Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to provide biological science learners with

• A comprehensive understanding of key disciplines such as the anatomy and physiology of plants and animals, ecology, microbiology, conservation biology, biochemistry, and many more. The students will also expand their knowledge of the cell and molecular biology, genetics, plant and animal development, evolutionary biology, behavioural ecology and homeostasis. This will allow the graduates to maintain the key concepts of biology whilst gradually venturing into potential research areas.
• Practical skills required in the study of life. These include dissection, cataloguing of organisms, creation of scientific knowledge, assessment and evaluation of biological science information, and critical cross-cutting skills such as problem-solving, written and spoken communication, computer literacy; and competence in applying knowledge through basic research methods and practice.
• Sufficient depth of knowledge, values and ethics that will enable them to grow personally, academically and professionally so that they can play a meaningful role as they serve society with integrity.

Rationale

Biology impacts on almost everything from global warming and climate change to challenges associated with a growing world population and its impacts on the environment, food security, health, etc. New technologies in biotechnology, genetic modification, digital sensing, etc. continue to transform the earth and its inhabitants on a daily basis. This implies a need for learners who are equipped with knowledge of the fundamental biological processes required to make future advances in order to meet these challenges.

The eastern side of the Eastern Cape Province houses rich and unique biodiversity in several aquatic and terrestrial landscapes along the Wild Coast which needs to be sustainably managed; the primary aim is to improve the socio-economic status of local and regional communities. This lead to the design of the Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences qualification in order to address the needs of all stakeholders. This qualification will focus on the development of cultural heritage for the province through the utilisation of the vast natural resources available for academic advancement and research. The qualification will develop learners with a solid foundation in the biology of plants and animals that will enable them to contribute towards the sustainable utilisation and management of these natural resources.

The BSc in Biological Sciences qualification is designed to train BSc learners who can further their academic careers and become natural scientists in the field of botany or zoology. These learners will engage in debates on topical issues which seek to address challenges related to the management of biological data in several research institutions and government departments such as the Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA), Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), etc and therefore play a critical role in the conservation of natural resources.

This qualification will target learners who come from largely under-resourced rural communities. The institution will, therefore, provide learners as well as government officials with work experience from related fields, with a BSc in Biological Sciences as a platform to advance their knowledge and skills. The multidisciplinary nature of the qualification will enable the learners to be marketable and obtain employment across disciplines. For example, they can work as conservation biologists, ethnobotanists, taxonomists, plant biotechnologists, fisheries and aquatic scientists, behavioural ecologists, animal physiologists, biomedical scientists, toxicologists, academics, marine botanists or zoologists and ecologists.

This qualification follows an academic pathway in which the BSc learners will be prepared for BSc Honours either in Botany, Zoology or related field.

This qualification will empower the learners with knowledge and skills that will enable them to occupy strategic positions in private consultancies, research institutions and relevant industries locally, nationally and internationally. Furthermore, the values and attitudes acquired from this qualification will enable the learners to appreciate the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Cape and the country at large and contribute towards sustainable use of its natural resources.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The RPL requirements for entry into the BSc in Biological Sciences are guided by the Rules and Regulations stipulated in the University's Policy and the Faculty of Natural Sciences Prospectus.

Applicants who do not meet the minimum admission requirements but have extensive experience in the field of Biological Sciences will be considered. They must, however, have attempted the following subjects at NSC level: English, Mathematics, Physical Science and Life Sciences.

All applicants will write aptitude tests to establish interest and commitment to the profession and service. Candidates will then be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) in the prescribed university format. If the courses to be assessed are primarily university-based, evidence from other areas of learning may be introduced if pertinent to any of the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs).

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies.

Or

• Senior Certificate with endorsement.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 376 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 128 Credits

• Plant Form and Function, 8 Credits.
• Animal Form and Function, 8 Credits.
• Animal Diversity, 8 Credits.
• Communication Skills, 8 Credits.
• General Chemistry, 16 Credits.
• Mathematics, 16 Credits.
• Introductory Cellular and Molecular Biology, 16 Credits.
• Plant Diversity, 8 Credits.
• General Chemistry, 16 Credits.
• Physics For Life Sciences, 16 Credits.
• Computer Literacy, 8 Credits.

