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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
119483  Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary 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 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 
The purpose of the Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture through its four specializations is to prepare and develop learners as specialists with sound and technical knowledge required to work effectively and efficiently in the agricultural industry and the necessary skills to interact with clients and other important role players within the agricultural food value chain; contribute to sustainable use and management of natural soil and water as natural resources for agricultural and food production, and to ensure that decisions or recommendations made for addressing agricultural production challenges within the complex world of agricultural and rural transformation are research-based. The qualification also includes the development of broader competencies such as leadership, writing and communication, skill acquisition on the use of technology innovation as part of their learning tools, problem-solving, honesty and integrity. Ultimately, it prepares qualified learners for further study and research in various agricultural disciplines including crop production, animal and crop product processing, extension, and postharvest processing.

Upon completion of the qualification the qualified learner should be able to:
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of key terms, concepts, principles, insights and current issues in agriculture and agricultural management.
  • Assess, evaluate, integrate, and apply such knowledge to address complex and multidisciplinary management issues in agriculture.
  • Demonstrate an understanding that knowledge is contested, and that farming and non-farming community members may understand the natural world and agriculture that is different to that of scientists and reflect this understanding in the way multiple views and perspectives are consideed and integrated into addressing agricultural related problems.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify suitable methods for data collection and justify those methods; investigate the sources of and validate data; and evaluate its suitability for building, sustaining, and defending arguments in agriculture production systems.
  • Demonstrate an advanced understanding of professional ethics in agriculture 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.
  • Demonstrate the ability to make decisions, always justify those decisions and act ethically and professionally, and be accountable for one's actions.
  • Undertake independent agricultural research and show the ability to analyse and synthesise information to make recommendations to address issues and solve farmers' and agricultural related problems.
  • Communicate own ideas in writing and verbally, to both scientific and non-scientific audiences using logically structured argumentation, appropriate discourse, suitable audio-visual tools, and technology, as well as appropriate referencing conventions.
  • Manage their learning and demonstrate the attributes of learner-driven and self-directed learners as well as academic autonomy.
  • Work in a group as a member or leader, and take full responsibility for own work, and where applicable, that of fellow learners, as well as accountability for her/his actions and where necessary, those of fellow learners. 
    		•

    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 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 from 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:
  • Advanced Diploma in Agriculture, NQF Level 7.
    or
    Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture, NQF Level 7.
    Or
  • A relevant qualification in the related field, NQF level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:
  • Agricultural Research Report (project), 30 Credits.
  • Statistics and Data Analysis, 15 Credits.
  • Special Topics in Agriculture, 15 Credits.

    Learners will select one stream and then take all modules from that stream.

    Stream 1: Crop production
    Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:
  • Advanced field and Horticultural Crop Production, 12 Credits.
  • Project Evaluation and Appraisal, 12 Credits.
  • Seed Science and Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Soil-Plant-Water Relation and Irrigation Management, 12 Credits.
  • Crop Production Economics and Risk Management, 12 Credits.

    Stream 2: Animal Products and Processing
    Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:
  • Meat Science, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Food Microbiology, 12 Credits.
  • Processed Animal Products, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Food Safety, 12 Credits.
  • Analysis of Animal Products,12 Credits.

    Stream 3: Post Harvest Technology
    Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:
  • Food Chemistry and Physiology, 12 Credits.
  • Biology of postharvest development, Ripening and Deterioration, 12 Credits.
  • Plant Food Quality Control and Management, 12 Credits.
  • Postharvest Engineering and Agro-processing, 12 Credits.
  • Postharvest Handling and Sanitation, 12 Credits.

    Stream 4: Agricultural Extension
    Elective Modules, Level 8, 60 Credits:
  • Agricultural Policy Analysis and Food Security, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Philosophy & Principles of Agricultural Extension, 12 Credits.
  • Advanced Development Theories in Agricultural Extension,12 Credits.
  • Applied Extension Management and Communication in Rural Context, 12 Credits.
  • Designing Practical Extension Programmes and Projects for Rural Development, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of key terms, concepts, principles, insights and current issues in agriculture and agricultural management.
    2. Apply advanced knowledge of key terms, concepts, principles, insights, and current issues in agriculture to address complex and multidisciplinary management issues in agriculture.
    3. Demonstrate an understanding that knowledge is contested, and that farming and non-farming community members may understand the natural world and agriculture that is different to that of scientists and reflect this understanding in the way multiple views and perspectives are considered and integrated into addressing agricultural-related problems.
    4. Demonstrate the ability to identify suitable methods for data collection and justify those methods; investigate the sources of and validate data; and evaluate its suitability for building, sustaining, and defending arguments in agriculture production systems.
    5. Demonstrate an ability to deal with complex biological and socio-economic problems in familiar and unfamiliar agricultural settings, identify solutions and evaluate those solutions in the light of the understanding that problem-solving is context-bound and does not happen in isolation.
    6. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of professional ethics in agriculture 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.
    7. Undertake independent research and show the ability to analyse and synthesise information to make recommendations to address issues and solve farmers' and agricultural-related problems
    8. Communicate own ideas in writing and verbally, to both scientific and non-scientific audiences using logically structured argumentation, appropriate discourse, suitable audio-visual tools, and technology, as well as appropriate referencing conventions.
    9. Manage their learning and demonstrate the attributes of learner-driven and self-directed learners as well as academic autonomy.
    10. Work in a group as a member or leader, and take full responsibility for own work, and where applicable, that of fellow learners, as well as accountability for her/his actions and where necessary, those of fellow learners. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate a critical awareness of relevant philosophies and research paradigms.
  • Perform a critical review and use relevant theories, principles, procedures and practices, research methodologies, methods, and techniques in agriculture to support the development of convincing arguments and positions in assignments, research reports and examinations.
  • Discuss critically the current issues in agriculture informed by an advanced understanding of, and supported by reference to current literature

