Abstract
In the world where technology changes almost
daily, the field of microelectronics or nanoelectronics is
becoming an area driving the future. Therefore, more
engineers specializing in micro- and/or nanoelectronics are
needed in industry internationally. Globally, a distinct shift in
nanoelectronic education has already been observed, where
postgraduate coursework and part-coursework degrees in
microelectronics and nanoelectronics are now being offered
alongside the traditional research or coursework degrees in
electronics or electrical engineering (light currents). However,
in South Africa the situation is lagging; microelectronic or
nanoelectronic specializations are offered either as honors
degrees or as the research-based studies mentioned, with no
dedicated coursework specialization at the master’s level. The
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment of the
University of Johannesburg (UJ) has, therefore, diversified the
program and qualifications mix because of this need to teach
nanoelectronics at the master’s level as well, via global partcoursework
and a part-research method of delivery. However,
approval for a new degree takes a number of years to be
completed. Therefore, as an alternative route, nanoelectronic
modules with some cross-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary
modules are offered as continuing education programs (CEPs)
at National Qualification Framework levels 8 and 9. The CEPs
bear continuing Engineering Council of South Africa
professional development credits, and can be credited as
modules in the envisaged master’s degrees. The CEPs are
delivered via an online approach, which develops student
accessibility and brings about flexibility for students who are
studying part-time. Enhanced accessibility and the fastgrowing
level of internet access in Africa will allow the UJ to
serve students both regionally and internationally. This paper
explores the rationale for the chosen content of the CEPs and
ultimately the proposed master’s degrees and discusses in
detail the online mode of delivery and its benefits, as well as the
approach taken to deliver courses according to this model,
together with innovative opportunities.