Qualification
SAQA ID 119482
NQF Level 08
Reregistered

Bachelor of Applied Science Honours in Textile Science

The Bachelor of Applied Science Honours in Textile Science Degree is a postgraduate specialisation qualification. This qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learners' expertise in the textile science discipline, and to develop research capacity in the related methodology and techniques. This qualification will ensure learners have a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence when engaging with curricula. Research will be conducted and reported upon under supervision. This will take the form of a discrete research component.

Sources: SAQA official qualification record, SAQA registered qualifications record. Yiba Verified does not own the underlying qualification data shown on this page.

Qualification type

Honours Degree

Credits

120

Sub-framework

HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework

Providers listed

0

Qualification snapshot

Official qualification identity fields captured from the qualification record.

Originator

Durban University of Technology

Quality assurance functionary

-

Field

Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology

Subfield

Fabrication and Extraction

Qual class

Regular-Provider-ELOAC

Recognise previous learning

Y

Important dates

These dates are carried directly from the qualification record.

Registration start

2025-07-10

Registration end

2028-07-10

Last date for enrolment

2029-07-10

Last date for achievement

2032-07-10

Purpose and entry context

Official SAQA text formatted for easier reading.

Purpose and rationale

The Bachelor of Applied Science Honours in Textile Science Degree is a postgraduate specialisation qualification. This qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learners' expertise in the textile science discipline, and to develop research capacity in the related methodology and techniques. This qualification will ensure learners have a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence when engaging with curricula. Research will be conducted and reported upon under supervision. This will take the form of a discrete research component.

The qualification will provide a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application which immerses learners into a wide range of textile-related scientific aspects within a specialised area of textile manufacturing and research. This will equip learners with the necessary disciplinary, theoretical, and scientific knowledge of textile science to be used in an academic or specialised context. The learners' knowledge and skills will advantageously position him/her within the textile industry in which he/she can make a valid contribution to the South African Textile Industry and the social and economic climate in general.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to

  • Critique principles of specialized areas of textile processing to ensure the efficient running of this process
  • Interpret and apply the theoretical understanding of the sciences in relation to textile product development and engineering practice.
  • Independently engage with theoretical principles of production organization and control techniques related to a textile manufacturing process.
  • Articulate and transfer theoretical knowledge to best practices related to the textile science context.
  • Sustain a code of conduct, and work ethic and uphold confidential company intellectual property.

Rationale

During the last 38 years the Department of Clothing and Textiles has almost exclusively provided for the tertiary training needs of the textile industry. Consequently, learners now occupy many of the management and technical positions at all levels in the local industry. With advancements and scientific development taking place in the textile sector, there is a specific need for applied theoretical knowledge and a higher calibre of analytical and scientifically competent learners in Textile Industry and related research areas, and as such the Bachelor of Applied Science Honours in Textile Science will address such needs.

Due to previous government policies, there was a large shortage of local and indigenous learners as well as learners in the textile field, as a result this sector was extensively reliant on foreign/international expertise. With many foreign/international experts retiring and the opportunity to widen access to higher education, highly competent local learners whose expertise in the technical and scientific fields, production planning and middle management would be sought after in the textile sector.

The modules incorporated into this qualification ensure learners' competency as an analytical thinker, and well-rounded technical person who is equipped with applied theoretical and scientific knowledge who can critically and effectively practice and communicate this knowledge in the workplace. As a result, the learners become team players who contribute, learn, and apply practical and theoretical knowledge during their interactions at the workplace. Such learners with higher scientific competency would improve product development capacity, production efficiency and the competitive edge of the South African textile industry which would lead to societal and economic growth, job creation and higher living standards in the community.

Moreover, the textile sector of the economy has been identified as a critical area of employment in South Africa. Particularly so in the last ten years when job loss due to low-cost imports from the east has put additional pressure on the local manufacturing sector to improve competitiveness and become specialized in niche manufacturing areas. One of the ways of doing this is to improve the level of scientific expertise within the sector, and several generous government-backed assistance schemes are in place. As the sole national provider of this qualification, it is a vital part of the Textile Qualifications Framework.

