Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Geography

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to enable students to describe, analyse and present: the context, the values, the paradigms, required knowledge, and research techniques associated with environmental and social sustainability at a level that will allow them to contribute to the implementation of such projects in the work place given that this is a qualification in Science, greater the emphasis will be placed on the natural environment than on social issues. However, the two aspects cannot be taught in isolation. As such, it:

• Contributes significantly to the Nelson Mandela University (NMUs) mission-one of the major values espoused by the NMU is Respect for the natural environment. It also contributes to the environmental and social health of the region and the nation.
• Maintains intellectual credibility by requiring independent learning, the interrogation of a variety of different texts, appropriate discussion, problem solving, writing and presentation. Furthermore, it requires a project report that is a creative solution to a set of problems.
• Demonstrates coherence in that the different modules are carefully chosen to complement each other. This does not only apply to the balance between theory and research, but the natural and social environments.
• Provides articulation with a research-based Master of Science (MSc) as well as providing a good foundation for acquiring employment. Over the last three years, students have acquired employment before completing the qualification and it thus meets the needs of the students and other stakeholders.

Rationale

This qualification's rationale is to provide for academic development and articulation and therefore ensuring that students are provided an opportunity to deepen their knowledge in the field and develop as specialists. This qualification provides for the initial development of specialist which is crucial to research in the environmental field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Nelson Mandela University (NMU) RPL policy will apply.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for admission is

• A Bachelor of Science Degree.

This qualification comprises of compulsory module at Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level, 8 120 Credits

• Issues in Sustainability, 25 Credits.
• Research Project, 30 Credits.
• Analytical Perspectives in Human-Environment Interaction, 25 Credits.
• Quantitative Research Methodologies, 15 Credits.
• Landscape Function, Degradation and Sustainability, 25 Credits.

1. Collect, organise and critically evaluate information relating to cartography, remote sensing, geographical information systems and spatial and non-spatial data sets, on the basis of the knowledge gained concerning the theory and practice of those and related disciplines.
2. Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking based on training in cartography, remote sensing and geographical information systems, applying relevant research methods, in particular to interpret maps, air photographs and other sources of spatial information.
3. Develop skills to investigate phenomena related to Geography and demonstrate an understanding of the changing and contested nature of knowledge in spatial science.
4. Work effectively in various types of groups, collaborating to solve spatial problems and contributing geographical skills to the process.
5. Demonstrate the ability to read Geographical literature and maps to obtain spatial information and present it through effective oral and written modes of communication in English.
6. Use appropriate technology responsibly through regulated practice in the laboratories, in particular to produce final maps and analyses of spatial data both manually and computer generated.
7. Demonstrate the use of geographical principles and concepts and the integration of knowledge from other disciplines, across real-world contexts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• A variety of thinking and learning skills, with emphasis on the application of Geography to real-life situations.
• Participating in society as responsible geographers.
• Contextualising spatial issues in a cultural, social and environmental framework.
• The career opportunities available in the discipline of Geography and its application in the community.
• Fundamental entrepreneurial skills and the management of people and resources.

Integrated Assessment

The research project by its nature is particularly lends itself to being used for integrated Assessment. All aspects are assessment to ensure that knowledge gained from components of the qualification is appropriately applied, where both formative and summative assessments are utilised.