12 January 2026 Dear Postgraduate Student, Congratulations on your acceptance into the postgraduate programme of your choice within the Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment (FEBE) at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). My name is Prof. Veruscha Fester, and I serve as the Assistant Dean: Research, Technology Innovation & Partnerships within the Faculty. I am delighted to welcome you to this new chapter of your academic and professional journey. Our Vision To be a leading faculty of engineering and the built environment that advances knowledge through science, technology, and innovation for the benefit of society. Our Mission To be a self-sustaining, responsive, and relevant faculty—environmentally conscious and renowned for innovation in teaching, research, and technology development—while producing graduates who make meaningful contributions to society. Your Postgraduate Journey Our role is to guide and support you in becoming a researcher with a thorough understanding of the systematic and rigorous process of discovery and independent review. By the time you complete your degree, you should have developed essential graduate attributes that will prepare you for leadership in your field. Graduate Attributes Knowledge You will develop: • A broad, well-informed, and up-to-date understanding of your field. • Expert, specialized, and in-depth knowledge in your specific area of research. • Insight into the interconnectedness of your research with related disciplines. • A strong sense of ethical awareness in research and professional conduct. • (For doctoral candidates) The ability to make an original contribution to your field of study. Skills You will gain expertise in: • Evaluating, selecting, and applying appropriate research approaches, methodologies, and processes. • Independent reflection and autonomy in conducting research. • Effective communication of research findings. • Critical and analytical thinking to solve complex problems. Programme Duration • The minimum completion time for a Master’s degree (full-time) is one year. • The minimum completion time for a Doctoral degree (full-time) is two years.
Maximizing Your Experience Your postgraduate studies will be both challenging and rewarding. Take full advantage of the resources, opportunities, and mentorship available to you. Do not hesitate to seek guidance or assistance when needed. Engage actively in research discussions, challenge yourself, and continually assess your growth against the graduate attributes outlined above. We look forward to seeing you thrive in this academic journey!
Kind regards / Ozithobileyo / Vriendelike groete Prof Veruscha Fester Asst. Dean RTIP: Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment PO BOX 1906, CPUT Bellville Campus, Bellville, 7535 Symphony Way, Bellville 7535