SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
110442  Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology 
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2019-09-11  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to broaden the learner's knowledge and understanding of current methodologies and theories in Water Science and Technology as well as their technical skills required to identify and solve water quality related problems, within the whole of the water cycle. The scope of practice will include managing water treatment utilities, performing a wide range of chemical and microbial analysis on water and preventing the pollution of our countries water resources. The qualification is designed to impart an appropriate balance of theoretical and practical knowledge and skills, as well as to develop written and verbal communication skills.

This qualification will broaden the qualifying learner employment opportunities and improve their professional development. Qualifying learners that satisfy the requirements for this qualification will be able to register as either a Class V process controller (in the case of learners with no work experience) or as a Class VI process controller (learners with four years' work experience), in terms of the Water Services Act, 1997 (Act No. 108 of 1997, Regulation 17). This registration is compulsory for all process control staff employed at water and wastewater treatment plants in South Africa. A Class VI process controller is the highest level that can be achieved and the completion of this Postgraduate Diploma opens the door to senior management positions.

On successful completion of this qualification the qualifying student will be able to:
  • Optimise the design of advanced water and wastewater treatment plants with regards to cost and quality of the product water.
  • Apply scientific knowledge to improve advanced unit processes in a water and wastewater treatment plant.
  • Conduct the Blue and Green Drop Certification process.
  • Manage water and wastewater treatment plants and water laboratories in order to improve productivity and streamline processes.
  • Conduct advanced water analysis, interpret analytical results, compile reports and recommend solutions to identified problems.
  • Lead a team who liaise with customers and representatives from regulatory authorities.
  • Conduct research projects concerning the treatment and analysis of water and wastewater and suggest changes or solutions to these problems.
  • Manage human, financial, physical and informational resources in an effective and efficient manner.

    Rationale:
    South Africa needs highly skilled manpower to address all the challenges that water sector is currently experiencing a critical shortage of scarce skills. Local authorities experienced a 7-fold loss of engineers and technologists over the last 15 years which has largely contributed to the collapse of infrastructure, maintenance programs and failure of water treatment processes (Herold, 2009). The estimated shortage of water and sanitation engineers in local governments was approximately 1200 engineers (estimated in 2005) and some 4000 skilled operators according to the Water Research Commission (WRC, estimated in 2007). One of the main contributing factors is the high retirement figure which resulted in loss of institutional capacity in the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) and other large water boards and utilities (Balzer, 2014).

    The water sector in South Africa faces huge challenges regarding high level skills shortages and a lack of experienced senior managers and this programme is directly aimed at improving the current situation. This programme has been developed in consultation with the water sector and the Water Institute of Southern Africa and the sector is eagerly awaiting the introduction to address the backlog of senior staff.

    Qualifying learners will also be able to register as Professional Natural Scientists - Aquatic Science at the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP). The water sector highly values professional staff and more employers nowadays require that staff be registered at SACNASP before they are employed. This qualification fulfils a vital role in this regard because it contributes to the professionalisation of the water sector.

    South Africa is a water scare country with an average rainfall of only 500 mm per year, compared to 860 mm in the rest of the world. It is predicted based on current usage trends, that the water demand will exceed availability of economically usable fresh water resources by 2025.

    The institution involved and consulted extensively with the major role players in the water sector. The institution was also invited by the Water Institute of South Africa (WISA) to host a one-day workshop during the 2012 and 2014 WISA conferences to involve more role players and to inform the water sector about the latest developments regarding the curriculation process.

    Based on all the above mentioned factors it is very clear that there is an urgent need to provide higher level manpower to the South African water sector. The Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology is aimed at filling this gap by providing competent senior managers to give guidance to a struggling water sector.

    The graduate will be able to manage water and wastewater treatment plants effectively, analyse and interpret water samples, advise on water quality problems and improve the management of water utilities and also be able to address many of the needs expressed in the aforementioned paragraphs. As a water quality scientist/technologist, the graduate will be a member of a multi-disciplinary team of professionals who is responsible for safeguarding all aspects of water quality through scientific analysis and the setting of targets and standards in response to specific legislation (SANS 241 for drinking water and the National Water Act, Section 21 for effluents discharged into public streams). The qualified scientist/ technologist will find employment at the Department of Water and Sanitation, Water Boards, Water Services Authorities, and Municipalities, SASOL, ESKOM and other manufacturing industries.

    The Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology provides an opportunity to broaden and deepen the scope of knowledge and skills of advanced process design, water analysis, water chemistry and management of water utilities. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Recognition of Prior Learning will be provided in accordance with institution's RPL policy. Any credit bearing education relevant to the Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7 will be considered. RPL learners will be required to develop a comprehensive portfolio outlining their work and industrial experience within the water sector where they must provide sufficient evidence that they have attained and mastered the necessary skills.

    The RPL policy of the University provides clear guidelines to learners who intend to enter into the Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology. Learners may apply at the Office of the Registrar for RPL or for admission via the Senate's discretionary route.

