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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Biokinetics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
109457  Bachelor of Biokinetics 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Rehabilitative Health/Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2019-05-29  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

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 provide learners with a sound scientific knowledge base in the field of Human Physiology, Anatomy, Kinesiology and Human Movement Science as well as practical skills and appropriate attitudes and values to enhance health, optimise wellbeing and performance, and prevent the progression of certain ailments of individuals and communities.

The qualification provides a foundation and core knowledge base whereby the acquisition of professional abilities such as; understanding, skills, values and attitudes are ensured. Qualifying learners will gain applied competence to act as a specialist health care professional, namely a Biokineticist.

The qualification provides professional training in respect of scientifically based prescriptive exercise in the following four domains of practice:
  • Wellness, disease/injury prevention and health promotion.
  • Optimal performance.
  • Final phase orthopaedic rehabilitation.
  • Management of chronic disease and disabilities.

    Rationale:
    There is a growing need for the optimisation of physical performances in the workplace and on the sports field, for preventive medicine for sports injuries, hypokinetic diseases and other ailments and for rehabilitation of ailments and injuries. Competent and qualified Biokineticists are able to work in a variety of settings, including the public and private sector and in both urban and rural settings. Biokineticists primarily utilise their professional expertise in exercise, physical activity and health education to enhance/promote health in general, and specifically prevent dysfunction, restore and maintain an individual's compromised functional ability, particularly in respect of orthopaedic injury and chronic disease states.

    The qualification will provide a pool of well-qualified people whose competence will be internationally recognised and who will be able to perform specialised Biokinetic health care services within any community setting. The Bachelor of Biokinetics is distinct from other qualifications in the health care profession as its main focus is scientifically based prescriptive exercise in the four domains of practice.

    All the professionals registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) are trained in a professional setting with a professional Degree. The Bachelor of Biokinetics was necessitated by the professional sector in which Biokinetics functions as part of the paramedical discipline and Board of Physiotherapy and Podiatry, and was developed to be in line with the other professions that are regulated by the Board of Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Biokinetics. The scientific knowledge needed at this professional level therefore required that such learners should be trained on a par with other professions on the same level. Such a professional qualification should comply with national and international best practice standards, and this programme has been designed to adhere to these requirements.

    A qualifying learner will be able to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Biokineticist. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The Institution's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is followed as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and prior learning may be assessed to award credit where relevant. Learners can apply for RPL against a module, or part/full qualification for learning obtained through forma. Informal and non-formal learning. Learners need to submit a Portfolio of Evidence for assessment, and credits/exemption may be granted for some modules in the qualification, and/or admission may be granted into the qualification. Leanres have the opportunity to appeal against the assessment results where credits or admission were not awarded.

    Entry Requirements:
  • National School Certificate (NSC) with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV) (Level 4) with English, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 520 Credits.

    Modules at Level 5 (120 Credits):
  • Anatomy and Physiology, 30 Credits.
  • Psycho-social Aspects, 15 Credits.
  • Nutrition, 15 Credits.
  • Contemporary Management and Ethics and Jurisprudence, 15 Credits.
  • Biomechanics, 15 Credits.
  • Biokinetics 1: Orthopaedic Injuries, Wellness and Special Populations, 30 Credits.

    Modules at Level 6 (120 Credits):
  • Anatomy and Physiology 2, 30 Credits.
  • Perceptual Motor Behaviour, 30 Credits.
  • Exercise Physiology, 30 Credits.
  • Biokinetics 2: Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, Diseases of Lifestyle and Prevention and Chronic Disease, 30 Credits.

    Module at Level 7 (140 Credits):
  • Exercise Science, 15 Credits.
  • Clinical Exercise Science, 15 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 15 Credits.
  • Biokinetics 3: Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Rehabilitation, 30 Credits.
  • Biokinetics Practice (Incl. 450 hours of clinical rotations), 65 Credits.

