (MEng), Master of Science in Engineering (MScEng), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Typical Subjects/Areas of Study:
- Civil Engineering: Water resource engineering, structural engineering, transportation systems.
- Electrical Engineering: Communication systems, signal processing, renewable energy systems.
- Mechanical Engineering: Aerospace engineering, energy systems, advanced manufacturing.
- Industrial Engineering: Operations research, logistics, supply chain management.
- Mechatronics Engineering: Embedded systems, automation, robotics.
Programme Duration:
- Undergraduate Degrees: 4 years.
- Postgraduate Degrees: MEng and MScEng typically take 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.
Selecting the Right Course
Armed with information about electrical engineering Cape Town, you will need to choose the right course which can depend on several factors:
- Career Aspirations: Identify your long-term career goals and select a programme that aligns with them.
- Specialisation Interests: Determine which field of engineering you are passionate about.
- Learning Preferences: Decide whether you prefer a theoretical approach (typical of a university degree) or a more hands-on, practical approach (offered by CPUT).
- Duration and Cost: Consider the time and financial investment required for each programme.
As you can see, if you are searching Electrical Engineer Cape Town, you have quality options to consider. Not only do these leading institutions offer diverse and comprehensive engineering programmes to suit your chosen specialty and ambitions, but they can set you on the path to a very successful career.
You might even want to consider online electrical engineering courses.
Find Tutoring Support to Study Electrical Engineering

Pursuing a degree in engineering is both exciting and rewarding, yet it often poses challenges due to the rigorous demands of maths and science. In addition, many students struggle to keep up with the complex concepts and coursework.
Thankfully, Superprof offers a solution with expert tutors who specialise in various engineering disciplines and STEM subjects.
Superprof tutors provide tailored, one-on-one support designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you're grappling with difficult coursework, preparing for crucial exams, or seeking to improve your overall study habits, Superprof tutors provide expert guidance. Their personalised approach ensures you gain a thorough understanding of challenging material which ultimately boosts 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 comprehension of the subject matter. Superprof understands that finding a tutor with you are compatible is key your private tuition success which is why free introductory sessions are encouraged. Besides this, students review their tutors so you have insight into their teaching styles and abilities, and budgeting options are varied according to their qualifications and experience, which means that there is a tutor for every pocket and every situation.









