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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
102036  Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology 
ORIGINATOR
Vaal University of Technology 
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 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Promotive Health and Developmental Services 
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  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
72663  Bachelor of Technology: Biotechnology  Level 7  Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L7  480  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to equip learners with advanced knowledge and skills within the discipline of Biotechnology.

Qualified learners will be able to:
  • Apply a range of specialised techniques within the Biotechnology context.
  • Apply critical and innovative thinking at a higher level as well as problem solving skills in Biotechnology.
  • Complete a research project that will enable them to develop research skills for application in biotechnology and enterprise development.
  • Be competent in the application of scientific methods for the advancement of biotechnology and will be prepared to enter into the Masters level of study.

    Rationale:
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology is designed to provide learners with a knowledge of biotechnology. This qualification phases out the existing Bachelor of Technology (BTech). The emphasis of this qualification is on research, allowing a learner to complete a research project in our of the Department of Biotechnology focus areas. The aim of this qualification is to equip learners with technical skills and other skills, such as reporting and interpreting results that form integral part of this qualification. It also includes newer technologies, such as, Genomics and Biostatistics.

    Input on this qualification was received from the advisory board and other stakeholders in the discipline of Biotechnology. Through research experience, learners completing this qualification will gain advantage and be able to articulate into Masters level. This qualification will also enable learners to meet the needs of the surrounding environment, which includes industries around the Vaal Triangle that employs graduates because of such skills sought after. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    At the most basic level, the student applying for RPL compares the work he/she has previously done with the work contained in the course for which the student intends to register.

    The details of the Faculty RPL policy are as follows, presuming NO prior accredited learning has taken place:
  • Candidate applies for RPL against module, or part/full qualification at the relevant department (Head of Department-HOD).
  • RPL officer is appointed from within subject heads (Subject experts) within the department.
  • The subject expert meets with the candidate to conduct pre-screening (evaluation) to ascertain viability of application based on programme requirements (exit level outcomes and assessment criteria).
  • Candidate prepares evidence of work (portfolio of evidence) and/or any other relevant proof of evidence (practical work, assignments and or assessments). The evidence needs to be submitted to the RPL officer for RPL evaluation process.
  • Candidate pays an initial fee to be RPL-ed.
  • The candidate then completes a RPL form and submits it to RPL officer.
  • An assessor from within the department is then appointed.
  • Evidence submitted by the candidate is assessed by the assessor. However, additional evidence may be requested.
  • A moderator from the department's advisory board and from within the candidate's industry is appointed.
  • The moderator moderates the candidate's evidence.
  • The moderator reports on the assessor's judgment.
  • RPL outcome is presented to faculty board by RPL officer.
  • If the credit is not awarded, an appeals application to independently appointed moderator or VUT's registrar can be done. The process of moderation will then resume.
  • If the RPL is awarded, an exemption form is completed and the candidate may continue with full registration.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry to this qualification is:
  • A three (3) year Bachelor's Degree.
    Or
  • Advanced Diploma at Level 7 with completion of the Research Methodology as a module. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 8 totalling 125 Credits.

    Modules:
  • Research Project in Biotechnology, 40 Credits.
  • Advanced Biotechnology Module 1, 10 Credits.
  • Advanced Biotechnology Module 2, 10 Credits.
  • Bioinformatics Module1, 13 Credits.
  • Bioinformatics Module2, 12 Credits.
  • Biostatistics Module 1, 13 Credits.
  • Biostatistics Module 2, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Molecular Biology, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Plan and write a project proposal and apply the scientific method.
    2. Plan and conduct a research project under supervision and report findings in oral and visual scientific format.
    3. Apply critical and innovative thinking at a higher level as well as problem-solving skills in biotechnology.
    4. Critically evaluate and apply a range of specialised techniques within the biotechnology context.
    5. Develop research skills for application in biotechnology and enterprise development.
    6. Collect, organise, analyse and critically evaluate data.
    7. Understand ethical and legal implications of research.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge of the relevant theoretical aspects of biotechnology covered in the curriculum. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following associated assessment criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Identify and detail the research problem.
  • Select appropriate methods and techniques.
  • Draw up a budget and timeframe for completion of the research project.
  • Carry out practical work according to selected protocols.
  • Interpret and present results in written and oral form.
  • Write report in the correct format.
  • Apply critical thinking in solving biotechnology related problems.
  • Carry out independent research.
  • Apply specialised techniques to research.
  • Analyse data obtained using specialised tools.
  • Develop relevant skills.
  • Collect and analyse data using software and other tools.
  • Interpret and discuss results.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the legal and ethical implications of biotechnology and biotechnology research.
  • Perform research and laboratory work ethically and responsibly.
  • Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the main subject areas.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative and summative assessment will be carried out. This includes, test, exams, presentations, assignments and project reports. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    A number of foreign institutions offer the Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology. However, there are significant differences in the structure of their programs. In addition, the entry requirements are higher, in other words, these qualifications are offered above the Honours level and can be upgraded to MSc by adding more credits.

    1. University of Edinburgh
    www.ed.ac.uk/biology
    This university offers a number of qualifications in the field of biology. The PGDip (Biotechnology) runs for 9 months (fulltime) and consists of a number of compulsory taught subjects and a number of electives. The research dissertation can be based on an industrial placement or a laboratory project done on campus, under supervision.

    The main difference between this qualification and the VUT qualification is the duration. A minimum of 1 year is required to complete the VUT qualification. The Edinburgh diploma places far more emphasis on the business side of biotechnology. The qualification designed by the VUT Biotechnology department places more emphasis on research and its design. The reason for including biostatistics and bioinformatics is to ensure better data analysis and interpretation of results.

    2. Sheffield Hallam University
    www.shu.ac.uk/prospectus/course/1082/
    The PGDip (Biotechnology) offered by this British university typically takes 1 year. A number of subjects are offered, including a research project. Students are required to choose a number of subjects, adding up to a total of 120 credits. The emphasis is on plant and medical biotechnology.

    The VUT qualification also includes a research project. The other modules can be applied to any area of biotechnology.

    The Sheffield Hallam University qualification is offered above the Honours level, ie. this is the entry requirement into the qualification. Addition of a further 60 credits gives the student an MSc degree. The VUT qualification is at the same level as an Honours degree (NQF8). 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides articulation options with the following qualification:
  • Masters or Master of Technology (MTech), Level 9.

    A relevant NQF level 8 qualification, such as an Honours degree or another Postgraduate Diploma in the same or related field. 
    		•

    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.
     
    NONE 


    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.