The large uptake of Textile Science and Textile Technology learners into employment in the Textile industry has remained steady for some years now. However, feedback from employers has pointed to the need for higher levels of applied theoretical and scientific skills required for innovation within the field. The qualification will provide learners with a specific applied theoretical education that equips them with the high level of knowledge, theory and methodology of textile science and enable them to demonstrate initiative and responsibility in an employment and research context. Such learners will be able to perform the duties of Managers, Product Developers, Manufacturing Consultants, Quality Practitioners, Technical Compliance Officers, and other related positions. Learners of this qualification would be able to display competence in the application of theory and knowledge in a broad range of varied work activities associated with a career within the niche Textile industry and its suppliers.

Entry requirements and RPL

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification.

RPL for access

  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

RPL for exemption of modules

  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

RPL for credit

  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Textile Science, NQF Level 7.

Or

  • Advanced Diploma in Textile Technology, NQF Level 7.

Replacement note

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

Structure and assessment

Qualification rules, exit outcomes, and assessment criteria from the SAQA record.

Qualification rules

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 56 Credits

  • Scientific Methodology, 12 Credits.
  • Production Management, 16 Credits.
  • Applied Statistics, 12 Credits.
  • Textile Material Science, 16 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 8 (Select one option from the following)

Dry Option

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 64 Credits

  • Yarn Mechanics, 8 Credits.
  • Weaving Principles IV,12 Credits.
  • Product Engineering IV, 12 Credits.
  • Dry Processing Research Project, 32 Credits.

OR

Wet Option

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 64 Credits.

  • Colour Chemistry, 8 Credits.
  • Colouration Theory IV, 12 Credits.
  • Colour Physics, 12 Credits.
  • Wet Processing Research Project, 32 Credits.

Exit level outcomes

  1. Demonstrate the ability to use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to the textile science practice.
  2. Demonstrate the theoretical understanding of the sciences in relation to textile product development and engineering practice.
  3. Independently engage with theoretical principles of production organization and control techniques related to a textile manufacturing process.
  4. Articulate and transfer theoretical knowledge to best practices related to the textile science context.
  5. Demonstrate the ability to identify and address ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems to textile processing contexts.
  6. Construct a scientific research project with the use of technical skills and theoretical knowledge.

Associated assessment criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

  • Critique principles of specialized areas of textile processing to ensure the efficient running of this process and apply appropriate and creative methods.
  • Quantify operational parameters.
  • Identify potential limitations and problems and propose possible solutions.
  • Formulate options for efficient improvement.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

  • Interpret and apply theoretical knowledge related to textile science to contextualized situations.
  • Measure and quantify appropriate data.
  • Calculate and display numerical and statistical data in a scientific manner.
  • Appropriately select a course of action based on accepted scientific and engineering practice.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

  • Apply appropriate production measuring techniques.
  • Calculate data in industry standard formats and be communicable.
  • Assess awareness of possible problems and misrepresentations independently.
  • Reach management decisions based on the expected outcome.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

  • Construct reports clearly using scientifically correct quantitative terminology.
  • Derive arguments based on sound theoretical understanding of textile processes.
  • Apply plant level industrial relation procedures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

  • Interpret the code of conduct and uphold the work ethic of a company.
  • Acknowledge and apply confidential company intellectual property to decision making process.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

  • Modify and apply knowledge of scientifically acceptable processes by which a textile product.
  • Evaluate a feasible textile related research topic.
  • Validate an understanding of the research process by constructing a research proposal based on sound scientific methods.
  • Compile a valid and comprehensive literature review.
  • Collect, analyse, organize, and critically evaluate theoretical and technical information.
  • Exhibit research writing skills by constructing a research report with clear findings, discussion, and recommendations.

Progression and comparability

Articulation options

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation

  • Bachelor of Consumer Science: Foods: Clothing and Textiles: Housing, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Polymer Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Clothing and Textile Technology, NQF Level 8.

Vertical Articulation

  • Master of Arts in Fashion and Textile, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Science in Textile Science, NQF Level 9.

International comparability

This qualification has been compared with the similar qualifications offered by the following countries.

