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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101555  Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology 
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
Advanced Diploma  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Life Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
72372  Bachelor of Technology: Biotechnology  Level 7  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L7  480  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology is a vocational learning programme and has been planned for in the institution and approved internally by Senate. The purpose of the qualification is for academic broadening and deepening of the scope of knowledge and skills in terms of Advanced Molecular, Environmental, Industrial and Medical Biotechnology. It is therefore suitable for continuing development by reiterating the deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory and methodology in the field of Biotechnology. Learners will be able to contribute innovative developments in the different fields of Biotechnology and engage in entrepreneurial activities. Other aspects applicable to the qualification are engaging with the scientific communities towards sustainable development whilst being learner-centred and quality-driven. Financial provision and resources for the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology forms part of the institution's planning and resource allocation.

Rationale:
Biotechnology, is recognised globally as a rapidly emerging and comprehensive technology, and is also referred to as the "technology of hope". Nationally, Biotechnology has also been identified and documented as a scarce skill, resulting in various national strategies for the development of Biotechnology, and thus the training of Biotechnologists in South Africa (SA). The main objectives of the national biotechnology strategy for South Africa aim to:
  • To improve access to and affordability of health care.
  • To provide sufficient nutrition at low cost (food security).
  • To create jobs in manufacturing.
  • To protect and cherish our rich environment.

    Hence, nationally, the Biotechnology industry is in need of more qualified and well trained biotechnologists with the necessary skills to address needs such as food security, improved public health; industrial and environmental issues.

    Typically, well trained Biotechnologists have the potential to improve agricultural food sources, enhancing food security; improving health with the development of new or improved products such as nutraceuticals and other pharmaceutical products; and ensure the sustainability of the environment. Additionally biotechnologists utilise both fundamental and applied approaches to address current and future water, soil and climate problems, which will impact negatively on the rich biodiversity and natural resources of South Africa. To address these problems, a deeper knowledge and understanding of research methodology and the ability to conduct research projects is crucial for the Biotechnologist working in a relevant biotechnology industry and/or research institution.

    The Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology is designed typically to fall within the vocational pathway at level 7, and thus will fulfil the current need of knowledge enhancement for qualified Biotechnologists in South Africa. Such technologists will perform work at a quality based technical level within relevant industries; and require a broader and deeper body of knowledge in the main field of study. As such the rationale for this qualification is based on important issues such as the Industry demand both nationally and globally.

    The situation at this moment is that, learners study for three years attainting a National Diploma and the soon to be introduced Diploma in Biotechnology (360 Credits). A significant number of learners that attained the National Diploma in Biotechnology, are continuing with their studies, enrolling for the current B Tech: Biotechnology (SAQA QUAL ID: 1723, Level 7). This qualification was developed to gain deeper knowledge in the field of Biotechnology, thereby improving the students' skills (including basic research skills). Due to alignment with the requirement of the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework HEQSF, the B Tech Degree will be phase out, which will leave a gap in the market for continued development in the field of Biotechnology. To be in line with contemporary practices of the Universities of Technology, as far as studies in Biotechnology is concerned, this application for a one-year Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology has been developed.

    Due to the interdisciplinary nature of Biotechnology and the number of subjects and skills training covered in the National Diploma, the advanced Diploma will be the first opportunity for Biotechnologists to be exposed to the specialisation fields of Biotechnology including Industrial, Environmental, Medical Biotechnology, as well as advanced Molecular Biology. These specialisation fields will also inform the learners of the different broader fields of research in Biotechnology, including new advances and developments worldwide which are necessary when articulating to the Postgraduate Diploma and the Postgraduate Degrees in Biotechnology. This information will also be useful in the areas where the Biotechnologists are employed as it broadens the understanding of the technologies available that could be applicable to their environment. In addition, regulations and standards, and basic project and research management, as well as quality assurance relevant to the biotechnology industry, previously not addressed, will be covered.

    The Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology will enable biotechnologists to continue with specialised development in the field of Biotechnology. This will enable the learners to continue their studies at the institution where they are enrolled, or learners will be allowed to access relevant qualifications nationally or internationally. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution provides Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as stipulated in the RPL policy, in order to prevent the repetition of offerings already obtained which correspond with the current offering being pursued at the institution. Prior-learning and or experience relevant to the field of Biotechnology will be evaluated and considered for access to the Advanced Diploma.

    Candidates may apply at the Office of the Registrar for RPL or for admission via the Senate's discretionary route. The specific relevant documentation will be requested from these applicants, and these cases will be handled on an individual basis. Candidates are encouraged to contact the Office of the Registrar.

