Bachelor of Science Honours in Life Sciences
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Life Sciences
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification Overview
Purpose
The BSc Honours Degree in Life Sciences aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and research skills to enhance and develop new knowledge in human, animal, and plant systems. This includes areas such as health, welfare, and the sustainable use of natural resources. The qualification also focuses on conducting research in various Life Sciences disciplines and disseminating research findings to relevant stakeholders. Learners will gain systematic knowledge, specialized skills, and theoretical competencies in fields such as Animal Parasitology, Human Physiology, Medicinal Use, Plant Systematics, Molecular Techniques, Biochemistry, Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology, Zoology, and Medical Microbiology.
Streams
To address different challenges in the field, the qualification offers various streams, including:
- Microbiology: focusing on the role of micro-organisms in health, disease, and ethical implications, with applications in industries like food, agriculture, biotechnology, and environmental quality.
- Biochemistry and Genetics: providing an in-depth understanding at the molecular level, especially in health, diseases, and therapeutic treatments.
- Physiology: enhancing understanding in health, lifestyles, and chronic diseases, with a focus on risk factors.
- Zoology: with applications in animal health, nature conservation, and agriculture.
- Botany: focusing on the medicinal use of plants and ethnobotany, exploring indigenous knowledge and plant-based applications.
Rationale
The qualification addresses the challenges faced by the developing world, particularly in Africa, related to infectious diseases, lifestyle diseases, and environmental degradation. By developing specialized knowledge and research skills in Life Sciences, graduates can contribute to addressing socio-economic and health-related challenges, as well as sustaining biodiversity. Graduates are sought after in sectors such as government, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, national parks, laboratories, and universities, highlighting the relevance and demand for professionals with expertise in Life Sciences.
By completing this qualification, learners will be equipped to conduct research, contribute to solving real-world problems, and make a positive impact on society and the environment through advancements in Life Sciences.
Outcomes
- Evaluate and apply subject-specific knowledge, methods and procedures in a specific field. The subject field depends on the stream that is elected and may be genetics, microbiology, botany, physiology, biotechnology, biomedical sciences, zoology or biochemistry.
- Study and critique research and scholarship in the field of specialisation. The field of specialisation involved depends on the stream that is elected and may be genetics, microbiology, botany, physiology, zoology or biochemistry.
- Conduct a research project in the field of Life Sciences.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Identification and correct application of subject-specific concepts, principles, theories, methods, and procedures.
- Identification, analysis, and interpretation of abstract or complex problems in the field of specialisation, with feasible suggestions for addressing the problem.
- Correct implementation of analytical and experimental techniques within a laboratory context, ensuring adherence to health and safety procedures.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Correct identification of relevant research articles and scholarship in the field of specialisation.
- Interrogation, accurate summarisation, and critique of relevant research articles and/or reports.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Production of a research proposal including a clear description of a problem situation, a well-formulated research problem, and an appropriate research design.
- Review and use of appropriate literature to inform the research.
- Collection of data as specified in the research design and analysis using appropriate techniques.
- Production of a research report including a clear description of the problem situation and research problem, a meaningful exposition of relevant literature, clear explanation and justification of research design and methods, valid and reliable research findings, reasonable conclusions drawn from the data, and practical recommendations for further action where relevant.
Integrated Assessment:
- Integration of theory and practicals in the chosen stream.
- Assessment of reflective competence throughout the qualification.
- Proposal of practical solutions to analytical problems and evaluation of own solutions and learning.
- Requirement of evidence of integrated knowledge, skills, and values in various modules.
- Use of formative and summative assessments such as written assignments, practical activities, examinations, and projects/portfolios.
- Completion of a research project for integrated assessment based on an approved topic in the area of specialisation, integrating acquired knowledge and skills.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 120
- 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.