The qualifications in mining in South Africa vary depending on the specific role or level of expertise you are seeking. However, there are some general qualifications that are required for most mining jobs.
Artisan Qualifications
Artisan qualifications are typically obtained through vocational training at a technical and vocational education and training (TVET) college. These qualifications are equivalent to a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Level 4 qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Some common artisan qualifications in mining include:
- Mine Electrician
- Mine Operator
- Mine Mechanic
- Blasting Assistant
Professional Qualifications
Professional qualifications in mining are typically obtained through a university or university of technology. These qualifications are equivalent to a National Diploma (ND) or a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) degree on the NQF. Some common professional qualifications in mining include:
- Mining Engineer
- Mine Surveyor
- Mineral Processing Engineer
- Geotechnical Engineer
Management Qualifications
Management qualifications in mining are typically obtained through a university or university of technology. These qualifications are equivalent to a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree on the NQF. Some common management qualifications in mining include:
- Mine Manager
- Mine Superintendent
- Mining Operations Manager
- Mining Project Manager
Additional Requirements
In addition to the qualifications mentioned above, most mining jobs in South Africa require that you have a valid Mine Safety Certificate. These certificates are issued by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) and are required to work in certain mining roles, such as mine manager, blast assistant, and mine operator.
Professional Registration
If you are a professional mining engineer, you may also want to consider registering with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA). This will allow you to use the protected title of “professional engineer” and will give you access to certain benefits, such as the ability to sign off on engineering plans and specifications.
Where to Find Training
There are many different institutions in South Africa that offer mining qualifications. Some of the most well-known include:
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Cape Town
- University of Stellenbosch
- Nelson Mandela University
- Tshwane University of Technology
You can also find a list of TVET colleges that offer mining qualifications on the website of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.