    Entry Requirements:
  • A 360 Credits Diploma or National Diploma in Biotechnology/Microbiology.
    Or
  • A Bachelor's Degree in Biotechnology/Microbiology. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.
  • Introduction to Postgraduate Research, 12 Credits.
  • Environmental Biotechnology, 12 Credits.
  • Industrial Biotechnology, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Molecular Biology, 48 Credits.
  • Medical Biotechnology, 12 Credits.
  • Quality and Safety Management Systems, 12 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurial Skills, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Attain and evaluate integrated detailed knowledge and knowledge literacy of the central areas of Biotechnology as well as detailed knowledge in environmental, industrial and medical biotechnology.
    2. Investigate and critically reflect on a range of methods of enquiry to address complex problems identified in the broad field of Biotechnology ethically and professionally.
    3. Facilitate and manage activities within a familiar or unfamiliar context, taking decisions and acting ethically, morally and professionally in the field of Biotechnology.
    4. Communicate ideas using appropriate academic, and occupational discourse by using a variety of technologies and methodologies relevant to the field of Biotechnology.
    5. Identify, evaluate and address learning needs in a self-directed manner and facilitate collaborative learning processes of peers within the field of Biotechnology. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply and evaluate the key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories relevant to the field of Biotechnology and associated industries.
  • Recognise, explain, and compare Integrated and detailed knowledge and knowledge literacy of biotechnological concepts, principles and rules.
  • Identify and analyse biotechnology concepts, theories and strategies in the specialised fields of environmental, industrial and medical biotechnology; as well as advanced molecular biotechnology are using applicable examples typically found in the industry.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments that can be practised to resolve biotechnological, microbial, quality and/or managerial problems.
  • Utilise methods of enquiry to investigate complex problems in the fields of: Environmental biotechnology, Industrial biotechnology, Medical biotechnology, Advanced molecular biotechnology, and Quality assurance.
  • Critically evaluate and apply evidence-based solutions to case studies relevant to the fields.
  • Distinguish, contrast and resolve biotechnological, microbial, quality and/or managerial problems using theory-driven arguments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Justify those decisions and actions, taking full responsibility for their work and decision making, drawing on appropriate ethical values and approaches within a supported and supervised environment.
  • Identify, formulate and execute activities, decisions and actions regarding environmental, industrial and medical biotechnology, as well as molecular biology by facilitating and managing the process in an ethical, moral and professional manner.
  • Defend ethical values and approaches to management principles and professional practice, with regards to decisions and actions made.

    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 the field of Biotechnology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Identify, tailor, evaluate and address continuous development of learning needs in a self-directed manner in order to facilitate collaborative learning processes of both the technologist and his/her peers within the field of Biotechnology.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated assessment is a multidisciplinary approach to assessment of learning. It is based on combining, interpreting and communicating knowledge in this field of study. In this qualification, integrated assessment is ensured by incorporating both formative and summative assessment strategies into the learning programme. Assessment strategies are underpinned by the Exit Level Outcomes and Assessment Criteria, which are designed using the level descriptors and the scope of practice, as well as module outcomes. As such, all elements are aligned with the purpose statement of the qualification. Integrated assessment will take place within the context of an active learning environment, in adherence to:
  • Quality assurance policies, procedures and processes.
  • A guided and supported learning environment.

    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 learner developmentally and to provide feedback to all involved in the learning process of how teaching and learning can be improved. Throughout the qualification, formative assessment strategies will be used to ensure that Exit Level Outcomes are achieved, which include (but not limited to):
  • Assignments.
  • Demonstrations.
  • Presentations.
  • Tests and/or any other applicable methods required within a specific teaching and learning experience.

    Summative Assessment:
    Summative assessment will involve assessment opportunities that take place at the end of a learning experience. Information will be gathered about a learner's level of competence upon completion of a unit, module or qualification. 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 Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology is comparable to other national and international tertiary institutions. The majority of these national and international qualifications are aimed at the preparation of a student to work as a specialist in the field of Biotechnology but also Microbiology (including related fields through a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge).

    This qualification has been compared with the following international qualifications:
    Qualification: Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) 4 Years.
    Provider: Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
    Country: Australia.

    Qualification: Bachelor of Science. Including option of an Honours, Master's and Doctoral Degrees.
    Provider: University of Queensland.
    Country: Australia.

    Qualification: Bachelor of Science. Including option of an Honours, Master's and Doctoral Degrees.
    Provider: Pennsylvania State University.
    Country: United States of America. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers vertical systemic articulation with qualifications offered at other institutions provided the learner meets the minimum admission requirements.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • A relevant qualification, Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology.
  • An appropriate Level 8 qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.