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: 

Bachelor of Science Honours in Agricultural Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118414  Bachelor of Science Honours in Agricultural Management 
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Honours Degree  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Secondary Agriculture 
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  2021-11-18  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 Agricultural industry plays a vital role in the South African economy in terms of meeting the increasing food demands, employment, adding value and linkages with the other sectors of the economy. The purpose of the qualification is to deepen the learner's expertise and theoretical knowledge in the agricultural management discipline. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence which strengthen the ability of learners to manage future planning, encourage strategic thinking and manage production sustainably and productively in the Agricultural industry.

The qualification will equip farm managers with the appropriate management tools to maintain a successful enterprise and thus contribute to the current land redistribution debate, its long-term effects, the planning and management thereof. It will expose learners to research techniques, philosophies, strategic thinking and will stimulate analytical thinking at a level required for the management of complex natural resource systems. These are required skills for either research-orientated or middle/higher level management careers.

Rationale:
Appropriate agricultural management is central to sustainable development, both in a biophysical and socio-economic environment. As a result, agriculture and food security feature prominently in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Agriculture in South Africa is regarded as a strategically important resources and make a very significant contribution to the economy of South Africa. Aspects of sustainable agriculture are firmly embedded in both national legislation as well as strategies for economic growth. The qualification, therefore, offers a variety of career options to successful graduates, which further supports increased interest in agriculture.

The complexity of agriculture requires highly skilled employees that are adequately trained in the sustainable management of the complex environment. These complexities have resulted in job profile differentiation at middle and higher-level management. The qualification therefore will play an important role in providing a workforce with relevant and adequate research skills and knowledge to ensure a competitive and sustainable agricultural industry.

The qualification is designed to provide the learners with the analytical, reasoning and communication skills required to enter the agricultural management profession. The education will empower learners to make critical assessments of real-life problems that are pertinent to their chosen profession. Qualifying learners will be able to be employed in government, agribusiness, private consultancies, and education and manage their own businesses. The qualification provides access to lifelong learning and higher qualifications in the environmental sciences which allow learners to articulate to the Master's Degree. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be obtained in whole or in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning. Recognition of prior learning will be taken into consideration according to the institution's policy. RPL process will be used to identify the applicant's knowledge and skills against a qualification or part thereof. It involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement and skills obtained through informal, non-formal and /or formal learning.

RPL for access:
  • RPL is designed to support access to higher education for candidates who have gained Degree-related knowledge and skills through informal study or experiential means.
  • Entry into this qualification is possible via RPL for learners who do not meet the direct admission requirements, but who can demonstrate experiential or work-based learning at an equivalent NQF Level 7.
  • Learners must provide a formal, properly structured assessment of prior learning in terms of the institution s' RPL Policy.
  • Advanced standing may be granted.

