SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
112999  Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology 
ORIGINATOR
Durban University of Technology 
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 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Life Sciences 
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  2019-11-22  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 is suitable for continuing specialist development through the inculcation of a deep and systematic understanding of current thinking, practice theory and methodology in an area of Biotechnology. This qualification prepares learners with in-depth knowledge, practical skills, attitudes and values necessary for the technological application of biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof. Learners will be able to make or modify products or processes for specific use in the biotechnology workplace while contributing to environmental sustainability. This qualification is designed to prepare learners for Postgraduate study through the deepening of their knowledge and understanding of theories, methodologies and practices in the Biotechnology field. Also, the qualification will enable learners to formulate, undertake and resolve more complex theoretical and practice-related problems and tasks through the selection and use of appropriate methods and techniques.

Rationale:
Biotechnology is a multi-faceted discipline, which has been making a steady impact in South Africa. Globally the discipline has made a massive contribution in the science and technology arena. Biotechnologists need to respond to:
  • Issues of food and water contamination, and bioremediation,
  • The manufacture of environmentally friendly bio-products, food safety and quality control.
  • Issues that significantly affect society and the economy.
    Thus, Biotechnology contributes to the food and beverage industry, agricultural industry, water industry, pharmaceutical industry and chemical industry. In keeping with the advent of green biotechnology, in particular, the biofuels industry, this diploma will provide the foundational knowledge to meet the needs of this new wave of biotechnology.

    The qualification further provides a strong foundation for learners to pursue a career path development and lifelong learning in Biotechnology research and development, as well as industrial management and entrepreneurship. The qualifying learner may find research and development career opportunities in parastatal research institutions such as CSIR, MRC, ARC and Technology Innovation.

    The government has developed and implemented the National Biotechnology Strategy over the last decade. Biotechnology is a scarce skill as its potential contribution to environmental sustainability and bio-economy is enormous. Research funding from both the NRF and DST has been made available to both undergraduate and Postgraduate learners in pursuit of careers within the biotechnology field. More recently, in the DHET Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) 2013 Biotechnology has been identified as a green occupation. At the national, provincial and regional levels, there has been a steady increase in the establishment of several Biotechnology start-ups that has served as a source of employment for qualifying learners. The design of the qualification takes into account these needs ensuring biotechnologists are competent in 'green skills' required in the biofuels and bioremediation industries. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible and applicable to all learners to the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology. The Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology is achievable in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal learning and work experience. Awarding of credits to the learner is possible if they can demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this qualification.

    The Department's RPL process will be aligned to the institution's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and will include representation from the industry when reviewing RPL applications.

    The purpose of the institution's policy is to:
  • Provide a framework for the implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning procedures within the institution.
  • Facilitate access and admission to learning qualification within education and training and career paths.
  • Accelerate the redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities.
  • Promote and facilitate lifelong learning.
  • Outline the general procedures relating to the processing of RPL applications at the institution.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Diploma in Biotechnology, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits:
  • Advanced Industrial Biotechnology, level 7, 16 Credits.
  • Advanced Recombinant DNA Technology, Level 7, 16 Credits.
  • Advanced Plant Biotechnology, Level 7, 12 Credits.
  • Applied Medical Biotechnology, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • Research Techniques, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • Research Project, Level 7, 20 Credits.
  • Applications in Food Biotechnology, Level 7, 12 Credits.
  • Biotechnology Industry Management, Level 7, 12 Credits.
  • Environmental Bioremediation, Level 7, 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge of various theoretical aspects of relevant fields in biotechnology, such as Industrial, Environmental, Plant and Medical Biotechnology.
    2. Exhibit a deep understanding of microbial metabolism, biochemistry, methods and techniques in molecular biology, microbial cell culture, both in theory and as these relate to environmental and industrial biotechnological practices, in a context-specific manner.
    3. Attain an understanding of ethical practices about biotechnology, as they relate to legislation, intellectual property rights (IPR) and accountability.
    4. Develop an ability to plan and conduct a biotechnology research project and communicate findings in both an oral and written format.
    5. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of various industrially and research-applicable equipment, the ability to troubleshoot, and the ability to apply these practices in multiple contexts. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Identify, describe and explain the concepts and principles of the discipline.
  • Evaluate the relationships between the concepts and principles.
  • Identify the range and limits of applicability of the concepts and principles.
  • Apply the concepts and principles to standard problems in the field of biotechnology, such as Industrial, Environmental, Plant and Medical Biotechnology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • State the underlying principles of microbial metabolism, biochemistry, methods and techniques in molecular biology, microbial cell culture and develop practical strategies to apply those principles in the industry.
  • Apply knowledge of microbial metabolism, biochemistry, methods and techniques in molecular biology from first principles to solve environmental and industrial biotechnological problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Apply knowledge, skills and ethics relevant to current industry and professional standards and codes of ethics and practice.
  • Demonstrate an awareness and sensitivity to conflict, culture and context.
  • Reflect and develop the personal capability to meet professional standards, in particular to:
  • Actively seek professional development opportunities.
  • Seek and reflect upon feedback.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Formulate, critically analyse and solve foundational and abstract problems, in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
  • Apply the knowledge of theory to particular project contexts.
  • Integrate knowledge, e.g. from various disciplines or modes of enquiry, in solving scientific problems encountered in the project.
  • Demonstrate good listening, writing, verbal communication skills and procedures.
  • Interpret and communicate technical material and journal article that relates to the different fields of biotechnology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate technical and troubleshooting skills in using laboratory equipment, tools, materials and computer software.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of laboratory procedures, including health and safety, and scientific methods and analyse a deeper understanding of abstract concepts and theories critically by experiencing and visualising them as authentic phenomena, within a research context.
  • Demonstrate skills of scientific enquiry and problem-solving for application within a wide variety of biotechnological contexts.
  • Demonstrate skills of collaborative learning and teamwork in laboratory settings and understanding, and being prepared for, future roles in laboratory-based work through evidence of team-based learning.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated assessments will combine several different elements and will require learners to bring together different sets of outcomes of learning into a demonstration of applied competence. Integrated assessment will be emphasised in the Advanced Diploma because it links the notion of applied competence which is a central concern of the NQF. Applied competence is achievable by combining practical, foundational and reflective competence. Integrated assessments will:
  • Assess several outcomes together using written tests, case study reports and assignments.
  • Assess several assessment criteria together using written tests, case study reports and assignments.
  • Use various assessment methods and instruments to achieve an outcome/s.
  • Assessment practices will be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable to ensure that no learner is disadvantaged.

