Diploma in Analytical Chemistry

The purpose of this diploma is to provide specialised knowledge and skills to address occupational and skills shortages in various chemical and allied industries, including pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, food, mining, petrochemicals, automotive, environmental management, wastewater management, pollution control, waste disposal and recycling, agriculture, research, and health. The qualification empowers graduates to innovate and develop business ideas into successful products or services, contributing to the emerging economy.

Graduates will gain a deep understanding of chemical processes, proficiency in laboratory equipment, and the ability to develop innovative solutions for industry challenges. They will be equipped with practical skills in analytical techniques, safety protocols, and quality control measures, preparing them for roles such as laboratory technicians, scientists, quality control managers, and laboratory managers.

This qualification aligns with national standards for chemical engineering and is recognised by professional bodies such as the South African Chemical Institute (SACI) and the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). The qualification was developed in consultation with internal and external stakeholders, advisory boards and industry players. Graduates are encouraged to register with these organisations to enhance their career prospects and professional development.

Graduates can pursue further studies, including advanced diplomas and postgraduate qualifications, ensuring continuous professional growth. They can occupy technical positions in chemical and allied industries, including roles as laboratory technicians, scientists, quality control managers, and laboratory managers, or even start their own businesses. This qualification equips graduates with the technical proficiency, analytical skills, industry readiness, and entrepreneurial skills needed for successful careers and further academic pursuits.

The purpose and design of this qualification facilitate the development of the following graduate attributes and ensure that the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) listed below, which emanate from the purpose, are achieved:

Graduate attributes

• Reflect and explore diverse strategies to enhance learning effectiveness.
• Actively participate as responsible citizens in local, national, and global communities.
• Demonstrate cultural and aesthetic sensitivity across various social contexts.
• Contribute significantly to the social and economic development of South African society.

Exit Level Outcomes

• Apply mathematical, physical, and chemical principles to laboratory and production tasks, including preparing organic and inorganic compounds using standard synthetic and purification procedures.
• Conduct and interpret wet chemical and instrumental analyses using prescribed laboratory procedures and perform calculations to report and evaluate results to meet quality assurance and quality control standards.
• Report and assess results obtained from analyses and calculations and perform relevant Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures to ensure processes remain within designated limits.
• Utilise computer skills relevant to the chemical laboratory and use interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate teamwork in the working environment.
• Perform all assigned work in compliance with relevant occupational health, safety, and environmental laws, legislation, and regulations; adhere to established policies and procedures; uphold ethical principles and apply problem-solving skills to issues in the work environment.
• Develop a plan for continued professional growth. This reflects the ability to take responsibility for one's learning and development.
• Apply entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking to identify, evaluate, and develop business opportunities within the field of Analytical Chemistry.

Rationale

In an era of dynamic industrial shifts and growing global demand for specialised expertise, the need for skilled professionals in the chemical and chemical-allied industries is evident. Roles such as analytical chemistry technicians, water control officers, water quality analysts, environmental scientists, and quality control specialists are particularly scarce due to high demand.

This diploma qualification provides specialised knowledge and practical skills tailored to address the acute shortages in these industries. It aims to produce graduates with focused knowledge and hands-on expertise. The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry prepares aspiring professionals for roles such as manufacturing research chemist, chemical technologist, and quality control analyst. It also empowers graduates to explore entrepreneurial ventures, transforming ideas into successful products or services.

The curriculum and structure of this diploma have been developed in close consultation with recognised professional bodies and industry stakeholders. Professional advisory boards are constituted by members from the industry relevant to our field of expertise. This kind of interaction helps us maintain relevance and re-align (where necessary) to serve the needs of the industry. The diploma in Analytical Chemistry at WSU was developed in consultation with key reports such as the Chemical Industries Education and Training National Skills Development Plan (NSDP), NDP, and ETDP SETA. These documents highlight critical skills shortages in health and safety, manufacturing, human resources, and agriculture. There is a high demand for quality control managers, research chemists, analytical chemistry technicians, water quality analysts, and environmental scientists. This qualification addresses these gaps by equipping learners with essential skills needed in the chemical and allied industries.

