University of KwaZulu-Natal

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Soil Science

Agriculture and Nature Conservation - Primary Agriculture

Purpose and Rationale

To produce graduates with an understanding of soil science who are able to manage soil and water resources in order to:

  • Minimize or rehabilitate industrial environmental disturbance and contamination.
  • Manage agricultural and horticultural production systems in a sustainable manner.

Outcomes

  1. To understand soil chemical, biological and physical properties and processes and the interaction between them.
  2. To understand how to use existing soil resources most effectively and how to manage chemical, biological and physical soil processes for sustainable environmental management and/or sustainable agricultural production.
  3. To be able to implement soil management strategies to improve environmental quality and/or agricultural sustainability.
  4. To be able to gather, analyse, interpret and synthesize appropriate information on soil properties, processes and management.
  5. To effectively communicate the above both oral and written form.

Assessment Criteria

  • Students will demonstrate their ability and proficiency in each of the 5 learning outcomes through course examinations, individual projects, and group projects in 300 and 700 level courses.
  • All assessments will undergo a second examination externally for 300 and 700 level courses.
  • The University of Natal is in the process of reforming its assessment strategies to include evaluating applied competence for each qualification. Currently, a mix of continuous assessment and traditional written examinations is used to assess the integration of learning outcomes in each module.
  • Level 300 and 700 Soil Science courses involve project-based laboratory/field studies that are documented in report format.
  • Capstone seminar modules at levels 300 and 700 will require students to present written and oral reports on selected topics.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree(Min 480)
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
480
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.