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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
109859  Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Honours Degree  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 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
73794  Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry  Level 7  NQF Level 08  144  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the training to become well-qualified scientists/biochemists who can identify, evaluate and solve problems associated with the biological and/or physical sciences in South African and international context. Through the acquisition of appropriate competence and advanced research ability they will be able to enter a range of professional and entrepreneurial opportunities and be eligible for registration as professional scientists with South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP).

Rationale:
The qualification is a specialisation in the field of Biochemistry aimed to prepare the learners for research based post graduate study. This qualification serves to consolidate and deepen the learners' expertise in Biochemistry and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of Biochemistry. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence. The qualification is essentially a coursework qualification of which at least credits are devoted to a research project and reporting under supervision. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, and serves as the initial science postgraduate specialisation qualification providing students with in-depth scientific knowledge and skills preparing them for research based postgraduate science study. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL): is done in accordance with the University of Johannesburg(UJ) Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL) Policy. In cases of students not complying with the formal entry requirements, Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL) will be determined in accordance with the policy and guideline of the University concerning the recognition of other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. Recognition takes place only where prior learning corresponds to the required National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level, and in terms of applied competencies relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification. Through Recognition of Prior Learning(RPL), learners may gain access on condition that they continue their studies at University of Johannesburg(UJ).

Entry Requirement:
  • Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 totalling at 126 Credits.
    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 126 Credits:
  • Advanced Analytical Techniques, 24 Credits.
  • Advanced catalysis Enzyme Technology, 24 Credits.
  • Current Advances in Biotechnology, 24 Credits.
  • Research Project (Biochemistry), 30 Credits.
  • Protein Biochemistry, 24 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
  • Identify, interpret, analyse and address complex problems, using both routine and advanced skills, conceptual and/or evidence-based enquiry and theory-driven arguments.
  • Work effectively with others in a team by being answerable for their own work and the work of others.
  • Identify, evaluate and address their own professional and on-going learning needs.
  • Demonstrate efficient and effective information retrieval and processing skills, using appropriate Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and critical knowledge and understanding of the principles, scope, theories and epistemologies of Biochemistry.
  • Evaluate their own and other academic work and initiatives against informed criteria.
  • Present and communicate ideas and texts, offering professional insights, interpretations and solutions to problems and issues appropriate to Biochemistry.
  • Use science and technology in complex and challenging contexts and make autonomous ethical decisions on complex professional issues in accordance with recognised professional and/or ethical standards.
  • Critique current research and advanced scholarship in Biochemistry and make sound theoretical judgements based on evidence.
  • Identify, select and apply a range of research methodologies and methods/techniques to research problem/s in Biochemistry.
  • Identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of quantitative and/or qualitative data, and to engage with and evaluate current research and scholarly or professional literature in Biochemistry. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Display thorough knowledge of the field of enquiry.
  • Formulate an appropriate hypothesis, plan and carry out an appropriate experimental qualification and analyse results obtained correctly.
  • Cooperate with fellow learners and to contribute meaningfully to group efforts to work on a problem.
  • Display ability.
  • Display a mastery of subject material by independent study.
  • Display ability to work on a project without help.
  • Prove the ability to write a project or progress report independently.
  • Present an acceptable project proposal on a topic.
  • Motivate the reasoning behind the proposal satisfactorily.
  • Perform the actions required to complete the collection of information.
  • Relate the information obtained to that which is known.
  • Display knowledge of current information retrieval systems and processes.
  • Demonstrate mastery of the use of technical and professional language and terminology.
  • Demonstrate awareness and recognition of the need for careful laboratory techniques.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use appropriate technology correctly, safely and responsibly.
  • Present a project proposal in which all the appropriate aspects relating to the broad social and environmental considerations are addressed.
  • Be able to suggest possible changes in the proposal should certain aspects not turn out as expected.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the philosophy of the bio-sciences.
  • Show awareness of the need for different ways of learning and assimilation of knowledge.
  • Show awareness of the need for continued study so as to remain constantly up to date.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the effects of pollution and industrialisation on society and the environment.
  • Demonstrate awareness of the need for responsible management of environmental and biological resources and diversity.
  • Participate as responsible biochemists in the life of local, national and global communities.
  • Demonstrate awareness of where the chosen field of study impinges on society and where further studies may be done. This includes medicinal, industrial, recreational and aesthetic considerations.
  • Demonstrate the ability to relate the field of study to society and thus know where those skills are likely to be required.
  • Demonstrate the knowledge of what the chosen field of study involves and how it can be used for entrepreneurial activity.
  • Show understanding of how the field of study impinges on society.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The qualification is coherently aligned in that all teaching, learning and assessment activities are linked to module and qualification outcomes. Assessment methods are varied and includes summative and formative assessment to enhance applied competence from learners and facilitate authentic assessment and learning. Assessment will not only be used to determine whether outcomes were achieved, but also to generate data for grading and provide feedback in order to improve the curriculum. In order for all the assessment purposes to be achieved, essays, computer-based assessments, theory tests, cases and open problems, practical and interpretative skills evaluation, reporting on practical and applications, presentations, analysis and problem solving assessment in the specific field of Biochemistry will be utilised. The research module is assessed against specific criteria to provide evidence of research capacity in the methodology and techniques in Biochemistry. The assessment methods are selected to suit the related learning outcomes, high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence and governed by decisions about its purpose, validity and relevance. A range of assessment methods are applied to cater for different learning styles of the diverse student population studying Biochemistry. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Massey University in New Zealand offers a Bachelor of Science Honours (major in Biochemistry) which is similar to the qualification offered by the University of Johannesburg in terms of admission requirements and duration of the qualification. The qualification differs in terms of credit weighting and maximum study period.

    The University of Auckland in New Zealand offers a Bachelor of Science Honours (major in Biochemistry) which is similar to the qualification offered by the University of Johannesburg terms of the qualification purpose, duration of study, entry requirements and credit weighting. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for both vertical and horizontal articulation options:
    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Medicine: Bachelor of Surgery, Level 9.
  • Master of Science in Biochemistry, Level 9. 
    		•

    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.