Nelson Mandela University

Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Statistics

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Mathematical Sciences

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Purpose Statement:

  • Purpose: The purpose of the qualification is, in one or more sub-fields within the Physical, Mathematical, Computer, Life, Earth, and Environmental Sciences:

    • To produce Science Graduates who have a systematic and coherent body of knowledge and an understanding of underlying concepts and principles.
    • To develop the ability to access and evaluate scientific information, including an understanding of how scientific knowledge is created.
    • To equip individuals with high-level cognitive and generic skills, such as problem-solving, written and spoken communication, and computer literacy.
    • To instill competence in applying knowledge through basic research methods and practice.
    • To provide opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, postgraduate study, gainful economic activity in various careers, and constructive contributions to society.
    • To produce Science Graduates who demonstrate initiative, responsibility, professionalism, and ethical behavior in their roles within the economy and society.
    • To train individuals to be intellectual leaders within their society and to contribute to increasing, widening, and transforming the leadership base in South Africa for innovation, science-based economic and research development, and the education of future generations of professionals.
  • Rationale: This qualification is crucial for the specialization and development of personnel in South African research and development initiatives, serving as an essential foundation for innovation, economic growth, and the education of future generations of professionals in various scientific fields.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts and principles. Recognise that scientific knowledge and understanding are changeable.
  2. Access, evaluate and synthesise scientific information and generate scientific information.
  3. Demonstrate key scientific reasoning skills.
  4. Communicate scientific understanding in writing, orally and using visual, symbolic and/or other forms of representation.
  5. Solve scientific problems.
  6. Demonstrate effective Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills.
  7. Work effectively as a member of a team or group in scientific projects or investigations.
  8. Apply scientific knowledge and ways of thinking to societal issues, taking into account ethical and cultural considerations.
  9. Manage and organise their learning activities responsibly.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:

  1. Critical Understanding of Theory, Research Methodologies, and Techniques Relevant to Statistics:

    • The research project should demonstrate a deep understanding of statistical theory, methodologies, and techniques.
    • The ability to critically evaluate different statistical approaches and choose the most appropriate ones for the research question at hand.
  2. Ability to Relate Theory to Practice and Vice Versa:

    • The project should showcase the student's capability to apply statistical theory to real-world problems.
    • Demonstrating how theoretical concepts can be practically implemented and how practical challenges can inform theoretical developments.
  3. Analysis of Complex Problems, Synthesis, and Independent Evaluation of Quantitative Data:

    • The student should be able to tackle complex statistical problems, synthesise information from various sources, and independently evaluate quantitative data.
    • Showing proficiency in handling large datasets, identifying patterns, and drawing meaningful conclusions from the data.
  4. Presentation and Communication of Research Results to a General Audience:

    • The ability to effectively present and communicate the research findings to a non-specialist audience.
    • Using visual aids, clear language, and engaging presentation techniques to ensure comprehension and engagement of the audience.

Integrated Assessment:

  • The research project serves as the primary method for integrated assessment.
  • It evaluates the student's overall proficiency in understanding statistical concepts, applying them to practical scenarios, analysing complex problems, and effectively communicating the research outcomes to a general audience.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

Education Cost Calculator

Nelson Mandela University
Description
Nelson Mandela University is a comprehensive university located in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of three institutions, and it is named after the iconic South African leader, Nelson Mandela. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law. It is known for its commitment to social justice, transformation, and community engagement. Nelson Mandela University strives to provide quality education, promote research and innovation, and contribute to the development of the 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.