The qualification targets National Senior Certificate (NSC) graduates with a diploma (D) or bachelor's (B) endorsement. Prospective learners with a Senior Certificate (SC) or a National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)) at Level 4 can also be admitted. Graduates of this qualification are well-prepared for a range of future occupations, including roles as analytical chemistry technicians, water control officers, water quality analysts, environmental scientists, and quality control specialists. They are also equipped to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging their specialised knowledge to innovate and create new products or services.

The diploma serves as a foundation for further academic growth, leading to an Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7) and postgraduate qualifications like a Postgraduate Diploma or Honours degree (NQF Level 8), ultimately paving the way to a Master's and Doctoral degree in Chemistry. Graduates can register with professional bodies like SACI and SACNASP.

This diploma is a strategic investment in human capital development, aligning with national and international priorities such as enhancing health and safety standards, advancing manufacturing capabilities, and supporting environmental sustainability. It empowers learners to occupy vital positions across various sectors, contributing to economic growth, innovation, and societal well-being regionally and globally.

WSU's RPL policy aligns with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) principles and the Council on Higher Education (CHE), ensuring compliance with national standards. WSU applies Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to broaden access to higher education and ensure that RPL is correctly used for access and, where applicable, advanced standing or exemption.

For the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, RPL offers an alternative route for admission, with faculties, in consultation with the registrar's division, assessing prior learning against specific qualification requirements. The assessment process includes interviews, portfolios, and practical evaluations. RPL also allows for module exemptions or advanced standing, recognising prior learning as equivalent to certain modules, potentially reducing the required credit points.

Entry Requirements

• National Senior Certificate (NSC) with endorsement.
• Senior Certificate (SC), NQF Level 4.
• National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)), NQF Level 4.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 5 and a combination of compulsory and elective modules at Level 6, totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 69 Credits

• Chemistry I (T and P),15 Credits.
• Computer Skills I,10 Credits.
• Mathematics I,10 Credits.
• Physics I (T and P),10 Credits.
• Analytical Chemistry I,15 Credits.
• Communication Skills I, 9 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 231 Credits

Analytical Chemistry II, 12 Credits.

Analytical Chemistry: Practical II, 12 Credits.

Inorganic Chemistry II (T and P), 12 Credits.

Organic Chemistry II (T and P), 12 Credits.

Physical Chemistry II (T and P), 12 Credits.

Physical Chemistry III (T and P), 17 Credits.

Inorganic Chemistry III (T and P), 17 Credits.

Organic Chemistry III (T and P), 17 Credits.

Chemical Quality Assurance, 12 Credits.

Analytical Chemistry III, 24 Credits.

Analytical Chemistry: Practical III, 24 Credits.

Experiential Training, 60 Credits.

Elective Modules, NQF Level 6, 60 Credits.

• Physics II, level 6, 12 Credits.
• Mathematics II, level 6, 12 Credits.
• Polymer Chemistry, level 6, 12 Credits.
• Chemical Process Industries II, level 6, 12 Credits.
• Entrepreneurial Skills I, 12 Credits.

OR

• Chemistry Project III, 60 Credits

1. Apply mathematical, physical, and chemical principles to laboratory and production tasks, including preparing organic and inorganic compounds using standard synthetic and purification procedures.
2. Conduct and interpret wet chemical and instrumental analyses using prescribed laboratory procedures and perform calculations to report and evaluate results to meet quality assurance and quality control standards.

3.Report and assess results obtained from analyses and calculations and perform relevant Quality 4. Assurance and Quality Control procedures to ensure processes remain within designated limits.

4.Utilise computer skills relevant to the chemical laboratory and use interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate teamwork in the working environment.

5.Perform all assigned work in compliance with relevant occupational health, safety, and environmental laws, legislation, and regulations; adhere to established policies and procedures; uphold ethical principles and apply problem-solving skills to issues in the work environment.

6.Develop a plan for continued professional growth. This reflects the ability to take responsibility for one's learning and development.

