Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry

Purpose

The purpose of the Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry is to provide learners with further knowledge, skills and competencies in the field of Analytical Chemistry. The modules Atomic and Molecular spectroscopy, Chromatography, Electro-analytical techniques and Synthetic Chemistry will equip the learner as an Analytical Chemistry Technologist, and enable them to apply qualitative and quantitative chemical principles of analysis, using sophisticated methods and current technologies to propose and design innovative solutions to problems. Learners will also be equipped with skills, values and attitudes allowing them to function independently and as part of a team in various chemical environments as chemists and technologists. The Analytical Chemistry Practice and Sampling and sample preparation modules will equip learners with research skills to be part of research and development teams, contributing innovatively towards economic and social transformation.

Rationale

The current trend in product development and value addition to raw materials and products has seen a growth in demand for properly trained and qualified analytical chemists and technologists. Current interest and developments in the mineral beneficiation and other chemical industries has highlighted a long term need for well qualified technologists who can work in these sectors. This qualification addresses this need through equipping learners with skills in their field. Role players in the chemical sector have also indicated the need for this qualification through consultation at advisory board meetings.

The Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry is designed typically to fall in the vocational pathway at NQF Level 7 and thus will fulfil the current need of knowledge enhancement for qualified Analytical Chemistry technologists in South Africa. Such technologists will perform work at a quality based technical level within the chemical and related industries; and require a broader and deeper body of knowledge in the main field of scientific study.

A significant number of learners that attained the National Diploma are continuing with their studies, enrolling for the Bachelor of Technology: Analytical Chemistry (B Tech). This qualification was developed to gain deeper knowledge in the field of Analytical Chemistry, thereby improving the technologists' professional skills. Due to the alignment with the requirements of the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF), the B Tech Degree will be phased out, which will leave a gap in the market for continued professional development in the field of Analytical Chemistry.

Qualified Analytical Chemistry Technologists will, after completion of a National Diploma (which will be phased out) or a Diploma in Analytical Chemistry be able to enrol for this Advanced Diploma. The Advanced Diploma will fulfil the needs of qualified analytical chemists, framed against a body of integrated knowledge, mainly within a South African context to apply qualitative and quantitative chemical principles of analysis, using sophisticated methods and current technologies to propose and design innovative solutions to problems in familiar and unfamiliar settings. This Advanced Diploma will partially substitute certain aspects of the current B Tech Degree, and is thus deemed imperative and sustainable.

The Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry is comparable to other qualifications at other national and international tertiary institutions. The institutions surveyed accept diplomas to certain qualifications similar to the Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry. The majority of these national and international qualifications are aimed at the preparation of a learner to work as a specialist in the field of analytical chemistry and related fields through a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge. The Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry is offered to sustain professional development through imprinting deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory and methodology, in the field of Analytical Chemistry. Therefore, it should be possible for learners to study at and articulate with other institutions locally as well as globally.

The qualification promotes self-discipline to keep up with the developments in the analytical chemistry field enabling learners to articulate with learning qualifications on various levels within the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF). The learner will be able to articulate vertically to a Postgraduate Diploma in Analytical Chemistry or diagonally to a BSc (Honours) Degree in Chemistry. Learners may also be able to articulate horizontally to other Advanced Diplomas for the purpose of career change, such as an Advanced Diploma in Quality Control.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution provides Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as stipulated in the RPL policy, in order to prevent the repetition of learning already obtained which correspond with the current offering being pursued at the institution. Prior-learning and or experience relevant to Analytical Chemistry will be evaluated and considered for access to the Advanced Diploma. Any credit bearing education relevant to Analytical Chemistry at NQF Level 7 will be considered. Learners may apply at the Office of the Registrar for RPL or for admission via the Senate's discretionary route. The specific relevant documentation will be requested from these learners, and these cases will be handled on an individual basis. Learners will be encouraged to contact the Office of the Registrar.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, NQF Level 6.