Country: Mauritius

Institution: University of Mauritius

Qualification: Bachelor of Science Honours in Fashion Technology (Entrepreneurship)

Duration: Three years full time

Credits: 184 Learner-Centred Credit System (LCCS) Credits

Purpose/Rationale

The textile industry has historically been the cradle of major developments in technology, manufacturing methods, management principles and entrepreneurial strategies. Locally, the textile and apparel industry has, over several decades, been a great employer of graduates in numerous fields from technical to managerial and it remains a significant provider of high technical skilled and managerial job for our youth at the supervisory and middle-management level. Besides, the revenue generated by the small, medium, and large textile enterprises is an important contributor to the Mauritian and South African economy.

The Fashion Technology (minor: Entrepreneurship) qualification aims at fulfilling two current human resource needs of the country, namely:

  • Producing graduates with a sound and coherent understanding of the technological and managerial aspects of the various chains of the textile and apparel production.
  • Producing young people with the potential of becoming job creators in the short to medium term in various textile and non-textile related areas. Graduates may either opt for a career in the textile and apparel industry or consider setting up micro-businesses, small enterprises and support services that supplement and sustain the textile and apparel industry.

The provision of skilled workforce would allow the textile and fashion apparel industry to consolidate itself and flourish by maintaining high productivity and quality standards. The integration of latest technologies and techniques of manufacturing and the application of sophisticated logistics for the timely supply of products are critical for the industry to remain competitive in such a global marketplace. On the other hand, those who opt to become entrepreneur in the field of textile, fashion, and apparel would help to support the industry at large and generate further revenue for the economy.

Graduates of the qualification will be able to

  • Apply basic and advanced knowledge in textile materials and their technological processes.
  • Develop creative skills in the field of garment design and making.
  • Demonstrate value addition from self-learning and extra learning.
  • Apply knowledge acquired to real world contexts.
  • Develop critical and analytical skills.
  • Develop communication skills and the subject jargons.
  • Work in groups and harness the team spirit.
  • Apply theoretical and practical aspect of fashion and design, textile production and technological processes, business enterprise and their interactions.
  • Develop, manage ideas and associated technologies in textile and apparel design projects.
  • Harness design, innovation, and problem-solving skills within the context of a business strategy and an

organisational framework.

  • View entrepreneurship as a desirable and feasible career option.
  • Conduct research effectively by identifying, assimilating, interpreting, and applying technical, market and business information through sound and innovative research methods.

Qualification structure

The University of Mauritius (UoM) qualification offers the following compulsory and elective modules.

Compulsory Modules, 166 Credits

  • Management, 12 Credits
  • Entrepreneurship,12 Credits.
  • Technology and Engineering, 24 Credits
  • Departmental, 118 Credits.

Elective modules, 18 Modules (Select three modules from the following options)

  • Management, 6 Credits.
  • Departmental, 6 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 6 Credits.
  • Technology and Engineering, 6 Credits.

Total: 184

Teaching and Learning Methods

The UoM qualification uses the following teaching and learning methods.

  • Monological explanation (Lecture, presentation, briefing).
  • Practical sessions, Lab work.
  • Working on assignments.
  • Sitting for Class Tests and preparation time for same.
  • Sitting for Examinations and preparation time for same.
  • Group work.
  • Fieldwork.
  • Site Visits/Trips.
  • Presentations among peers.
  • Experiential Learning.
  • Placements/Internships.
  • Guest lectures.

Assessment

Examinable Modules

A given module can either be taught in semester one only or in semester two only or throughout the two semesters. Assessment will be based on a written examination of 2 to 3-hour duration (normally a paper of 2-hour duration for modules carrying less or equal to 12 LCCS credits and a 3-hour paper for modules carrying twelve or more credits) and on continuous assessment carried out during the semester or year.

Formative Assessment

The continuous assessment will count for 40%-50% of the overall percentage mark of the module(s), except for a Programme where the structure makes for other specific provision(s). Continuous assessment may be based on laboratory work, seminars and at least two assignments/tests per year

per module.

