University of KwaZulu-Natal

Bachelor of Science Honours in Soil Science

Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Nature Conservation

Purpose and Rationale

Program Objective:

The program's objective is to produce graduates with a thorough understanding of soil science to effectively manage soil and water resources. They will be equipped to address environmental disturbances and contamination caused by industrial activities and to manage agricultural and horticultural production systems in a sustainable way.

Program Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of soil science principles.
  2. Apply soil management techniques to minimize or rehabilitate environmental disturbances and contamination caused by industrial activities.
  3. Implement sustainable practices in managing agricultural and horticultural production systems.
  4. Analyze and assess soil and water resources to make informed management decisions.
  5. Develop strategies to optimize soil and water resources utilization in different contexts.
  6. Collaborate effectively with stakeholders to address soil and water management challenges.

By focusing on these outcomes, the program aims to prepare graduates who are competent and capable of addressing complex soil and water resource management issues in various industries and agricultural settings.

Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Strategies at the University of Natal for Soil Science Courses:

  • Learning Outcomes Assessment: Students will demonstrate their ability and proficiency in each of the 5 learning outcomes through course examinations, individual projects, and group projects at 300 and 700 level courses.

  • External Examination: All assessments at the 300 and 700 level courses are second-examined with external examination to ensure rigor and fairness.

  • Integrated Assessment: Integrated assessment methods are appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved.

  • Applied Competence Assessment: The University of Natal is in the process of reforming its assessment strategies to include the assessment of applied competence for each qualification.

  • Continuous Assessment: A combination of continuous assessment and traditional written examinations is utilized to assess the integration of all or most of the learning outcomes for each module in a qualification.

  • Project-Based Assessment: Level 300 and 700 Soil Science courses include project-based laboratory and field studies, which are written up in report form to assess practical application of knowledge.

  • Capstone Seminar Modules: At level 300 and 700, the capstone seminar modules require students to present written and oral reports on selected topics, demonstrating their comprehensive understanding and communication skills.

By incorporating these varied assessment strategies, the University of Natal ensures that students in Soil Science courses are thoroughly evaluated on their knowledge, practical skills, and ability to apply theory to real-world scenarios.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

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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.