Power Engineering

Power Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand is a comprehensive and rigorous academic program designed to prepare students for a successful career in the electricity and energy sector. This degree program focuses on the fundamental principles, advanced technologies, and practical skills necessary to design, operate, and maintain power generation and distribution systems. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of thermal, hydraulic, and renewable energy power plants, as well as electrical machinery, control systems, and infrastructural engineering. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical laboratory work, project development, and industry-based training to ensure graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern power engineering.

Throughout the program, students explore topics such as power system analysis, energy management, sustainability, and innovative energy solutions. Emphasis is placed on developing problem-solving skills, technical competence, and a strong understanding of the economic and environmental aspects of power generation. The program also encourages research activities and collaboration with industry partners, providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world projects and internships. Graduates from this program will be prepared for careers in power utilities, consulting firms, industrial sectors, and government agencies involved in energy planning, regulation, and development.

The Power Engineering program at Wits combines cutting-edge academic content with a commitment to industrial relevance, ensuring graduates are capable of leading advancements in the energy sector. It aims to produce professional engineers who are not only technically proficient but also ethically responsible and environmentally conscious, contributing to sustainable energy solutions and technological progress. Whether pursuing careers in power plant design, maintenance, operation, or policy development, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to drive innovation and efficiency in electrical power systems.

• ​ELEN7007- Electrical Discharges in Gases
• ELEN7009- Principles of Insulation Coordination in Electrical Power Systems
• ELEN7018 Earthing and Lightning Protection
• ELEN7041 Investigational Project in Electrical Power Engineering
• ELEN7048 Variable Speed Drives for AC Machines
• ELEN7053 Power Engineering Design
• ELEN7056 Power Electronics

• Certified copies of all your degree certificates and a full academic transcript covering all periods of registration. Include all details of courses undertaken and the marks obtained. Certified copies must bear the original Commissioner of Oaths’ stamp and signature. Any documentation not in English must be translated and sworn to by an authorised translator. Credit certificates are not acceptable. 
• Curriculum vitae. 
• A short outline of your intended research area (no more than one typed page) – for Masters (by research) or PhD applicants only (NOT A REQUIREMENT FOR HEALTH SCIENCES), and if you are applying for a Master of Arts programme, a sample of research work or a long essay written or translated into English.  
• An applicant to a postgraduate programme who holds a foreign qualification, is required to submit proof of evaluation of the qualification by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• Attach certified copies of all your programme certificates and a full transcript of your academic record, to your application form. If you have applied for Financial Aid, obtain a separate copy for their records;
• Include all details of courses undertaken and the marks obtained. Any documentation not in English must be translated and sworn to by an authorised translator.
• A pass in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with a score of at least 7.0. 
• A non-refundable application fee of R200 is required. 

The financing options for the Power Engineering program at the University of the Witwatersrand encompass a variety of financial support mechanisms designed to assist students in funding their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore available scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages offered through the university's dedicated funding offices and external partners. The university provides several internal scholarship programs based on academic merit, financial need, and other relevant criteria, which applicants can apply for during the admission process. Additionally, students may be eligible for government student loans or funding schemes that support engineering students in South Africa. Part-time work opportunities on campus or in related industries may also be available to help students supplement their income while pursuing their degree. The university often collaborates with industry stakeholders and professional associations to offer internships and sponsorship options that contribute towards educational expenses. There is also guidance and counseling available to assist students in identifying and applying for external funding sources, including international scholarships for eligible applicants. Tuition fees for the Power Engineering program are structured annually and are subject to adjustments based on university policies and inflationary factors. Students are advised to consult the university’s financial aid office early to understand the full range of available financial support, application deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Payment plans may be available, allowing students to spread their tuition fees over manageable installments. The university emphasizes equitable access to quality engineering education and strives to support its students financially through comprehensive funding schemes, thus enabling more talented individuals to pursue careers in power engineering without undue financial hardship.

Power Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for the development, operation, and maintenance of power systems. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics including thermodynamics, electrical power systems, control and instrumentation, renewable energy sources, and energy management. Students gain a strong foundation in electrical engineering principles, coupled with specialised courses that focus on power generation, transmission, distribution, and the integration of sustainable energy solutions.

The program emphasizes hands-on experience through laboratory work, projects, and industrial training, enabling students to apply their theoretical understanding to real-world challenges. The university collaborates with industry partners to provide internship opportunities, fostering practical skills and professional networking. Graduates of the Power Engineering program are well-prepared for careers in power utility companies, renewable energy firms, consulting engineering, and manufacturing industries.

The program’s research component encourages innovation and critical thinking, with students engaging in current topics such as smart grid technology, energy efficiency, and sustainable power generation. State-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities support this environment of inquiry. The degree aims to produce graduates who are capable of contributing to the development and management of efficient, reliable, and sustainable power systems that address global energy needs and environmental concerns.

Overall, the Power Engineering program at Wits University is recognized for its academic rigor, industry relevance, and commitment to sustainability, preparing students for leadership roles in the evolving energy landscape.