Doctor of Agriculture in Pasture Science

Purpose

The purpose of the Doctor of Agriculture in Soil Science is to provide learners with the knowledge, specific skills, and applied competence in general and particular areas of Soil Science. The qualifying learner will be capable of producing research of high calibre to enhance their capacity to play a leading role in Agriculture and related fields.

Rationale

The qualification will provide opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to society.

The qualification will provide the Agricultural industry in South Africa with significant numbers of graduate with the high levels of interdisciplinary knowledge and skills in Soil Science and related sciences necessary for the identification and strategic solution of real-life problems facing the agricultural industry. This qualification is vital as agriculture underpins all aspects of the economy and learners are needed to support emerging farmers in the small-scale Agricultural sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This qualification allows for Recognition of Prior Learning for a leaner to attain entry/access to this qualification and to gain exemptions from some qualification requirements. Where an entry criterion applies, a prospective leaner may use Prior Learning experience in the field of public health to gain entry to the qualification. Submission of a portfolio of evidence as proof of practical experience from an appropriate setting will enable the learner admission to the qualification. Access to the qualification through Recognition of Prior Learning is possible if the learner produces evidence of having achieved the appropriate outcomes level of knowledge, skill, and competence. Access to the qualification is achievable if the learner can provide formal proof of credits earned towards the outcomes from an accredited service provider.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Master of Pasture Science, NQF 9, or related Sciences.

This qualification consists of compulsory module at National Qualifications Framework Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

• Thesis, 360 Credits.

1. Design, conduct and write up original research.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of scientific procedures and an ability to cope with research techniques.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of literature related to the research problem.
4. Write a dissertation that is linguistically, technically and scientifically correct.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Write research proposals to identify a problem or problems in Pasture Science and formulate research problems.
• Formulate and test hypotheses.
• Select and utilise research instruments that are relevant to the research problems.
• Conduct fieldwork during the actual investigation if related to the research project.
• Report the findings of the study and formulate recommendations that emanate from the results.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Identify and analyse different scientific procedures in terms of the problem researched.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Critically read, interpret and analyse literature from different authors on the topic researched.
• Conclude from different readings and indicate anomalies.
• Create a theoretical framework provided by the literature review.
• Compile the bibliography/list of references.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Write a thesis that shows that the learner can express him/herself.
• Write a thesis that is linguistically correct and of an acceptable standard.
• Write a thesis that is technically and scientifically acceptable to the examiners.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated assessment procedures ensure the purpose of the qualification is achievable.

Assessment will be solely in the form of an acceptable thesis but may also involve an oral defence thereof and publishing in approved scientific publications.