Walter Sisulu University

Advanced Diploma in Chemistry

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Physical Sciences

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification:

Purpose:

The purpose of this qualification is to train technologists or graduates who will be able to apply specialised analytical instrumentation to meet requirements of quality control and research and development laboratories. They may be employed as chemists, supervising technicians and technologists in industries such as petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, mining, metallurgy and educational institutions.

Rationale:

Graduates of this qualification will be given an opportunity to pursue their studies in a Postgraduate Diploma or in an Honours Degree. Graduates may apply for full membership of SACI (South African Chemical Institute) and for professional registration as National Science Technologists with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP).

Outcomes

  1. Apply interdisciplinary scientific knowledge to conduct specialised synthesis, characterisation and chemical analyses in the laboratory.
  2. Apply chemical quality assurance principles in the laboratory to ensure adherence to synthetic and chemical procedures and produce reproducible and reliable results.
  3. Understand basic principles of research.
  4. Use of advanced analytical instrumental techniques and solve technical related problems. 5.Understand and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of scientific analytical technical practice including health and safety.
  5. Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
  6. Understand and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of scientific analytical technical practice.

Assessment Criteria

Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Use physics and chemical concepts for processes and synthesis in the laboratory
  • Produce required compounds through purification of chemical reagents
  • Characterise and analyse compounds using advanced instrumental analytical techniques
  • Apply mathematical concepts for calculations and data interpretation
  • Utilize relevant computer software for data manipulation and presentation

Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Utilize good laboratory practices based on international standards
  • Follow synthesis and analytical procedures meticulously with attention to detail
  • Adhere to data integrity controls and standard operating procedures

Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Convert a research problem into a question and conduct a literature search
  • Identify relevant research methodology and generate data
  • Carry out statistical evaluation or data analysis
  • Develop and present a scientific research proposal effectively

Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Identify components of instrumental techniques and their functions
  • Understand and demonstrate the principle of operation of instruments
  • Calculate results without relying on readout devices
  • Identify and correct common errors in instruments for accurate results

Associated assessment criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Adhere to standard operating procedures and manuals
  • Explain ways of keeping laboratory records and inventory
  • Outline Safety, Health, and Environmental regulations and comply with them
  • Adhere to laboratory rules and demonstrate proper housekeeping

Integrated Assessment:

  • Formative and self-assessment: Learner assesses themselves.
  • Peer Assessment: Learner assesses or is assessed by peers.
  • Summative Assessment: Final assessments like tests, presentations, assignments, practical reports, project work, and exams.

Qualification Details

Type
Advanced Diploma
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

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Walter Sisulu University
Walter Sisulu University
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Description
Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is a comprehensive university located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of three institutions: the University of Transkei, the Eastern Cape Technikon, and the Border Technikon. WSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and humanities, business and management sciences, education, health sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The university is committed to providing quality education and promoting social justice, equity, and sustainable development. WSU has multiple campuses spread across different regions of the Eastern Cape, including Mthatha, Butterworth, Buffalo City (East London), and Queenstown. Each campus offers a unique learning environment and facilities to cater to the diverse needs of students. The university is named after Walter Sisulu, a prominent anti-apartheid activist and leader of the African National Congress (ANC). It aims to honor his legacy by fostering a culture of activism, social responsibility, and community engagement among its students and staff. Overall, Walter Sisulu University strives to be a leading institution of higher learning in South Africa, providing accessible and relevant education to empower individuals and contribute to the development of the Eastern Cape region and the country as a whole.

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.