SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Animal Science

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
115213	Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Animal Science
ORIGINATOR
University of Zululand
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)	Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation		Primary Agriculture
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	480	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		2034-06-30

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 Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Animal Science is to offer a general animal science study area which focuses on scientific principles of animal science that include physiology, health, breeding, nutrition, production of agriculture animals and pasture management. Animal Physiology provides learners with the understanding of anatomy and physiology of agriculture animals as well as digestive physiology concerning the utilisation of nutrients and other substance in ruminant and non-ruminant animals. It also enables students to understand the regulators of animal reproduction, analyse the reproductive performance of agriculture animals, manipulate the physiology of reproduction and application of assisted reproductive technologies to improve reproductive performance of agriculture animals.

Lastly, the growth physiology that terminates in the production of meat is also covered. As part of the curriculum, learners will study animal breeding, which covers the application of genetics and genetic engineering for the improvement of agricultural animal health, development of new animal breeds, and the selective improvement of agricultural animal populations. Learners will also study Animal Health as an introduction to veterinary technologies, principles and procedures in epidemiological studies in an agricultural animal.

The curriculum also includes the study of Animal Nutrition which focuses on the biology and chemistry of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, water, vitamins and feed additives as related to animal health and the production of improved animal products. Animal Production covers the application of biological and chemical principles to the production and management of agriculture animals and the production and handling of meat, dairy, eggs, wool and mohair. Pasture management focuses on veld and pasture management.

Learners will be equipped with a scope of knowledge and literacy to effectively problem solve animal science issues using appropriate standard procedures. Through animal science qualification, learners will develop ethical and professional skills to conduct themselves professionally for the collation and dissemination of information to the targeted audience. Learners adapt to a different system within the animal science fields and demonstrate accountability and responsibility for their professional advancement and decisions for the actions taken.

The qualification will train and develop learners to acquire analytical, reasoning, communication and computer literacy skills to solve problems in animal physiology, nutrition, production systems, pasture management, animal health and breeding. These skills are important in solving real-life problems encountered in the commercial, small-scale emerging livestock farms and public sector.

Rationale:
The University is the only comprehensive university in the KwaZulu-Natal province located in the Umhlathuze Municipality (north of Uthukela River). This previously disadvantaged institution has a catchment area that includes severely impoverished areas. Agriculture is one of the mainstays of the catchment area. Therefore, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in Animal Science will:

Enhance capacity to help farming communities and agriculture industries to improve food and nutrition security.

Develop and strengthen the human resource capacity in the University's catchment area and South Africa as a whole.

This curriculum design is in line with the institutional vision to produce learners that are globally competitive and relevant for the human capital needs of our South Africa with more emphasis within its community. The qualification is perfect for the agricultural sector as it introduces learners to a range of opportunities (animal physiology, nutrition, production and breeding) at both small and commercial scales rendering them to be more marketable at the agricultural industry (feed industry, livestock production (poultry, pig, small and large ruminants), animal breeding, research centres, academic institutions and government bodies as well as promoting entrepreneurship. The qualification will admit learners at NQF Level 4 into NQF Level 5. The learners will then progress vertically from NQF Level 5 to 8 where each level content prepares student to a higher NQF level with the assistance of Solo Taxonomy (identification and introduction into the different animal science fields, subsequently describing activities and then performing simple experiments in different production systems at the final year to develop analytical skills which are vital for knowledge creation through research). The qualification is designed not only to train students but to develop lifelong skills (creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking, leadership, communication, collaboration, information management and adaptability) and entrepreneurship attributes (instilled by final year project management in livestock production systems). The acquired skills permit students not only to progress into a Masters and PhD but also to become self-employable in their community, develop both small and large scale projects relevant to their surrounding communities to meet the sustainable development goals of South Africa and the world. The qualification resides in the Faculty of Science and Agriculture.

