Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Agricultural Economics

Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Secondary Agriculture

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Description:

The program aims to equip graduates with a deep understanding of economics, financial management, and business principles within the context of agriculture. Graduates will be prepared to apply their knowledge to various roles in farm management, agribusiness, and policy development.

Areas of Emphasis:

Agricultural Development: Understanding the various facets of agricultural development and how economic principles can be applied to improve productivity and sustainability.
Marketing: Learning about marketing strategies specific to the agricultural sector and how to promote agricultural products effectively.
Finance: Acquiring knowledge of financial management within the agricultural industry, including investment strategies and risk management.

Career Opportunities:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared for a range of career paths within the agricultural sector. Potential opportunities include:

Working in commercial banks to provide financial services to agricultural businesses.
Employment in the National Department of Agriculture, where graduates can contribute to policy development and implementation.
Farm management positions, where graduates can apply their knowledge to optimize agricultural operations.
Opportunities in the agribusiness sector, including roles in marketing, finance, and operations.
Consulting positions, where graduates can offer expertise to agricultural businesses and organizations.

Conclusion:

This qualification provides a strong foundation in agriculture, commerce, and social sciences, enabling graduates to pursue diverse career paths and contribute to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector.

Outcomes

6 The student is able to understand agriculture as an interrelated system and that, in a problem-solving context, components do not exist in isolation.

Assessment Criteria

Evidence generated through assessment tasks shows that the learner can:

Work on an approved farm for six to eight weeks and write an evaluation report demonstrating critical and creative thinking.
Complete tests, examinations, practicals, and tutorials.
Undertake a research project in an agricultural economic related field.
Present seminars in Agricultural Economics 490 and 790, and Agribusiness 490 modules.
Demonstrate critical evaluation skills in seminars presented in front of peers.
Show competence in outcomes 3, 4, and 5 through research projects.
View the agricultural industry as an interrelated system (Outcome 6).

The University of Natal is reforming its assessment strategies to include the assessment of applied competence for each qualification. Currently, a combination of continuous assessment and traditional written examinations is used to assess the integration of learning outcomes for each module. In the fourth year, all students must complete a project and seminars. The project assesses problem-solving abilities in a real-world situation, while seminars cover theory, applications of techniques, and interpretation of findings. These assessment methods ensure that students have simultaneously attained assessment criteria.

Qualification Details

Type: National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level: 08
Min. Credits: 480
SAQA Source: More Information

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University of KwaZulu-Natal

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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.

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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.