SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
110460	Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences
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 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	2019-09-11	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 Animal Sciences is aimed at capacitating the learners with deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory and methodology in animal and equine sciences. The core and elective modules will empower learners to work as agricultural advisors in the government or industry, managers in a diversity of fields within the animal production and equestrian industry, technicians for research and technology transfer, entrepreneurs and to actively engage (communicate) with various farming communities and equestrian environments. Moreover, research methodology (biometry) is essential to provide learners with problem solving, data analysis and scientific writing skills.

The qualification will allow a degree of specialisation based a chosen field of either Animal or Equine Sciences. Qualifying learners will be able to demonstrate their ability to formulate, undertake and resolve more complex theoretical and practice-related problems (part of individual groups) and tasks through the selection and use of appropriate methods and techniques in the chosen field of specialisation. The course design comprises theory and technology applications, with a focus on improving current animal or production systems or equine and equestrian enterprises for increased productivity and qualities within South African and International arenas. The qualification will articulate to Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Sciences or equivalent National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 qualifications.

Rationale:
The National Development Plan (NDP) of South Africa vision 2020 indicates that Agriculture has a central role to play in building a strong economy and, in the process, reducing inequalities by increasing incomes and employment opportunities for the poor, while nurturing the country's inheritance of natural resources. Agriculture is central to the key deliverables of the NDP such as an inclusive and integrated rural economy by creating jobs in agriculture, agro-processing and related sectors. To this end, the NDP strives for the increased investment in new agricultural technologies, research and the development of adaptation strategies for the protection of rural livelihoods and expansion of commercial agriculture. Both the livestock and equestrian industries are significant components to address this NDP deliverables.

The importance of the livestock industry, in particular, to the agricultural sector and the national economy is depicted in the Livestock Development Strategy for South Africa (2007). The role of livestock industry in the economy is evident from various perspectives including the following:

It accounts for more than 40% of the total value of agricultural output.

Livestock farming occupies nearly 80% of the agricultural land, from a food and income security point of view, animal agriculture is the primary income generator in the majority of rural areas, with projections indicating that by 2020 it will be the most important contributor to sustenance, poverty relief and agribusiness development in the global context.

Animal food products are a major contributor to a balanced diet because of the high biological value of their protein and significant quantities of high bioavailable minerals and vitamins; in addition, animal fibre products quantitatively contribute significantly to the clothing, leather, housing and decorative industries.

Livestock earnings amount to about 10% of agricultural export and through import plays a significant role in stabilising the economies of SADC countries, (vi) it is a major employer and employment generator in the economy.

The impact of the equestrian industry within the agricultural sector is highly significant not only in terms of the considerable contribution to the national economy but also due to the labour intensive nature of the equine industry. The strategic analysis report of the sport of South African Horseracing released in 2009 showed racing contributed 2.71 billion to Gross domestic product (GDP) and sustains in excess of 16 000 direct and indirect jobs. The thoroughbred stud farm industry creates 12.18 jobs for every one million rand spent on breeding. The notably diverse field of equestrian sport and recreation is continuously developing both locally and internationally and over forty professional designations have been identified elucidating the possible career paths for qualified personnel. Equestrian ecotourism in and of itself creates a number of employment opportunities, in addition the indirect and induced effects work through numerous other sectors within the local economy and contribute to economic growth. The institution of the Council of Equine and Equestrian Professionals, together with the Equine and Equestrian Professional Body and its external summative assessment partner the Equestrian Qualifications Authority of Southern Africa a member of the International Group of Equestrian Qualifications the need for formal qualifications and ongoing professional development and educational opportunities has been highlighted in the South African equine industry.

