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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
102065  Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics 
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  Physical 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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics is a qualification at Level 7 on the National Qualifications Framework. The Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics will enable graduate to be equipped with the necessary and required theoretical, practical and technical physics principles to function particularly in Non-Destructive Testing, Industrial Ventilation and either of Photonics or the Nuclear Science and Technology disciplines. The foundational structure of the qualification has been developed to produce learners with the necessary skills and competencies in the non-destructive testing of materials, and has been coupled with specialisation in either photonics or nuclear science and technology.

Rationale:
Industrial Physics is a term used to describe a wide spectrum of physics based-applications and practices in industry. South Africa is in need of skilled technologists in 'high-tech' industries such as, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Photonics, Nuclear Technology, Industrial Ventilation and Vacuum Technology. This qualification focuses on the training of suitable candidates to fulfil the current need for highly skilled technicians and technologists in the above industries.

Non-destructive testing permeates a wide range of industrial activities, particularly engineering, with new methods being developed on a continual basis. According to the South African Institute for Non-Destructive Testing (SAINT), NDT, as an integral part of safety inspection, is a statutory requirement for any system, vessel or plant being manufactured or fabricated and the implementation of in-service inspection programmes are also required to ensure that systems continue to operate safely. There is thus a need in the NDT industry for well-rounded technicians who are versatile in their training. This qualification aims to cover theoretical and practical aspects of specific NDT methods that include visual testing, eddy-current testing, liquid penetrant testing, ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing and magnetic particle testing. The degree of theoretical rigour in the qualification will ensure that the graduates will have more than just a practical understanding of NDT methods and techniques.

Photonics is listed as a scarce skill according to the National Masters Scarce Skills List for South Africa published by the Ministry of Labour. While a ubiquitous technology, there is a need for qualified and skilled people in the use and development of photonics in varied fields such as telecommunications, information science, medicine, construction and optical metrology. The Photonics Initiative of South Africa (PISA) has support from the Department of Science and Technology to develop a national strategy on Photonics, which should inter alia present a roadmap for the future of photonics in the country. The development of human capital is one of the key requirements for the success of this initiative. The Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics aims to fulfil this need.

Nuclear Science and Technology find applications in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, mining, energy, agriculture and health. There is a growing need for well qualified and skilled nuclear technologists in the country as the nuclear industry develops. Underpinning the use of nuclear technology, among others, is the role played by Radiation Protection Officers (RPOs). A solid foundation in nuclear science and radiation protection is a critical requirement for any practising RPO. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the world's centre for cooperation in the nuclear field, cites the development of human capital in radiation protection and nuclear safety as particularly crucial in developing countries where the nuclear industry is not yet fully developed. Graduates of the Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics qualification would be readily absorbed into the field of Nuclear Science and Technology. Learners qualifying in this field would be registered with South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) as radiation workers.

Industrial Ventilation and Vacuum Technology may be regarded as a crucial support function in many industries. This is especially true of the mining industry where proper ventilation is of vital importance. In other fields, for example in nuclear technology applications, there are many processes and measurements that can only take place in a vacuum environment. Certain optical investigations are better carried out in gases under partial pressure in photonics. It is important therefore that technologists who work with ventilation and vacuum systems in their field of practice should have a well-grounded knowledge of these systems.

The Advanced Diploma in Industrial Physics fits with the general ethos of the institution in that it delivers a qualification that will enable industrial physics graduates to further their professional/specialised qualification in industrial physics. The qualification is in line with government policies to provide the necessary professional career paths for learners to get access to higher education qualifications in science, engineering and technology. In this case the focus is on Non-Destructive Testing, Photonics and Nuclear Technology.

The qualification targets learners with a Diploma qualification, as well as Bachelor of Science (BSc) Physics graduates who want a qualification of a professional nature so as to be able to be technicians in Photonics and Non-Destructive Testing, Radiation Safety and Protection Officers and who want to further their discipline-specific and practical knowledge. The base qualification, Industrial Physics, will enable learners to find NDT jobs in any of visual testing, eddy-current testing, liquid penetrant testing, ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing and magnetic particle testing. They could also be absorbed by Research and Innovation institutions and companies as Research Assistants/Technicians. Learners specialising in the field of Photonics may work as Optical Instrument Technicians, Lens Coating Technicians, Optical Fibre Technicians, Laser Technicians and Optical Metrologists. Students specialising in the field of nuclear technology can be employed as General Nuclear Technicians, Radiation Protection Technicians, Radiation Metrologists, Waste Management Technicians, Radiation Inspectors and Contamination Risk Technicians.

The qualification articulates to a Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Physics. Graduates of the qualification would also qualify to enrol for BSc (Hons) Degrees such as Medical Physics, Laser Physics, and Radiation and Health Physics. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The university gives recognition of prior learning, 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 university. Prior-learning and or experience relevant to the field of Industrial Physics 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 will be encouraged to contact the Office of the Registrar.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement to this qualification is either a:
  • Diploma in Industrial Physics, Level 6.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Science Degree with Physics as a major, Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Compulsory Modules at Level 7: 66 Credits:
  • Industrial Physics IV, 30 Credits.
  • Advanced Physics I, 24 Credits.
  • Electromagnetism, 12 Credits.