The career opportunities for Animal Scientists include Animal Science industry that plays a significant role in the South African economy, especially in the agricultural sector. The learner who possesses Animal Science Degree will get to work as a general animal scientist in research centres, nutritionist in feed companies, farm managers, animal science technicians, extension workers or adult education specialist and research scientist. Graduates can also work in college or university as lecturers or researchers. The private sector is one of the highest employers of animal science graduates both national and international where they work at different production units such as poultry, dairy, beef, pig, goat, sheep, horse and many others. Graduates can also venture in entrepreneurial opportunities such as Animal Science industry in poultry and livestock enterprise. Graduates may also start their businesses in animal production. Other opportunities include feed manufacturing companies that require animal science qualification.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The University's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Policy and Procedures document sets out the requirements and procedures for the recognition of prior learning for the purpose of admission to university study. Prior learning will be recognised in the form of properly certified university qualifications that are acceptable to the Senate for recognition for admission.

Applications are admitted in terms of the rules governing selection for undergraduate studies which states that: "An applicant who has graduated from another tertiary institution or who has in any other manner attained a level of competence which, in the opinion of the Senate, is adequate for the purpose of undergraduate Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural studies, may be admitted as a student of the University. Learners will have to use the university's procedure, which is approved at various university levels". Assessment of all applicants must be endorsed by the relevant body for approval prior to student registration. Performance of learners admitted by RPL will be closely monitored, and the implementation and effectiveness of RPL evaluated annually.

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

National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies.
Or

Diploma in Animal Science, NQF Level 6.
Or

Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, with endorsement.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 512 Credits.

Compulsory Modules NQF Level 5, 96 Credits:

Basic Chemistry, 16 Credits.

Classical Mechanics Bio, 16 Credits.

Cytology Genetics and Physiology, 16 Credits.

Introduction to Zoology, 16 Credits.

Maths and Stats for Earth and Life Science, 16 Credits.

Elementary Statistics for Science Students, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules Level 6, 176 Credits:

Plant Morphology and Taxonomy, 16 Credits.

Introduction Zoology, 16 Credits.

Basic Chemistry, 16 Credits.

Introduction to Animal Science, 16 Credits.

Introduction to Extension and Rural Development, 16 Credits.

Introduction to Soil Science, 16 Credits.

Biomolecules and Enzymology, 16 Credits.

Principles of Animal Production, 16 Credits.

Introduction to Agricultural Economics and Farm Management, 16 Credits.

Introduction to Crop Production, 16 Credits.

Metabolism, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules Level 7, 112 Credits:

Farm Animal Anatomy and Physiology, 16 Credits.

Animal Breeding, 16 Credits.

Animal Nutrition, 16 Credits.

Digestive Physiology, 16 Credits.

Animal Health, 16 Credits.

Pig and Poultry Production, 16 Credits.

Principles of Production Economics, 16 Credits.

Compulsory Modules Level 8, 128 Credits:

Pasture Ecology, 16 Credits.

Animal Reproduction, 16 Credits.

Applied Animal Nutrition, 16 Credits.

Animal Science Research I, 16 Credits.

Applied Pig and Poultry Production, 16 Credits.

Applied Ruminant Production, 16 Credits.

Applied Animal Science, 16 Credits.

Animal Science Research II, 16 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Use knowledge acquired to formulate diets to meet the requirements of different classes of agricultural animals.
2. Utilise biotechnologies successfully for processing animal products and by-products.
3. Compile a scientific report and communicate effectively in oral and written form, with a wide range of audiences.
4. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, theories and modern technologies used for the improvement of agricultural animals' reproductive performance, digestive physiology and functional anatomy studies.
5. Show a sound understanding of the general principles and theories involved in animal genetics as well as to apply this knowledge to design breeding programmes to introduce desirable traits.
6. Use veterinary terminologies, knowledge, principles, procedures and technology to control common diseases of agricultural animals.
7. Critically analyse the concepts and theories of pasture ecology and management.
8. Integrate the knowledge obtained in the different animal science fields to design and manage a sustainable production system.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Apply various feeding standards for agricultural animals.

Formulate diets for agricultural animals.

Design analytical techniques for feed evaluation for agricultural animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Apply technological skills in the processing of animals products and by-products.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Produce a proposal for scientific research and design experiment.

Collect data, analyse it and interpret it.

