Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology

Purpose

The qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learner's expertise in Geology and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of Geology. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence. Training of the qualified scientists who can identify, evaluate and address problems associated with the geological or earth sciences in South African and international context. Through the acquisition of appropriate competence and research ability they will be able to enter a range of professional and entrepreneurial opportunities in the geological, minerals and earth science industries.

Rationale

The qualification is a specialisation in the field of Geology to prepare the learners for research based post graduate study.

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 University of Johannesburg(UJ).

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science in Geology, Earth Science National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 7.

This qualification comprises of compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 8 totalling at 140 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 140 Credits

• Advanced Field Mapping, 13 Credits.
• Mining Geology, 13 Credits.
• Geology Research Project, 30 Credits.
• Sedimentary Basin analysis and Palaeontology, 13 Credits.
• Tectonic Evolution of Mountain Building Areas, 13 Credits.
• Geochemistry of Igneous rock, 13 Credits.
• Chemical Thermodynamics and Metamorphic Rocks, 13 Credits.
• Applied and Environmental Mineralogy, 13 Credits.
• Economic Geology and Exploration Management, 19 Credits.

1. Identify, evaluate and address their own professional and on-going learning needs.
2. Demonstrate efficient and effective information retrieval and processing skills, using appropriate Information and Communications Technology(ICT).
3. Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and critical knowledge and understanding of the principles, scope, theories and epistemologies of Geology.
4. Evaluate their own and others academic work and initiatives against informed criteria.
5. Present and communicate ideas and texts, offering professional insights, interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Geology.
6. Use science and technology in complex and challenging contexts and make autonomous ethical decisions on complex professional issues in accordance with recognised professional and ethical standards.
7. Critique current research and advanced scholarship in Geology and make research methodologies and methods/techniques to research problem/s in Geology.
8. Identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of quantitative or qualitative data, and to engage with and evaluate current research and scholarly or professional literature in Geology.

The Associated Assessment Criterion highlighted below will be integrated within the Exit Level Outcomes

• Display knowledge of current information retrieval systems and processes.
• Demonstrate a mastery of the use of technical and professional language and terminology.
• Display a mastery of subject material by independent study.
• Display ability to work on a scientific project.
• Prove ability to write a project or progress report independently.
• Display ability to cooperate with fellow learners.
• Display ability to contribute meaningfully to group efforts to work on a problem.
• Display ability and readiness to accept a responsible part in a group effort.
• Demonstrate an awareness and recognition of the need for careful and correct laboratory technique.
• Demonstrate the ability to use appropriate technology correctly, safely and responsibly.
• Show awareness of the need for different ways of learning and assimilation of knowledge by electronic retrieval systems, libraries, correspondence and personal contacts at meetings.
• Show awareness of the need for continued study so as to remain constantly up to date.
• Demonstrate awareness of the effects of pollution and industrialisation on the environment.
• Demonstrate awareness of the need for responsible management of environmental and geological/earth science or mineral resources and diversity.
• Demonstrate the ability to relate the field of study to society and thus know where those skills are likely to be required.
• Demonstrate the knowledge of what the chosen field of study involves and how it can be used for entrepreneurial activity.
• Show understanding of how the field of study impinges on society.

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 Geology will be utilised. The research module is assessed against specific criteria to provide evidence of research capacity in the methodology and techniques in Geology. 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 Geology.