Master of Science in Food Science and Technology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to train qualifiers with sound and to search for knowledge of a specialised area in Food Science and Technology.

Rationale

The rationale of this qualification is to provide learners with the ability to plan and undertake scientific research under supervision in the field of Food Science and Technology. Learners are expected also interpret objectively and responsibly the scientific value of the research work and write a scientific research paper for a peer-reviewed scientific journal. It also creates opportunities for personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to science, technology and society.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

In addition to the admission requirements for a Master of Science Degree in Food Science and Technology as stipulated by the university, the Department of Food Science and Technology will admit learners based on professional experience from at least two years of continuous working experience in a Food industry focussed on food manufacturing, quality control/assurance or Food research and product development.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for this qualification are

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

This qualification comprises of compulsory and elective modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 180 Credits

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
2. Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
3. Communicate effectively, using visual and language skills in the modes of oral and written persuasion.
4. Use science and technology effectively and critically.
5. Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
6. Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Do independent reading and information retrieval in the library and the Internet; work with reduced supervision.
• Critically read current literature in the field, interpret and analyse literature.
• Interact with increasing self-confidence, as a member of a team or group in a variety of discussion and problem-solving situations in Food Science and Technology.
• Undertake a research project and write a dissertation and paper under supervision.
• Write a research project proposal.
• Identification of the key research questions.
• Design an experiment/research.
• Description of the method/procedures and techniques to be followed.
• Collect, analyse and interpret the data.
• Write up the results in a clear, concise and acceptable manner.
• Application of research methods technologies and techniques.
• Participate and interact intelligently in class discussions and presentations.
• Write and present seminars.
• Prepare assignments.
• Participate effectively in oral presentations with the department and the School, through research proposal presentation.
• Submit assignments and reports in an acceptable format according to clear guidelines.
• Submit assignments and reports and meet deadlines.
• Adhere to timelines as indicated in the research proposal.
• Effectively present and communicate research findings.
• Ability to collect relevant data effectively.
• Store data electronically.
• Demonstrate ability to analyses, synthesise, present and critically evaluate data and information, using a variety of analytical methods and techniques.
• Submit a Masters dissertation on or before the expiry of the maximum period set for the qualification as per the university rules and regulations.
• Develop research gaps in the proposed niche are.
• Demonstrate ability to develop methods of bridging the research gap.
• Demonstrate knowledge in research outcomes through the discussion of results and presentations in seminars and conferences.
• Demonstrate a high-degree of understanding and competence in research area/niche.

Integrated Assessment

The institution has the Assessment Policy and related procedures which specify clearly the mechanisms, such as team approach and the use of second examiners. The learner will demonstrate the integration of learning through the submission of the dissertation and scientific paper. The research dissertation will be examined by two examiners and provision is made for more examiners in case of a dispute. The learner will demonstrate the ability to identify and solve a problem and link research findings to current literature in the field of specialisation.