Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Environmental Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification in Environmental Studies
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with specialised knowledge, research skills and applied competence in the field of environmental or earth sciences that will assist them to further develop as recognised natural scientists in South Africa and beyond. The qualification aims to expose qualifying learners to real-life physical, socio-economic, civil and infrastructural challenges. It will compel them to develop appropriate skills to address these challenges at local, regional, and national scales. Qualifying learners will demonstrate understanding and appreciation of:
- The earth as a system
- The earth's natural resources (e.g. aquatic or terrestrial, rural or urban) and the ability to utilize and manage them sustainably
- The principles and legislation of Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), research, and how these can be applied to solve real-life ecological challenges, particularly in the tourism and ecotourism sector
The overall outcome is to provide South Africa with competent qualifying learners who can take up managerial or leadership positions at all levels of society.
Rationale:
The South African economy depends mainly on the agricultural, mining, and tourism sectors, which thrive in a healthy environment. The institution aims to produce qualifying learners who not only understand these challenges but can also apply lasting solutions in various geographical contexts. The qualification introduces learners with a science background to environmental techniques and situations, preparing them to identify, execute, interpret, and apply feasible environmental solutions to challenges.
This qualification will train natural scientists needed in the environmental sector to contribute new knowledge. Qualifying learners are equipped with advanced theoretical knowledge, problem-solving, research, and management skills to address societal and environmental challenges positively impacting the country's economy. Matriculants, government officials, and learners from related fields will benefit from the BSc Degree in Environmental Studies, enabling them to become professional Environmental scientists.
Learners can pursue various career paths such as Environmental and Social Impact Analysts/Practitioners, Environmental officers/managers, Environmental planners/consultants, researchers, Land Surveyors, GIS technicians or managers, Remote Sensing experts, Climate Change and Modelling experts, Population and Demography experts, and Environmental Legal Practitioners. This qualification also provides a pathway to BSc Honours in Geography or related fields.
Upon completion, qualifying learners may work for governmental departments, weather stations, research councils, private consultancies, municipalities, and universities. They can be registered with professional bodies such as SACNASP, SAGA, and IAIA.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method.
- Demonstrate a detailed knowledge and understanding of critical terminologies, principles, requirements and legislation related to EIAs.
- Identify and solve problems related to post-decision work in unfamiliar contexts.
- Explain critical terms and the significance of concepts associated with the nature of tourism and ecotourism.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the factors affecting demand in the tourism sector.
- Manage rural resources in a sustainable manner.
- Analyse laws and policies governing the utilisation of rural resources.
- Demonstrate ability to use GIS skills to solve real-life problems.
- Demonstrate an understanding of resources terminology.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how the earth functions as a system.
- Apply theories of resource use.
- Develop knowledge and skills in managing physical resources.
- Demonstrate an understanding of Environmental law terminology.
- Demonstrate an understanding of legislation governing the environment.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Interpret scientific literature.
- Apply qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Collate and present data in scientific and tabular/graphical formats.
- Analyse environmental data using statistics and software.
- Draw reasonable conclusions from data.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Define key EIA terms and concepts.
- Describe EIA principles.
- Explain EIA requirements and legislation.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Solve problems within the Plan, Do, Check, and Reporting cycle.
- Report incidents.
- Develop management objectives for construction sites.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Explain key terms and concepts in tourism.
- Recognize factors affecting tourism growth.
- Discuss sectors of tourism.
- Explain ecotourism principles.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Discuss factors affecting tourism demand.
- Explain tourism trends, especially in the Eastern Cape.
- Apply solutions to tourism challenges.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Explain hydrology concepts and water resources.
- Discuss water-use patterns.
- Describe benefits and challenges of water as a resource.
- Explain sustainable water management approaches.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Apply laws and policies in rural resource utilisation.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
- Explain and apply spatial modelling principles.
- Apply GIS skills to projects.
- Apply spatial modelling skills in different situations.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
- Define key terms and concepts.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
- Compare and contrast earth system sub-systems.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
- Develop models explaining the relationship between environment, economy, and society.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
- Manage terrestrial resources according to defined standards.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:
- Define key environmental law terms.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14:
- Explain environmental governing principles and legislation.
- Reference past environmental cases in present scenarios.
Integrated Assessment:
- Utilize formative and summative assessment strategies.
- Use written tests, assignments, oral presentations, practicals, and research projects.
- Formative assessment ratio: tests 50%, essays 20%, presentations/practicals 30%.
- Summative assessment through written examinations.
- Internal examination and external moderation of course work.
- Weighting based on institution rules.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 360
- 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.