Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agronomy
Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture
Purpose and Rationale
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agronomy
Purpose:
The Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agronomy aims to produce science learners in agronomy with a systematic and coherent body of knowledge. Learners will develop an understanding of underlying concepts and principles in agronomy. They will have the ability to access and evaluate agronomic and scientific information, as well as comprehend how scientific knowledge in agronomy is generated. The program will equip learners with high-level cognitive skills and a range of broad skills such as problem-solving, written and verbal communication, computer literacy, and proficiency in basic research methods. Graduates will acquire sufficient depth of knowledge and skills in agronomy to pursue further studies at the postgraduate level, engage in various agronomic careers, and make meaningful contributions to agricultural society. The qualification will produce agronomy learners who demonstrate initiative, responsibility, professionalism, and ethical conduct in contributing to economic growth and addressing societal challenges. Graduates will serve as intellectual leaders within their communities, adding to and transforming the leadership base in South Africa for innovation and science-based economic and research development.
Rationale:
Agronomy is a branch of agricultural science that focuses on the interactions between crops and the soils in which they grow. It integrates ecology, biology, chemistry, earth science, and genetics to assess the capabilities of different plants and soils in specific environments. With global food production projected to double by 2050 amidst diminishing arable land, the efficient use of land to enhance food productivity becomes crucial. Agronomy offers opportunities to enhance productivity by addressing factors such as weeds, pests, diseases, water stress, soil fertility, and other limitations that impact yields. Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in seed companies, agrochemical companies, nurseries, cooperatives, and the food industry. They can also engage in research and teaching roles in universities, FET colleges, and private institutes, along with organizations like the Agricultural Research Council (ARC), South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), and Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). Career opportunities encompass crop production and protection, plant breeding, nutrient management, soil conservation, and fertility. Graduates may find employment as farm chemical and fertiliser store managers, sales representatives, field and lab technicians, crop management consultants, extension agents, soil and water conservationists, inspectors, and regulatory agency staff. Additionally, the growing need for agricultural education teachers at the secondary level underscores the importance of individuals who can impart this knowledge to future generations, benefiting society at large.
Outcomes
- Have knowledge and skills to cultivate the most important crops in South Africa.
- Compile a scientific report and communicate effectively in oral and written form, with a wide range of audiences.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theories and modern technologies used in plant breeding.
- Use agronomic terminologies, knowledge, principles, procedures and technology to identify and control common diseases, pests and weeds associated with crops.
- Critically analyse the concepts and theories of soil conservation and management.
- Integrate the knowledge obtained in the different agronomic fields to design and manage a sustainable production system.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:
- Exit Level Outcome 1: Apply knowledge and skills to cultivate crops.
- Exit Level Outcome 2: Design a research proposal. Collect and analyse data to experiment. Shown critical thinking and objectivity in executing the experiment and in interpreting results. Communicate findings of the experiment effectively and scientifically correct in writing and orally.
- Exit Level Outcome 3: Apply knowledge and skills to solve problems in plant breeding.
- Exit Level Outcome 4: Apply knowledge and skills to identify, prevent and control common diseases, pests and weeds associated with crops.
- Exit Level Outcome 5: Recognise the signs and causes of soil degradation. Suggest suitable amendment practices for degraded soils.
- Exit Level Outcome 6: Apply and integrate Sustainable production and management principles related to crop cultivation.
Integrated Assessment:
- Both formative and summative assessment practices are used.
- Summative assessment practices assess the achievement of the module and qualification outcomes contributing to the final mark.
- Tests, examinations, reports, and presentations are forms of summative assessment.
- Formative assessments are done throughout the semester via tests, discussions, etc., providing learners with feedback.
- Assignments, tests, and practicals/tutorials contribute 10%, 50%, and 40%, respectively, to the DP (semester) mark.
- At least two tests are written during the semester.
- DP marks contribute 40% to the final mark, and the final examination contributes 60% to the final mark.
- Learners must complete a supervised research project in their final year, including a written document and presentations.
- Fourth-year level modules are externally examined, while other modules are internally moderated.
- External examiners are appointed according to University policy.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree(Min 480)
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 480
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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