Or

• National Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, NQF Level 6.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits

• Chromatography, 12 Credits.
• Molecular Spectroscopy, 15 Credits.
• Atomic Spectroscopy, 12 Credits.
• Electro-Analytical Techniques, 12 Credits.
• Synthetic Chemistry, 15 Credits.
• Sampling and Sample Preparation, 12 Credits.
• Thermal Analytical and Kinetic Methods, 12 Credits.
• Analytical Chemistry Practice, 30 Credits.

1. Demonstrate integrated knowledge of the central areas of analytical chemistry such as chromatography, spectroscopy and electro-chemistry, including an understanding of and apply and evaluate the key concepts, principles and theories of these fields and practices; and knowledge of how they relate to other fields of Science.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of a range of methods and procedures of chemical analysis, and their suitability to specific investigations and an ability to select and apply a suitable method to resolve problems.
3. Access, process, manage, produce and communicate information, in respect of which a learner is able to demonstrate an ability to develop appropriate processes of information gathering in Analytical chemistry; and an ability to validate the sources of information and evaluate, manage and communicate the information, using appropriate academic and professional discourse.
4. Solve problems in respect of which a learner is able to demonstrate an ability to identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on and address complex problems associated with analytical chemistry techniques, applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments.
5. Take decisions and full responsibility for his or her work, act ethically and professionally, and the ability to justify those decisions and actions drawing on appropriate safety, health and environmental regulations as well as assume limited accountability in supervisory roles in laboratory contexts.
6. Identify, manage and sustain personal continuous learning.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Integrated and detailed knowledge and knowledge literacy of analytical chemistry concepts, principles and rules are recognised, explained, and compared to industry relevant examples.
• Applied knowledge and skills typically required from an analytical chemist within the chemical industry is demonstrated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Methods of enquiry are used to investigate complex problems in the fields of: analytical technologies, food chemistry, forensic chemistry, industrial chemistry and mining.
• Evidence-based solutions are evaluated and applied to case studies relevant to the fields mentioned.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Appropriate academic and professional discourse are justified and adhered to using an assortment of methods and processes relevant to the field of Analytical Chemistry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Problem solving skills are applied to complex problems associated with analytical chemistry techniques.
• Evidence-based solutions are critically evaluated and applied to case studies relevant to analytical chemistry techniques.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Activities, decisions and actions are identified, formulated and executed regarding project and risk management and the development of analytical techniques and methods by facilitating and managing the process in an ethical, moral and professional manner.
• Ethical values and approaches are defended, appraised and judged to management principles and professional practice, with regards to decisions and actions made, to assess the validity and appropriateness of the actions taken in the work environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Continuous professional development of learning needs in a self-directed manner are identified, tailored, evaluated and addressed in order to facilitate collaborative learning processes of both the technologist and his/her peers within the food industry.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated assessment is ensured by incorporating both formal and informal continuous assessment strategies into the qualification to ensure that not only assessment of learning takes place but also assessment for learning. Assessment strategies are underpinned by the Exit Level Outcomes, which are designed in articulation with the Level Descriptors and the scope of practice. As such, all elements are aligned with the purpose statement of the qualification.

Formative Assessment

Formative assessment will involve integrated types of assessment, used to inform learners about their progress on a continuous basis through the whole year. Marks collected from this evidence will be recorded for promotional purposes or may be used for the sole purpose of learner and lecturer reflection, growth and development. Formative assessment will be used to support the learner developmentally and to provide feedback to all involved in the learning process of how teaching and learning can be improved. Throughout the qualification, formative assessment strategies will be used to ensure that Exit Level Outcomes are achieved, which include: Assignments; Practical work; Projects; Tests and/or any other applicable methods.

Summative Assessment

Summative assessment will involve assessment opportunities that take place at the end of a learning experience. Information will be gathered about a learner's level of competence upon completion of a unit, module or qualification. Results may be expressed in marks in terms of the level of competence achieved, with regard to Level Descriptors, specific outcomes and assessment standards. This type of assessment is often used for promotional purposes and may take the form of: Examinations (theoretical and practical); Portfolios; Presentations; Tests and/or other applicable methods.