This qualification is designed to fulfil the current need for qualified animal or equine sciences professionals that perform work at Scientists level for animal and equestrian industry. These fields are considered amongst the very scarce skills in the country. This qualification is designed for learners wishing to work in agriculture at a technician or management level; in positions such as a farm manager, technical representatives, trainers or consultants. It will develop quality professionals that are able to maintain and improve livestock production systems or equine and equestrian enterprises in the field of specialisation to the extent of maintaining or achieving national/international standards. Although this is not a professional program, holders of this qualification with animal science specialisation would be able to register as Certificated Natural Scientists by the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as required by the Natural Scientific Professions Act, 2003 (ACT 27 of 2003). Graduates with the equine science electives would be able to register with the Council of Equine and Equestrian Professionals of South Africa.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Prior learning and or experience relevant to the field will be evaluated and considered for access to this qualification. Candidates may apply for RPL or for admission through the institution structures. The specific relevant documentation will be requested from these applicants, and these cases will be handled on an individual basis.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Diploma in Animal Sciences or Equine Science, Level 6, 360 Credits

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules: 72 Credits:

Advanced Animal Nutrition, 24 Credits.

Advanced Animal Breeding and Genetics, 24 Credits.

Research Methodology: Biometry, 24 Credits.

Elective Modules: 48 Credits (select two):
(Learners must choose one of the two modules below):

Advanced Animal Reproductive Physiology, 24 Credits.
Or

Advanced Equine Reproductive and Exercise Physiology, 24 Credits.

(Learners must choose one of the two modules below):

Advanced Animal Health, 24 Credits.
Or

Advanced Equine Health Care, 24 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate integrated knowledge in the fields of Animal or Equine Sciences, and Applied Sciences.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of a range of methods of enquiry in Animal or Equine Sciences, and their suitability to specific investigations; and the ability to select and apply a range of methods to resolve problems or introduce change within Animal or Equine Sciences.
3. Demonstrate the ability to develop appropriate processes of information gathering for a given context or use; and the ability to independently validate the sources of information and evaluate and manage the information.
4. Demonstrate the ability to take decisions and act ethically and professionally in Animal or Equine Sciences, and the ability to justify those decisions and actions drawing on appropriate ethical values and approaches, within a supported environment.
5. Demonstrate the ability to develop and communicate own ideas and opinions in well-formed arguments, using appropriate academic, professional, or occupational discourse.
6. Demonstrate the ability to manage processes in unfamiliar and variable contexts in Animal or Equine Sciences, recognising that problem solving is context- and system-bound, and does not occur in isolation; and the ability to identify, evaluate and address own learning needs in a self-directed manner, and to facilitate collaborative learning processes.
7. Demonstrate the ability to take full responsibility for own work, decision-making and use of resources, and limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others in Animal or Equine Sciences context.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Evaluate and apply the integrated knowledge in the field of Animal or Equine Sciences for efficacy and value according to relevant evaluation criteria and to ensure that these relate to other Applied Sciences disciplines, as well as to understand how knowledge is dependent upon African and International scientific theories.

Evaluate and critique Animal or Equine Sciences related terminologies, concepts descriptions, principles, rules and theories to understand the role of Animal or Equine Sciences in the Applied Sciences Environment.

Explore Animal or Equine Science's role in Applied Sciences by applying integrated knowledge of related fields of practice and research principles.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Investigate methods of enquiry and their suitability in Animal or Equine Sciences to solve Animal or Equine related problems by acquiring new knowledge and integrating previous knowledge.

Identify evidence-based solutions by integration of scientific expertise and relevant research evidence to introduce change within Animal or Equine Sciences settings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Identify and develop appropriate processes of information gathering in Animal or Equine Sciences to access and manage the information including questioning, observation, study of existing documents, questionnaires.

Evaluate sources of information in Animal or Equine Sciences to independently validate its significance in the field of Animal or Equine Sciences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Evaluate professional and ethical values and approaches to justify decisions and actions within Animal or Equine Science environment with reference to the scope of practice.

Explore principles and practices of ethical accountability in Animal or Equine Sciences by evaluating Animal or Equine ethics to take responsibility for internal standards of individual and group conduct.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Discuss ideas and views to provide appropriate work related dialogue in Animal or Equine Sciences setting.

Critique independent ideas and opinions to present well-formed arguments using appropriate academic, professional or work related dialogue in Animal or Equine Sciences setting.

