UNISA

Bachelor of Consumer Science Honours

Services - Consumer Services

Purpose and Rationale

Purpose:

The purpose of the qualification is for students to:

  • Apply knowledge and conduct research in various fields of Consumer Science such as Food and Nutrition, Hospitality Management, and Clothing and Textiles.
  • Demonstrate in-depth content knowledge and research skills.
  • Disseminate knowledge gained to relevant stakeholders.

Rationale:

The rationale behind the qualification is to:

  • Support young scientists and professionals in strategic, basic, and applied research to promote innovation in the field of study (foods, clothing and textiles, nutrition, or hospitality services).
  • Strengthen students' curriculum vitae and improve their employment prospects nationally and globally.
  • Address the high level of unemployment and poverty in South Africa by producing qualified scientists and professionals to contribute to the upliftment and economic development of communities.
  • Enable learners to work as scientists and consumer advisors, guiding decision-making in resource usage according to scientific principles.
  • Empower families and communities to make informed nutrition-related decisions through advocacy for household food security, multisector collaboration, and effective nutrition education.
  • Produce scientists and professionals who understand the science of food availability, preparation, and nutrition to address critical situations in a scientific and applied manner.
  • Benefit the hospitality sector by providing skilled individuals to enhance South Africa's reputation as a tourist destination.
  • Support the clothing and textile industries by training highly skilled professionals to contribute to future job creation in South Africa.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate a comprehensive and systematic grasp of the discipline's body of knowledge, with specialised knowledge in the area of specialisation.
  2. Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of research methodologies, technologies and techniques, pertaining to the area of specialisation.
  3. Demonstrate mastery of the application of research methods technologies and techniques.
  4. Undertake a study of literature and current research in the area of specialisation.
  5. Effectively present and communicate research findings.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Identify subject-specific concepts, theories, principles, and apply them correctly.
  • Demonstrate advanced understanding and knowledge of the chosen field.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Identify and critique research methodologies, technologies, and techniques in specific disciplines.
  • Develop an appropriate, practical, and attainable research design.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Identify and critique the application of various research methodologies, technologies, and techniques in specific disciplines.
  • Integrate theory and practice in the chosen field of study.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Discuss and summarise literature and current research from various disciplines.
  • Interrogate relevant research articles and reports from various disciplines.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Construct a well-formulated research problem.
  • Present and critique research findings from various projects.
  • Discuss planning, outlining, and implementing research programmes and projects.
  • Present valid and reliable findings in conferences and symposia.
  • Demonstrate problem identification, problem-solving, creative thinking, and effective teamwork.
  • Collect, analyse, organise, and critically evaluate information.
  • Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical, and/or language skills.
  • Use science and technology effectively and responsibly.
  • Contribute to personal development and economic development.
  • Understand the world as a set of related systems and be culturally and aesthetically sensitive.
  • Develop entrepreneurial opportunities.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Assess applied competence through theory and practicals in various disciplines.
  • Assess reflective competence by proposing practical solutions to problems and evaluating their own solutions.
  • Provide evidence of integrated knowledge, skills, and values in the modules.
  • Use formative and summative assessments, including written assignments, practical activities, examinations, and projects/portfolios.
  • Complete a research project for integrated assessment based on an approved topic in a specialisation area.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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UNISA
Description
UNISA, short for the University of South Africa, is a distance education institution based in South Africa. It is the largest university on the African continent and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study. UNISA provides flexible learning options, allowing students to study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. The university is known for its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education to a diverse student population. UNISA also conducts research and collaborates with other institutions to contribute to the development of knowledge and skills in South Africa and beyond.

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.