Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Physical Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose: The qualification aims to provide learners with a strong foundation in all traditional branches of chemistry. Through selected mathematics and physics modules, learners will gain the necessary understanding to independently analyze chemical phenomena. This qualification also focuses on training learners to operate chemical laboratories and technical instruments autonomously, interpret scientific data obtained from experiments, and prepare technical reports. Graduates of this qualification will possess the skills to tackle laboratory challenges in the workplace with minimal supervision. Furthermore, modules in industrial and environmental chemistry aim to cultivate environmental awareness and responsibility among learners.
Rationale: In the global context, this qualification is internationally recognized and sets a standard that is widely accepted. It serves as the initial step towards becoming a professional chemist. While South Africa is still on a path to development, the qualification aligns with the country's growth trajectory and can significantly contribute to its advancement. The South African Chemical Institute (SACI) oversees the field of chemistry in the country, and graduates of this qualification play vital roles in various sectors, including education, chemical analysis, agricultural advisory services, and environmental monitoring.
Career Opportunities: Upon completion, learners can pursue careers as chemistry teachers, chemical analysts, agricultural advisors, environmental monitors, or even start their own chemical industries producing cosmetics and natural remedies. The qualification also serves as a foundation for further studies in chemical sciences, engineering, finance, and business. Graduates with analytical skills can explore opportunities for self-employment, thereby contributing to job creation.
Entry Requirements: A solid background in mathematics and physics up to NQF Level 6 or higher is crucial for success in this qualification. The minimum entry requirements include a Senior Certificate with minimum grades in Physical Science, Mathematics, and English. Alternatively, a National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry can serve as a pathway to enter this qualification.
Further Learning: For those looking to advance their knowledge, the Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemistry is a potential avenue for further studies post-qualification.
By equipping learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in chemistry, this qualification prepares individuals to make valuable contributions to various industries and sectors, supporting both personal and national development goals.
Outcomes
- Understand integrating concepts in chemistry and demonstrate knowledge in chemistry through planning and conducting laboratory experiments under supervision.
- Execute laboratory synthesis of pure chemical compounds using a set of prescribed elementary instructional steps and use common laboratory instrumentation to characterise the compound prepared fully.
- Collect and correctly interpret simple spectroscopic measurements and physical chemistry principles commonly applied in the different major branches (analytical, inorganic, organic and physical) of undergraduate chemistry.
- Understand a scientific report and compile it from experimental laboratory data in the IMRAD style or comparable style.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Understand key concepts in chemistry and integrate associated chemistry concepts to solve chemistry problems.
- Obtain and interpret laboratory measurements from laboratory experiments.
- Use relevant chemical equations to interpret experimental measurements.
- Present experimental data neatly through the use of appropriate tables, graphs, and visually.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Conduct a laboratory synthesis from an instructional procedure to prepare a pure compound in good yield.
- Identify major functional groups in a simple compound correctly using laboratory instrumentation.
- Use melting point to assess the degree of purity of a prepared compound.
- Use pertinent literature to compare measured physical parameters for a prepared compound with those in the literature and make proper citations.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Use spectroscopic tools to arrive at a plausible chemical structure.
- Apply physical chemistry principles from spectroscopy to solve problems in undergraduate chemistry.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Compile a formal scientific report incorporating the IMRAD style.
- Present the experimental results in a tabulated, clear, and neat format.
- Carry out calculations relevant to the measurement.
- Present experimental data graphically where necessary.
- Discuss the experimental findings to bring out theoretical knowledge about the topic.
- Cite relevant and current literature for possible comparison of the physical parameters measured and/or calculated.
Integrated Assessment:
- The assessment for the qualification follows standard guidelines issued by the institution.
- Formative assessment: Continuous assessment contributes 60% to the final mark, final examination contributes 40%.
- Continuous assessment contributions include assignments (10%), tests (60%), and laboratory practicals (30%).
- Assessment of laboratory work includes writing laboratory reports, presenting results to a departmental audience if course is mainly laboratory-based, and writing a formal scientific report.
- Summative assessment allows approximately 5% variation in percentage contribution.
- For fully laboratory-based modules, presentation of work to a departmental audience contributes 20%, rest from a written scientific report.
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.