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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Science in Chemistry 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
115034  Master of Science in Chemistry 
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Physical Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to:
  • Develop specific chemistry subject laboratory skills.
  • Train learners how to source information from literature and convert it usable data and be able to draw critical conclusions based on acquired data.

    Learners will be able to apply scientific principles and techniques to the field of chemistry.

    Learners will demonstrate a mastery of the methods of research. The qualification includes:
    > Posing a research question,
    > Undertaking a relevant literature review,
    > Engaging rigorously with research methods,
    > Drawing valid conclusions and communicating findings in a clear, logical and scholarly manner.

    Rationale:
    The Master of Science in Chemistry qualification places emphasis on research in the specialised areas of pure and applied Chemistry. This qualification is the first full research project a chemistry learner will encounter. It aims to enhance the research skills acquired from the Honours level.

    Some industries and Research Councils in South Africa require a Master's as the minimum qualification for working in a field of chemistry. The qualification will embody aspects of practical training essential for functioning as a scientist in a work environment in companies and research councils such as Aspen, Sasol, Mintek, CSIR, Municipality water treatment projects, etc. Thus, learners would be employable in the chemical, water, pharmaceutical industries and other relevant workplaces. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for entrance may be applied according to the university's RPL policy and as determined by the Faculty of Science.

    RPL may be applied for credit transfer for modules or subjects studied at this or another higher education institution to reduce duplicated learning.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Chemistry, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.
  • Dissertation, 180 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Integrate new and existing knowledge in the field/area of investigation by applying appropriate research methods and techniques and present research findings to a professional audience.
    2. Analyse and critically evaluate the literature relevant to the field/area of investigation.
    3. Conduct research by applying appropriate research methods and techniques independently and effectively in the research process to solve complex problems.
    4. Report findings in an appropriate format.
    5. Collecting, organising, analysing and evaluating information by data collection and synthesising into a logical contribution to the knowledge in the particular field of study.
    6. Working effectively with specialised scientists in a particular field at a high academic level.
    7. Managing one's own time to achieve execution of a research plan and integrate all the conflicting information pertinent to the study.
    8. Communicate particularly in scientific terms, in an internationally acceptable style both verbally and in written reports and publications.
    9. Using science and technology to contribute to the knowledge and understanding in the field is an overt outcome of this qualification. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • A comprehensive literature base is critically analysed and evaluated to establish recent trends in technologies, techniques, models, and theories in the chosen field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Models, principles, theories, techniques, and methodologies in the chosen field are analysed, explained, and used correctly in oral presentations and the dissertation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • The research problem is clearly identified, defined and detailed in the research proposal, where the stated hypothesis directs the investigation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • The appropriate methods and techniques are selected and applied in the collection of qualitative.
  • And quantitative data where appropriate.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Conduct experimental research responsibly and ethically.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Logical interpretation of data reflects a clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Logical interpretation of data reflects a clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • The inferences, interpretation, and conclusions based on a critical review of evidence from measurements and statistical analyses are valid.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in clearly communicating the research problem, its investigation, the outcome, and the recommendations.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative Assessment:
    Oral presentations.
    Research proposals.
    Written progress reports.

    Summative assessment:
    Research dissertation.
    Oral and visual presentations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The University of Edinburgh in the UK offers a Masters by Research qualification in their School of Chemistry. The qualification is a 12-month qualification in which the learner joins one of the research groups at the School of Chemistry to research a particular topic. The purpose of the qualification is to gain research skills, making friends, meeting eminent researchers and being part of the research community. Also, to help postgraduates learners to develop invaluable transferable skills which they could apply to an academic career or a variety of professions outside of academia.

    Comparison to this qualification:
    This qualification is comparable to the qualification mentioned above concerning its purpose of preparing learners for the Masters. Both the duration of the study and examination processes are similar. 

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • A cognate Masters, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry, NQF Level 10. 
    		•

    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. Nelson Mandela University 


    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.