Master of Science in Game Ranch Management
Purpose:
Sources: SAQA official qualification record, SAQA registered qualifications record. Yiba Verified does not own the underlying qualification data shown on this page.
Qualification type
Master's Degree
Credits
180
Sub-framework
HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
Providers listed
1
Qualification snapshot
Official qualification identity fields captured from the qualification record.
Originator
Nelson Mandela University
Quality assurance functionary
CHE - Council on Higher Education
Field
Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation
Subfield
Nature Conservation
Qual class
Regular-Provider-ELOAC
Recognise previous learning
Y
Important dates
These dates are carried directly from the qualification record.
Registration start
2024-07-01
Registration end
2027-06-30
Last date for enrolment
2028-06-30
Last date for achievement
2031-06-30
Purpose and entry context
Official SAQA text formatted for easier reading.
Purpose and rationale
Purpose
The purpose of the Master of Science in Game Ranch Management is to further technological advancements in the field of game ranch management. The learner achieving this qualification will be competent to complete a specific research project in the field of game ranch management and technology.
Rationale
South Africa is a world leader in the discipline of nature conservation, wildlife and game ranch management, with the Eastern Cape as the second most popular destination with international visitors.
The Game Ranching Industry not only plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy natural environment but also makes a significant contribution to the local economy. The commercial utilisation of wildlife resources is one of the fastest-growing economic sectors in South Africa, and currently has a total estimated turnover of R122.7 billion (2015). The industry consists of four segments:
"Tourism (50% of 12.1 million tourists go game viewing annually): +/- R102 billion.
"Game products (Trophy's, hides, venison - risks with ample opportunities): +/- R1 billion.
"Hunting: +/- R7.5 billion.
"Breeding: +/- R12.2 billion.
Sustainability lies central to the game industry, and the industry requires highly skilled employees who are specialist in the management of complex nature as well as socio-ecological systems. The qualification, therefore, will play an essential role in providing a workforce with relevant and adequate skills and knowledge to ensure a competitive and sustainable game ranch management industry.
The complexity of the industry requires highly skilled employees who able to master the management of complex systems. These complexities have resulted in job profile differentiation at middle and higher-level management. The qualification, therefore, will play an essential role in providing a workforce with relevant and adequate skills and knowledge to ensure competitive and sustainable resource management. Learners with this qualification with be able to operate at the middle to higher management levels in the industry in various enterprises.
Entry requirements and RPL
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The institution will admit learners with experience in the Wildlife, Game Ranch Management, Agricultural and Business environment through RPL. Competence in the relevant fields, including numeracy, computer and communications competence, will be assessed to determine to an exemption from modules may be given. The institutional RPL policy will be applied.
The institutional policy requires that the assessment of each learner on an individual basis. Learners who qualify to pursue this option will complete the standard application form upon which the HOD will nominate an assessor to be approved by the institution. The appointed assessor will meet with the learner to explain the RPL assessment process, the specific assessment criteria and the type and format of evidence(s) required. The HOD will verify all quality assurance requirements.
The outcome of the RPL process, including written reports by the assessor and a recommendation regarding status recognition and the final decision regarding the RPL status of the learner, will be presented to the FMC.
Entry Requirements
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is
- Postgraduate Diploma in Nature Conservation, NQF Level 8.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Technical Conservation Studies, NQF Level 8.
- Bachelor of Science Honours: Biodiversity and Conservation, NQF Level 8.
Structure and assessment
Qualification rules, exit outcomes, and assessment criteria from the SAQA record.
Qualification rules
This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.
- Dissertation, 180 Credits.
Exit level outcomes
- Identify a relevant research project.
- Explore the research area.
- Conceptualise the problem.
- Formulate appropriate title.
- Formulate hypothesis.
- Formulate objectives.
- Plan the research project.
- Conduct a basic research project.
- Interpret research findings.
- Present the research.
Associated assessment criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1
- Assessment of the exit level outcomes will be in the form of a dissertation - 100% research project.
Integrated Assessment
- Learners will present a research proposal.
- Learners will undertake a research project as reflected in the research proposal.
- Learners will collect the needed data as explained in the proposal.
- Learners will analyse and interpret the data and will make relevant conclusions from it.
- Learners will make recommendations regarding the data and the importance thereof for the industry.
Progression and comparability
Articulation options
This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation
- A cognate Master's qualification, NQF Level 9.
Vertical Articulation
- Doctor of Philosophy, NQF Level 10.
International comparability
Newcastle University - this qualification provides a link between the theory and practice of wildlife management. The qualification teaches from the perspective of regulatory authorities associated with UK wildlife management. Learners will receive advanced training in policy and science implementation. It is professionally focused and relevant to a range of roles in the sector. The qualification aims to provide learners with:
- Advanced knowledge of wildlife management theory, the principles of biodiversity and conservation, epidemiology and wildlife conflicts.
- Practical skills in wildlife and environmental data collection, data analysis, data handling, statistics and modelling methodologies with -A focus on providing evidence for policy.
The University of Padova - forms specialists in sustainable management, conservation and integrated valorisation of forests and natural resources and is characterised by an interdisciplinary approach to forestry. Learners acquire awareness and understanding of the organisation of forest and mountain ecosystems and skills for sustainable management of forests and rural landscape, especially in an Alpine and Mediterranean environment.
The University of Kent offers an MSc in Conservation Project Management that draws upon the extensive conservation project management experience of Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and equips you with the skills and tools you need to manage conservation projects effectively. The pathway is particularly suitable for managers of conservation projects who wish to build on their existing skills, or conservation practitioners who wish to move into a project management role. Learners spend time at the International Training Centre at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in Jersey.
University of South Wales - This project is often done in co-operation with conservation organisations such as National Parks; English Nature/Countryside Council for Wales; National Botanic Garden; Environment Agency and Wildlife Trusts. Examples of recent projects include coral reef conservation in the Bahamas; feeding habits of Groupers off Honduras; deforestation in SE Asia; invasive species in Cardiff Bay; biodiversity increase with organic farming; butterfly reintroduction and habitats; recognition of Japanese Knotweed by remote sensing. This project is often done in co-operation with conservation organisations such as National Parks; English Nature/Countryside Council for Wales; National Botanic Garden; Environment Agency and Wildlife Trusts. Examples of recent projects include coral reef conservation in the Bahamas; feeding habits of Groupers off Honduras; deforestation in SE Asia; invasive species in Cardiff Bay; biodiversity increase with organic farming; butterfly reintroduction and habitats; recognition of Japanese Knotweed by remote sensing.
Edinburg Napier University -This qualification has been designed in conjunction with employers and professional bodies. The main focus is on the development of practical employability skills. In recognition of the strong practical and employability focus, this the first and only degree in Scotland to be accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), meaning learners will graduate with an accredited MSc. In addition to studying relevant theory, learners have the opportunity to develop:
- Advanced analytical skills for population investigation and management.
- Practical skills used in identifying, quantifying and assessing biodiversity.
- Transferable skills including communication, IT (GIS, R, Mark), problem-solving, research and team working.
Providers currently listed
This reflects provider names published on the official record. It is useful for qualification discovery, but it should not be treated as a substitute for checking the relevant quality body’s latest provider status.
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