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 Ecology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118647  Bachelor of Science Honours in Ecology 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Honours Degree  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Environmental Sciences 
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
Registered  SAQA 137/22  2022-02-03  2025-02-03 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-02-03   2029-02-03  

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 main purpose of the Bachelor of Science Honours in Ecology is to prepare learners for research-based postgraduate studies in Ecology. The qualification provides learners with a sound understanding of the research process, and with the philosophical foundations necessary to understand how scientific knowledge is created and to become knowers within the field. It also provides an opportunity to carry out ecological research while under supervision. Graduates will be able to apply advanced ecological theories and methodologies to discuss and contribute to the solution of environmental problems of a social, economic, and physical nature.

The qualification will provide learners with sufficient theoretical, analytical, and practical knowledge in the discipline to allow for professional and academic growth in careers such as environmental consulting, protected areas management, soil analysis, water resource management, fisheries, biodiversity conservation, and the academy, and to make a constructive contribution to industry and society at large. The qualification will allow graduates to be employed as consultants or as salaried workers in companies or government. It further aims to equip them to become life-long independent learners who are capable of undertaking research to make original contributions to knowledge and society. Graduates will be able to plan, design, and execute ecological research using the relevant methodology and report on the findings and thus contribute to the generation of new knowledge.

Qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate an advanced and current understanding of the general principles, theories and methodological approaches underpinning the scientific study of Ecology.
  • Demonstrate critical insight into the nature and causes of spatial and temporal change within the natural environment and the complexity of the reciprocal relationships among the individual elements of the natural environment.
  • Critically reflect on the diversity of approaches to the generation of knowledge and understanding deriving from the experience of the epistemologies of the natural and social sciences and humanities, including Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS).
  • Critically consider and reflect on the diversity of techniques and approaches involved in collecting ecological information (including instrumentation, laboratory work, field surveying, observation, and the use of textual and archival approaches) and in a range of familiar and unfamiliar scenarios, select appropriate research methods.
  • Demonstrate mastery of techniques and approaches involved in collecting and analysing ecological information, including field and laboratory techniques, qualitative and quantitative techniques with a critical assessment of their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Undertake independent and original research in Ecology starting from identifying a research problem, collecting data, analysing the data, through to completion of the research and preparation of the research report.

    Rationale:
    Some of the most pressing social and ecological challenges of this century, including urbanisation, sustainable use of natural resources, management of the environment and other limited resources, climate change and the impact of humans on the world are inherently ecological and are the focus of the qualification. Graduates with an Honours degree in Ecology are able and contribute to a wide and diverse range of fields including for National and Provincial Government, Environmental Consulting, Protected Areas Management, Soil analysis, Water resource management, Fisheries, Biodiversity conservation and the academy. Graduates will be able to work for themselves, as consultants or as salaried workers in companies or government.

    The qualification is intended to provide the nation with Honours graduates in the ecological sciences to ensure that the local leadership base of innovative and knowledge-based economic and scholarly activity is consolidated, strengthened, and widened. Such graduates can feed into the country's needs for scientists and managers in the spheres of environmental management, environmental impact assessment practice, IS0 9000 and IS0 14000 certification, ecosystems management, fisheries, game farming, agriculture, nature conservation, biodiversity management and utilization, pest control, and maintenance of life support systems, as well as specialists in sub-fields therein. The qualification will provide qualifiers with the post-graduate-level knowledge, specific skills and applied competence in a number of fields of ecological science that provide for continued personal intellectual growth, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to society.

    The qualification is the bridge to further postgraduate research-based studies and it is expected that many Honours learners will progress to Master's and Doctoral studies and contribute to research-based solutions to challenges and issues in the environment and society, with an emphasis on those relevant to the local context. The most appropriate learning pathway is the Bachelor's degree, Honours, Masters, Doctoral studies pathway. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with regards to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    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 credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted..

