Doctor of Philosophy in Science

Persons achieving this qualification will be competent scientific researchers who can work independently in developing and applying knowledge and skills to make an original contribution to the global knowledge or technology in the particular field chosen for study. A graduate with one year of experience in the field will be eligible to apply to the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions for registration as a Professional Natural Scientist.

Master of Technology (M.Tech.): Biotechnology or equivalent Level 9 600-Credit Masters Degree in related disciplines.

1. Demonstrate in depth knowledge and understanding of the field/area of investigation.
2. Apply research methods and techniques appropriately and correctly in order to make an original contribution to global knowledge and insight in the particular field/discipline chosen.

Specified Outcomes

1.1 Demonstrate in depth knowledge of the scope of relevant knowledge in the selected field/area of research, 30 Credits (core, Level 8).

1.2 Demonstrate understanding of the particular field chosen, 30 Credits (core, Level 8).

2.1 Plan, design, motivate, budget for, and conduct a comprehensive scientific research project, 60 Credits (core, Level 8).

2.2 Critically analyse, evaluate and interpret the findings, 60 Credits (core, Level 8).

2.3 Report the findings in a thesis and in scientific format for international consumption, 60 Credits (core, Level 8).

Critical Outcomes

1. Identifying and solving problems and thinking critically and creatively in designing, executing and reporting on a specialised area of biotechnology.
2. Collecting, organising, analysing and evaluating information and synthesis of a logical, valid original contribution to global knowledge and technology.
3. Working effectively with specialised scientists in the particular field at a high academic level.
4. Managing one's own time to achieve the study and exposition of the thesis.
5. Communication in scientific terms in internationally acceptable style both verbally and in written form.
6. Using science and technology to contribute original knowledge or technology in the field chosen for study.

1.1. The listed and cited literature of the literature survey and the exposition of the research reflects mastery of relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field.

1.2. Models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies in the chosen field are analysed, explained, and juxtaposed correctly in oral presentations and the written record of research.

2.1. The research problem is clearly identified, defined, and detailed in the research proposal.

• Appropriate techniques and methods are selected.
• Budget for the research is accurate, honest and responsible.
• Experimental research is responsibly and ethically conducted.

2.2. The appropriate mathematical and statistical methods are applied correctly to qualitative and quantitative data.

• Logical interpretation of data reflects clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.
• The inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and analyses are valid.

2.3. Information sources are used correctly and appropriately.

• Information technology skills are applied effectively in production of the thesis.
• Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in clearly communicating the research problem, its investigation, the outcome, and the recommendations.
• New knowledge, or technology, or solution to a problem is contributed and published in appropriate journals.
• Findings are presented at an appropriate conference.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment

• Oral presentations.
• Research proposal.
• Written progress reports.

Summative Assessment

• Research thesis.
• Publications in journals.
• Conference presentations.