Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemistry

To provide graduates with a specialised knowledge in Chemistry through study in depth; to equip them with knowledge of research methodology and the ability to solve problems and develop theory through independent work and critical thinking, by the use of appropriate theory, methods and technique from different parts of mathematics. These graduates should be good communicators in spoken and written English, to both expert and non-expert audiences.

The programme is intended to provide the country with graduates who have a specialized knowledge in the mathematical sciences and can therefore serve the community in a variety of important ways, in both the public and private sectors.

Access to this programme is available to candidates who have previously satisfied the requirements for a B Sc in this University or have been admitted to the status thereof and had sufficiently good exit-level (SAQA level 6) results in chemistry courses.

Recognise prior learning

In cases where relevant experience or other prior learning is deemed to compensate for lack of formal qualifications, a candidate may be admitted by permission of Senate.

• Have in-depth, specialised knowledge of Chemistry;
• Understand and be able to apply advanced concepts in Chemistry,
• Be able to access information from a wide range of sources, integrate, analyse and critically evaluate it.
• Be able to distil a problem into its component parts
• Be able to consider a range of problems, options and solutions, and implement decisions based on sound academic foundations;
• Be able to access information from a wide range of sources;
• Be able to solve a problem by building up individual solutions to component parts of the problem in an integrative manner,
• Be able to communicate effectively, both in written and oral presentations;
• Have responsible and effective personal organization skills;
• Have had the opportunity to enhance personal development, particularly in terms of self-directed and self-motivated study.
• Be culturally sensitive and have developed sound professional attitudes.

Learners will be required to

• Pass the required number of modules of in-depth academic study in chemistry. The assessment criteria used will be accuracy and lucidity in answers to examination questions and clear evidence that theoretical concepts have been understood.
• Submit an Honours project that is assessed as satisfactory by internal and external examiners. The criteria will be: Understanding of basic principles, accuracy of factual material and of reasoning, ability to relate appropriate parts of the course to the problem under discussion, sensible reference to other sources of information and clarity of presentation.

To demonstrate competence in outcomes 1 -9, a student must be able to write logical and coherent essays, assignments and research reports timeously, contribute to class discussions, satisfactorily answer examination questions and undertake an independent research project under the supervision of a member of staff.

It is difficult to state objective criteria for the assessment of outcome 10, but general demeanour and etiquette are good indicators. Students will be expected to show a commitment to their studies and awareness of others with whom they interact.

Integrated assessment appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved

The University of Natal is currently reforming its assessment strategies to include the assessment of applied competence for each qualification. In the meantime, a combination of continuous assessment and traditional written examinations serve to assess the integration of all/most of the learning outcomes for each module in a qualification.