    Elective Modules at Level 7: 54 Credits:
  • Radiation Protection Dosimetry I, 24 Credits.
  • Accelerators and Nuclear Reactors I, 12 Credits.
  • Occupational Radiation Protection, 18 Credits.
  • Laser and Fibre Optics I, 24 Credits.
  • Radiometry and Photometry, 12 Credits.
  • Optical Design I, 18 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
  • Demonstrate integrated knowledge of the core physics principles and theories of Solid State Physics, Thermodynamics, Statistical Mechanics, Quantum Physics and Electromagnetism.
  • Apply these in theoretical and practical problem-solving strategies in the practice of applied physics.
  • Apply and evaluate key terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories of Industrial Ventilation and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) in varied industrial contexts.
  • Analyse, interpret, and communicate technical information within and outside one's specific discipline or occupation.

    The following Exit Level Outcomes applies to learners specialising in Photonics:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the working principles of complex optical metrology and fibre technology systems sufficiently to partake in professional practice and ensure personal safety, health and environmental protection according to quality management and safety policies.
  • Assemble, operate and perform fault diagnostics in basic optical instruments, design optical drawings and measuring techniques, and select appropriate laser systems for performing specific tasks to meet national and international quality standards.

    The following Exit Level Outcomes applies to learners specialising in Nuclear Technology:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific and operational principles of complex nuclear installations sufficiently to partake in professional practice and ensure personal safety, health and environmental protection according to quality management and safety policies.
  • Design radiation protection programmes; through interpretation and implementation of radiation protection regulations, selecting appropriate radiation monitoring instruments and methods. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Identify and explain operational principles and mechanisms of complex optical metrology systems in Radiometry and Photometry in terms of physics principles.
  • Know the laser radiation safety requirements well.
  • Characterise and calibrate simple optical instruments such as power metres, spectrum analysers, infrared cameras and lasers to national and international standards.
  • Design elaborate optical measurement techniques for different tasks.
  • Demonstrate knowledge, understanding and explain applications of small to large nuclear installations, vis-à-vis nuclear reactors and particle accelerators, in energy generation, production of radioisotopes, radiology and research and development industries in terms of the underlying physics principles.
  • Design elaborate radiation monitoring and assessment programmes, based on regulations published by the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR), for different exposure scenarios in different work environments including nuclear reactor installations, medical radiography, industrial radiography, mining, and research and development settings.
  • Understand Radiation Protection Dosimetry as core to radiation protection programmes, with appropriate dosimeters selected for monitoring different types of radiation fields, and calibrated according to procedures prescribed by the national primary standards laboratory for ionising radiation, the Radiation Dosimetry laboratory of the National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA).

    Integrated Assessment:
    The assessment undertaken to determine the learners' applied competence and successful completion of learning in the qualification will be through a combination of formative and summative strategies. This integrated approach to 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 be used to inform learners about their progress on a continuous basis throughout the course of study. 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 learner 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 about how teaching and learning can be improved. Throughout the qualification, formative assessment strategies will be used to ensure that Exit Level Outcomes are achieved. These modes of assessment will include (but not limited to):
  • Assignments.
  • Class exercises.
  • Presentations.
  • Practicals.

    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 will be used for promotional purposes and will take the form of (including, but not limited to):
  • Examinations (theoretical).
  • Tests. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Ordinary Physics Degree qualifications are not vocational. However, many industries might be keener to employ physics graduates if their Degree was in Industrial Physics. The above assertion has been one of the major bases that the Industrial Physics (also referred to as Applied Physics) Degree has been established in various universities around the world. Graduates will be prepared to enter the workplace with the generalist training of a traditional physicist and the practical, hands-on skills of an engineer.

    The following is a list of qualifications offered by universities that offer Industrial/Applied Physics Degrees in other parts of the world:
  • Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics offered at City University of Hong Kong, in Hong Kong, elective modules Biomedical Physics, Nuclear and Environmental Physics, Materials Technology, Photonics.
  • Bachelor of Applied Physics offered at University of Groningen, in Netherlands, elective modules.
  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Physics offered at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), in Malaysia, elective modules: Non-Destructive Testing, Materials Technology, Nuclear Technology, Photonics.
  • Bachelor of Science in Industrial Physics offered at University of Agriculture, Makurdi, in Nigeria, elective modules: Industrial Physics II, Applied Geophysics, Industrial Electronics I, Medical Physics and Instrumentation, Physics of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers the following articulation possibilities:
    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Physics, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Physics, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Medical Physics, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Hons (Applied Science), Level 8. 
    		•

    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.
     
    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.