    Modules at Level 8 (140 Credits):
  • Research: Mini-dissertation, 30 Credits.
  • Practice Management and Entrepreneurship, 15 Credits.
  • Biokinetics 4: Post-operative Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, Total Wellness and Advanced Management of Chronic Conditions, 30 Credits.
  • Biokinetics Practice (Incl. 450 hours of clinical rotations), 65 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the structure and function of the human body systems.
    2. Apply knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the psycho-socio aspects of health, function and human performance.
    3. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to biomechanics.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise physiology and clinical exercise physiology for rehabilitation.
    5. Apply knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise science.
    6. Plan and implement effective and efficient therapeutic and recreation programmes.
    7. Demonstrate specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to human motor behaviour.
    8. Apply relevant and appropriate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to the prevention and rehabilitation of musculo-skeletal injuries.
    9. Apply specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to health promotion, health education and health related aspects of exercise and physical activity.
    10. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in conducting scientifically sound/based measurement and evaluation in Biokinetic contexts.
    11. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to management of chronic diseases and disabilities.
    12. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to Biokinetic related research.
    13. Manage a private or public Biokinetic practice or health care facility effectively and efficiently. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Evaluate the macroscopic and microscopic structure of each body system.
  • Explain the normal function of each of the body's system.
  • Analyse system integration and the mechanisms responsible for homeostasis of the human body.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse, interpret and apply foundational theories with regard to psychology and sociology in Biokinetics contexts.
  • Evaluate the effect of the human psyche on health behaviour, health promotion (wellness), human functioning and performance.
  • Apply appropriate motivational and interviewing skills in health care contexts.
  • Explain the effects of negative psycho-social factors on the individual and environment.
  • Explain the impact of psycho-social stratification within the South African community in health care contexts.
  • Analyse and interpret the phases of grief after a catastrophic life event and apply such analyses and interpretations to health care contexts.
  • Inform and educate an individual on the meaning of pain and suggest or prescribe practical coping strategies.
  • Assess the effects of distress on human physiology, health and behaviour to heath care contexts.
  • Explain and purpose of different relaxation techniques and coping strategies to individuals experiencing stress.
  • Apply appropriate motivational knowledge, skills and attitudes to cultural diversity in a Biokinetics practice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Analyse, integrate and apply foundational theories in physics as they apply to human motion and exercise.
  • Analyse and integrate relevant knowledge and understanding of dynamic, muscle function, movement biomechanics, integrative functioning of the neuromuscular and musculo-skeletal systems in exercise and physical activity programmes.
  • Perform biomechanical analyses of different movement skills to identify possible dysfunctions.
  • Assess the kinetics and kinematic variables associated with posture, movement, injuries and general health.
  • Plan and implement bio-mechanically principled exercises or activities for specific population groups. Implementation in the context includes the improvement, adaption or modification of exercises and activities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Evaluatethe effects of different types of exercise on the cardiovascular, pulmonary, neuromuscular, metabolic and endocrine systems to real and simulated cases.
  • Assess the interrelationship between responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise.
  • Evaluate the influences of internal and external factors and the use of ergogenic aids and supplements on exercise and physical activity.
  • Apply and understanding of the differences in exercise capacity between genders and the different age groups.
  • Plan, conduct and interpret laboratory tests and experiments in the field of human exercise physiology.
  • Design appropriate exercise interventions to enhance exercise capacity.
  • Explain nutrition and biochemistry as it relates to exercise physiology.
  • Explore common pathological conditions such as diabetes mellitus and the effects of such conditions on exercise capacity.
  • Integrate and apply clinical exercise physiology, nutrition, exercise metabolism and human performance to the effective and efficient implementation of health promotion, injury prevention and rehabilitation programmes.
  • Assess the physical abilities of people to perform their required jobs or tasks.
  • Design and prescribe applicable exercise programmes that would enable a person to perform a certain job or task.
  • Assess a person's level of disability to perform his/her daily tasks.
  • Design rehabilitation programmes to restore a person's function after suffering an injury or contracting a disease.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Analyse and integrate the different components of fitness.
  • Apply relevant knowledge and understanding of appropriate training principles to injury prevention and optimal performance within different environments and for different populations, i.e. women, pregnant women, children, men, elderly, asthmatics, etc.
  • Evaluate different forms of physical activity, exercise and sport in health care and health promotion contexts.
  • Explore psychological factors that may impact on physical activity and exercise science.
  • Plan, execute and interpret physical assessments for different individuals and groups.
  • Design appropriate and scientifically sound physical activities, physical fitness and exercise programmes for individuals and groups.
  • Implement appropriate and scientifically founded physical activity/exercise training programmes for different groups/populations.
  • Use Biokinetic technology in professional and scientific manner when implementing activities and programmes.
  • Communicate effectively with individuals and groups in a variety of Biokinetic contexts displaying patience, compassion and empathy.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply an understanding of recreation as a therapeutic intervention tool for different populations.
  • Analyse, integrate and apply knowledge of the pathology and psychology of people with disabilities and of those who suffer from long term conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes.
  • Plan, implement and interpret a variety of different evaluation protocols for different individuals and groups in therapeutic and recreational contexts.
  • Implement appropriate and scientifically based therapeutic recreation programmes for different groups/populations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply relevant knowledge and understanding of fundamental motor development and perceptual-motor development theories and concepts to a variety of contexts.
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of human growth, development, maturation and aging to a variety of Biokinetic contexts.
  • Evaluate the structure and function of the central nervous system as it relates to human functioning in Biokinetic context.
  • Apply an understanding of normal and abnormal human movement patterns in relation to neuro-muscular functioning to real and simulated cases for rehabilitation of motor behaviour.
  • Apply an understanding of the interrelationship between physical activity, fitness, functional constraints and perceptual motor development and neurological aspects of motor control over the lifespan to rehabilitation of human motor behaviour.
  • Design and implement appropriate and effective rehabilitation and intervention programmes for individuals with functional constraints over the lifespan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Explain common musculo-skeletal injuries and conditions, including, among others their incidence, symptoms, possible causes (aetiology) and treatment.
