University of KwaZulu-Natal

Bachelor of Science Honours in Botany

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Environmental Sciences

Purpose and Rationale

The programme aims to produce graduates who have developed the appropriate basic knowledge and applied skills to meet the requirements for international academic recognition and/or appropriate national professional registration in the specializations of botany. Graduates will be able to contribute positively to future vocational and/or academic needs both locally (Southern Africa) and internationally through their ability to:

  • Apply scientific methods in supervised research and/or problem-solving.
  • Communicate and/or implement investigative research findings effectively in a diversity of fields within the botanical sciences.

Potential career paths for graduates include roles as botanists, environmental consultants, and environmental managers.

Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

The assessment strategy for the University of Natal's postgraduate qualification includes a formal examination of contextual knowledge and conceptual understanding at the appropriate level of module-specific subject matter. This is complemented by specialized modules that focus on specific techniques and methods relevant to each stream within the qualification.

Additionally, a review essay and seminar component are integrated into the assessment process to ensure that learners can demonstrate their understanding and application of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program. The assessment methods are designed to encompass the key learning outcomes and demonstrate the learner's competence in their field of study.

At level 7, the assessment structure includes a research project proposal (oral presentation) accounting for 10% of 64 credits, a written research project outcome report worth 10% of 64 credits, an oral presentation of the research project outcome report contributing to 70% of 64 credits, and an integrative review essay (written) representing 10% of 64 credits. Additionally, the research project proposal (written) carries a weightage of 100% of 8 credits.

The capstone modules mentioned in the Assessor Criteria are specifically designed to evaluate the learner's ability to integrate knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program and demonstrate competence in critical learning outcomes. The assessment methods employed aim to assess applied competence for each qualification, ensuring that the purpose of the qualification is effectively achieved.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of KwaZulu-Natal
Description
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a public research university located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It was formed in 2004 through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. UKZN is one of the top-ranked universities in South Africa and is known for its excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. The university has multiple campuses spread across the province, including Durban, Pietermaritzburg, and Westville. Each campus has its own unique character and facilities, providing students with a diverse and vibrant learning environment. UKZN is committed to producing graduates who are academically competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive. It strives to promote innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among its students. The university also actively engages with local communities through various outreach programs and initiatives. Overall, the University of KwaZulu-Natal is a prestigious institution that offers high-quality education and research opportunities to students, contributing to the development and advancement of South Africa and the African continent as a whole.

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.