Bachelor of Social Science in Environmental Studies
Human and Social Studies - Environmental Relations
Purpose and Rationale
Summary:
An urgent need for expertise in environmental studies exists in Kwazulu-Natal, particularly in Durban due to rapid urban expansion and developmental challenges. The goal is to achieve sustainable development through informed policy-making and resource management. The Environmental Studies qualification aims to produce graduates who can tackle environmental issues with a holistic approach, considering social and natural aspects. The program offers a mix of specialist and general knowledge, focusing on sustainable development theory and practical skills for environmental management. Core courses are complemented by elective options to cater to diverse interests. The program emphasizes environmental and civic responsibility, with a pathway for further study through Honours and coursework Masters. This interdisciplinary program prioritizes flexibility and accessibility to meet the region's environmental challenges effectively.
Outcomes
- Relate the theoretical concepts and information derived in the course to empirical problems in case studies and real-life situations.
- Demonstrate the ability to evaluate the applicability of a range of conceptual frameworks for explaining contemporary environmental problems and solutions.
- Demonstrate the ability to consider a range of options for the solution and management of environmental problems, select solutions and management systems and techniques and apply them in practice.
- Demonstrate the awareness that environmental problems occur in specific social and cultural contexts necessitating an awareness of the local understanding of such problems.
- Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
- Demonstrate the ability to integrate and apply the knowledge, skills and attitudes learnt in the programme (integrated assessment - research project).
- Communicate coherently in both the oral, written mode and visual/graphic mode.
- Retrieve information from the internet, books and scientific journals as well as deriving primary information from observation in the field.
- Read, evaluate and interpret information in various ways (i.e. reports, essays, assignments).
- Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
- Organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively-develop a professional work ethic.
Assessment Criteria
Exit Level Outcomes Assessment Criteria
- Relate theoretical concepts to empirical problems in case studies and real-life situations.
- Evaluate the applicability of conceptual frameworks for explaining environmental problems and solutions.
- Consider a range of options for solution and management of environmental problems.
- Select and apply solutions and management systems effectively in practice.
- Demonstrate awareness of environmental problems within social and cultural contexts.
- Use science and technology responsibly with consideration for the environment and health.
- Integrate and apply knowledge, skills, and attitudes in a research project.
- Communicate coherently in oral, written, and visual/graphic formats.
- Retrieve information from various sources and interpret it effectively.
- Work effectively in teams, groups, organizations, or communities.
- Organize and manage activities responsibly with a professional work ethic.
- Complete assignments within deadlines.
Integrated Assessment:
- Assessment strategies include applied competence for each qualification.
- Continuous assessment and traditional written examinations assess integration of learning outcomes.
- Ensures achievement of qualification's purpose.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 360
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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