Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Sciences
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Environmental Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences
Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences is to provide a well-rounded, broad education that equips learners with the knowledge base, theory and methodology of disciplines in the field of Environmental Sciences. It enables learners to demonstrate initiative and responsibility in an academic or professional context. The qualification aims to develop generic and subject-specific skills such as observation, problem-solving, effective communication, analysis, and critical thinking.
Rationale:
The rationale of this qualification is to provide South Africa with learners who are prepared to enter the research world of Environmental Sciences. There is a strong need for environmental scientists with a broad range of skills, innovative and multi-disciplinary approaches. Employers emphasize the importance of generally applied competencies within the environmental scientific context.
Through this qualification, learners will attain graduate-level knowledge, specific skills, and applied competence in various fields of environmental sciences. This prepares them for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity in the private, public, and academic spheres, and rewarding contributions to society. The qualification's exit level outcomes are directly related to the aspirations of learners seeking careers in environmental science and technology, as well as to the range of competencies required in different employment sectors (industry and business, research and development, government, development and planning, management, and education).
Furthermore, this qualification will contribute to South Africa by providing significant numbers of learners in various environmental science fields. This will ensure the broadening of the local leadership base of innovative and knowledge-based economic and scholarly activities. Graduates will be prepared to embark on careers in research and practice theoretical and experimental environmental science with increased self-confidence.
Outcomes
- Show understanding of the place of environmental sciences in human endeavour and have a basic knowledge of the philosophy and ethics of environmental sciences###
- Demonstrate competence in specialised field outcomes, such as identifying and solving problems using critical and creative thinking, working effectively on projects as an individual or as part of a team###
- Find relevant information and apply it in a problem solving context in the environmental sciences, communicating science and technology in both writing and verbally in a precise and coherent way###
- Demonstrate knowledge of the theoretical background in the core aspects of the chosen qualification of environmental sciences, that is obtained through self-learning and formal teaching###
- Demonstrate practical skills in the chosen qualification of the environmental sciences###
- Demonstrate knowledge of scientific equipment, techniques and experimental approaches###
- Use knowledge of the solid scientific background to practice as a fully independent scientist in the chosen field of the environmental sciences###
- Demonstrate an understanding of the environment and ecological problems and be able to apply theoretical knowledge independently in understanding, investigating and solving environmental problems###
- Use relevant statistical and computer-based methods for the analysis of environmental data### be aware of the ethical, legal and social responsibility of environmental investigations###
- Work in a number of relevant fields as a beginning-level research scientist.
Assessment Criteria
Integrated Assessment Criteria in Environmental Sciences
-
Integrated Knowledge and Understanding:
- Respond to questions in class and personal needs of communities using integrated knowledge in Environmental Sciences.
- Write individually or as part of a team during tests, exams, or presentations.
-
Utilization of Relevant Literature:
- Use relevant and current knowledge and literature to write reports, assignments, or projects.
-
Physical Evaluations and Interventions:
- Conduct physical evaluations, interpret results, and suggest interventions following correct procedures in Environmental Sciences.
-
Ethical Conduct:
- Act ethically during simulations or demonstrations in related careers in Environmental Sciences.
- Develop ethically sound business practices within the profession.
-
Species Concepts:
- Define what a species is and provide an overview of different species concepts.
-
Laboratory Skills:
- Report on skills using microscopes, dichotomous keys, and accessing sources with respect to intellectual property, copyright, and plagiarism conventions.
-
Problem-Solving:
- Solve environmental science problems through analytical techniques.
-
Data Interpretation and Evaluation:
- Interpret qualitative and quantitative data and critically evaluate results.
-
Good Laboratory Practice:
- Apply good laboratory practice in experimental processes, data generation, and communication of results with supporting arguments.
-
Use of Additional Sources:
- Utilize scientific publications, books, and the internet to evaluate results critically.
Integrated Assessment Approach
-
Continuous and Summative Assessment:
- Embedded in the learning design throughout the three years of study.
- Includes written and practical assignments, portfolios, assessments, and examinations.
-
Application of Learned Skills:
- Assess theory evolving into effective practice.
-
Specializations Assessment:
- Project-based assessment in the third year evaluating discipline-specific knowledge, communication skills, computer literacy, critical analysis, and problem-solving ability.
-
Report-Writing Emphasis:
- Important aspect of the assessment to showcase mastery of skills and knowledge in Environmental Sciences.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 360
- SAQA Source
- More Information
Education Cost Calculator
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.