Critically evaluate information exchange between Animal or Equine Sciences disciplines in the forms of speaking, writing or using other means of communication.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Discuss Animal or Equine Sciences' role in Applied Sciences to highlight that problem solving is not based on knowledge alone but the relationship between physical, economic, cultural environment and knowledge.

Identify and develop appropriate processes of information gathering in Animal or Equine Sciences to access and manage the information.

Identify and evaluate self-directed learning needs to facilitate the learning process through individuals taking responsibility for what occurs.

Learning activities are selected, managed and assessed by the individual learner and pursued at any time or place.

Identify collaborative learning processes to facilitate responsibility of learners to work together in peer groups to build knowledge and improve the whole process of learning by discussing solutions to problems, reading and lectures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Explore responsibilities for acquiring information and evaluating resouces to justify decisions and actions within Animal or Equine Sciences environment through practice, reading, lectures, communication with industries and peer.

Integrated Assessment:
Integrated Assessment will be achieved by a variety of strategies. At key exit points on the qualification, learners are required to demonstrate their learning achievements through integrated assessment methods that draw on a range of knowledge and skills learnt from across the modules of the qualification. These include written tests and examinations, group and individual projects and assignments and practical examinations. Continuously integrated assessment strategies enable learners to achieve applied competency in vocational oriented subject and modules.

Formative assessment:
Learning and assessment are integrated. Continual formative assessment is done so that learners are given feedback on their progress in the achievement of learning outcomes. The scheme of work includes assignments based on the learning material and learners are given feedback. The process is continued and focuses on smaller sections of the work and limited numbers of outcomes.

Summative Assessment:
Summative Assessment is concerned with the judgement of the learning in relation to the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification. Such judgement includes Integrated Assessments which test the learner's ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, skills and attitudes that are represented by the Exit Level Outcomes as a whole. Examinations, projects, practical's reports or equivalent assessment such as a portfolio of evidence assess a representative selection of the outcomes practised and assessed in the formative stage. Summative assessment also tests the learner's ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge to achieve the stated outcomes of a module.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences is comparable with similar qualifications offered internationally based on collected data. The qualification was compared to qualifications offered at three international universities in terms of best practices or standards offered to determine articulation possibilities. Moreover, international institutions in Australia (University of Queensland and The ACS Distance Education) and USA (Auburn University) were used for their best practices in terms of the standards of the qualifications and articulation possibilities. It was noted that the Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences has similar modules and outcomes with these qualifications.

Australia: The ACS Distance Education offers an, Advanced Diploma in Agriculture: Animal Husbandry.
The qualification is comparable to the Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences and includes a variety of fields of study as specialisation. This Advanced Diploma (2500 hrs) consists of eight core modules, eight stream modules and eight elective modules. Modules are as follows: Animal Breeding, Animal Health Care, Animal Feed and Nutrition, and Research Methodology are similar to the Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences modules.

United States of America: Auburn University, offers a Bachelor of Science Animal Science (Equine Science).
The qualification is similar to the Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences and includes a variety of fields of study as specialisation. This qualification is a 4-year degree (Animal Science or Equine Science option). The Advance Diploma in Animal Sciences similar to the 3rd year level of this qualification. Similar Modules offered are Animal Breeding and Genetics, Reproductive Physiology, Animal Nutrition and Statistics for Biological Sciences.

Australia: University of Queensland, offers a Bachelor of Applied Science Extended (Equine Science).
The qualification is comparable to the Advanced Diploma in Animal Sciences and includes a variety of fields of study as specialisation. This is a 3-year qualification in Applied Sciences with Agricultural Science (Animal Science) or Equine Science specialisation. The Advance Diploma in Animal Sciences similar to the 3rd year level of this qualification. Similiar modules offered are Animal Breeding and Genetics, Animal Reproduction, Animal Nutrition, Animal Health, and Equine Exercise and Rehabilitation.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation possibilities.

Horizontal Articulation:

Advanced Diploma in Agriculture in Agricultural Extension, Level 7.

Vertical Articulation:

Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Sciences, 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.	Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)