There will be a compulsory class test for all semester modules, unless otherwise stated in the programme structure. An overall total of 40% for combined continuous assessment and written examination components would be required to pass the module, without any minimum thresholds within the individual continuous assessment and written examination. The same criterion will apply for modules being assessed jointly.

Summative Assessment

Written examinations for all yearly modules will be carried out at the end of the academic year. Written examinations for semester modules will be carried out at the end of each respective semester.

Similarities

  • The University of Mauritius (UoM) qualification and the South African (SA) qualifications offer compulsory and elective modules
  • Both the UoM and SA qualification are aimed at producing graduates with a sound and coherent understanding of the technological and managerial aspects of the various chains of the textile and apparel production.

Differences

  • The UoM qualification carries a weighting of 184 credits whereas the SA qualification has 120 credits.
  • The UoM qualification is offered over a period of three years full time whereas the SA qualification takes one-year full time study.
  • The UoM qualification require prospective applicants who has completed Undergraduate Degrees Programme- any two General Certificate of Education (GCE) A Level Passes or a foundation in Art, Design and Technology or in a design- related subject NQF Level 5, while the SA qualification require Bachelor of Applied Science in Textile Science, NQF Level 7.
  • General- as per admission to the University for Undergraduate Degrees.

Programme- Any two GCE 'A' Level Passes. A Foundation in Art, Design and Technology or in a design- related subject awarded by a recognised awarding body is also acceptable as NQF level 5.

Or

  • Alternative qualifications acceptable to the UoM.
  • The SA qualification uses the following criteria for assessments:
  • Tests.
  • Assignments.
  • projects.
  • Case studies.

Country: United Kingdom

Institution: University of Portsmouth

Qualification Title: Bachelor of Arts Honours in Fashion and Textile Design

Credits: 360

Duration: Three years full time

Entry requirements

  • A level, BBB - BBC.
  • Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) points,112 -120 points from the Access to Higher Education Diploma. UCAS points are assigned to different grades earned in post-16 qualifications in the United Kingdom.
  • T Levels - Merit.
  • Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC) Extended Diplomas) DDM-DMM.
  • International Baccalaureate, 25.
  • All shortlisted applicants will need to attend an interview with a portfolio of work.

Purpose/Rationale

Upon completion of the UoP qualification, qualifying learners will be able to

  • Master traditional and modern fashion design methods including drawing techniques, pattern-cutting, fashion illustration, silkscreen, and digital printing, embroidery, and constructed textiles
  • Bolster entrepreneurship by setting up own label or fashion and textile company as part of their studies

Gain valuable industry experience by taking an optional placement - either with a company or as self-employed

  • Enhance your collaboration and team-working skills by working with other students on other courses in the Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries.

Graduates will find employment across design, marketing, communications, and commerce in areas such as

  • Fashion, textile, or accessories design.
  • Trend prediction.
  • Buying.
  • Visual merchandising.
  • Teaching or lecturing.
  • Journalism or writing.

Qualification structure

The UoP qualification consists of the following compulsory modules and elective modules.

Year One

Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits.

  • Core Skills Fashion and Textiles, 40 Credits.
  • Design Fundamentals, 40 Credits.
  • Digital Designing for Fashion and Textiles, 20 Credits.
  • Introduction to Visual Culture (Fashion and Textile Design), 20 Credits.

Year Two

Compulsory Modules, 80 Credits

  • Designer Led Brief, 20 Credits
  • Enterprise and Industry: Development, 20 Credits
  • Enterprise and Industry: Research, 20 Credits
  • Enterprise and Industry: Resolution, 20 Credits

Elective Modules, 40 Credits (Select two modules form the following options)

  • Engaged Citizenship Through Interdisciplinary Practice, 20 Credits
  • Exploratory Practice, 20 Credits
  • Modern Foreign Language, 20 Credits
  • Professional Experience, 20 Credits
  • Student Enterprise, 20 Credits
  • Visual Culture: Cult, Taste and Collecting, 20 Credits
  • Visual Culture: Performing Identity, 20 Credits
  • Visual Culture: Technology and the Image, 20 Credits
  • Visual Culture: The Body in Practice, 20 Credits

Year Three

Compulsory Modules, 100 Credits

  • Major Project: Concept, 20 Credits
  • Major Project: Development, 20 Credits
  • Major Project: Promotion, 20 Credits
  • Major Project: Resolution, 20 Credits
  • Portfolio, 20 Credits.

