Master of Applied Sciences in Biotechnology

Purpose

Learners achieving this qualification will be able to conduct scientific research under minimal guidance in a chosen field, and to contribute to knowledge production in that area of expertise. The learner will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of that specific area, and should be able to apply the correct research methods and techniques to the research problem being investigated. Independent research is carried out and reported in a dissertation.

Rationale

Learners who complete this qualification will have identified a research problem and reported on the outcome of their investigation in a dissertation. Learners will contribute to biotechnology research through their understanding and application of existing knowledge. Learners who have completed the qualification may be registered as Professional Scientists after two years of experience. The qualification also allows vertical articulation into doctoral qualifications at NQF 10.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

An internal panel will determine whether the prospective learner has the required prior learning. The outcome of this panel is reported to the Registrar and the learner is allowed to register. A learner may appeal a negative outcome by approaching the Faculty. This outcome must then be ratified by Senate.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Relevant Postgraduate Diploma or Honours, NQF Level 8.

• Full Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the field/area of investigation.
2. Apply research methods and techniques appropriately and correctly.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• The listed and cited literature of the literature survey and the exposition of the research reflects familiarity with relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field.
• Plan, design and perform a specific research project.
• Report the findings in scientific format.
• Critically analyse and interpret data.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 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.
• The research problem is clearly identified, defined, and detailed in the research proposal.
• Appropriate techniques and methods are selected.
• Experimental research is responsibly and ethically conducted.
• 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.
• Information sources are used correctly and appropriately.
• Information technology skills are applied effectively in production of the dissertation.
• Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in clearly communicating the research problem, its investigation, the outcome, and the recommendations.

Integrated Assessment

The learner will be assessed formatively and summatively. The project proposal (formative assessment) must be approved by the Higher Degrees Committee at this institution. Formative assessments include oral presentations of the proposal and written progress reports. The final dissertation and presentation make up the summative assessment. A panel of three experts (with a maximum of one internal assessor) will assess the final dissertation. The supervisor/co-supervisors are not involved in the assessment of the final dissertation.