Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry

Purpose

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the training to become well-qualified scientists/biochemists who can identify, evaluate and solve problems associated with the biological and/or physical sciences in South African and international context. Through the acquisition of appropriate competence and advanced research ability they will be able to enter a range of professional and entrepreneurial opportunities and be eligible for registration as professional scientists with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP).

Rationale

The qualification is a specialisation in the field of Biochemistry aimed to prepare the learners for research based post graduate study. This qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learners' expertise in Biochemistry and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of Biochemistry. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence. The qualification is essentially a coursework qualification of which at least credits are devoted to a research project and reporting under supervision. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, and serves as the initial science postgraduate specialisation qualification providing students with in-depth scientific knowledge and skills preparing them for research based postgraduate science study.

Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL): is done in accordance with the University of Johannesburg(UJ) Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL) Policy. In cases of students not complying with the formal entry requirements, Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL) will be determined in accordance with the policy and guideline of the University concerning the recognition of other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. Recognition takes place only where prior learning corresponds to the required National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level, and in terms of applied competencies relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification. Through Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL), learners may gain access on condition that they continue their studies at University of Johannesburg(UJ).

Entry Requirement

• Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 totalling at 126 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 126 Credits

• Advanced Analytical Techniques, 24 Credits.
• Advanced catalysis Enzyme Technology, 24 Credits.
• Current Advances in Biotechnology, 24 Credits.
• Research Project (Biochemistry), 30 Credits.
• Protein Biochemistry, 24 Credits.

• Identify, interpret, analyse and address complex problems, using both routine and advanced skills, conceptual and/or evidence-based enquiry and theory-driven arguments.
• Work effectively with others in a team by being answerable for their own work and the work of others.
• Identify, evaluate and address their own professional and on-going learning needs.
• Demonstrate efficient and effective information retrieval and processing skills, using appropriate Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
• Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and critical knowledge and understanding of the principles, scope, theories and epistemologies of Biochemistry.
• Evaluate their own and other academic work and initiatives against informed criteria.
• Present and communicate ideas and texts, offering professional insights, interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Biochemistry.
• Use science and technology in complex and challenging contexts and make autonomous ethical decisions on complex professional issues in accordance with recognised professional and/or ethical standards.
• Critique current research and advanced scholarship in Biochemistry and make sound theoretical judgements based on evidence.
• Identify, select and apply a range of research methodologies and methods/techniques to research problem/s in Biochemistry.
• Identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of quantitative and/or qualitative data, and to engage with and evaluate current research and scholarly or professional literature in Biochemistry.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Display thorough knowledge of the field of enquiry.
• Formulate an appropriate hypothesis, plan and carry out an appropriate experimental qualification and analyse results obtained correctly.
• Cooperate with fellow learners and to contribute meaningfully to group efforts to work on a problem.
• Display ability.
• Display a mastery of subject material by independent study.
• Display ability to work on a project without help.
• Prove the ability to write a project or progress report independently.
• Present an acceptable project proposal on a topic.
• Motivate the reasoning behind the proposal satisfactorily.
• Perform the actions required to complete the collection of information.
• Relate the information obtained to that which is known.
• Display knowledge of current information retrieval systems and processes.
• Demonstrate mastery of the use of technical and professional language and terminology.
• Demonstrate awareness and recognition of the need for careful laboratory techniques.
• Demonstrate the ability to use appropriate technology correctly, safely and responsibly.
• Present a project proposal in which all the appropriate aspects relating to the broad social and environmental considerations are addressed.
• Be able to suggest possible changes in the proposal should certain aspects not turn out as expected.
• Demonstrate understanding of the philosophy of the bio-sciences.
• Show awareness of the need for different ways of learning and assimilation of knowledge.
• Show awareness of the need for continued study so as to remain constantly up to date.
• Demonstrate awareness of the effects of pollution and industrialisation on society and the environment.
• Demonstrate awareness of the need for responsible management of environmental and biological resources and diversity.
• Participate as responsible biochemists in the life of local, national and global communities.
• Demonstrate awareness of where the chosen field of study impinges on society and where further studies may be done. This includes medicinal, industrial, recreational and aesthetic considerations.
• Demonstrate the ability to relate the field of study to society and thus know where those skills are likely to be required.
• Demonstrate the knowledge of what the chosen field of study involves and how it can be used for entrepreneurial activity.
• Show understanding of how the field of study impinges on society.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification is coherently aligned in that all teaching, learning and assessment activities are linked to module and qualification outcomes. Assessment methods are varied and includes summative and formative assessment to enhance applied competence from learners and facilitate authentic assessment and learning. Assessment will not only be used to determine whether outcomes were achieved, but also to generate data for grading and provide feedback in order to improve the curriculum. In order for all the assessment purposes to be achieved, essays, computer-based assessments, theory tests, cases and open problems, practical and interpretative skills evaluation, reporting on practical and applications, presentations, analysis and problem solving assessment in the specific field of Biochemistry will be utilised. The research module is assessed against specific criteria to provide evidence of research capacity in the methodology and techniques in Biochemistry. The assessment methods are selected to suit the related learning outcomes, high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence and governed by decisions about its purpose, validity and relevance. A range of assessment methods are applied to cater for different learning styles of the diverse student population studying Biochemistry.