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Science, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Social Science in Geography and Environmental Management, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Social Science in Environmental Studies, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • Advanced Diploma in Environmental Management, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory and/or elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:
  • Research Methodology, 15 Credits.
  • Research Paper, 30 Credits.
  • Philosophy of Science and Indigenous Knowledge Systems, 15 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits (Select any four modules from the following):
  • Global Change and Biodiversity Conservation. 15 Credits.
  • African Vertebrate Ecology, 15 Credits.
  • Aquatic Ecology, 15 Credits.
  • Fisheries and Fisheries Management, 15 Credits.
  • Human Dimensions of Wildlife Ecology, 15 Credits.
  • Water resource Conservation and Management,15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an advanced and current understanding of the general principles, theories and methodological approaches underpinning the scientific study of ecology.
    2. Demonstrate critical insight into the nature and causes of spatial and temporal change within the natural environment and the complexity of the reciprocal relationships among the individual elements of the natural environment.
    3. Critically reflect on the diversity of approaches to the generation of knowledge and understanding deriving from the experience of the epistemologies of the natural and social sciences and humanities, including Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS).
    4. Critically consider and reflect on the diversity of techniques and approaches involved in collecting ecological information (including instrumentation, laboratory work, field surveying, observation, and the use of textual and archival approaches) and in a range of familiar and unfamiliar scenarios, select appropriate research methods
    5. Demonstrate mastery of techniques and approaches involved in collecting and analysing ecological information, including field and laboratory techniques, qualitative and quantitative techniques with a critical assessment of their strengths and weaknesses.
    6. Undertake independent and original research in Ecology starting from identifying a research problem, collecting data, analysing the data, through to completion of the research and preparation of the research report.
    7. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of professional ethics in ecology and identify and apply ethical rules and conduct in practice within a South African context. Take decisions and act ethically with integrity and accountability for their work, decisions, and actions.
    8. Access information from a diverse range of sources to address a range of familiar and unfamiliar complex ecological problems and issues, evaluate the sources and the information, and prepare a logical response or a solution for the problem.
    9. Communicate and share their conclusions and views, and the ecological knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences clearly and unambiguously using appropriate discourse, suitable audio-visual tools, and technology, as well as appropriate referencing conventions.
    10. Apply their knowledge and understanding of ecological principles, practices and methodologies, and problem-solving abilities in complex natural environmental systems and can handle complexity, integrate different knowledge perspectives and interests, accommodate multiple views of reality, and manage creative tension.
    11. Undertake highly autonomous and well-organised learning and time management to achieve consistent proficiency and sustained achievement, work in a group as a member or leader, take full responsibility for own work, and, where appropriate, that of fellow learners. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Critically review and apply relevant ecological theories, principles, procedures and practices, research methodologies, methods and techniques to support the development of convincing arguments and positions in assignments, research reports and examinations.
  • Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the theories, principles, procedures, and practices, research methodologies, methods, and techniques in selected sub-fields of ecology including terrestrial and aquatic ecology in assignments, research reports and examinations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Discuss the nature and causes of change in the natural environment in-depth with reference to current literature and examples.
  • Critically review the significance of climate change is and the implications of this for ecosystems and conservation is discussed using appropriate examples
  • Demonstrate a detailed appreciation of the nature of temporal-spatial variation and change in written and oral submissions.
  • Analyse the importance of spatial and temporal scale when studying ecosystems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate a critical awareness of relevant philosophies and research paradigms.
  • Analyse perspectives from different disciplines and from IKS and manage creative tensions such that multiple voices are heard.
  • Select and fully justify appropriate research paradigm and apply in a given familiar and unfamiliar research topics.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify and fully justify appropriate research methods and apply in a given familiar and unfamiliar research topics,
  • Critique accurately the research design and methods in reviews of published papers.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Analyse and apply routine and specialised ecological methods in the field and laboratory.
  • Clearly describe inherent weaknesses of an applied or recommended method.
  • Evaluate a range of approaches and fully justify an appropriate method recommended to data analysis in familiar and unfamiliar examples
  • Analyse and apply qualitative and quantitative research methods.
  • Correctly use software to undertake routine and more complex statistical tests.
  • Ability to correctly interpret the output of statistical tests.
  • Correctly report statistical results in writing and illustrate in tables and figures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate the ability to undertake independent ecological research in the research module. The research report will demonstrate the following outcomes:
  • Select and present the literature review to support the project, is comprehensive, use a range of information sources and demonstrate a critical evaluation of each source.
  • Indicate the project plan timeframes and budget, goals, targets, and indicators.
  • Identify appropriate methods, including statistical methods, consider a range of methods and select the appropriate ones.
  • Consider ethical issues and seek approval if necessary.
  • Ability to successfully collect, collate and analyse data.
  • Interpret and discuss data in the context of the available information gathered in the literature review.
  • Formulate recommendations and fully justify them to support the data.
  • Present the research report in a format appropriate for the discipline and demonstrate no plagiarism

