Bachelor of Science Honours in Consumer Science

The aim of this qualification is to equip learners with the necessary skills to engage with the body of knowledge as well as the application of that knowledge. This would contribute to their ability to do research within the specialisation fields as well as entering professions in the consumer science sector.

Rationale

The qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learner's expertise in a specific science sub-discipline, and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques within that discipline. The qualification aims to educate and train learners that have a theoretical and practical experience in the field of Consumer Science. It is to prepare learners for advanced Graduate studies.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where applicants do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. RPL will be applied according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment policy. This will relate to both access to the qualification as well as for credit recognition or exemption towards achieving the qualification. The institution will ensure that quality assurance processes that address the specificities of the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems) are implemented; and that administrative and support systems, both prior and subsequent to RPL assessment, are in place.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor qualification Degree or relevant equivalent National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following elective modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 totalling 132 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 8 132 Credits

• Research Project, 36 Credits.
• History, 16 Credits.
• Natural Textile Fibres, 16 Credits.
• Social Aspects of Clothing, 16 Credits.
• Psychological Aspects of Clothing, 16 Credits.
• Consumer Analysis of Foods, 32 Credits.
• History, 16 Credits.
• Social aspects of clothing, 16 Credits.
• Clothing Industry, 16 Credits.
• Clothing Industry: Quality Control, 16 Credits.
• Clothing Industry and Clothing for special needs, 16 Credits.
• Finishes for natural fibres, 16 Credits.

1. Attain in-depth understanding and mastery of the principles and concepts of consumer science in a specialised area of their choice.
2. Attain necessary skills that is required in the workplace that will enhance the likelihood of employment.
3. Apply theoretical knowledge independently in understanding, investigating and solving consumer science problems.
4. Use relevant statistical and computer-based methods for the analysis of data.
5. Show an awareness of the ethical, legal and social responsibility of scientific investigations.
6. Attain knowledge of and engagement in an area at the forefront of a field, discipline or practice.

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

• Understand the theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques relevant to the field, discipline or practice; and an understanding of how to apply this knowledge in a particular context.
• Interrogate multiple sources of knowledge in an area of specialisation, and to evaluate knowledge and processes of knowledge production.
• Understand the complexities and uncertainties of selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to unfamiliar problems in a specialised field, discipline or practice.
• Review information gathering, evaluation and management processes in specialised contexts in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
• Present and communicate academic, professional or occupational ideas and texts effectively to a range of audiences, offering creative insights, rigorous interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to the context.

Integrated Assessment

The assessment strategy provides for both Formative and Summative Assessment opportunities. Integrated, Continuous and Formative assessment will be included in the course work allowing demonstration of achieved competences as required by the outcomes of the qualification. The assessment methods include assessment opportunities which focus on essay type questions. Learners will have to prepare case studies and write essays on certain topics. Formative Assessment in all the modules will take place during the year and will take the format of written assignments and tests as well as case studies.