Bachelor of Science Honours in Energy Studies

Purpose

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the ability to

• Develop applied competencies in the mastering, interpretation, analysis and application of energy economic, technology, international policy formulation and evaluation principles.
• Take strategic decisions in the context of an energy organisation, the wider energy industry and to assess public sector policy decisions impacting on the energy sector.
• Reflect on his/her managerial decisions and applications to assess the effect thereof in the holistic context of energy management, strategic planning and regulation.

Rationale

The qualification is a specialisation in the field of Energy Studies to prepare the learners for research based post graduate study. The qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learner's expertise in Energy Studies and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of Energy Studies. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence.

Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL)

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) is done in accordance with the University of Johannesburg(UJ) RPL Policy. In cases of students not complying with the formal entry requirements, 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, learners may gain access on condition that they continue their studies at UJ.

Entry Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Energy studies, National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 7.

This qualification comprises of compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 8 totalling at 155 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 155 Credits

• Energy Technology, 30 Credits.
• Energy Modelling, 20 Credits.
• Research Project in Energy Studies, 30 Credits.
• Energy Policy Formulation, 20 Credits.
• Internet,Geography and Policy aspects of energy, 25 Credits.
• Energy Economics, 30 Credits.

1. Identify, interpret, analyse and address complex problems, using both routine and advanced skills, conceptual and/or evidence-based enquiry and theory-driven arguments.
2. Work effectively with others in a team by being answerable for their own work and the work of others.
3. Identify, evaluate and address their own professional and on-going learning needs.
4. Demonstrate efficient and effective information retrieval and processing skills, using appropriate Information and Communications Technology(ICT).
5. Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and critical knowledge and understanding of the principles, scope, theories and epistemologies of Energy Studies.
6. Evaluate their own and others academic work and initiatives against informed criteria.
7. Present and communicate ideas and texts, offering professional insights, interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Energy Studies.
8. 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.
9. Critique current research and advanced scholarship in Biochemisty and make sound theoretical judgements based on evidence.
10. Identify, select and apply a range of research methodologies and methods/techniques to research problem/s in Energy Studies.
11. Identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of quantitative and/qualitative data, and to engage with and evaluate current research and scholarly or professional literature in Energy Studies.

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

• Identify, analyse and solve complex issues and problems, demonstrating critical and creative thinking about energy issues, concepts and principles correctly.
• Evaluate and, where relevant, correctly apply theoretical concepts and approaches to interdisciplinary energy industry challenges, strategies and policies thus proposing and implementing alternative courses of action and solutions.
• Reflect on the application made and assess the success, or otherwise thereof.
• Demonstrate an acceptable level of social sensitivity in his/her relationships with others and work effectively in a team by implementing the relevant theory and reflecting on the implementation made.
• Display thorough knowledge and understanding of the various role players involved in, or affected by, the energy sector.
• Display ability to accept any responsibility for any activities required of him/her in his/her evaluation and application of the various energy sector concepts and principles.
• Demonstrate the ability to plan and execute research in the field of energy, including the correct gathering, analysing, integrating and interpretation of information on energy issues, by utilising the relevant theoretical research principles and reflecting on the research undertaken.
• Show that he or she can plan and undertake such research through independent study and teamwork.
• The learner must effectively communicate, in an oral and written manner, including the usage of visual/graphic aids, with the different role players in the energy fields by applying the theoretical principles of communication and reflecting on the application made.
• The learner must demonstrate insight into different energy technologies and be able to demonstrate an awareness of the impact the energy industry has on the environment.
• The learner must explain the importance and role of the energy industry on especially the national economy. The learner must also discern between the roles of energy at macro and micro-levels.
• Show that he/she is able to identify the different skills and capabilities necessary in the execution of the activities and responsibilities of an energy analyst, manager and/or regulator, and to explore different effective learning strategies to acquire these skills and capabilities.
• Explain the link between the level of professionalism in the energy sector, and the effectiveness and efficiency of the sector and therefore of the economy. The learner must evaluate the role which a more effective and efficient energy sector will have in the economy and the impact which this will in turn have on the living standards of the population of the country (e.g. the redress of poverty, improved access to affordable energy).
• Demonstrate a positive approach towards various different communities and sensitivity for the social, economic and cultural differences within these communities. The learner must analyse the particular energy needs of different communities, taking into consideration their various social, economic and cultural differences and therefore their differing energy needs and requirements. The learner must show an ability to apply energy industry concepts and principles, to make proposals that will improve the circumstances of these communities.
• Demonstrate acceptable employment seeking skills for entry into the energy sector by applying theoretical principles of employment seeking and career-pathing and reflecting on the applicant thereof.
• Display the ability to effectively and responsibly organise and coordinate resources and opportunities, particularly in the field of energy, by applying relevant theoretical aspects and reflecting on the application made. The learner must also demonstrate an acceptable level of responsibility and organisational ability with respect to their own activities. Finally, the learner must demonstrate detailed knowledge of the financial implications of all organising and coordinating activities undertaken.

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, practicals and interpretative skills evaluation, reporting on practicals and applications, presentations, analysis and problem solving assessment in the specific field of Energy Studies will be utilised. The research module is assessed against specific criteria to provide evidence of research capacity in the methodology and techniques in Energy Studies. 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 Energy Studies.