Careers · Engineering & technology

How to become an engineer in South Africa

Engineers use maths and science to design and build things that solve problems, from roads and power to machines and computers.

From R 35 000/mo · median ~R 65 000In demand
Starting payR 35 000/mo
Study time4 years
QualificationDegree, NQF 8
Register withECSA
DemandIn demand

Public TVET colleges (the technician and artisan route)

For the technician and artisan side of engineering, you study N-courses (N1 to N6) or the NCV at a public TVET college. There are 50 public TVET colleges across the country, and most (but not all) offer engineering. Start with the full list below, find a college near you, and check it offers the engineering course you want. To become a Professional Engineer, you still need a university degree.

National

All 50 public TVET colleges, by province

Our full list of every public TVET college. Start here to find one near you.

National

DHET official TVET college list

The government's own official list.

TVET colleges also train artisans, like electricians and fitters. Always check the college and course are registered before you pay.

Questions people ask