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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118685  Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management 
ORIGINATOR
Cape Peninsula University of Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Doctoral Degree  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Environmental Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 10  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0333/25  2025-07-10  2028-07-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-07-10   2032-07-10  

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 Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management is to produce qualifying learners that will be able to reflect critically on a range of environmental management theory and practice and their application at the doctoral level. Qualifying learners will be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and critically and be able to supervise and evaluate the research of others. This qualification aims to provide articulate, evidence-based scientific citizens and practitioners that have a skill set encompassing new and novel developments of the body of knowledge in Environmental Management.

The qualification is designed to extend learners' knowledge and skills by providing them with a deeper and systemic understanding of the current thinking, practice, theory and methodology within the field of environmental management both in a South African and international context. The qualification will produce functional environmental professionals with the requisite vocational knowledge and skills in environmental management to analyse and evaluate complex and interrelated environmental issues within the legislative framework of South Africa.

Upon completion of this qualification, the qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate expert cognitive knowledge and scientific innovation creation in the field of Environmental Management.
  • Produce an original contribution to the field of Environmental Management within the specific field of study.
  • Elucidate the interconnectedness of Environmental Management research with other cognate fields.
  • Develop the systematic understanding of advanced aspects of environmental management research methodology; including research design, data collection and analysis.
  • Develop a Philosophical framework that formulates appropriate responses for the investigation on a foundation of ethical awareness in research and professional conduct.
  • Resolve environmental issues and provide unique management solutions that show high degrees of adaptability, flexibility, reflection, and autonomy within critical and analytical thinking dynamics for purpose of environmental management problem-solving.
  • Utilise advanced communication skills, including relevant information and digital literacy skills.
  • Handle complex environmental management related problems, both systematically and creatively.
  • Design and critically appraise the research, make sound judgments using data information and communicate findings clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
  • Conduct independent planning and implementation of research projects with a theoretical scientific underpinning, participate in the advancement of original research in academia and in the environmental management discipline with a focus on it and related disciplines.

    Rationale:
    Environmental sustainability is high on the South African government agenda. The importance of protecting the environment for future generations is embedded in the constitution of South Africa (Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996: Chapter 2). In addition, the principles of sustainable development are also entrenched in the legislation of South Africa which further emphasises the South African government's commitment towards sustainable development. To achieve the goals, set in the National Strategy for Sustainable Development and Action Plan (NSSD1) the country needs trained environmental professionals who can provide leadership within the field. The qualification has been designed to address this need by producing graduates that are relevant to the needs of industry, South Africa, and future developments.

    The focus of the qualification is on the management of the environment as an integrated system. Environmental professionals should have advanced knowledge of both the biophysical and human aspects of environmental systems to be able to participate actively in environmental decision making. Therefore, it is crucial that the learners are exposed to a wide range of disciplines as a means of better understanding the complexity and interaction of the environment that they are being trained to manage.

    According to the National Strategy for Sustainable Development and Action Plan (NSSD1) approved by the South African Cabinet on 23 November 2011, "South Africa aspires to be a sustainable, economically prosperous and self-reliant nation-state that safeguards its democracy by meeting the fundamental human needs of its people, by managing its limited ecological resources responsibly for current and future generations, and by advancing efficient and effective integrated planning and governance through national, regional and global collaboration". South Africa is known to be a water-scarce country and the relationship between climate and the hydrological cycle means that water resources will be impacted by climate change, which may threaten the future availability of the country's water resources. It is predicted that by 2025 South Africa could have used most of its surface water resources (DWAF, 2009). This qualification aims to produce a professional with the knowledge and skills to work within the water sector to address these issues.

    This qualification was designed, taking into account the needs of all stakeholders, namely current learners, staff, at this institution and other Higher Education institutions, alumni, advisory board, job advertisements and different sectors of industry. Stakeholders that were consulted include, The Department of Agricultural and Rural Development, Rural Development and Land Reform, Water and Environmental Science and Technology, different municipalities namely, the City of Cape Town and the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality. Companies that were consulted include Engen, Eskom, CA mining, Gecko (Namibia), and consultancy companies such as Avifauna, Chand Environmental Consultants, Eco-SA Environmental Consultants, Terraworks and SRK Consulting.

    Employment opportunities for the qualifying learners exist in government departments such as the Department of Environmental Affairs and Planning, private sector Industries and consulting companies. Qualifying learners will be able to find employment as:
  • Environmental Officers.
  • Senior Environmental Officers.
  • Environmental Consultants.
  • Academics.
  • Researchers.
  • Policymakers. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    This qualification may be achieved in part or in whole through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning and work experience. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through informal and non-formal learning. RPL is applied in terms of the policy and criteria of the institution. The necessary documentary evidence will have to be provided and a formal RPL process will be followed. The institution will apply in this qualification the RPL for both access and credits in line with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of RPL (Amended in March 2019).

    RPL for Access:
    Learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements of the required qualification may be considered for RPL. There are two options:
  • Advanced Standing, in which case the minimum entry requirements are waived by the admitting institution based on evidence of prior learning, work experience or any other relevant circumstances that may apply to an individual learner. No portfolio is required.
    OR
  • Applicants may provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that the applicant has acquired sufficient relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies to be able to reasonably meet the expectations for learning demanded by the qualification for which they are seeking access.
  • In instances where RPL is applied for the purposes of access, no credits will be awarded for any previous learning. However, the candidate may choose the option of being assessed for credit.

