Program Overview

Introduction to the Postgraduate Diploma in Power Plant Engineering

The Postgraduate Diploma in Power Plant Engineering is designed for engineers, scientists, and technologists employed by or interested in the power industry. This program consists of five compulsory core modules and three electives, allowing students to choose from a selection of modules offered at the University of Cape Town or other partner institutions.

Entrance Requirements

This program is open to students with a background in engineering-related topics. The minimum entrance requirements include a recognized qualification on NQF level 7, such as a Bachelor of Science, Engineering, or Technology (B.Tech). Students should also have a provable basic, working understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics before joining this program. Acceptance to the program is at the discretion of the selection committee.

Course Curriculum

Courses are offered in block format, aimed at working professionals who wish to pursue their studies on a part-time basis. It is intended that students will complete four courses per year and should be able to complete their studies in two years. This will require students to attend four, one-week-long contact weeks per year. Learning material is provided before the course starts, and students will be required to periodically submit assignments for the course.

• The course selection must be approved by the program coordinator.
• Students must ensure that there are no timetable clashes for courses at registration.

Participation at Other Universities

To complete courses at other universities, students will be required to comply with the rules and regulations of each university. This includes completing the necessary application process for the courses and arranging payment. Once the course is completed, it is the responsibility of the student to inform the relevant universities to arrange for a credit transfer for the marks to appear on the academic transcript at the University of Cape Town.

Participation in Individual Courses

Interested students may take some of the courses as occasional students and will receive academic credits. Alternatively, they may do the courses for continuous professional development (CPD) and will officially be awarded CPD points.

Program Structure and Partnerships

The program involves partnerships with other universities, including:

• North West University, which offers elective courses from the Post Graduate Diploma in Nuclear Science and Technology.
• Stellenbosch University, which offers courses through the Centre for Renewable Energy Studies (CRSES).
• University of Pretoria, which offers courses through the Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering.

Conclusion

The Postgraduate Diploma in Power Plant Engineering offers a comprehensive and flexible program for professionals in the power industry, with a range of courses and partnerships with other leading universities.