Bachelor of Science Honours in Plant Pathology

The qualification aims to produce learners that have a broad background and have specialist knowledge and skills in the main discipline of Plant Pathology.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts RPL in terms of the policy and guidelines of the institution to recognise other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. In cases where learners do not comply with the formal admission requirements, the institution applies its RPL policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science in Plant Pathology, NQF Level 7.

1. Communicate effectively with other scientists, in a variety of modes, in the discourse of microbiological matters.
2. Demonstrate responsible and effective time-management, meeting personal objectives and prescribed deadlines.
3. Interact sympathetically, and with increased self-confidence, as a member of a team or group in a variety of discussion and problem-solving situations.
4. Collect, store, analyse, synthesise, present and critically evaluate data using a variety of appropriate methods and instruments.
5. Exhibit a sound knowledge and understanding of e range of discipline-specific theories, and comprehends, microbe-microbe, microbe-plant, microbe animal, and microbe-environment interactions and their significance in men-made systems and natural environments.
6. Comprehend multidisciplinary approach is necessary to study the interactions and can apply this knowledge to the benefit of humankind.
7. Participate as an effective and accountable microbiologist, able to use science and technology responsibly, and is sensitive to issues such as sustainable resource management, cultural traditions, rural development and large-scale industrial requirements.
8. Use computers for word processing competently.
9. Manage complex data and information effectively and can interpret multifaceted interactions confidently.
10. Face and manage complex problems encountered in microbiological systems, through identification and definition of the problems, and use of critical analysis, appropriate methodology and theory to formulate creative-end responsible problem-solving strategies.
11. Use a holistic approach to reflect on the processes of learning and problem-solving, challenging assumptions and redefining hypotheses if necessary.
12. Exhibit many of the characteristics of a life-long learner, possessing a critical sense of curiosity, being self-motivated, and capable of employing appropriate learning strategies.
13. Show an entrepreneurial awareness of career opportunities available to a microbiological scientist.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated assessment is appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved

The institution 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.

Integrated assessment criteria and methods (designed to capture learner capability/applied competence at certain exit points).

• Each module offered within a qualification has specified assessment criteria which will contribute holistically to producing the desired skills in learners at the different exit points.
• All Learners at fourth year have to complete a research project and seminar which enables moderators to asses the learner's competence in many of SAQA`s critical outcomes.
• As mentioned, SAQA`s critical outcomes are addressed and assessed across all modules comprising a qualification.
• Also, as each qualification offered in this qualification provides the learner with a professional qualification, there are specific skills required by the job market that are imparted and assessed in specific component modules.