    RPL for credits:
    Learners who do meet the necessary entry requirements for admission to a qualification may be awarded some or all the credits towards the qualification. There are two possibilities:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from a module or some modules by providing sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that a level of competency, equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module or modules, has been achieved. Credits will be awarded for such modules.
    OR
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be awarded all the credits required for the qualification. Sufficient evidence must be provided that demonstrates a level of competency equivalent to all the learning outcomes of the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Master of Environmental Management, NQF Level 9
    Or
  • Master of Technology in Environmental Management, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 10, 360 Credits:
  • Research project and dissertation, 360 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate expert cognitive knowledge and scientific innovation creation in the field of Environmental Management.
    2. Produce an original contribution to the field of Environmental Management within the specific field of study.
    3. Elucidate the interconnectedness of Environmental Management research with other cognate fields.
    4. Develop the systematic understanding of advanced aspects of environmental management research methodology, including research design, data collection and analysis.
    5. Develop a Philosophical framework that formulates appropriate responses for the investigation on a foundation of ethical awareness in research and professional conduct.
    6. Resolve environmental issues and provide unique management solutions that show high degrees of adaptability, flexibility, reflection and autonomy within critical and analytical thinking dynamics for purpose of environmental management problem-solving.
    7. Utilise advanced communication skills, including relevant information and digital literacy skills. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Appropriately research, analyse, discuss, and evaluate information with and from an environmental management perspective.
  • Integrate existing knowledge with newly generated knowledge
  • Demonstrates expert, specialised, and in-depth current knowledge of a specific area of research, which will be evident in the thesis.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Present evidence of original and innovative thinking in research, which makes a special and novel contribution to the field of study.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate awareness of how the specific area of research relates, or is relatable, to other fields of study and practice which will be evident in the thesis.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Use a range of information sources that include a range of types of media.
  • Listed and correctly cite literature in the literature survey.
  • Be familiar with relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models, and theories in the chosen field.
  • Select a Research method that is effective, correct, iterative and ethically sound.
  • Successfully construct a research proposal based on a specific research topic.
  • Correctly use literature surveys, experimentation, correlation, causal analysis to justify the research problem and present it in oral and written formats.
  • Generate and apply the appropriate mathematical and statistical methods to quantitative and qualitative data.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply information technology skills in information searches; data analyses, data presentation and the production of the dissertation.
  • Generate and formulate possible solution approaches to environmental management problems.
  • Create valid inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and statistical analyses.
  • Demonstrate awareness of, and compliance with, the principles of ethics in research and, where relevant, professional protocols, which will be evident in the in-depth discussion in the thesis.
  • Logically structure of a methodological approach to the field-specific research problem within environmental management.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Create the research problem that is clearly identified, defined, and detailed in the research proposal.
  • Successfully design implemented and monitor a project in an Environmental Management research area.
  • Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication to a scientific audience.
  • Investigate the research questions and produce an outcome and environmentally relevant recommendations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Exhibit an advanced level of communicative competence, through the capacity for extended, sustained and rigorous academic writing, including relevant digital literacy skills appropriate for doctoral research, and ability to relate individual research with reference to, and critical analysis of, associated research produced by scholars in the relevant intellectual and knowledge domain(s).
  • Demonstrate an ability to communicate research findings effectively to expert and non-expert audiences alike, to defend them in the context of intellectual contestation, and to disseminate. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The international comparison exercise was conducted in terms of institutional requirements and guidelines which include the following: determining the scope of the comparison exercise; the selection of a variety of reputable Higher Education institutions international. In terms of this qualification, the international comparison exercise revealed the offering of this qualification, along with the stated outcomes is compared to three accredited and registered and comparable qualifications in order to outline the similarities and differences:

    Country: United States of America
    Institution: The Ohio State University
    The institution has the highest ranking in the state and offers Environmental Science - Doctor of Philosophy. The qualification cuts across traditional academic disciplines and colleges to provide sound and effective graduate education and research on these important environmental issues. The qualification emphasizes basic research on ecological processes and effects and applied research and teaching that will contribute to solving the world's pressing environmental problems.

    Comparative Analysis: This qualification has a similar purpose and focus on the research component but offers additional research niches and specialisations.

    Country: Australia
    Institution: The University of Queensland
    Qualification Title: Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management
    Purpose:
    The qualification aim is to provide research training in a manner that fosters the development of independent research skills in candidates in the Environmental Management field and registered in their Faculty of Agriculture and Environment.

    Comparison:
    This Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management has similarities to those offered by the above international institutions. The differences in the subject-area specialisation are discussed. This new qualification aims to develop competent environmental management leadership within the broader context of sustainable development. The content and scope of the qualification, in the broader sense, compare well with the international offerings and will prepare learners to acquire the intrinsic knowledge and skills to deal with the environmental challenges facing the country and Africa as a whole. This Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Management, therefore, compares favourably with the international qualifications on offer.

    Best practices have been identified from leading institutions locally and abroad, 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:
  • Doctor of Philosophy Environmental Science, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Engineering in Environmental Geology, NQF Level 10.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Post-Doctoral Studies. 
    		•

    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.