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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Animal Health 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
105730  Advanced Diploma in Animal Health 
ORIGINATOR
University of South Africa 
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 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary Agriculture 
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  2019-02-13  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:
This qualification is designed to prepare learners for Postgraduate level. It is primarily vocational, with a strong industry-oriented focus. The qualification also serves to provide learners with the advanced knowledge, cognitive and conceptual tools and practical techniques for higher education in Animal Health. It may provide intellectual enrichment, enhance flexibility in the light of changing circumstances in the field of Animal Health, enable a change in career path or offer an intensive, focused and applied specialisation which meets the requirements in the labour market of the animal health industry. The graduates of the Advanced Diploma in Animal Health will have a deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory and methodology in an area of specialisation. It is therefore particularly suitable for continuing professional development. The Advanced Diploma in Animal Health may also provide entry-level professional preparation or specialisation for graduates of a related Bachelor's Degree.

Completion of the Advanced Diploma in Animal Health or accumulated credits may be presented for entry into a related cognate Bachelor's Degree.

Rationale:
The Advanced Diploma in Animal Health offers the opportunity to learners holding a Diploma in Animal Health or related relevant qualification to specialise and further their education in the field of Animal Health. This specialisation will enable graduates to meet the requirements of a very specific niche within the labour market in the field of animal and veterinary public health in Africa. Learners will achieve a deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory and methodology in their specific area of animal health and veterinary public health. The qualification is therefore particularly suitable for continuing professional development which is required for graduates by the South African Veterinary Council as the regulatory body for Animal Health Technicians. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition may be granted for non-formal prior experiential learning. The RPL process will be conducted according to institution's RPL Policy and may involve the submission of portfolios with evidence of prior learning, challenge examinations, and interviews with assessment panels.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirements are:
  • Diploma in Animal Health, Level 6.
    Or
  • National Diploma in a related field, Level 6.
    Or
  • An appropriate qualification at Level 6. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 7, totalling 120 Credits.
  • Epidemiology 4,12 Credits.
  • Veterinary Public Health 4,12 Credits.
  • Animal Diseases 4: Non-Controlled, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Diseases 4: Controlled animal diseases, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural and Rural Development,12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Project Analysis, 12 Credits.
  • Introduction to Geographical Information Systems, 12 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Health Care, 12 Credits.
  • Participatory Approaches in Extension, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply strategies for disease control and prevention.
    2. Use epidemiological information to manage risk.
    3. Apply epidemiological information as a tool in quality assurance systems.
    4. Demonstrate understanding of the concepts and definitions of Veterinary Public Health.
    5. Demonstrate understanding of the role of the integrated food-chain approach, HACCP and auditing to production of safe food.
    6. Execute the role of the veterinary public health Animal Health Technician's (AHT) in the field.
    7. Demonstrate an understanding of the causes of diseases and the general disease process associated with each one.
    8. Distinguish between controlled and non-controlled diseases and the management of each of these groups of diseases.
    9. Identify the steps involved in a non-controlled disease, and apply the steps to a given scenario.
    10. Recommend appropriate treatment measures for given non-controlled diseases.
    11. Recommend appropriate prevention measures for given non-controlled diseases.
    12. Advise farmers on the identification, treatment and prevention of non-controlled diseases.
    13. Distinguish between the main different types of controlled diseases, and sketch the history of occurrence of given controlled diseases in the Southern African and, where relevant, the international context.
    14. Demonstrate an understanding of the steps involved in diagnosing a controlled disease, and apply the steps to a given scenario.
    15. Select, describe and motivate the procedures to be followed in initiating a disease control campaign following the outbreak of a controlled disease.
    16. Draw up an effective plan for managing and co-ordinating the actions involved in a disease control campaign.
    17. Advise farmers on the diagnostic methodology used for, and the management and prevention of controlled diseases. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Existing epidemiological data on a specific disease are evaluated. Appropriate strategies for the control of a specific disease considering the available data are successfully chosen and applied.
  • Eradication programmes for a specific disease based on available epidemiological data on the disease are successfully planned and executed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The concept of risk is defined, its elements are distinguished, and risk is quantified and interpreted.
  • Estimates of risk are generated by determining and applying the basic steps for risk assessment, including hazard identification and characterisation, exposure assessment and risk evaluation.
  • Strategies for the management or regulation of risk are prepared by describing components and strategies of qualitative and quantitative risk assessment, using an example of an animal or zoonotic disease.
  • A risk assessment and control study are critically reviewed.
  • Concepts of risk are effectively communicated to individuals and organisations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The role of quality assurance systems in maintaining animal, human and environmental health is described.
  • The health status of human and animal populations is assessed effectively on the basis of given epidemiological information, in a way that will contribute to ensuring the maintenance of a high standard of animal and human health.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Veterinary public health (VPH) is correctly defined.
  • Different definitions of VPH are discussed and contrasted.
  • The 'One Health' and 'Systems' Concepts' to VPH are correctly interpreted.
  • Multi-disciplinary nature of VPH and its different role-players are acknowledged.
  • Regulations applicable to Animal Health Technician are correctly interpreted.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Food safety and principles (in line with OIE, WHO, FAO, Republic of South Africa (RSA)) are accessed and discussed.
  • The integrated food-chain approach to VPH is explained.
  • The application of HACCP to the food chain approach is reviewed.
  • The application of Hygiene Assessment Systems (HAS) to food of animal origin in VPH is explained.
  • Animal Health Technician's (AHT) role in VPH during the pre-harvest phase is interpreted.
  • International livestock welfare principles during food production and processing are acknowledged and audited.
  • The AHT's role in VPH during the harvest phase is interpreted.