Give creative responses to problems and issues.

Communicate findings of the experiment effectively and scientifically both in writing and orally.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Apply knowledge and skills to solve problems arising from reproductive performance, digestive physiology and functional anatomy of agricultural animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Analyse genetic influences on traits exhibited by agricultural animals.

Design breeding programmes for selection of desirable traits of agricultural animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Apply veterinary terminologies, principles, procedures and technologies to identify causes, diagnoses, prevention, treatment and control of common diseases of agricultural animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Apply different methods in different pastures for grazing management.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

Apply sustainable production and management principles of ruminant and non-ruminant agricultural animals.

Integrated Assessment:
This institution uses both formative and summative assessment practices to assess learning. Formative assessment includes tests and assessments involving group discussions, practical exercises and reports and presentations. Formative and summative continuous assessment, weigh 40% (assignments) and summative consists of a 3-hour final examination, weighing 60%.

Summative assessment practices assess the achievement of module outcomes. The assessment is at the end of the semester based on theoretical and practical examinations, portfolios, reports and presentations.

Integrated assessments focus on the achievement of the Exit Level Outcomes and utilise a variety of assessment methods to assess knowledge, understanding, application, etc.

Formative assessment may include any of the following:

Tests.

Tests are used to evaluate learning outcomes that may be difficult to test through practical application. Tests may comprise questions that require answers to be either short with few words or sentences or long essay of 1-3 pages long. Learners are expected to show understanding of the concepts, apply those concepts, analyse, evaluate and create, for example, systems to be used by farmers.

Practical and practical reports:
Practical sessions allow learners to apply new concepts and skills that they have learned in classes, farm practical or laboratory environment. The facilitator/lecturer observe if the concept or skill is applied correctly and to provide feedback appropriately. Learners will take tests to demonstrate their ability to apply a theoretical concept in a practical environment and ability to compile a practical report showing the adherence to the basic principles of scientific writing.

Assignments:
Written assignments are used for learners to demonstrate their ability to search for relevant information, integrate the information and present in a logical sequence with attention paid to formatting, language and referencing. Assessment criteria include the factual accuracy of the essay, the incorporation of information gained through additional reading, the coherency, fluency and logical structure of the evidence that the essay is the student's original work.

Presentations:
The facilitator selects specific topics related to the module and students to collect information and compile a PowerPoint presentation which they deliver during classes. Learners will undergo tests on the organisation and clarity of presentation; ability to hold interest; mastery of facts; preparation and use of visual aids; answering of questions and adherence to the time limit.

Academic field trips and reports:
Learners will visit livestock production industries such as farms, slaughterhouse and feed formulating companies to learn about animal science in a practical environment. After that a visit, learners will compile a report on their observations, lessons learnt and conclusions.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The University of Ghana offers a BSc Agriculture Degree specialising in Animal Science. All modules in the first and second years provide learners with foundations in general Science and Agriculture and further consolidate their understanding of the subject, with specialisation courses in the third and fourth year. This curriculum design is similar to this qualification. The University of Ghana has a minimum of 142 Credits to obtain a Degree while this qualification has 512 Credits. The difference in credits is related to different ways used to calculate credits.

The University of Wageningen in the Netherlands which was named the number one university worldwide in Agriculture and Forestry for 2017/2018 on the QS World University rankings also offers a BSc Animal Science Degree in Animal Science. The only difference is that this qualification takes four years to complete. The University of Wageningen qualification takes three years to complete, and thus the specialisation modules are introduced in the second year of the study.

The University of Namibia offers a four year BSc Agriculture (Animal Science) Hons. The University also has NQF Level 8 exit modules which are similar to this qualification. Additionally, the module content, notional hours and assessment strategies are similar to those of this qualification. The only difference between the qualifications is related to the minimum credits required for a learner to obtain the Degree, which is 544 for University of Namibia while this qualification is 512 minimum credits.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

Vertical Articulation:
Master of Agriculture in Animal Production Management, NQF Level 9.

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Science in Soil Science, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Science in Zoology, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Science in Physical science, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Science in Hydrology, 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.	University of Zululand