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Identify ethical issues in ecology and address them in assignments, the research paper, and all other assignments
  • Obtain ethical approval before starting research.
  • Explore the views of multiple stakeholders and accommodate different views in all activities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Access, critically evaluate information from a wide range of sources and include in the research paper and all assignments.
  • Critically review and analyse existing knowledge in the field of specialisation.
  • Manage well the contradictory information, consider alternative viewpoints and reach a balanced conclusion.
  • Acknowledge reference to published work and include a critical assessment of the validity of the source and the work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Communicate results from the research project to both professional and lay audiences using appropriate language and technology.
  • Convincingly communicate oral arguments.
  • Communicate complex concepts, ideas, and theories clearly.
  • Deliver clear and engaging presentations within the given time.
    Written communication:
  • Use appropriate language in the research paper and present all assignments in the approved style and adhere to norms for academic scientific writing.
  • Use a standard referencing style accurately and consistently in the research paper.
  • Communicate written arguments in a convincing manner.
  • Clearly present statistical results in the research paper.
  • Include no plagiarism in all assignments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Address complex ecological problems through the application of advanced knowledge and skills.
  • Apply a systems-thinking approach to complex ecological questions and develop possible solutions.
  • Manage well and incorporate multiple, conflicting viewpoints and creative tension in written and oral work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Ability to submit all assignments on time.
  • Include positive and constructive reflection on the learning process in the research journal
  • Critically consider feedback and incorporate successfully into iterative drafts of work.
  • Agree on and execute responsibilities in group work.
  • Ability to plan successfully, execute and complete group assignments and research. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Many international universities do not separate ecology from Zoology the biosciences more broadly. As a result, comparisons have been made with equivalent qualifications in the United Kingdom and Canada where the Bachelor's Honours degree in biosciences is a widely offered qualification and broadly similar to the proposed Bachelor of Science (Honours) in entomology.

    Country: United Kingdom.
    Institution: Plymouth University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science Honours in Zoology
    Reference has been made to the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education and the Subject Benchmark Statement for the Biosciences.
    Plymouth University offers a Bachelor of Science Honours in Zoology. The final year of the degree, which is equivalent to the Honours year, includes a compulsory dissertation and several optional modules which include a mix of appropriate ecology modules. The qualification was selected because of its similarity in exit-level outcomes to the South African qualification.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: Liverpool University
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science (BSc) Honours in Bioscience
    Duration: three years
    The final year is comparable with the South African qualification. At Liverpool University, all learners complete a compulsory dissertation and then select several theory options from a broad range that includes ecological options. The programme was selected because of its similarity in exit-level outcomes to our proposed honours programme.

    Country: Canada.
    Institution: McGill University
    Qualification Title: BSc Honours in Life Science
    Duration: Three years
    The final year is comparable to the proposed Honours degree to be offered by the South African qualification. Learners' complete compulsory modules in research methods and statistics and a research dissertation. They then choose from a diverse range of module options, including many that are ecological in nature ad focus. The structure and many of the modules in this qualification is similar to those in the South African qualification.

    Similarities:
  • Both the UK and Canada, the Bachelor of Science Honours in Zoology/Biosciences share a common structure with the South African qualification in that there is a compulsory research project and dissertation and then a set of options including entomology from which learners select.

    Differences:
  • The South African qualification differs from those reviewed in that it includes a compulsory module on the Philosophy of Science and IKS which will give graduates a competitive edge.
  • The South African qualification takes one year to complete while the Canadian qualification is three years of study.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: University of Queensland
    Qualification Title: Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Ecology and Conservation Biology

    Similarities:
    The South African qualification compares favourably with Australian qualification in the following aspects.
  • Both qualifications have a duration of one year
    Entry requirements:
    Bachelor of Science (or equivalent), with:
    a grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 on a 7-point scale, and
    a GPA of at least 4.5* for 8 units of courses at level 3 or higher relevant to the honours project and have secured an honours project and supervisor GPA of at least 5.0 for the Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics fields of study.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    Ecology and conservation biology are vital for solving the environmental challenges our society is facing today. Both qualifications provide an opportunity to pursue an independent research project in learners' areas of interest as an additional year of study, essentially giving learners a research apprenticeship.

