Diploma in Biotechnology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to prepare learners to practice as entry level Biotechnologists. In addition, it addresses the needs of the Biotechnology industry in terms of providing skilled technologists to function in laboratories focusing on Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. Furthermore, the program will provide the student with skills such as information acquisition, organisational, inter and intrapersonal communication skills, and the ability to become a life-long learner. The Biotechnologist will function as a member of a multi-disciplinary team of various levels of employment within the industry.

Rationale

This is a relevant, career focused qualification, producing well rounded learners that are able to generate, integrate and apply knowledge. This entails educating individuals to apply theoretical and practical fundamental knowledge and skills in the field of Biotechnology in appropriate industries and research institutions. It also aims to reinforce and develop the knowledge of the learner to a greater depth while encouraging a critical and innovative approach. This knowledge equips the learner for a future role in senior technical management as well as encouraging entrepreneurial development. Candidates can apply to the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions(SACNASP) as certificated natural scientists and may apply to be registered as a professional natural scientist.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

As per institutional policy, Credits towards this qualification may be obtained by means of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Entry Requirements

• National Senior Certificate, National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 4.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework(NQF) Level 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits

• Communication for Academic Purposes, 10 Credits.
• Information Literacy I, 2 Credits.
• Chemistry I, 24 Credits.
• Microbiology I, 24 Credits.
• General Mathematics I, 24 Credits.
• General Physics I, 24 Credits.
• Life Skills I, 2 Credits.
• Computer Literacy, 10 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, level 6, 240 Credits

• Bioanalytical Chemistry, 12 Credits.
• Cultivation Technology II, 18 Credits.
• Biochemistry II, 12 Credits.
• Biotechnology Professional Development II, 24 Credits.
• Molecular Biology II, 15 Credits.
• Microbial Taxonomy II, 15 Credits.
• Microbial Biochemistry II, 12 Credits.
• Process Technology and Management, I, 12 Credits.
• Food Microbiology III, 15 Credits.
• Microbial Bioprocessing III, 18 Credits.
• Medical Microbiology III, 15 Credits.
• Bioanalytical Chemistry III, 12 Credits.
• Work-Integrated Learning(WIL) in Biotechnology I, 60 Credits.

1. Function in an appropriate biotechnology environment by demonstrate knowledge of areas related to biotechnology.
2. Understand the key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories of fields related to biotechnology and select and apply standard methods, procedures or techniques within the field.
3. Demonstrate an ability to identify, evaluate and solve defined, routine and new problems within a familiar context, and apply solutions based on relevant evidence and procedures under supervision.
4. Demonstrate an ability to communicate information reliably, accurately and coherently, as well as operate in a range of familiar and new contexts, demonstrating an understanding of different kinds of systems, their constituent parts and the relationships between these parts, and to understand how actions in one area impact on other areas within the same system.
5. Understand basic management skills, and demonstrate an understanding of basic ethical behaviour and code of conduct within an organisational context.
6. Function effectively in an appropriate biotechnology environment by demonstrating detailed knowledge in Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
7. Apply the key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories in the various fields of biotechnology (such as conservation science, forensic science, mining, pharmaceutical science, crop science).
8. Work effectively in a multidisciplinary team demonstrating the ability to identify, analyse and solve problems in unfamiliar contexts, gathering evidence and applying solutions based on evidence and procedures appropriate to the field, discipline or practice, under supervision.
9. Communicate effectively with supervisors and colleagues, by applying organizational, inter- and intrapersonal communication skills, and taking responsibility for his or her decisions and actions, as well as assist in the management of resources in the biotechnology or related industries including environment, health and safety aspects.
10. Evaluate, select and apply appropriate methods, procedures or techniques used in the investigation or experimentation of biotechnology processes in the fields of Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, by applying good laboratory practices.
11. Apply and communicate basic management skills, and demonstrate an understanding of basic ethical behaviour and code of conduct within an organisational or professional context.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Relevant safety legislation and procedures are complied with.
• Relevant operating manuals and procedures are adhered to.
• Code of ethics is complied with.
• The role of the learner in the organisation is recognised.
• A work schedule or research proposal is planned and written according to guidelines given by superiors.
• Allocated tasks/planned experiments are performed satisfactorily.
• Instructions or guidance given by superiors is followed.
• Report on work/research project reflects understanding of subject area.
• Report is compiled under appropriate headings and in acceptable format.
• Findings are effectively and clearly communicated.
• Findings/report are presented orally and visually to an appropriate audience.
• Interpretation of findings is logically and clearly presented.
• Superiors are satisfied about learner's compliance with instructions.
• Correct channels of communication in the workplace are followed.
• Problems are recognised and problem-solving strategies are used to meet the challenges.
• Participation in group work is practised and assessed.
• Communication with colleagues is effective.
• Codes of practice are complied with.
• Relevant equipment and material supplies are sourced.
• Quotes and specs on desired equipment and materials are obtained.
• Appropriate suppliers are selected.
• Purchases are requested according to appropriate procedures.
• Hazards in the workplace are recognised.
• Risk associated with hazards is assessed.
• Appropriate precautions are taken to avoid exposure of self and others to risk.
• Appropriate legislation and regulations are complied with.
• Environment is considered in practice.
• Respect for other cultures and norms is shown.
• Capability to work independently is exhibited.
• Responsible use of science and technology is exhibited.
• Information is sourced and accessed.
• Reliability of information is assessed.
• The desire to explain cause-effect relationships is exhibited.
• The desire for lifelong learning and of how communication, work ethic, and experience can improve development of people and organisations is exhibited.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated Assessment will be achieved by a variety of strategies. These include written examinations, group and individual projects and assignments, practical examinations and a research report. Some of the criteria may be assessed through observation of the learners during their classes. Integrated Assessment will be both formative and summative: Formative assessment will take place during observations of oral presentations, discussions and/or group work, laboratory work and project sessions. Self and peer assessment will contribute to formative assessment. Summative components of assessment include assignments, research projects and examinations. In the research project, students are evaluated on their procedures for locating the appropriate data, doing experiments in the laboratory, obtaining data from the experimentation, processing of data and writing a scientific report.