Electives, Level 5, 8 Credits (choose one)

• Environmental Law, 8 Credits.
• Understanding Human Behaviour, 8 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 112 Credits

• Biostatistics, 16 Credits.
• Developmental Biology, 16 Credits.
• Habitat Ecology, 16 Credits.
• Higher Plant Systematics, 16 Credits.
• Biochemistry, 16 Credits.
• Invertebrate Form and function, 16 Credits.
• Microbiology, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 128 Credits

• Vertebrate Form and Function, 16 Credits.
• Plant Physiology, 16 Credits.
• Plant Pathology, 16 Credits.
• Animal Physiology, 16 Credits.
• Animal Behaviour, 16 Credits.
• Conservation Biology, 16 Credits.
• Economic Biology, 16 Credits.
• Ecology, 16 Credits.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts and principles used in biological sciences.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the structures making up the plant and animal body and how these structures individually and in cooperation work together to perform their functions.
3. Demonstrate basic knowledge of the cell structure and its organelles and how these structures individually and in cooperation, work together to perform their functions.
4. Provide an overview of Mendelian Genetics.
5. Demonstrate understanding of the basic principles of plant and animal development.
6. Provide an outline of the major components of the micro-organisms, plant and animal kingdoms and related groups.
7. Apply scientific knowledge and ways of thinking to tackle societal issues, taking into account ethical and societal considerations.
8. Explain the physiological processes that regulate body functions and the regulation of an organ system from the molecular to the whole animal level.
9. Demonstrate practical knowledge of physiological techniques and carry out physiological studies in the laboratory.
10. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of animal behaviour.
11. Explain the proximate control of behaviour, including the role of hormones and the animal's environment in the development of behaviour.
12. Apply appropriate data collection techniques for the study of animal behaviour, and explain the study of animal behaviour from an evolutionary standpoint.
13. Demonstrate a broad understanding of environmental law.
14. Apply legislation in environmental protection programmes.
15. Use information-gathering tools effectively.
16. Communicate scientific knowledge effectively in writing, orally and using visual, symbolic and other forms of representation.
17. Apply scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills to tackle societal issues, taking into account ethical and cultural considerations.
18. Work effectively as a member of a team or group while carrying out scientific projects or laboratory experiments.
19. Manage and organise one's learning activities responsibly.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Define and apply key terms, concepts, principles and theories used in biological sciences in relevant contexts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Describe the structure of the plant and animal body together with their modifications and explain how they function.
• Provide a comparative analysis of the anatomy and physiology of plants and animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Draw the structure of the cell and its constituents and explain how these communicate with the outside environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Describe the principles and patterns of inheritance.
• Distinguish between monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.
• List the common genetic disorders.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Describe the process of gamete formation and development in plants and animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Describe the three-domain system of classification, particularly the evolutionary relationships among micro-organisms, plants and animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Explain interactions at individual, population, community and ecosystem level.
• Identify threats to biodiversity and take appropriate interventions.
• Appreciate the value of ecosystem benefits or services to various life forms.
• Utilise and manage natural resources in a sustainable manner.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Describe the anatomy of different physiological systems and their specific functions.
• Explain how changes in one system may impact a different system.
• Apply knowledge of a physiological mechanism to explain how a whole animal physiological process occurs.
• Describe interactions among different organ systems (homeostasis).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9

• Critically interpret physiological data and phenomena.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10

• Assess the core concepts and theories used in animal behaviour critically.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11

• Explain the adaptive significance of behaviour, with special emphasis on animal communication, social behaviour, territoriality, sexual selection and mating systems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12

• Undertake behavioural surveys, collect and analyse behavioural data.
• Interpret and present findings in the format of a scientific research paper.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13

• Define and explain key environmental law terms as they relate to biological sciences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14

• Explain the rules and laws that govern the sustainable use of natural resources.
• Apply knowledge of environmental legislation and policy to make ethical decisions in relevant contexts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 15

• Assess, evaluate and synthesise biological information from a variety of sources including Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 16

• Compile and present clear, coherent laboratory reports and documents both orally and in writing according to acceptable standards.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 17

• Evaluate biological science knowledge that is relevant to current societal issues critically.
• Handle culturally sensitive biological issues in an ethically sensitive and sound manner.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 18

• Provide evidence of successful and effective contribution to group work.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 19

• Demonstrate appropriate study skills (e.g. learning from text, note-taking, summarising, analysis and synthesis).
• Develop and use effective learning strategies in relevant contexts.
• Manage time effectively, e.g. by completing tasks and submitting them within stipulated timeframes.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification uses formative and summative assessment. Formative assessment, learners are given feedback on their progress in the achievement of specific Exit Level Outcomes. Formative assessments comprise assignments, practical reports, presentations and theory tests. Summative assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such judgement must include 'integrated assessment(s)' which test the learners' ability to integrate the large body of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes as a whole. The final mark will be obtained from the continuous assessment and the summative assessment into the ratio of 3:2.