    RPL for exemption of modules
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted for modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credits:
  • Applicant's experience in the Agricultural and/or Agri-Business environment will be considered and competence in the relevant fields, including numeracy, computer and communications competence, will be assessed to determine whether an exemption from modules may be given.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Agricultural Management, NQF Level 7.
    or
  • Advanced Diploma in Agricultural or an equivalent qualification, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    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:
  • Enterprise Development, 27 Credits.
  • Sustainability Management, 27 Credits.
  • Research Project, 30 Credits.
  • Agro-ecology and Sustainable Livelihoods, 12 Credits.
  • Agriculture Economics, 12 Credits.
  • Agricultural Production Management, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Investigate and manage current challenges in the agricultural industry through engaging with concepts and methods which will react meaningfully to the complexity of the industry while taking into account the unique challenges of the agricultural industry.
    2. Analyse and explain the inter-relatedness of social, economic and biophysical environments and their influences in the broad discipline of Agriculture.
    3. Analyse, interpret and review contemporary issues and challenges related to the agricultural industry.
    4. Formulate sustainable Agricultural Management strategies.
    5. Apply a creative and global entrepreneurial mindset and innovative thinking within the agricultural environment.
    6. Conduct a research project in the agricultural management discipline. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Define and analyse the problem, and identify criteria for an acceptable solution.
  • Analyse and apply relevant information and engineering knowledge and skills used for solving the problem.
  • Examine and formulate various approaches that would lead to workable solutions.
  • Analyse and model solutions.
  • Evaluate solutions and select the best solution.
  • Formulate and present a solution in an appropriate form.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Evaluate and apply an appropriate mix of knowledge of natural science at a fundamental level to solve well-defined agricultural problems.
  • Examine and apply production and scientific principles.
  • Present concepts and ideas logically and methodically.
  • Identify and apply agricultural systems or processes.
  • Outline and justify procedures for dealing with uncertain/ undefined/ill-defined variables.
  • Use the agricultural field as the source of data and view the industry needs as an interrelated system.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Analyse the scope of the investigation to review contemporary issues and challenges
  • Plan and conduct Investigations within an appropriate discipline.
  • Conduct literature review and evaluate the suitability for the investigation.
  • Select relevant equipment used for the investigation.
  • Analyse and interpret data.
  • Draw conclusions from an analysis of all available evidence and make recommendations.
  • Record the purpose, process and outcomes of the investigation in a technical report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify priorities considering a broad range of factors in solving problems and making decisions on operational strategies.
  • Explain the need for and the benefits of change and make recommendations to achieve the intended results.
  • Undertake the initiatives linked to organisational goals and objectives.
  • Initiate and develop operational strategies, projects and action plans.
  • Implement and evaluate operational strategies, projects and action plans.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Explore the meaning of entrepreneurship and the world of the entrepreneur.
  • Discuss the outline and the main rewards of entrepreneurship.
  • Develop a market feasibility study.
  • Analyse the market share of an agricultural enterprise.
  • Determine and calculate revenue, costs, profit and break-even point.
  • Explain the process of buying an existing business.
  • Examine the life cycle of a business.
  • Illustrate the need for innovation and creativity in business.
  • Explain risk management for sustainability.
  • Illustrate how entrepreneurship inspires innovation in agriculture.
  • Experience entrepreneurship in action: realizations in the field.
  • Critically reflect on the power of entrepreneurship and the future of farming.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Explore the structure, style and language of written and oral communication for the communication and the target audience.
  • Use graphics appropriately and effectively in enhancing the meaning of the text.
  • Apply visual materials to enhance oral communications.
  • Present information in a format that can be used by others involved in the activity.
  • Present information orally with the intended meaning being apparent. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The purpose, outcomes, assessment, entry requirements, degree of complexity and the notional learning time of the qualification have been favourably compared to similar qualifications offered by three international institutions.
    A notable difference with international Honours Degrees is a four-year qualification with the fourth year being presented as the Honours, or a three-year Bachelor of Science qualification required before entering Honours Degree. The proposed qualification is compared to three international Agricultural Honours Degree qualifications.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: University of Queensland
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours)
    Admission requirements:
    To meet the minimum entry requirements for the qualification, learners must:
  • Complete Queensland Year 12 or an equivalent qualification.
  • Achieve the qualification's minimum entry score.
  • Satisfy the qualification subject prerequisites, if applicable.
  • Meet the qualification's English language proficiency requirements.
  • Successfully complete any qualification-specific application requirements.

    Purpose:
    The qualification enables learners to go beyond the traditional growing of crops and animal production to take on a diverse and challenging career in Agricultural Science where they will use scientific, technological, management, economic, environmental and social principles to meet the world's need for food and fibres.
    On completion, qualifying learners will undertake an independent research project where they will extend their specialization in either animal or plant science and build a successful career in the agricultural industries in research and development, production and management or service industries such as rural finance.

    Qualification structure (Modules):
    The qualification comprises the following modules.
    Compulsory modules:
  • Research Communication.
  • Entrepreneurship in Agriculture.
  • Agricultural Research Methodologies.
  • Honours Research Project

    Assessment approach:
  • Dissertation.
  • Seminars.
  • Tutorials.
  • Quizzes.
  • Assignments.
  • Test/Examination.

