Bachelor of Science in Conservation Ecology

Rationale

To give students a broad understanding of the basic discipline of nature conservation and its inter-relationships with ecology, agriculture, policy, management and economics so that they are able to undertake advanced studies with sufficient knowledge and skills in this discipline.

To undertake integrated post-graduate studies in this discipline.

To equip students with knowledge of nature conservation so that they will be prepared in a unique way for employment in sustainable environmental management in private and public sectors.

To equip students with specific knowledge and skills such that they are fully cognisant of the range of issues that encompass nature conservation, such as ecology, biodiversity conservation, biometry, natural resource economics and policy.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

All applications for admission to this undergraduate programme are considered in terms of the normal procedures of the Matriculation Board and the University of Stellenbosch. Furthermore, the University also maintains a comprehensive system of specially designed additional tests with the aim to broaden access. These tests are designed in a manner that does justice to the principles and ideals of Recognition of Prior Learning. Where applicable and justified, the option of admission on Senate discretion is considered and granted.

Access to the Qualification

Specific Admission Requirements

• An average performance level of 60% in the NSC or the IEB's school-leaving certificate (excluding Life Orientation), or other school qualification;
• English or Afrikaans (Home Language or First Additional Language) - Code 4/50%;
• Mathematics - Code 5/60%; and
• Physical Sciences (Physics and Chemistry) - Code 4/50%.

Level, Credits and learning components assigned to the Qualification

Year 1

• 132 Credits of compulsory modules on NQF Level 6.

Year 2

• 125 Credits of compulsory modules on NQF Level 6.

Year 3

A total of 128 Credits on NQF Level 7

• 96 Credits of compulsory modules on NQF Level 7.
• Learners have to select two modules (32 Credits, NQF Level 7).

Year 4

A total of 128 Credits on NQF Level 8

• 96 Credits (NQF Level 8) of compulsory modules.
• 32 Credits (NQF Level 8) of elective modules.

Learners have to pass a total of 514 Credits over four years to complete the qualification.

The BSc in Conservation Ecology graduate will demonstrate the following generic and specific competencies

Generic

• A sound understanding of the theoretical background of core aspects of agricultural and ecological sciences.
• An introductory knowledge of the operation and application of a range of scientific equipment, techniques and experimental approaches.
• The ability to apply the acquired knowledge to solve new theoretical and practical problems.
• An ability to read and interpret scientific literature including the ability to teach themselves from source material.
• Show an understanding of the importance of using sound experimental controls and statistical methods.
• An appreciation of the role of scientific modelling in the assembly and understanding of scientific observations.
• Basic skills in the presentation of scientific reports (both written and verbal), including use of information technology as an aid to effective communication skills.

The graduate will thus have demonstrated the acquisition of a good general and scientific background of sufficient depth and width to enable the graduate to practise as a competent scientist without further training.

Specific

The BSc in Conservation Ecology graduate will have

• An understanding of the operation of nature conservation science.
• The ability to detect and solve problems in nature conservation science.
• An understanding of the interdisciplinary interrelationships within nature conservation science.
• The ability to use relevant statistical methods and evaluation.
• An understanding of the social responsibility towards the environment.
• The basic entrepreneurial skills to identify and explore the sustainable commercial potential of the environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for General Exit-Level Outcome

• The criterion used to assess outcomes a) and b) is largely whether the information and conceptual content of the work the student submits for evaluation is accurate and valid.
• Competence in outcome c) will be demonstrated if the student shows an ability to correlate and integrate information and concepts learned in a range of modules and propose valid solutions for a range of theoretical and practical problems.
• To demonstrate competence in outcomes d) and e) a student must be able to write logical and coherent reports and essays using computer software, undertake and successfully complete a supervised research project and satisfactorily answer test and examination questions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome

• The assessment used for the Bachelor of Science in Conservation Ecology ensures that the purpose of the Qualification is achieved.

Integrated Assessment

Evaluation will take place by means of continuous evaluation in the form of practical research activities and by means of summative evaluation in the form of assignments, essays, tests and practical research reports, which can be in a written or oral format.