Doctor of Agriculture in Horticultural Sciences

Purpose

The qualification with Horticultural Sciences specialisation modules aims to develop a broad understanding of principles of Horticultural Sciences to earners. Also, obtain specialised skills of contemporary research in Horticulture, in preparation for a career in:

• Industry and business.
• Public sector.
• Academia.
• Research.

Rationale

As a qualified Horticulturist, the learners will be able to

• Apply science and technology to the production of horticultural crops and management of public and commercial enterprises.
• Conduct independent research in horticulture and related fields.
• Appreciate the value and horticulture to society.
• The learners will, therefore, be able to define, understand and solve problems of a horticultural nature by their understanding of the basic principles and mechanism of the different disciplines of horticultural sciences and related fields, for example, Olericulture, Pomology, Plant Propagation, Floriculture, Genetics, Biotechnology and Turf Management. Learners will be trained to such a level of competency that postgraduate studies in Natural Science can be pursued.

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

• Cognate Master's Degree, NQF Level 9.

This qualification comprises a compulsory thesis at NQF Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

1. Identify, assess, formulate and solve problems of horticulture creatively, from their knowledge of the different specialisation in Horticultural sciences.
2. Demonstrate applied competence in Horticultural Sciences. The principles of horticultural sciences.
3. Select and combine facts, concepts and theories from the different domains in Horticultural Sciences rigorously in solving horticultural problems.
4. Manipulate the growth and development of horticultural plants for food production and the beautification of the interior environment and landscape.
5. Plan, execute, analyse and report laboratory and field experiments in Horticulture.
6. Communicate effectively using appropriate language and media, and be able to prepare illustrative and interpretative scientific reports.
7. Use the computer to search for information and present information for others to use.
8. Demonstrate an understanding of how horticultural products contributes to the development of society.
9. Use scientific knowledge and skills to support responsible decision making of horticulture in nature, taking into account the effect on the environment and human communities.
10. Manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.

The following associated assessment criteria apply across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
• Communicate effectively using visual, graphical, mathematical and language skills in the modes of the oral and written presentation.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the biological world as a set of related systems by recognising that the problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
• Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of society, by making the learner aware of the importance of reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively; exploring education and career opportunities; developing entrepreneurial opportunities.

Integrated Assessment

A range of continuous assessment methods, such as prescribed practical, project work singly and in groups. Written and oral tutorials and written examinations will be used to assess whether the specified outcomes have been achieved. The learners must prove their problem-solving skills concerning horticulture principles and must show that they have developed a broad background and understanding of these principles. The learners are expected to participate in departmental seminars. A final oral exam is required dealing intensively with the learner's field of specialisation exhibited in the thesis or dissertation.