Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology

To provide graduates with a specialised knowledge in Geological Sciences through study in depth

• To equip them with the practical and applied knowledge of research methodology and to produce in them the ability to solve problems, both independently and in teams, relating to areas of geology of ore deposits by the use of appropriate theory, methods and techniques in the Geological Sciences.
• These graduates should be good communicators in spoken and written English, to both expert and non-expert audiences.
• The programme is intended to provide the country with graduates who have a specialised knowledge in the Geological Sciences and can therefore serve the community in a variety of important ways, in both the public and private sectors.

Access to the programme is available to candidates who have previously satisfied the requirements for a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in this University or have been admitted to the status thereof and had sufficiently good exit-level (SAQA Level 6) results in Geological Sciences courses.

In cases where relevant experience or other prior learning is deemed to compensate for lack of formal qualifications, a candidate may be admitted by permission of Senate.

1. Have an in-depth, specialised knowledge relating to advanced aspects of Geology and particularly to Ore Deposits.
2. Understand and be able to apply advanced concepts in Geology and to Ore Deposits.
3. Be able to access information from a wide range of sources, integrate, analyse and critically evaluate it.
4. Be able to distil a problem into its component parts.
5. Be able to consider a range of problems, options and solutions, and implement decisions based on sound academic foundations, and to be able to access information from a wider range of sources.
6. Be able to solve a problem by building up solutions to component parts of the problem in an integrative manner.
7. Be able to communicate effectively, both in written and oral presentations.
8. Develop and exercise responsibly, practical laboratory and/or field-based technical skills applicable to vocational careers and to have responsible and effective personal organisation skills.
9. Undertake and execute the scientific method through analysing and critically evaluating data and results by undertaking independent research.
10. Be culturally sensitive and have developed sound professional attitudes.

1. Pass the required number of modules of in-depth study in the Geological Sciences. The assessment criteria used will be accuracy and lucidity in answers to examination questions and clear evidence that theoretical concepts have been understood.
2. Submit an Honours project that is assessed as satisfactory by internal and external examiners. The criteria will be understanding of basic principles, accuracy of factual material and of reasoning, ability to relate appropriate parts of the course to the problem under discussion, sensible reference to other sources of information and clarity of presentation.

To demonstrate competence in outcomes 1-9, a student must be able to write logical and coherent essays, assignments and research reports, contribute to class discussions, satisfactorily answer exam questions and undertake an independent research project under the supervision of a member of staff.

• To show competence in outcome 7, students written (e.g. assignments, exam questions, project report) and oral presentations (e.g. formal seminars) must be of an acceptable standard in terms of use of English language and the structural organisation of the presentations.
• The compulsory Research Project integrates all the specific outcomes, which contribute to the achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes of the programmes.
• It is difficult to state objective criteria for the assessment of outcome 10, but general demeanour and etiquette are good indicators. Students will be expected to show a commitment to their studies and awareness with whom they interact.

Integrated Assessment

• The University of Natal is currently reforming its assessment strategies to include the assessment of applied competence for each qualification. In the meantime, a combination of continuous assessment and traditional written examinations serve to assess the integration of all/most of the learning outcomes for each module in a qualification.
• In the present case an Honours Project is designed to act as "capstone", capturing a learner's competence in integrating theory, technique and methodology from a variety of sources to solve particular problems or develop theory (of the purpose and outcomes statement above).