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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
111239	Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Postgraduate 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 08	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-08-16	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 Purpose of Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry, Level 8 is to strengthen and deepen the learners' knowledge in advanced atomic and molecular spectroscopy, separation science, catalysis and synthetic chemistry including advanced physical chemistry principles. The qualifying learners will be able to apply their knowledge in the fields of material science, environmental, pharmaceutical, natural and synthetic product chemistry. The qualification enables qualifying learners to be registered with the corresponding professional statutory bodies as chemists, and equips them to work on research and other chemistry-related projects with minimal supervision. The graduate will be able to articulate vertically to a Master in Applied Sciences, Level 9, Master of chemistry, Level 9 and any equivalent qualification at level 9. Horizontally the qualification articulates to a Postgraduate Diploma in Laboratory Management, Level 8, Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemistry, Level 8 or any qualification related to the field of study at Level 8.

In particular, the qualifying learners will be able to:

Develop, characterise and test materials using advanced analytical techniques.

Analyse complex materials.

Work efficiently within a research and development team.

Apply research skills within their field of expertise.

Write and present technical and scientific reports.

Show self-discipline, ethical conduct, and attention to detail.

Rationale:
The identified need in South Africa and globally, for beneficiation of and value addition to natural resources of bio and geological origin requires the contributions of professional and highly skilled chemists in order to advance and drive this important socio-economic objective. This qualification will equip the qualifying learners with academic knowledge and applied research skills and competencies which will allow them to function in multi- and inter-disciplinary fields. These professionals will also contribute to solving environmental problems, adding value to materials, product, method and process development.

Role players in the chemical sector have also indicated the need for this qualification through consultation at amongst others, advisory board meetings. An academic advisory committee for the qualification was established and represents industry and other stakeholders to ensure that the qualification has relevance to the workplace. The purpose of the committee is to ensure that the qualification is of outstanding quality, relevant and aligned with the latest development and technologies in the profession, business and industry. The Advisory committee consists of members of the public and private institutions (ARC, SAB Miller, Impala Refineries etc.).

The qualification is aimed at addressing existing demands for chemists with this type of qualification, creating new job opportunities for qualifying learners (in industry and the private sector) and contributing to the growth of the chemical sector within the South African economy. The qualifying learner may register as a natural science professional with the South African Council for Natural Science Professions (SACNASP).

The Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry, Level 8 will fulfil the current need of knowledge enhancement for qualified chemists mainly within a South African context to conduct research and apply qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis using sophisticated current technologies to propose and design innovative solutions to.

This application is submitted for a one year: Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry (HEQSF aligned Qualification, 120 credits) and is in line with contemporary practices in Chemistry at tertiary institutions worldwide. Qualified learners will, after completion of the Advanced Diploma in Chemistry (a new HEQSF aligned programme) be able to enrol for this Postgraduate Diploma. The Postgraduate Diploma will fulfil the needs of qualified chemists, framed against a body of integrated knowledge, mainly within a South African context to conduct research and apply qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis using sophisticated current technologies to propose and design innovative solutions to problems in unfamiliar settings.

The qualification is offered to sustain professional development through imprinting deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice, theory and methodology, in the field of Chemistry.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is offered to learners in order to prevent the repetition of offerings already obtained which correspond with this qualification. Prior Learning and or experience relevant to Chemistry will be evaluated and considered for access to the Postgraduate Diploma.

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

Advanced Diploma in Chemistry, Level 7.

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry, Level 7.

Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, Level 7.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits:

Research Project, 30 Credits.

Synthetic Chemistry, 15 Credits.

Physical Chemistry, 15 credits.

Separation Science, 15 Credits.

Spectroscopy, 15 Credits.

Catalysis, 15 Credits.

Material Science, 15 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate knowledge of chemistry and how to apply it in an international and South African scientific context.
2. Interrogate multiple sources of knowledge in the field of chemistry and evaluate knowledge and processes of knowledge production.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and uncertainties of selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to unfamiliar problems in chemistry.
4. Use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to chemistry.
5. Identify and address ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems to local and global contexts.
6. Critically review information gathering, synthesis of data, evaluation and management processes in specialised contexts in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
7. Take full responsibility for own work, decision-making and use of resources and full accountability for the decisions and actions of others where appropriate.
8. Operate effectively within a team of professionals from various fields, or manage this system based on an understanding of the roles and relationships between these various experts within the chemical operation process.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Analytical techniques and instrumentation are well defined, discussed, applied and evaluated, and transfer such knowledge and skills into various areas of specialisation such as:

Analysis of compounds and substances to find their precise chemical and physical properties.

Conducting routine calibration, optimisation and troubleshooting of instrumentation.

Development or improvement of products, formulas, analytical methods and processes.

Validation of methods and final products.

A research product is systematically conducted and applied in terms of the knowledge of and insight into the theory and principles of research and the process of conducting research to a particular complex and real-life problem in a selected area of specialisation in the form of a research proposal by:

Independently conducting the collection, analyses and interpretation of theoretical, quantitative and qualitative data and information.

Demonstrating critical and coherent thoughts by means of well- rounded, theory-driven, evidence-based arguments and self-reflection.

Clear articulation of judgements and conclusions based on collected data.

Methods and techniques are recognised, explained, compared and scientifically applied to relevant examples in chemistry, thus demonstrating applied knowledge and skills typically required from a chemist within the chemical industry.