7.Apply entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking to identify, evaluate, and develop business opportunities within the field of Analytical Chemistry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Apply mathematical skills to perform accurate and comprehensive data analyses, including algebraic equations, functions, factors, ratios, conversions, and linear regressions.
• Utilise principles of physics, such as heat, sound, light, electricity, and mechanics, to effectively use instrumentation within the chemical laboratory.
• Implement principles of general chemistry, including nomenclature, acid/base theory, stoichiometric calculations, and chemical reactions, in conducting precise chemical analyses and syntheses.
• Integrate organic, inorganic, analytical, and physical chemistry principles in performing detailed analyses and syntheses.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Apply principles of instrument theory and prescribed techniques for the effective collection, preparation, and analysis of samples, including calibrating standard laboratory equipment using appropriate materials for quantitative and qualitative chemical analyses.
• Operate and calibrate spectrometric, electrometric, and chromatographic instruments, along with their associated data systems, for precise qualitative and quantitative analyses, and perform physical tests such as melting points, boiling points, density, and refractive index on chemicals and materials.
• Prepare solutions of known concentrations and perform appropriate dilutions for laboratory procedures, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
• Manage time, equipment, and materials cost-effectively when performing analyses, demonstrating efficiency and resourcefulness.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Report data from quantitative and qualitative analyses in the required format, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Perform relevant mathematical and statistical calculations using the recorded data to evaluate and interpret the results effectively.
• Verify the accuracy of recorded data and calculations through peer review or secondary checks to ensure the reliability and validity of the results.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Utilise software packages to express, manipulate, and present chemical technology information.
• Set up and use computers for monitoring laboratory automation and quality control.
• Employ relevant software to acquire, store, retrieve, and process laboratory data.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Perform all procedures according to established workplace safety protocols and ethical guidelines, recognising the influence of chemistry on society in terms of environmental, health, and safety impacts.
• Comply with environmental, health, and safety legislation and related regulations, including the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Apply specific industrial practices such as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), and ISO standards to ensure compliance within the working environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

Identify strategies for continued professional development and develop plans to upgrade skills in response to technological changes.

Demonstrate the ability to work in various practice locations and types and process relevant literature to stay current.

Apply self-knowledge of strengths, weaknesses, and goals to improve professional competence, and recognise the role of professional associations and certification.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

Identify and evaluate business opportunities within the field of Analytical Chemistry, demonstrating an understanding of market needs and industry challenges.

Develop a comprehensive business plan for a potential venture in the chemical industry, showcasing entrepreneurial skills.

Apply innovative thinking to create solutions that address market needs and industry challenges, ensuring the feasibility and sustainability of the proposed venture.

Integrated Assessment

The assessment for this qualification encompasses theory, practicals, tests, assignments, and examinations. Continuous evaluation is applied across all modules, integrating learning across each year and ensuring that the exit level outcomes are developed and assessed in an integrated manner.

Knowledge outcomes will be assessed primarily through tests, assignments, projects, and examinations. These assessments will require learners to demonstrate their ability to use fundamental principles to analyse and solve analytical chemistry problems.

Outcomes that require insight and analysis will be assessed through assignments and laboratory reports. These tasks require learners to conceptualise, discuss, evaluate, and illustrate theoretical concepts to solve problems.

Work Integrated learning Assessment

In the third year of study, learners will be assessed holistically through project reports, a portfolio of evidence, and an oral presentation. These assessments are designed to meet the needs and requirements of the chemistry industry.

This approach ensures learners can demonstrate their practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional conduct in a real-world setting, aligning with the qualification's exit-level outcomes.

Formative Assessment

Assessed through the effective use of tools and techniques to create appropriate solutions in case studies or project environments. This will be evaluated mainly through practical reports and reports from work-integrated learning in an industry setting.

Assessed through participation in group work, project work, and group assignments. These activities will require learners to plan, communicate, and work collaboratively. Formative assessments will contribute 40% to the final mark. This will be achieved through assignments, tests, and practical reports.

Summative Assessment

Summative assessments will be conducted mainly through examinations, contributing 60% to the final mark.