  • Conduct comprehensive medical and injury histories of a variety of patients.
  • Apply observation, palpation and specialised manual evaluation techniques in assessing an individual's injury.
  • Use advanced exercise testing equipment and techniques to assess individuals with different injuries.
  • Recognise possible signs and symptoms indicating emergency medical attention, further investigation or referral of the patient.
  • Interpret the findings of each evaluation/assessment and to communicate it effectively to the patient while displaying empathy, patience and understanding in interactions with the patient.
  • Design, demonstrate and implement evidence based individualised rehabilitation exercise programmes.
  • Evaluate a multi-disciplinary approach in rehabilitation.
  • Apply the criteria for successful discharge of a rehabilitated patient within the criteria for returning to optimal functioning.
  • Propose, prescribe and implement injury prevention strategies for different individual and groups.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of health and disease patterns (epidemiology) as a result of inactivity as observed in different parts of the world over the last few decades.
  • Explain the underlying causes and factors impacting on health and disease in different populations.
  • Analyse and interpret international and national trends in relation to health promotion, such as Millennium Development Goals and/or Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Pandemic.
  • Apply an understanding of the benefits of regular exercise and physical activity on health to health promotion contexts.
  • Distinguish the components of health and wellness and apply such a distinction to health promotion contexts.
  • Illustrate an understanding of the different medical models and the Wellness Continuum by means of relevant real-life and simulated examples.
  • Apply an understanding of the causes of common diseases of lifestyle; risk factors related to diseases of lifestyle; signs, symptoms, incidence and causes of chronic diseases of lifestyle to real-life and simulated cases.
  • Implement lifestyle interventions as well as the management of the antecedence, adherence, and compliance of exercise and related behaviour thereof.
  • Communicate the role of Biokinetics in health promotion and disease prevention effectively to individuals and communities. Communication is done with compassion, empathy and understanding of the individual/group or target population.
  • Apply specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in screening for a variety of diseases and conditions.
  • Communicate effectively with individuals and groups regarding health related information.
  • Implement appropriate exercise programme prescription strategies for a wide variety of clients/patients in promoting the health and wellness of the individual, companies and the community.
  • Design and implement behavioural change strategies used in health promotion and wellness.
  • Design and implement awareness, screening and education programmes to promote health and wellness in the community.
  • Apply appropriate knowledge, skills and values related to the role of mentoring and coaching in health promotion and wellness.
  • Plan, implement and manage wellness programmes in a variety of community contexts.
  • Implement and manage exercise testing and programme prescriptions for special populations (children, adolescents, young adults, adults, pregnancy, disabled and the elderly) as it relates to physical ability for health and performance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Apply a basic understanding of different research methodologies to Biokinetic contexts.
  • Apply scientific approaches to measurement and evaluation in Biokinetic contexts.
  • Apply basic statistical procedures for analysing results and findings in Biokinetic contexts.
  • Design, plan, execute and interpret a variety of physical health and exercise physiological assessments, such as measuring body composition and flexibility.
  • Compile a feedback report communicate the findings and recommendations to clients with empathy, patience and understanding of their contexts.
  • Assess progress and make appropriate adjustments to exercise programmes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Apply an understanding of the interrelationship between the incidence, aetiology and patho-physiology of various chronic diseases and disabilities in managing these.
  • Apply knowledge and understanding of applicable clinical sciences to the pathology of disease and disabilities.
  • Plan, implement and perform individually based risk stratification.
  • Plan and implement effective and efficient techniques to assess the conditions of chronic disease or disability and comment on the findings and their implications for managing the relevant conditions by means of appropriate exercise interventions.
  • Apply special investigation methods and understand their clinical usefulness in chronic disease and disability management contexts.
  • Plan and implement effective and efficient exercise intervention programmes for various chronic diseases and disabilities.
  • Understand and apply an inter-disciplinary approach and use referrals in the management of chronic diseases and disabilities.
  • Apply basic pharmacology in the application of exercise and physical activity as intervention modality for chronic diseases and disabilities.
  • Apply relevant legal and ethical requirements related to the management of chronic diseases and disabilities.
  • Demonstrate basic proficiency of first aid principles (Level 2), emergency oxygen use and basic life support (AED and CPR).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Apply a broad and systematic knowledge-base of health and human movement science related research as well as associated research methods.
  • Apply the critical concepts of relevant theories, research methods and techniques to identify and resolve complex real-life problems.
  • Apply research skills to react to complex and real life problems and challenges using appropriate information and systematic data-analysis techniques.
  • Apply research methods, techniques, analysis and technology in an ethical and responsible way.
  • Communicate research findings to professional colleagues as well as to the general public and communities with compassion and sensitivity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:
  • Apply relevant knowledge and understanding of the scope of practice and ethical rules concerning Biokinetics.
  • Apply and adapt different economic models as used in other countries to contexts in South Africa.
  • Apply basic management functions and competencies in private and public Biokinetic practice/health care facility contexts.
  • Apply entrepreneurial skills in establishing and managing a Biokinetic practice.
  • Implement and manage health policy, health systems and structures, capacity building and interdisciplinary healthcare as required in South African legislation.
  • Demonstrate specialised theoretical and practical knowledge, understanding and values for the implementation of Biokinetic acts to enhance health, wellness and optimal performance in the community.
  • Communicate in a professional way with relevant stakeholders, individuals, companies etc. by applying effective communication skills and techniques.
  • Demonstrate a systematic knowledge base and implementation skills of health related ethical and legal aspects within the profession of Biokinetics.
  • Manage human resources and supervise programmes, individuals, teams and subordinates within the value system of the profession.
  • Manage and maintain relevant materials, equipment and assets according to generally accepted financial management principles and practices.
  • Implement public health policies, relevant legislative obligations, general practices according to human rights principles and the constitution.
  • Manage the practice/facility with due consideration for and in collaboration/conjunction with policy makers. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Bachelor of Biokinetics is a 4-year professional qualification which is compared with other international qualifications with the same basic minimum requirements of course work and practical work. Various titles are used internationally for the term Biokineticist, for example, Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Kinesiologist, and Exercise and Sport Scientist. The following are examples of similar international qualifications.