Engagement in an area at the forefront of chemistry is undertaken. Demonstrate knowledge literacy of process chemistry concepts, principles and rules as well as an understanding of the theories, research methodologies, methods and techniques relevant to the chemical process industries.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Current research and multiple sources of scholarly or professional literature are reviewed, critiqued and evaluated in an independent manner and sound theoretical judgements are made by using well-reasoned, theory-driven and evidence-based arguments.

Advanced scholarship in the various specialisation areas of the chemical industry is critically and systematically reviewed and evaluated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
Standard procedures, processes or techniques are selected, translated, sketched, interpreted and implemented to deal with or investigate unfamiliar, complex and real-life South African or global problems in the field of chemistry, such that:

Specifications and process parameters are listed as per process unit and the principles of unit processes are described and applied.

Deviations from standard conditions are documented and relevant data collected.

Data is analysed with respect to historical data and graphs, charts and flow diagrams are interpreted.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Complex problems related to the field of chemistry are accurately identified, formulated, critically reviewed, critiqued and interpreted; taking into consideration their impacts on safety, the environment and the efficiency of the chemical process unit. These are done in such way that:

Trends in deviations, prioritisation, common causes and possible problems are identified and a checklist(s) for potential solutions is compiled.

The solutions are then ranked in terms of success, time, finance, safety and environmental parameters and a small- scale test-run is designed, performed and evaluated.

The results of the intervention are monitored and explained then the success or failure of the intervention is evaluated, recorded and communicated.

A flow diagram of the process is drawn according to chemical process unit design.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Ethical decisions which affect knowledge production, complex analysis and chemical applications that include both environmental and professional issues are acknowledged, identified, described, defined, discussed, applied, analysed and evaluated and the awareness of the consequences of such decisions is described, recognised and documented.

Critical self-assessment reflecting an awareness of own activities, ethical behaviour and continued professional development, in the field of chemistry is demonstrated.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 6:
Detailed knowledge and knowledge literacy of chemistry concepts, principles and rules are recognised, identified, explained, examined, compared, reviewed and scientifically applied to industry relevant examples. Thus demonstrating applied knowledge and skills typically required from a chemist within the chemical and allied industries in possible problems identification and a checklist(s) for potential solutions is compiled in relation to:

Information on chemical substances of interest being collected from published literature, stakeholders and various databases and data modelling approaches for the purpose of risk assessment and for making scientific decisions on the toxicity of chemicals or processing in terms of environmental legislation.

Scientific information being compared and reviewed for its quality and relevance to the South African context.

Methodologies, reproducibility as well as experimental or modelling conditions being reviewed to determine how data should be considered.

Categories of the products of the chemical industry being identified, classified, described, discussed and listed under the auspices of basic, specialty and consumer chemicals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Activities, decisions and actions regarding project and risk management, and the development of methods of analysis and processes will be identified, formulated and executed by facilitating and managing the process in an ethical, moral and professional manner.

Ethical values and approaches to management principles and professional practice, with regards to decisions and actions made, can be defended, appraised and judged to assess the validity and appropriateness of the actions taken in the work environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Continuous professional development of learning needs will be identified, tailored, evaluated and addressed in a self-directed manner in order to facilitate collaborative learning processes of both the chemist and his/her peers within the chemical and allied industries.

Integrated Assessment:
Integrated Assessment is ensured by incorporating both formal and informal continuous assessment strategies into the learning programme to ensure that not only assessment of learning takes place but also assessment for learning. Assessment strategies are underpinned by the Exit Level Outcomes, which are designed in articulation with the level descriptors and the scope of practice. As such, all elements are aligned with the purpose statement of the programme. Integrated 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 will involve integrated types of assessment, used to inform learners about their progress on a continuous basis through the whole year. 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 of how teaching and learning can be improved. Throughout the qualification, formative assessment strategies will be used to ensure that exit level and critical cross-field outcomes are achieved, which include: Assignments; Practical work; Projects, Tests and/or any other applicable methods

Summative Assessment will involve assessment opportunities that take place at the end of a learning experience. Information will be gathered about a student'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 is often used for promotional purposes and may take the form of Examinations (theoretical and practical); Portfolios; Presentations; Tests and/or other applicable methods.

Research Project:
Learners will work with academic supervisors in identifying, developing and the ability to set up a research project. The project will be written in the form of a mini dissertation which will be assessed.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry, Level 8 is comparable to those offered at international higher education institutions. The majority of these international qualifications are aimed at the preparation of a learner to work as a specialist in the field of chemistry (including related fields through a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge). Some of the international institutions surveyed, accept different qualifications to qualifications similar to the Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry, Level 8. Therefore, it should be possible for our learners to study at other institutions globally.

Below is a summary of a select few qualifications offered internationally that are comparable to the Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry, Level 8 indicating articulation possibilities to enter relevant Postgraduate studies such as Master of Applied Science.

New Zealand: Massey University, Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Chemistry). This is 1-year qualification with 120 Credits. The qualification encompasses classroom teaching and research of at least 30 Credits. The qualification provides entry to Master of Science (MSc) Degree.

Canada: University of Ottawa, Bachelor of Science Honours (Chemistry). It is a 1-year qualification with 120 Credits. The qualification encompasses classroom teaching and research of at least 30 Credits. The qualification provides entry to Master of Science (MSc) Degree.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemistry, Level 8.

Postgraduate Diploma in Laboratory Management, Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Applied Science in Chemistry, Level 9.

Master of Philosophy in Chemistry, Level 9.

Master of Science in Chemistry, Level 9.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

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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.

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