  • The AHT's role in VPH during the post-harvest phase, including food associated diseases, is interpreted.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The role of the AHT in the field is identified in line with the relevant regulations and the principles of VPH.
  • In the context of scenario, relevant regulations are identified and implemented by the AHT.
  • In the context of a scenario, the general principles of meat hygiene are correctly identified and applied.
  • Guidelines for environmental health protection and waste disposal during production and processing of food of animal are applied.
  • Basic principles of epidemiology are applied to VPH by AHT.
  • Guidelines for ensuring production of safe meat and milk are described.
  • Guidelines for ensuring production of fish that is safe and sound are described.
  • Guidelines for ensuring production of honey that is safe and sound described.
  • Guidelines for production of eggs that are safe and sound are described.
  • VPH Legislation to be implemented by AHT during certification of food for export/import are identified and described.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Given a scenario of a disease or condition, one of five possible general causes of the disease or condition is correctly identified, with appropriate reasons for the identification.
  • The general disease process associated with each of the general causes of disease is correctly described and applied to scenarios in specific contexts.
  • The implications of a particular disease process for the treatment and prevention of the disease are correctly identified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The terms 'non-controlled disease' and 'controlled disease' are correctly explained and distinguished, and appropriate examples are given of each category.
  • A given disease is correctly classified as either non-controlled or controlled, with appropriate reasons for the classification.
  • A correct general distinction is made between the different processes involved in managing a non-controlled and a controlled disease.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Given a scenario of a disease, it is correctly described how the history of the case will be obtained, and the relevant questions needed to obtain the history are identified.
  • The methodology for evaluating the working of different body systems by: observation, and Examination is correctly described, with consideration of how this will be carried out in a particular context.
  • A feasible presumptive identification is made based on the case history, observation and examination of a disease condition in a particular context.
  • The resources needed to perform a confirmation of a diagnosis in a given context are correctly identified, including human resources, tools and equipment.
  • Relevant samples for obtaining a confirmation of a diagnosis are correctly identified and where relevant it is described how the samples should be taken.
  • Given a particular scenario, an accurate description is given of how a post mortem should be conducted in that context, and how dead animals should be disposed of.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Given a particular Southern African scenario related to one of the five major causes of disease, different available treatment and product options are correctly identified and described.
  • The handling, mixing (where relevant) and storage of a given product in a particular context are correctly described.
  • Dosages of particular products in a given context are accurately calculated, and it is correctly described how the product should be administered and used in a cost-effective way.
  • Withdrawal periods of product routes are correctly given.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Four different approaches to prevention are correctly distinguished and described, namely improving general resistance, improving acquired immunity, decreasing the exposure to disease, and totally.
  • Preventing exposure to the disease (biosecurity).
  • Given a particular context and the type of disease cause in that context, appropriate recommendations are made for applying one or more of the prevention approaches.
  • An appropriate biosecurity plan is drawn up for a particular context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Relevant principles of the identification, treatment and prevention of diseases are communicated to farmers in such a way that they can apply these principles in the provision of primary animal health care.
  • A presentation to at least two farmer groups (or simulated farmer groups) is prepared and presented, and relevant evidence of the presentation is provided, for example the text or slides of the presentation, posters, photos or attendance registers.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:
  • At least three different types of controlled diseases are correctly distinguished in terms of their transmission modes and rates (e.g. highly infectious diseases spreading rapidly from animal to animal; highly infectious, rapidly-spreading diseases transmitted by insects; and slow-spreading chronic diseases).
  • Given a particular controlled disease, the history of occurrence of the disease in the Southern African and, where relevant, the international context is accurately sketched in broad terms, and correct conclusions are drawn about the economic and social implications and consequences of the disease.
  • Relevant sources for obtaining information on controlled diseases are correctly identified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 14:
  • Given a scenario of a controlled disease, it is correctly described how a presumptive diagnosis should be reached by obtaining a case history, observation and examination in the particular context.
  • The resources needed to perform a confirmation of a diagnosis in a given context are correctly identified, including human resources, tools and equipment.
  • Relevant samples for obtaining a confirmation of a diagnosis are correctly identified and where relevant it is described how the samples should be taken.
  • Given a particular scenario, an accurate description is given of how a post mortem should be conducted in that context, and how the disposal of dead animals should be undertaken.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 15:
  • Given a particular disease, the protocol to be followed within the first 24 hours after the presumptive diagnosis of the disease is accurately described and motivated, and correctly applied to scenarios or case studies.
  • The legislative sources of the relevant protocol are correctly identified and cited where appropriate.
  • Relevant required documentation to initiate and record the application of the protocol is correctly completed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 16:
  • Relevant procedures to be followed after the diagnosis of a controlled disease are correctly identified and described, with consideration of the type of controlled disease involved (i.e. its transmission mode and rate of transmission).
  • The main tools needed to bring a disease under control or eradicate it are accurately identified and applied in the context of a scenario or case study, including movement restrictions, quarantine, sampling and surveillance.
  • An effective disease management plan is drawn up that integrates the appropriate procedures and tools for controlling or eradicating the disease, and that includes relevant formal Operating Procedure documents, contingency plans, and measures for the disposal of carcasses and decontamination of affected areas.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 17:
  • Relevant principles of the diagnostic methodology, management and prevention of controlled diseases are communicated to farmers in such a way that they can apply these principles.
  • A presentation to at least two farmer groups (or simulated farmer groups) is effectively prepared and presented, and relevant evidence of the presentation is provided, for example the text or slides of the presentation, posters, photos or attendance registers.

