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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
115925  Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
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  Physical 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  2020-01-08  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 Analytical Chemistry will enable the learner to find intellectual enrichment in the disciplines of analytical, inorganic, physical and organic chemistry at a higher level. Learners can systematically analyse complex issues, make recommendations using data and information at their disposal, and communicate their conclusions.

Rationale:
The qualification is vital for the articulation of undergraduate learners into further, postgraduate studies. The Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) sectors are the primary drivers for the economic growth of the country, and the new generation must continue to further develop in these areas to compete on both a national and international platform. The continuous enquiries from current qualification's learners to further their studies indicates a clear need for articulation possibilities, and this qualification addresses this need.

The Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry provides a pathway for learners to continue their professional development in the field of Analytical Chemistry, and to set the grounds for further study in the discipline.

The Department of Applied Chemistry works in close collaboration with industrial partners including ESKOM, SASOL, MINTEK, Water Municipalities, the South African Police Force and others. The qualification relates to the real-world problems experienced in South Africa and converts into research projects aimed at solving problems.

Learners enter various sectors which require their expertise to ensure and manage environmental (water, air, soil) concerns, forensic analysis, pharmaceutical design, food quality. Sectors include the cosmetics industry, power industries and mining sector.

The learner has specialised knowledge which he/she uses to solve recurring societal issues related to both the environment and South African industries. Typical learners must have a Diploma in Applied Chemistry or equivalent qualification. This qualification provides access to a career path and to further educational qualifications. The learners of this qualification have broad knowledge and skills in Applied Chemistry. The emphasis of the qualification ensures that the learners prepare for a career in Applied Chemistry and related industries.

The qualification empowers the learner to aspire to new career paths with specialisations specific to the South African labour market. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The Faculty of Science accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. All learning has value and the Faculty of Science endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant.

The Faculty of Science manages RPL according to the institution's RPL policy, as follows for purposes of this qualification as set out in the Faculty of Science policy:
  • Through RPL, a learner can gain access or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies at this institution.
  • Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied by the Faculty of Science.
  • RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements:
    > Is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience;
    > Is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF-level;
    > Takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.
    > Is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel to the Dean's Committee of the Faculty of Sciences and is finally decided upon by the Faculty of Science Dean's Committee.
  • A Diploma Or Degree that does not satisfy the formal entry requirements for an Advanced Diploma in Applied Chemistry qualification, but the holder of a such a qualification, can apply for admission to the Advanced Diploma in Applied Chemistry through RPL.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Diploma in Applied Chemistry, NQF, Level 6.
    Or
  • Relevant Bachelor's Degree, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Analytical Chemistry 4 Theory, 15 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry 4 Practical, 15 Credits.
  • Inorganic Chemistry 4 Theory, 15 Credits.
  • Inorganic Chemistry 4 Practical, 15 Credits.
  • Physical Chemistry 4 Theory, 15 Credits.
  • Physical Chemistry 4 Practical, 15 Credits.
  • Organic Chemistry 4 Theory, 15 Credits.
  • Organic Chemistry 4 Practical, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Solve both routine and unfamiliar problems using Analytical Chemistry procedures, methods and techniques.
    2. Apply the principles and different advanced instrumental analysis techniques of Analytical Chemistry.
    3. Present and communicate information effectively and meaningfully.
    4. Work effectively with others in a team and be able to work independently in a practical environment.
    5. Write a scientific report either as part of a practical group or as an individual. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply the principles of advanced organic, inorganic, analytical and physical chemistry to chemical problems encountered during chemical analyses and syntheses both in theory and practice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Correctly evaluate information, theories and ideas associated with Analytical Chemistry.
  • Demonstrate the principles of instrumental analysis techniques in theory and practicals.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Use scientific language in the formulation of complex theoretical principles.
  • Use theoretical concepts to solve complex analytical problems.
  • Evaluate data to determine and analyse characteristics.
  • Use scientific and academic/professional discourse conventions and formats.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Produce creative solutions independently and as a member of a team.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Carry out the analytical procedure and use statistics to analyse data accurately.
  • Plan the correct analytical procedures by taking into account what factors influence the analysis.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative:
  • Continuous tutorial tests.
  • Continuously written report for five practicals.

    Summative:
  • Tests.
  • Technical Reports.
  • Final Exams. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Given the differences between, for example, the AQF in Australia and the QCF in the United Kingdom, and South Africa's NQF, it is not easy to find directly comparable international qualifications (i.e. where the level, design and outcomes match). However, there are offerings designed to perform the same function as this one: to 'cap' a first, general undergraduate qualification, and to provide an articulation entry point into Postgraduate study.

    The Australian Qualifications Framework makes provision for an Advanced Diploma as a type of qualification, the purpose of which is, as in South Africa, "to qualify individuals who apply specialised knowledge in a range of contexts to undertake advanced skilled or paraprofessional work and as a pathway for further learning." Advanced Diploma qualifications are on Level 6 of the Australian Qualifications Framework.

    The Advanced Diploma in Analytical Chemistry is, however, similar in design to several one year qualifications too requiring a first Degree/Diploma. The first of these is the Birbeck, the University of London that offers a Postgraduate Certificate in Analytical Chemistry. The Postgraduate Certificate in Analytical Chemistry is available both part-time and full-time and provides for education in a laboratory-based subject. The course develops the learner's knowledge and understanding of analytical science, and especially of its practical applications. The qualification examines recent advances in the field to provide learners with the skills to do research and conduct literature and data searches. Learners learn how to conduct chemical manipulations, operate advanced analytical equipment and work safely and efficiently in a laboratory. The qualification is a one year, 100 Credit qualification registered on the United Kingdom framework.

    The University of Bradford in the United Kingdom offers a similar Postgraduate Diploma in Analytical Sciences, in which Chemistry is an option. The duration of this qualification is one year, full-time, and the qualification develops experience and techniques required to be an independent practitioner of modern analytical science, with the skills required for research and by industry." The qualification comprises modules in analytical chemistry including several elective options. Learners must complete a Degree in chemistry, a closely related discipline or have substantive equivalent experience.

    The University of Melbourne, Australia, offers a Graduate Diploma in Science (Advanced). The Graduate Diploma in Science (Advanced) provides the learner with access to a higher degree, by enabling the learner to acquire the research skills necessary in a scientific field. Learners can choose to focus on Chemistry and can complete the qualification by coursework alone (100 points). Learners who continue with the research aspects have access to higher Degrees. The qualification requires 100 Credits over one full-time year of study, and entrants require an undergraduate qualification with a major in the discipline.

    Finally, the American University in Cairo offers a Graduate Diploma in Food Chemistry, which is in a cognate discipline. Learners on this qualification complete six modules (of 18 Credits) and 12 Credit hours from the food chemistry specialisation. A Bachelor's Degree in chemistry or a related discipline is necessary for admission. 

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Chemistry, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Analytical Chemistry, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Honours in Analytical Chemistry, 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.
     
    NONE 


    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.