    The term `Integrated Assessment` implies the assessment of theoretical and practical components together. During integrated assessments, the assessor will make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools methods and determine combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Continuous assessment will be through:
  • Project reports.
  • Simulations.
  • Written assignments.
  • Written tests.
  • Case studies and case presentations.
  • Peer group evaluation.
  • Competency evaluations of clinical skills.
  • Face to face contact with students.

    Formative and Summative Assessments:
    Formative Assessments will be used to support the learner developmentally and to provide feedback into the teaching and learning process. Summative Assessments will be used to make a judgement about achievement and to provide "snapshot" information about a student's level of competence at a given time. Also includes assessment marks that contribute to the final mark. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The institution took into consideration the following comparison with the identified international qualifications in terms of the modules offered, assessment criteria as well as research relevance to ascertain best practice.
  • Centennial College (CAN) - Advanced Diploma [Biotechnology (Fast Track) (Optional Co-op).
  • Guru Nanak Dev University - Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology (1 Year - Diploma after graduation).
  • University of Jos - Nigeria (Higher National Diploma - Microbiology Techniques option).

    It was noted that common modules and practices exist amongst these qualifications and these were incorporated into the Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology. Qualifications outlined below were evaluated and best practices adopted and contextualized for the South African context.

    Centennial College (CAN) - Advanced Diploma [Biotechnology (Fast Track) (Optional Co-op)]:
    Similar modules:
  • Advanced Biotechnology.
  • Systematic Microbiology.
  • Microbial Genetics.
  • Biochemistry 2.
  • Biochemistry 2.
  • Analytical Instrumentation for Biotechnology.
  • Professional Practice.
  • Microbiology Project 3.

    Guru Nanak Dev University - Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology (1 Year - Diploma after graduation):
    Similar modules:
  • Advanced Biotechnology.
  • Systematic Microbiology.
  • Microbial Genetics.
  • Recombinant DNA Technology.
  • Pharmaceutical Microbiology.
  • Biochemistry 1.
  • Biochemistry 2.
  • Pharmaceutical Microbiology.
  • Biochemistry 1.
  • Biochemistry 2.
  • Report Writing in a Technical Environment.
  • Biological Techniques.
  • Professional Practice.
  • Microbiology Project 1.
  • Microbiology Project 2.
  • Microbiology Project 3.

    University of Jos - Nigeria (Higher National Diploma - Microbiology Techniques option):
    Similar modules:
  • Petroleum Microbiology.
  • Applied Vectors and Pest Management.
  • Immunology and Immunochemistry.
  • Molecular Biology.
  • Processing Biochemistry.
  • Plant Pathology.
  • Processing Biochemistry.
  • Applied Storage Techniques.
  • Laboratory Organisation and Management II.
  • Photography and Illustrations.
  • Analytical Microbiology and Quality Control.
  • Research Project. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Food Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology, NQF 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. Durban University of Technology 


    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.