Bachelor of Science Honours in Forensic Genetics

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to develop capacity in and train practitioners of Forensic Genetics. Learners who complete this qualification will have the laboratory skills to carry out contemporary human Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) profiling procedures and the analytical skills to interpret DNA profiles. They will have exposure to procedures and processes involved in setting up an accredited DNA profiling laboratory and the communication skills required to present their findings both orally and in writing. The aim of this qualification is to alleviate the shortage of such personnel in South Africa and allow for greater capacity in the processing of DNA profiles, providing for greater efficiency in investigative and judicial processes. In addition, learners will have carried out a research project in Forensic Genetics, which will prepare them for research-based Postgraduate study in the field of Forensic Genetics.

Rationale

There is a serious shortage of Forensic Geneticists in South Africa, leading to a considerable backlog in the processing of forensic evidence for presentation at court. Ultimately this impedes the administration of justice and infringes the rights of citizens to the fair and timeous administration of justice. This qualification is designed to further address the shortage of Forensic Geneticists by training forensic practitioners competent in Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) profiling. It is anticipated that this qualification will lead to further studies, which will produce scientists further qualified in this field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The university's policy on RPL stipulates the following principles on which prior learning will be recognised

• Assessment must recognise learning from experience.
• Assessment of learning must be based on evidence.
• The learning assessed must be related to the purpose for which the recognition is required.
• Learning must be assessed against the exit learning outcomes (and not primarily the content) of specific qualifications and/or modules.
• Quality assurance procedures will guarantee the integrity and credibility of the assessment.

Using these principles, learners seeking to enter the Postgraduate qualification must demonstrate their prior learning experience:

• In an interview with the qualification director/qualification team.
• By presenting a portfolio of their work experience.
• And/or writing a formal entrance test.

RPL may be used to grant

• entry to the qualification for learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements,

And/Or

• module exemptions.

Entry Requirements

Learners accepted into the qualification would need to be in possession of

• A Bachelor of Science in the field.

The qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 128 Credits.

Modules

• Principles of DNA Typing in Forensic Genetics, 16 Credits.
• Forensic Genetics: Analysis and Interpretation, 16 Credits.
• Forensic Genetics Research Project, 48 Credits.
• Professional Communication in Forensic Genetics, 16 Credits.
• Biology/Ecology Tools and Skills, 16 Credits.
• Quality assurance in Forensic Laboratories, 16 Credits.

1. Create Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) profiles in a modern laboratory using current technology.
2. Analyse DNA profiles in relation to their likelihood of occurrence in the general population.
3. Communicate scientific understanding in writing, orally and using visual, symbolic and/or other forms of representation.
4. Carry out a research project and a variety of practical and theoretical exercises which require him or her to generate scientific information.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Complete laboratory practicals and carry out a research project involving: Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) isolation, real time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), standard PCR, fragment analysis, data analysis and interpretation and other applicable techniques.
• Master laboratory techniques associated with DNA fingerprinting, DNA isolation, real time PCR, standard PCR, fragment analysis, data analysis and interpretation.
• Solve assigned problems relating to DNA fingerprinting which require analysis, synthesis and evaluation of DNA fingerprinting data.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Analyse and interpret information relating to DNA fingerprinting.
• Carry out projects which require analysis, synthesis and evaluation of DNA fingerprinting data.
• Understand processes, standards and policies relating to quality assurance in forensic laboratories.
• Solve problems and write reports dealing with processes, standards and policies relating to quality assurance in forensic laboratories.
• Carry out laboratory practical investigations as part of teams.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate effective Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills.
• Present data logically in oral form.
• Present data logically in written form.
• Assess situations, make presentations and write reports relating to the responsible and ethical use of science and technology.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Collect and analyse technical literature accurately.
• Apply the appropriate methodology of scientific research.
• Demonstrate understanding of the methodology of scientific research by formulating hypotheses, designing a research project, preparing a research proposal and generating and analysing research results.
• Formulate research questions.
• Design experiments to answer research questions.
• Formulate research questions as part of the research project.
• Design experiments to answer the research questions formulated as part of the research project.
• Demonstrate a range of scientific reasoning skills by solving problems and analysing research data relating to DNA fingerprinting.

Integrated Assessment

This qualification makes use of formative, summative and integrated assessment to ensure that the NQF Level 8 descriptors and critical cross-field outcomes are assessed to a suitable breadth and depth. The aim is to achieve competence that is grounded and coherent in relation to the purpose of the qualification.

A range of theoretical and task-oriented assessments are used to assess both practical and theoretical disciplinary knowledge. Task-oriented assessments include creation and analysis of DNA profiles, both in formal lab situations and in greater breadth and depth as part of an integrative research project. Theoretical knowledge is assessed in a variety of ways, in assignments, tests and project reports. The assessments include marked assignments, seminars, project proposals and project drafts which are formative, and tests, final project reports and seminars which are summative.

The capstone module of this qualification, the 48 Credits research project, is integrative, as it assesses all aspects of the core purpose of the qualification, and the competencies embodied in NQF Level 8.