    Access to this qualification may be possible through the recognition of relevant prior learning and through prior experience as a practitioner in the field of Water Science/Technology. A structured means for the assessment of individual learners will be developed against the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification on a case-by-case basis. The necessary evidence as required by the Exit Level Outcomes, and presented by the learner, should meet the following principles: currency of evidence, sufficiency of evidence, validity of evidence and authenticity of evidence.

    The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible. Recognition of Prior Learning includes formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience in the fields of water science/technology. The learner will be thoroughly briefed on the mechanism to be used and support and guidance will be provided.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Advanced Diploma in Water Science and Technology. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, 90 Credits:
  • Water Treatment Process Design IV, 24 Credits.
  • Wastewater Treatment Process Design IV, 24 Credits.
  • Research Methodology and Skills, 12 Credits.
  • Research Project IV, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules, 30 Credits (Choose/Select two):
  • Water Services Management III, 15 Credits.
  • Water Resources Management III, 15 Credits.
    Or
  • Advanced Water Analyses IV, 15 Credits.
  • Water Chemistry IV, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate knowledge of and engagement in water treatment, analysis and management, understanding of the theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques in water science and technology and have an understanding of how to apply such knowledge in the water environment.
    2. Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and uncertainties of selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures or techniques to unfamiliar problems in water science and technology and an ability to.
    3. Reflect, facilitate and manage activities within a specific context, taking decisions and acting ethically, morally and professionally in the field of water science and technology.
    4. Produce and communicate ideas and results using appropriate academic and occupational discourse by using a variety of technologies and methodologies relevant to the field of research within the field of Water Science and Technology.
    5. Identify, evaluate and address learning needs in a self-critical manner, and facilitate collaborative learning processes of peers within an appropriate research environment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Recognise integrated, detailed knowledge and knowledge literacy of water science and technological concepts, principles and rules; research, evaluate, process and apply to relevant examples in the water sector.
  • Demonstrate applied knowledge, techniques and skills typically required from a water technologist within the water sector.
  • Describe applied water science and treatment technological concepts, theories and strategies in the specialised field of applied water science and technology.
  • Identify, analyse and develop new and existing water technologies using applicable examples, typically found in the water sector.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Utilise the methods of enquiry to investigate complex problems in the fields Water Treatment Technologies, Water Analyses, Water Resource Management and/or current research topics.
  • Critically evaluate evidence-based solutions and apply to case studies relevant to the fields above.
  • Advanced water technologies, methods for water analyses and the development of water safety related research problems can be distinguished and contrasted, and resolved using research and theory-driven arguments.
  • Use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems, drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to water science and technology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify, formulate and execute activities, decisions and actions regarding research methodology and research practice within an appropriate research environment.
  • Defend, appraise and judge ethical values and approaches to research-management principles and research practice, with regards to decisions and actions decided based on research results.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Justify and adhere to appropriate academic and occupational discourse using an assortment of technologies and methodologies relevant to research in the field of Water Science and Technology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Identify, evaluate and address continuous development of learning needs in a self-critical manner in order to facilitate collaborative learning processes of both the technologist and peers within an appropriate research environment.

    Integrated Assessment.
    Formative Assessment:
    Formative Assessment will thus mainly involve integrated types of assessment, used to inform learners about their progress on a continuous basis throughout the semester. Self and peer assessment (with the aid of relevant analytical assessment tools) will contribute to formative assessment. Marks collected from this evidence may be recorded for promotional purposes or may be used for the sole purpose of student and lecturer reflection, growth and development. Formative assessment will be used to support the student developmentally and to provide feedback to all involved in the learning process of how teaching and learning can be improved. Throughout the programme, formative assessment strategies will be used to ensure that exit level and critical cross-field outcomes are achieved, which include (but not limited to):
  • Assignments.
  • Demonstrations.
  • Presentations.
  • Tests.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative Assessment will involve assessment opportunities that take place at the end of a learning experience. Information will be gathered about a student's level of competence upon completion of a unit, module or programme. Results may be expressed in marks in terms of the level of competence achieved, with regard to level descriptors, specific outcomes and assessment standards. This type of assessment is used for promotional purposes and does take the form of (including, but not limited to):
  • Examinations (theoretical).
  • Portfolios.
  • Presentations.
  • Tests. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology is comparable to international tertiary institutions. The majority of these international qualifications are aimed at the preparation of a learner to work as a specialist in the field of Water Science and Technology (including related fields through a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge). Some of the institutions (internationally) surveyed, accept different qualifications to their qualification similar to the Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology. Therefore, it should be possible for learners to study at other institutions globally.

    A Postgraduate Diploma in Water Resource Management is offered at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. This qualification is comparable to Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology. In the Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology learners have the opportunity to focus on Water Resources and Water quality.

    A Postgraduate Diploma Water and Wastewater Engineering is offered at Cranfield University in the United Kingdom. This qualification is comparable the Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology. In the Postgraduate Diploma in Water Science and Technology learners have the opportunity to focus on Water and Wastewater Treatment Resources and Water quality. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Environment and Water Science, Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Science in Water Resource Management, Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.