    Comparison
    The main difference is that candidates enrol for the four-year Honours qualification, with the fourth year as the Honours Degree. This qualification allows the learner to finish a qualification and then specialize with the Honours.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: Harper Adams University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Honours
    Admission requirements:
  • Top-up applicants must have achieved an average of 55% in their Foundation degree to apply for Bachelor of Science non-honours and 60% to apply for Bachelor of Science Honours.
  • Applicants must have completed a full year's placement as part of their course of study or two years of full-time relevant employment out with the family business after their course.

    Purpose:
    The qualification gives learners a thorough understanding of modern agricultural production systems and the underlying scientific and technological principles. The qualification will equip learners to manage a sustainable agricultural business in the complex and dynamic rural economy. This is a very broad and challenging remit, and consequently, the course is designed to develop a breadth of expertise across a range of sectors. Successful learners will be able to manage an increasingly diversified business and embrace a range of responsibilities for enhancing the environment, integrating production within the food chain and maintaining rural communities.

    Curriculum structure (Modules):
  • Honours Research Project.
  • People Management Skills.
  • Sustainable Animal Production Systems.
  • Sustainable Crop Production Systems.
  • Agricultural Business Development.
  • Farm Animal Health.

    Assessment approach:
    Assessment forms include:
  • Written reports.
  • Essays.
  • Technical notes.
  • Presentations.
  • Oral examinations.
  • Assignments include appraising production systems on the University farm, whole farm case studies, laboratory-based analyses and literature-based reviews.

    Comparison:
    The sustainability production systems, business developments modules are similar. Both qualifications establish a broad understanding of contemporary environmental issues, natural resource management and utilization and sustainability science. Curriculum similarities are in emphasis on the sustainable management of natural resources, both qualifications also integrate economics and business orientation. Research methodology and practice also form a fundamental part of both qualifications.

    Curriculum differences are that this qualification offers areas into farm animal health and it allows learners to specialize in either agriculture or wildlife management

    Country: Ireland
    Institution: University College Dublin,
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) Food and Agribusiness Management
    Admission requirements:
  • Six recognised subjects
  • Obtain a minimum of Grade C in two subjects at A-level (A2) and a minimum of Grade C of GCSE in the remaining four subjects.
  • Admission to all qualifications is competitive and candidates will generally need at least 3 A-levels.

    Purpose:
    The qualification will equip learners with the principles of economics and business management applied to farming, food production and marketing. Learners will gain an understanding of how the national and international food systems deliver food products and services that people want, and how farmers and food manufacturers can produce pro¿tably, while also taking care of the natural environment. Successful learners will be able to pursue the following careers:
  • Chief executives.
  • Business owners.
  • Plant managers.
  • Marketing managers.
  • Media editors.

    Curriculum structure (Modules):
    Stage Four modules:
  • Food and Agribusiness Research Project, 10 Credits.
  • Enterprise Development, 5 Credits.
  • Farm Business Management 5, Credits.
  • International Food Marketing 5, Credits.
  • Information Technology and E-Business 5, Credits.
  • Agri-Environmental Economics and Policy 5, Credits.
  • Food and Agricultural Policy 5, Credits.
  • Agri-Taxation 5, Credits.
  • Food and Agribusiness Strategy 5, Credits.
  • Professional Communications 5, Credits.

    Assessment approach:
    Assessment consists of the following activities:
  • Dissertation.
  • Seminars.
  • Tutorials.
  • Quizzes.
  • Assignments.
  • Test/Examination.

    The combination of end-of-trimester written examinations (summative assessment) and continuous assessment (formative assessment) is used. A research project on a specific agribusiness research topic is prepared and presented in the final year.

    Similarities:
    The proposed qualification compares favourably with the above qualifications in that both qualifications allow learners to specialize in the fields of plant production and animal production. Both qualifications offer areas in financial services, farm management and enterprise development. Research methodology and practice also form a fundamental part of both qualifications.
    Differences:
    The main difference is that candidates enrol for the four-year Bachelor of Science Honours Degree. The qualification at this institution provides different areas into agriculture policies, information technology and taxation.

    Conclusion:
    The international comparability analysis shows similarities in the entry requirements, purpose, curriculum structure and assessment. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Agriculture Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Agricultural Management Honours, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Science, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Agricultural Management, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    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.