Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Physical Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
Qualifying earners of the Bachelor of Science in Chemistry will explore key concepts and models through active inquiry into phenomena and contexts that exemplify the role of chemistry and chemists in society. Learners will design and conduct qualitative and quantitative investigations both individually and collaboratively. The learners will investigate questions and hypotheses, manipulate variables, analyse data, evaluate claims, solve problems and develop and communicate evidence-based arguments and models. Thinking in chemistry involves using different scales including macro-, micro-and nano-scales; using specialised representations such as chemical symbols and equations; and being creative, as well as designing new materials or models of chemical systems. The study of chemistry provides a foundation for undertaking investigations in a wide range of scientific fields and often provides the unifying link across interdisciplinary studies. To reach its goals, the Department of Chemistry seeks to:
- Develop qualifications that maximally satisfy the requirements of employers and the needs and aspirations of learners using regular contact with Industry.
- Present qualifications in cooperation with industry and other tertiary institutions.
- Develop a research programme that is appropriate to the institution.
- Keep the public informed of important events of a chemical nature.
- Promote the image of Chemistry through various outreach activities.
- Apply chemical and mathematical skills rigorously in solving chemical problems in the domains of physical chemistry and stoichiometry.
Rationale:
Chemistry is the study of materials and substances, and the transformations they undergo through interactions and the transfer of energy. Chemists can use an understanding of chemical structures and processes to adapt, control and manipulate systems to meet economic, environmental and social needs. This includes addressing the global challenges of climate change and security of water, food and energy supplies, and designing processes to maximise the efficient use of Earth's finite resources. Chemistry develops learners' understanding of the key chemical concepts and models of structure, bonding, and chemical change, including the role of chemical, electrical and thermal energy. Learners learn how models of structure and bonding enable chemists to predict properties and reactions and to adapt these for specific purposes.
Some of the major challenges and opportunities facing South Africa and the world at large at the beginning of the twenty-first century are inextricably associated with chemistry. Issues of sustainability on local, national and global levels are and will continue to be, tackled by the application of chemical knowledge, using a range of technologies. These include issues such as the supply of clean drinking water, efficient production and use of energy, management of mineral resources, increasing acidification of the oceans, and climate change. The qualification provides learners with a suite of skills and understandings that are valuable to a wide range of further study pathways and careers. An understanding of chemistry is relevant to a range of careers, including those in forensic science, environmental science, engineering, medicine, pharmacy and sports science. Additionally, chemistry knowledge is valuable in occupations that rely on an understanding of materials and their interactions, such as art, winemaking, agriculture and food technology. Some students will use this course as a foundation to pursue further studies in chemistry, and learners will become more informed citizens, able to use chemical knowledge to inform evidence-based decision making and engage critically with contemporary scientific issues.
The institution is dedicated to the empowerment of the community it serves by providing chemical training needs through excellence in teaching, research and community engagement projects. The institution is committed to furthering knowledge and understanding of chemical systems and their functioning in the environment, and to inculcate values conducive to the sustainable development of these systems. This Commitment is pursued through amongst other things, promotion of scholarship at all levels; teaching in formal courses, community service and consultancy; research which may be fundamental or applied to the solution of environmental, human or chemical problems.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate a comprehensive and systematic grasp of the discipline's body of knowledge, with specialist knowledge in the area of Chemistry.
- Communicate effectively with peers, in a variety of modes, in the subject of Chemical Science.
- Ability to identify, assess, formulate and solve complex problems of a chemical nature creatively, from their knowledge of the different domains of Chemistry.
- Apply Chemistry knowledge and competencies to solve real problems of a chemical nature, either individually or as part of a team.
- Utilise safe working practice in the chemical field.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Understand chemical, biological, and physical properties and processes and the interaction between them.
- Use existing chemical resources most effectively and manage chemical, biological, and physical processes for sustainable environmental management and/or sustainable chemical production.
- Implement chemical management strategies to improve environmental quality and/or chemical sustainability.
- Gather, analyse, interpret and synthesize appropriate information on chemical properties, processes, and management.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Communicate effectively using appropriate language and media.
- Prepare illustrative and interpretive scientific reports.
- Write and present mini-seminars.
- Participate effectively in oral presentations.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
- Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economical development of society.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the material world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
- Solve problems individually and as part of a project team.
- Analyse, synthesize, present and critically evaluate data and information, using a variety of analytical methods and techniques.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Use process skills to investigate chemical phenomena related to the material world.
- Use scientific knowledge and skills to support responsible decision making of a chemical and nonchemical nature.
- Demonstrate an understanding of ethical issues related to the chemical sciences.
Integrated Assessment:
- Learning and assessment are integrated.
- Continual formative assessment will give learners feedback on the progress in the achievement of specific learning outcomes.
- Assessment methods will include a formal examination, review of essays and/or oral presentations or other written assignments or fieldwork where appropriate, and review of written practical reports.
- At least a minimum of 2 tests per module per semester.
- The semester mark counts 40% while the exam mark counts 60% of a final mark for each module.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 360
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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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.