    Upon the completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate understanding of how organisms interact with each other and their environments by undertaking the research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
  • Apply the expertise to tackle global issues such as biodiversity loss, climate change, diminishing natural resources and the environmental impacts of human activity.
  • Design, implement, and present learners research project, with emphasis on defining the research issue, establishing methodology, undertaking appropriate collection and analysis of data, and drawing defensible conclusions.
  • Acquire the skills that enable them to work without close supervision in a research environment in industry or government or to proceed to a research higher degree.
  • Supporting workshops and courses will further add to the research training
  • Depending on the nature of the research project, learners may also conduct fieldwork in a range of rainforest, outback, or marine environments.

    Bo qualification will prepare learners for the first job and beyond and pursue some of the following careers:
  • Ecologist.
  • Endangered species ecologist.
  • Wildlife ecologist.
  • Ecological assessment officer.
  • Ecology consultant.
  • Environment adviser.
  • Environment and planning adviser.
  • Environment and sustainability consultant.
  • Sustainability adviser.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules which are similar to the South African qualification.
  • Ecology and conservation biology
    Ecology and conservation biology are vital for solving the environmental challenges our society is facing today.
    Demonstrate learners' understanding of how organisms interact with each other and their environments by undertaking learners' own research projects under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
  • Developmental Biology
    Learners who undertake Honours will be equipped to work as part of a research team in a semi-dependent manner.
    Learners will be able to identify key questions, plan experiments, acquire new techniques and interpret results.
  • Environmental Science
    Undertake a research apprenticeship at Australia's highest-ranked university for research in environmental sciences.
    Take on an independent research project under the guidance of leading environmental researchers.
  • Geographical Science
    Explore the study of spatial patterns of physical and human phenomena at local, national, and global scales.
    Learners will learn about physical and human geography, and how to apply geographical information science.
  • Coastal and Ocean Science
    Examine the intricate relationship between climate, coastal systems, and marine environments to solve complex challenges facing our oceans.
    In this field of study, learners will take on an independent research project under the guidance of one of Australia's leading marine researchers.
  • Marine Biology
    Field activity and study combine to make this an exciting major.
    Learners will use ecology, zoology, botany, and genetics to examine aquatic life in ecosystems from the ocean to wetlands and learn about ecological and environmental protection strategies.
  • Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
    Examine the chemical basis of life and explore the molecular events controlling the growth and development of cells and organisms in all living things. Undertake learners own original research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor.
  • Wildlife Biology
    Learners who undertake Honours will be equipped to work as part of a research team in a semi-dependent manner.
    Learners will be able to identify key questions, plan experiments, acquire new techniques and interpret results.
  • Archaeological Science
    An Honours year in this major allows learners to work as part of one of the largest archaeological science research groups in Australia.
    Plan, research and produce a substantial project on globally significant issues such as human evolution and dispersal, the development of civilisation and human-environment relationships, and develop learners' critical analysis, communication, and research skills
  • Zoology
    This field of study offers incredible scope, with the opportunity to choose from courses that cover areas including climate change biology, insect science, physiology, fish and aquaculture, marine biology, and mathematical modelling.
  • Cell Biology
    Demonstrate learners understanding of how cellular, genetic, and evolutionary processes affect everyday life.
    Undertake learners own original research project under the guidance of an academic supervisor. Design, implement and present learners research project, with emphasis on defining the research issue, establishing methodology, undertaking appropriate collection and analysis of data, and drawing defensible conclusions.
  • Pant Science
    Plant sciences are among the most relevant scientific disciplines today.
    Using a variety of approaches, plant scientists address two of the most important problems facing humankind, global warming, and dependency on fossil fuels, by applying the production of biofuels from plant origin to the use of plants in carbon sequestration
  • Earth Science
    Choose from courses about earth systems, mineral and rock analysis, and practical field mapping, or more advanced courses covering geophysics, geochemistry, and subsurface modelling.
    When learners undertake honours, learners will be equipped to work as part of a research team in a semi-autonomous manner. Learners will learn to identify key questions, plan experiments, acquire new techniques and interpret the results.

    Conclusion:
    Best practices have been identified from leading international institutions, ensuring that the curriculum and content are relevant and addresses the needs of both industry and prospective learners. The South African qualification is comparable to the above international qualifications in terms of content, purpose, rationale and learning outcomes. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science in Conservation Ecology, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Environmental and Natural Resource Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Biological Sciences, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Science, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Science, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Arts: Geography and Environmental Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master Science in the Biological Sciences, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Environmental Science Ecology and Resource 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.