Bachelor of Science Honours in Meteorology
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Earth and Space Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
The overall purpose of the qualification is to train and supply qualified Meteorologists to South Africa and the international community, with a focus on sub-Saharan African countries. The course is designed to meet world-class standards and has been developed with input from national and international meteorological experts. This qualification is unique in South Africa as it confers the status of a professional Meteorologist.
The specific objectives of the qualification are:
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To allow learners with various academic backgrounds to enroll for the B Sc (Hons) (Meteorology) qualification, including those with B Sc (Meteorology) and T4 (Meteorology) degrees, as well as B Sc, T4, B Tech in science, or equivalent qualifications. Core modules are provided to supplement any gaps in meteorological knowledge, with a requirement for all learners to pass these core modules.
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To equip learners with specialized knowledge in weather forecasting, climate change and variability, and meteorological research. Specific core modules are designated for each of these fields, with the aim of enabling graduates to become professional Meteorologists.
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To address the critical need for qualified Meteorologists in South Africa and the international community, particularly in sub-Saharan African countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The course content is designed in consultation with experts from the South African Weather Bureau and international scientists to ensure a high standard of training.
Overall, the qualification aims to provide learners with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue careers in meteorology and contribute to the field on a regional and international level.
Outcomes
- A thorough knowledge of meteorological instrumentation, observation methods, dynamics and the physical processes in the atmosphere.
- An understanding of mesoscale weather systems and their propagation in the tropics and extra tropics.
- Theoretical knowledge of marine, aviation and specialized weather forecasting.
- A thorough knowledge of meteorological instrumentation, observation methods and the physical processes in the atmosphere
- An overall knowledge of the prognosis of climate variability and the elements affecting in the climatic system..
- A good knowledge of fundamental statistics.
- Climate modelling, numerical atmospheric modelling, cloud processes, fundamental weather forecasting.
- A thorough knowledge of meteorological instrumentation, observation methods and the dynamics of the atmosphere.
- Climate modelling, numerical atmospheric modelling, cloud processes, fundamental weather forecasting, climatology.
- Research and communication skills: Applied research and the preparation of research reports/papers. Oral presentations.
- Advanced weather forecasting skills: chart analyses, interpretation of weather codes and satellite images, cloud identification, data, classification of weather types.
- Data manipulation and fundamental statistical skills necessary for climate analyses.
- Appreciate ethics in the environmental and atmospheric sciences.
- Teamwork and collaboration when addressing meteorological aspect affecting community life.
Assessment Criteria
Integrated Assessment:
Summative:
- Written tests and exams addressing the theoretical knowledge
- Oral tests and exams addressing the theoretical knowledge
- Written assignments addressing various meteorological topics which includes the requisition of information from the South African Weather Bureau and interpretation/presentation of meteorological information in written reports
Formative:
- Evaluation of the ability to perform innovative research
- Research reports and evaluation on the oral presentation of research results
- Estimation of the ability to participate in a team and encourage teamwork when discussing controversial meteorological aspects
- Problem solving by means of computer programming
Integrated assessment:
- Simulations
- Work-place assessments
- Written examinations
- Oral examinations
Other:
- Report writing (assignments and research presentation)
- Practical weather map interpretation
- Computer-based analytical assessments
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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