Advanced Diploma in Food Science
Services - Consumer Services
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The Advanced Diploma in Food Science offers an intensive, focused, and applied specialization to meet the needs of the Food Science Industry. This qualification aims to provide learners with a deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory, and methodology in Food Science. It will also enhance learners' knowledge and comprehension of theories, methodologies, and practices in Food Science, enabling them to tackle complex theoretical and practical problems effectively. Ultimately, this diploma equips learners with the necessary knowledge base and skills to actively engage in the Food Science Industry.
Rationale:
Food Science (FS) is a multidisciplinary field that plays a crucial role in the food sector, especially in South Africa. Globally, FS contributes significantly to advancements in science and technology. Food Scientists are essential in addressing issues related to food and water contamination, food safety, quality control, and product development, impacting society, the economy, and industries such as food and beverage, agriculture, and water management.
In response to current trends, including concerns about food supply sustainability and raw material wastage, the Advanced Diploma addresses the evolving needs of the Food Science sector. This qualification serves as a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, such as Honours, Masters, and PhD degrees, fostering continuous development and lifelong learning in FS research, development, industrial management, and entrepreneurship.
Graduates of this program may explore career opportunities in research and development within institutions like the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Agricultural Research Council (ARC), and Technology Innovation Agency (TIA). Due to its significance, Food Science is considered a scarce skill, leading to research funding opportunities for learners from organizations like the National Research Foundation (NRF), South African Association of Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST), and other relevant bodies, encouraging more learners to pursue careers in Food Science.
Outcomes
- Apply the principles of food science to diagnose and solve broadly-defined problems within the food sector systematically.
- Plan and conduct research relevant to food processing, food analysis, food product development, food quality and food safety### and be able to evaluate/interpret data and communicate findings scientifically.
- Exhibit the written and oral skills with the ability to summarise, evaluate, synthesise, and appropriately communicate scientific concepts to a variety of audiences.
- Critically analyse prevailing issues in the food sector while having the ability to evaluate scientific and technological problems and propose solutions.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Interpret and apply technical material and related principles to the development of a process or product.
- Evaluate theory, concepts, and methodologies associated with scientific and technological processes in the food industry.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Demonstrate technical and manipulative skills using laboratory equipment, tools, materials, and computer software.
- Analyse laboratory procedures, health and safety protocols, and scientific methods.
- Apply scientific enquiry and problem-solving skills in Food Science and Technology contexts.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Demonstrate good listening, writing, and verbal communication skills.
- Interpret technical material and prepare a journal article related to a process or product.
- Develop observational skills and related documentation strategies.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Recognise and address potential errors in protocols.
- Define responsibilities within a team.
- Use appropriate scientific terminology.
- Interpret technical material and journal articles related to product development.
Integrated Assessment:
- Combines different elements to demonstrate applied competence.
- Emphasises practical, foundational, and reflective competence.
- Uses written tests, case study reports, and assignments.
- Ensures fair, valid, and reliable assessment practices.
- Combines theoretical and practical components.
Formative and Summative Assessments:
- Formative assessments support learner development.
- Summative assessments make judgements about achievement.
- Assessment data is used for formative purposes.
- Feedback from industry helps structure the qualification content.
- Assessments are regularly reviewed for relevance to industry standards.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Advanced Diploma
- NQF Level
- 07
- 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.