    Integrated Assessment:
  • Graduates will demonstrate the integration of knowledge through the submission of the well processed assignments, portfolios, technical papers and compiled reports.
  • Graduates will apply basic skills and techniques in solving Animal Health problems in the field of specialisation.
  • For the award of the qualification, a candidate must achieve each of the compulsory modules.
  • Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through theoretical and practical experience. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Advanced Diploma in the field of Animal Science/Health are offered in the following countries:
  • In the United Kingdom (UK): Advanced Diploma in Animal Health is offered by the Academy of Distance learning in the UK and comprises of 8 modules (800 hours of guided study). This qualification has 10 modules (1200 notional hours).
  • In Australia, The ACS Distance Education offers the Advanced Diploma in Agriculture-Animal Husbandry which comprises of 7 ores modules, 7 stream modules and 11 modules selected from 30 elective modules. The duration of this course is 2500 hours.
  • In Australia the Australian Council for Private Education and Training offers the Advanced Diploma in Agriculture-Animal Husbandry. The duration of this course 2500 hours and it is an entry level course for people wanting to work in agriculture at a technician or management level in positions such as farm manager, technical representative, trainers or consultants. The course consists of 7 core modules, 7 stream modules and 11 electives selected from available 30 modules.

    In summary, many Advanced Diplomas in the countries surveyed deal to a certain extent with scope of knowledge as in the Advance Diploma in Animal Health, these courses tend to differ in level (mostly are at a lower level), in that these qualifications seem to deal with what learners would cover in the Diploma Animal Health. They mostly do not cover Epidemiology and Veterinary Public Health as a primary focus as is the case with this qualification. Furthermore, although some of the courses in the surveyed countries introduce learners to the element of research, but do not seem to place emphasis on research methodology as is the case with this qualification. As such these qualifications do not have the same contextual basis as the South African qualification. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification offers the following horizontal and vertical articulation opportunities.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in a cognate field.at Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diplomas or Honours Degrees in a cognate field at, 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.
     
    1. University of South Africa 


    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.