    Country: United State of America (USA):
    Institution: Boston University, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Sargent College.
    Qualification: Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training.

    The qualification prepares graduates for a variety of entry-level positions in athletic training. In addition to academic studies and clinical training in the sciences and health-related disciplines it includes course work that develop the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Graduates with this qualification are eligible to take the Board of Certification examination to become a certified athlete trainer.

    The qualification consists of 128 Credits. Credits are given for both academic and clinical preparation.

    The qualification is recognised by the American Medical Association (AMA) for allied care professionals. The AMA recommends athletic trainers in every high school.

    Country: Canada.
    Institution: University of Calgary.
    Qualification: Bachelor of Kinesiology (General).

    The qualification consists of 75 modules. Experience in various activities and movement patterns and the study of the fundamental factors that influence the activities we choose and the way we move. A variety of activities to experience the short-term benefits of exercise. An introduction to research in kinesiology with an emphasis on understanding the research process, including basic statistical knowledge, and its relationship to critical thinking. Practical application of concepts through direct involvement in individual and group projects. A socio-cultural foundation for kinesiology that examines the historical relationship between physical culture (emphasis on sport) and medical sciences (antiquity to the twentieth century). An examination of current methodologies in the study of cultural meanings of sport, leisure, and physical education.

    Country: Australia.
    Institution: University of Sydney.
    Qualification: Bachelor of Arts in Applied Science (Exercise Physiology).

    The Bachelor of Arts (BA Arts) in Applied Science (Exercise Physiology) is a program which provides both academic and professional training in a specialised area of health care. The course may be undertaken in the areas of Diagnostic Radiography, Exercise and Sport Science, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech Pathology.

    High-achieving learners may be eligible to undertake the combined Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise and Sport Science) and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics. The Bachelor of Applied Science program incorporates extensive clinical and professional fieldwork opportunities, providing hands-on experience with real clients in a supervised environment. This combines the academic components of the course with the practical abilities required of a chosen profession.

    Conclusion:
    The results of the comparability studies conducted reveal that this qualification is at an equivalent standard to some of the best qualifications in Biokinetics, in Sports Science and in Human Movement Psychology. This qualification compares very well with the qualification cited above in terms of subject content, duration, admission requirements and practical learning. A formal research project is not a formal requirement of the international qualifications. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers the following articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sports Recreation and Exercise Science, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Sport Science, Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Philosophy in Biokinetics, 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.
     
    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.