Elective Modules, 20 Credits (Select one module from the following options)

  • Visual Culture: Dissertation, 20 Credits
  • Visual Culture: Research Project, 20 Credits

Assessment

The qualification will be assessed through

  • Research and developmental work.
  • Industry set briefs/live competitions.
  • Fashion and/or textile collections.
  • Digital designs and design boards.
  • Making and construction skills.
  • Group work.
  • Written essays or reports.

Teaching

Teaching methods for this qualification include

  • Lectures.
  • Workshops.
  • Seminars.
  • Studio practice.

Similarities

  • The University of Portsmouth (UoP) and the South African (SA) qualifications will assist learner develop creativity, conduct research, practice, and environmental specialism by taking part in the sustainable fashion research project.
  • Both the UoP and SA qualification consists of both compulsory and elective modules.
  • The assessment strategy used in both the UoP and SA qualifications include both formative and summative assessment methods.

Differences

  • The UoP qualification takes three years of full-time study while the SA qualification is offered over a period of one-year full-time study.
  • The UoP qualification requires applicants who completed the secondary school qualification while the SA qualification requires applicants who hold a bachelor's degree in a cognate field.
  • The UoP qualification carries a weighting of 360 credits whereas the SA qualification carries 120 credits.

Country: United Kingdom.

Institution: London Metropolitan University.

Qualification: MEng Materials Science and Engineering with Textiles Technology.

Duration: Four years full time

The LMU qualification requires prospective applicants who have completed, A-level Grades AAA. This should include two subjects from Maths, while the SA qualification requires learners who completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in Textile Science.

A- level

Grades AAA. This should include two subjects from Maths, Physics and Chemistry. If you are not taking A- Level Maths, Grade A at General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Maths is required.

Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and therefore there will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any science A- Level taken.

Purpose/Rationale

The qualification offers a broad and balanced curriculum in materials science and engineering that both meets the requirements for accreditation with the professional body and equips learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and understanding to pursue a successful career - in either an industrial or research environment.

Learners will be taught by academic staff at the forefront of research in materials science and textile technology, learning through both advanced course units and project work. Learners will foster subject-specific and transferable skills, including experience of materials processing and characterisation methods, oral and written communication, group work and Information Technology skills. Learner will monitor, review, and enhance educational provision to ensure it remains relevant to both the needs of the progression and to current developments in research and industry.

Qualification structure

The LMU qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules.

Compulsory Modules

  • Modelling and Data Tools for Materials Scientists, 10 Credits.
  • Materials Characterisation and Analytical Techniques, 10 Credits.
  • Composite and Advanced Materials, 10 Credits.
  • Advanced Manufacturing Processes and Microfabrication, 10 Credits.
  • Functional Materials and Devices, 10 Credits.
  • Structural Integrity, 10 Credits.
  • Themed Research Project, 20 Credits.
  • Polymer Synthesis and Characterisation, 10 Credits.
  • Textile Manufacturing Techniques, 10 Credits.
  • Drug Delivery and Biosensors, 10 Credits.

Elective Modules

  • Natural Materials and Biological Matrices, 15 Credits.
  • Lab to Clinic, 15 Credits.
  • Soft Matter, 15 Credits.
  • Control and Design of Polymerisation Reactions, 15 Credits.
  • Polymer Physics and Physical Properties, 15 Credits.
  • Advanced Metals Processing, 15 Credits.
  • Superalloys and High -Performance Materials, 15 Credits.
  • Corrosion management, 15 Credits.

Similarities

The London Metropolitan University (LMU) qualification and the South African (SA) qualification offer similar compulsory such as Textile Manufacturing Techniques and elective modules.

Differences

  • The LMU qualification is offered over four years fulltime, while the SA qualification is offered over one-year full time
  • The LMU qualification requires applicants who completed the secondary school qualification while the SA qualification requires applicants who hold the bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a cognate field of study.

Providers currently listed

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