Master of Science in Ethnobotany

Purpose

The primary purpose of a Master of Science in Ethnobotany is to educate and train learners to become researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level. The learners can demonstrate knowledge and understanding of supervised planning and implementation of a research project which includes the formulation of a research question, collection of appropriate experimental material, improving procedures, obtaining data, analysis and interpretation of data, and writing of a dissertation according to a structured format and related literature.

Ethnobotany is the scientific study of the traditional knowledge and customs of people concerning plants and their medical, religious, and other uses. A qualification in ethnobotany combines anthropological studies of human-environment interaction and sociocultural knowledge of plants in different parts of the world with ecology, conservation science, biodiversity management and climate change science. It also covers the use of medicinal plants and ethnopharmacology, plant conservation and sustainable management practices, taxonomy and economic botany.

At the end of this qualification, a learner will present evidence of advanced learning and research in the form of a dissertation which will place his/her research under national and international intellectual scrutiny.

Rationale

The study of Ethnobotany looks at the relationship between plants and people, particularly the role of plants in human culture and practices, how humans use and epitomise plants in their systems of knowledge. The field of ethnobotany focuses on how indigenous plants are used for cooking, healing, hunting, building and wearing, as well as ceremonial purposes.

The rationale behind the qualification in a Master of Science Degree in Ethnobotany is based on the fact that the South African government has committed itself to the involvement of traditional healers in official healthcare services and, thus, taken steps towards the official recognition and institutionalisation of African Traditional Medicine. This qualification will provide scientific evidence on the use of plants in healthcare practices, to bridge a gap between biomedical and traditional health practitioners.

A qualification in ethnobotany will contribute to the strategic goals of the South African Bio-economy. The bio-economy strategy calls for industry, science councils, government departments and academia to work together to ensure that biotechnology and bio-innovations are market relevant and find more open application in South Africa. There is, therefore, a need to train learners to develop the ability to manufacture drugs, vaccines and other biologics locally, to improve the health sector's bio-economy and to help the country achieve its public health goals.

At Master's level, learners will receive practical training in mixed methods and learn to conduct interdisciplinary research in Ethnobotany, in preparation for Doctoral study or a career in related fields.

Most ethnobotany jobs are in academia or working at botanical gardens. Ethnobotanists also find employment in public health, research and development companies or herb companies. Some develop their career niche working with medical offices, regulators or nature groups.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Learners may obtain this qualification through RPL following the institution's RPL policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Botany, NQF Level 8.

The following qualifification consists of the compulsory module at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits

Compulsory module, Level 9

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Plan and do research independently and report the results.
2. Produce substantial, independent, in-depth and publishable work which meets international standards considered to be new or innovative by peers.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria applies in an integrated manner across Exit Level Outcomes.

• Choose a research title, identify research questions and conduct a literature search.
• Design the research project, identify, modify and develop research techniques and procedures to be used.
• Present evidence of advanced learning and research in the form of a thesis.
• Present research findings in front of an audience in national and internal conferences.
• Publish results in accredited and peer-reviewed international journals.

Integrated Assessment

Two external examiners will assess the learner based on a submitted dissertation which must contribute to the scientific knowledge and insight of a selected subject. The thesis must also provide evidence of individual and original scientific thought.