Bachelor of Science Honours in Physics
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Life Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose and Rationale of Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Physics
Purpose:
The purpose of this honours qualification in Physics is to develop more specialised skills as part of a generic training for South African scientists. The programme aims to provide practical training essential for functioning as a professional natural scientist in the field of Physics. Additionally, the qualification will equip learners with the necessary tools to pursue a career as professional academic practitioners in Physics. Most South African Universities require a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours level qualification in Physics as the minimum entry standard for further postgraduate training in Physics. Therefore, the qualification must include aspects of academic training, such as understanding scientific literature in Physics and the ability to identify and solve problems within this field.
Rationale:
The rationale behind this qualification is to produce graduates who are prepared to enter the research world of physical sciences in South Africa. There is a significant demand for physical scientists with diverse skills and innovative, multi-disciplinary approaches. Employers of scientists and technologists stress the importance of general applied competencies within the physical scientific realm. This Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Physics builds upon subject-specific skills such as observation, problem-solving, effective communication, analysis, and critical thinking that are developed during the graduate programme. The outcomes of this qualification directly align with careers in physics and the various competencies required in different sectors of employment, including industry and business, research and development, government (local and national), development and planning, management, and education.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate an advanced knowledge and understanding of Physics and the research theories, methodologies, techniques and practices applied to and in Physics processes.
- Critically review the processes of information gathering, evaluation and management within the Physics context in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues in the field of Physics.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and uncertainties of selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to identify problems in the field of Physics.
- Identify and address, on individual as well as group level, ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems or treatment methods within the field of Physics.
- Demonstrate the attitudes necessary for the achievement of high standards of ethical behaviour, both in relation to conduct and commitment in the workplace and in own personal development.
- Rigorous interpretations and creative insights through effective communication to lay as well as scholarly audiences by means of academic, professional and occupational ideas and solutions for problems in the field of Physics.
- Apply the learning strategies in a self-critical manner to effectively assess personal strategies, as well as the ongoing professional and learning needs of the self and significant others.
Assessment Criteria
The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes:
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Demonstrate a systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
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Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
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Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
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Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
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Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
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Demonstrate effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.
Integrated Assessment:
- Method of summative assessment includes:
- A three-hour written final examination on theoretical subject knowledge, practical problem-solving skills and experimental abilities, with special emphasis on questions that test critical outcomes, such as identification and solving of problems, responsible decision-making and critical and creative thought.
- Integrated assessment will determine whether the student has achieved the requisite level of knowledge required at Level 8, as well as the ability to use and apply skills obtained in the qualification, and to formulate and carry out a small research project, report on it, and critically review current literature in the subject area of Physics.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.