Central University of Technology

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health

Health Sciences and Social Services - Promotive Health and Developmental Services

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Description

Upon completion of this qualification, learners will be eligible to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as Environmental Health Practitioners. Environmental Health Practitioners play a crucial role in improving community health and well-being, as well as environmental quality, contributing to sustainable development.

Learners will possess the skills to assess and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of control measures to ensure continuous improvement. They will also be capable of conducting research, interpreting and applying relevant legislation, regulations, and policies in the field of Environmental Health. Advising and educating stakeholders on pertinent issues will be a key aspect of their role.

Operating as part of a multi-disciplinary team, Environmental Health Practitioners will be proficient in effective communication, fostering entrepreneurship, upholding professional ethics, and managing human, financial, and physical resources within their profession's scope.

Rationale

Environmental Health encompasses various factors such as physical, chemical, biological, social, socio-economic, and psycho-social aspects affecting human health and quality of life. It involves identifying, correcting, controlling, minimizing, and preventing environmental factors that can potentially harm the health of current and future generations.

The Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) helps ensure individuals have the right to a healthy and supportive environment, as stipulated in the South African Constitution. With evolving challenges and standards, there's a growing need for skilled professionals capable of addressing environmental and public health complexities.

The EHP operates independently across governmental sectors, private industries, and as consultants, responding to diverse environmental and health concerns.

Outcomes

  1. Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of control measures in order to make necessary improvements. 2.Integrate and apply scientific principles and knowledge to Environmental Health sciences research.
  2. Apply the principles of ethics and professional behaviour within the Environmental Health milieu.
  3. Interpret and apply legislation, regulations and policies related to Environmental Health.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

  • Identify current and potential health risks within Environmental Health.
  • Assess impacts of identified health risks using applicable strategies.
  • Compile a comprehensive risk management plan in line with relevant legislation and best practice.
  • Evaluate intervention measures for identified risks and determine corrective actions.
  • Monitor and review the effectiveness of the risk management plan.
  • Apply various strategies (e.g., Environmental Impact Assessment, Social Impact Assessment) to address risks.
  • Develop verification tools to measure and evaluate all elements of risk management.
  • Conduct public participation throughout the development and implementation of the risk management plan.
  • Perform a situational analysis in the community following acceptable protocols.
  • Design, implement, monitor, and evaluate sustainable health promotion programs in compliance with national policies and guidelines.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

  • Identify a research need/theme/problem.
  • Compile a research proposal following national and international guidelines and ethical norms.
  • Apply research principles in the design and conduct of the investigation.
  • Manage research data according to prescribed guidelines.
  • Develop intervention measures to confirm research objectives.
  • Communicate results in appropriate formats (verbal and written).
  • Interpret, prioritize, and apply research data accurately in the report.
  • Address the identified problem in the research report.
  • Reflect intervention measures based on research findings.
  • Provide feedback on research results and recommendations to all stakeholders.
  • Demonstrate research capability according to institutional guidelines in the presentation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

  • Apply ethical responsibilities in interactions with clients, colleagues, and the community.
  • Perform activities following ethical rules of the profession and relevant principles.
  • Achieve professional and personal growth through assuming various roles within the Environmental Health milieu.
  • Handle interactions with stakeholders using tactful, objective, and culturally sensitive communication skills.
  • Develop communication strategies to improve Environmental Health services.
  • Handle all forms of communication promptly, politely, and professionally.
  • Develop protocols for communicating Environmental Health issues to community members.
  • Develop systems for communicating strategies for delivering Environmental Health services.
  • Facilitate resolution of conflicts in the work environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

  • Identify, analyze, and develop recommendations for policies, legislation, and guideline gaps.
  • Review and apply labour relations policies and legislation.
  • Manage financial matters and physical resources of an Environmental Health service according to legislative requirements.
  • Control accounts, budgets, and financial procedures in compliance with applicable legislation.
  • Recognize health risks in line with relevant legislation and best practice.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment

  • Variety of assessment opportunities scheduled throughout the module.
  • Types of formative assessments: written tests, assignments, presentations, laboratory work, and practical work.

Summative Assessment

  • Conducted to ensure learners attain exit level outcomes.
  • Types of summative assessments: one written theoretical examination, one written practical examination.

Additionally, each learner will receive a logbook indicating topics and activities during the Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) period. A performance evaluation will be conducted by a personnel member at the WIL location. Learners will also complete a set of questions after each activity as part of the WIL assessment (e.g., case studies, procedures, posters).

Qualification Details

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

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Central University of Technology
Description
The Central University of Technology (CUT) is a public university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It was established in 1981 and is one of the largest universities of technology in the country. CUT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields including engineering, health sciences, business and management, information technology, and applied sciences. The university is known for its focus on practical and industry-oriented education, providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. CUT also has a strong research culture and collaborates with industry partners to address real-world challenges and contribute to the development of the region.

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.