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Develop through a given familiar and unfamiliar case studies, solutions to complex issues in agriculture through the application of advanced knowledge and understanding.
  • In addressing multidisciplinary problems in agriculture, perspectives from a range of disciplines are successfully brought together and creative tensions managed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Develop data collection procedures to ensure that the voice of all stakeholders is heard.
  • Develop solutions to agricultural problems and research questions and successfully incorporate the views of all stakeholders.
  • Develop perspectives from different disciplines including from IKS successfully and manage creative tensions such that multiple voices are heard.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply routine and specialised agricultural research methods correctly.
  • Understand and describe inherent weaknesses of an applied or recommended method clearly.
  • Consider in familiar and unfamiliar examples, a range of approaches to data analysis and recommended and justify fully an appropriate method.
  • Apply qualitative and quantitative research methods correctly.
  • Use software correctly to undertake routine and more complex statistical tests.
  • Interpret the output of statistical tests correctly.
  • Report statistical results correctly in writing and illustrated in tables and figures.
  • Access, critically evaluate and include information from a wide range of sources in the research paper and all assignments.
  • Review and analyse existing knowledge in the field of specialisation critically.
  • Manage contradictory information well, consider alternative viewpoints and reach a balanced conclusion.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Address complex agricultural problems through the application of advanced knowledge and skills.
  • Apply systems thinking approach to understand complex agricultural questions and to develop possible solutions.
  • Suggest in unfamiliar scenarios, solutions that take into consideration the context.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Identify in a range of familiar and unfamiliar contexts, ethical issues correctly and discuss ways to address them in assignments and the research report.
  • Obtain ethical approval before starting research.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Demonstrate an ability to undertake independent research in a specialised field of agriculture in the research report module. The research report will demonstrate the following outcomes:
  • Decide and present the project question and scope.
  • Identify appropriate methods, including statistical methods, where a range of methods are considered, and the appropriate ones are chosen.
  • Consider ethical issues and seek approval if necessary.
  • Collect, collate, and analyse data successfully.
  • Interpret data and discuss it in the context of the available information gathered in the literature review.
  • Formulate recommendations are supported by the data and justified fully.
  • Conduct the research report in a format that is appropriate for the discipline and demonstrates no plagiarism.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
    Oral communication:
  • Communicate results from the research project to both professional and lay audiences using appropriate language and technology.
  • Communicate oral arguments in a convincing manner.
  • Communicate complex concepts, ideas, and theories clearly.
  • Present presentations that are engaging, clear and completed within the given time.
    Written communication:
  • Use appropriate language in the research paper and present all assignments which are in the approved style and adhere to norms for academic scientific writing.
  • Use a standard referencing style accurately and consistently in the research report.
  • Communicate written arguments convincingly.
  • Present statistical results clearly in the research paper.
  • Prepare all assignments that include no plagiarism.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Submit all assignments on time.
  • Produce a research journal that includes positive and constructive reflection on the learning process.
  • Consider feedback critically and incorporate it successfully into iterative drafts of work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Agree on and execute group work, and responsibilities within the group.
  • Successfully plan, execute, and complete group assignments and research within the time provided. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: University of London
    Qualification title: Postgraduate Diploma in Livestock Health and Production
    Duration: Two years full time
    Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree
    Articulation: Masters qualification.

    Purpose /Rationale of qualification
    This qualification is aimed primarily at veterinarians, animal health specialists, and livestock farmers and it is also suitable for people from a range of professional backgrounds. The qualification addresses contemporary issues of livestock production and has worldwide relevance. Successful completion of the Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma may allow progression to the related Master of Science (MSc) degree. Successful completion of the MSc degree may allow learners to progress to further research in this field of study or a related area.

    The qualification aims to provide learners with:
  • Knowledge of agents of animal diseases and how animals respond to them.
  • Advanced knowledge in animal nutrition, breeding, and management to optimise animal health and production.
  • Farming systems approach to animal production and an understanding of how to appraise and monitor livestock production systems.

    Modules:
    This qualification has a focus on animal health and includes two core modules selected from animal disease, developing and monitoring of livestock production systems and principles of livestock production. Learners then chose two electives from animal welfare, economics for livestock development and policy and epidemiology, and animal health economics.

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications have the same admissions requirements.
  • Both qualifications articulate to a master's degree.

    Differences:
  • The UK qualification is offered for two years full time.
  • The UK qualification doesn't have streams while the South African qualification has four streams.
  • The UK qualification has animal-based modules while the South African does not.

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution: Massey University, University of New Zealand
    Qualification title: Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology (Agricultural Science)
    Duration: One year
    Credits: 120
    Admission requirements: Bachelor's degree, or equivalent
    Articulation: Masters qualifications

    Purpose /Rationale:
    The Postgraduate Diploma in Science and Technology (Agricultural Science) allows learners to join the pathway to in-depth research at a master's level. The qualification aims to improve the productivity and sustainability of agricultural systems in New Zealand and around the world. The Postgraduate Diploma in Science (Agricultural Science) is the steppingstone to a research-based degree. There are great employment and business opportunities for suitably qualified graduates. This qualification is suitable for learners who are interested in a career in science, either as a senior technician, or a researcher.

    Modules:
    All modules are electives and learners take 120 credits in one year from the following:
  • Ruminant Livestock Feeding.
  • Intensive Livestock Feeding.
  • Growth and Meat Science.
  • Genetics and Breeding.
  • Reproduction and Fertility.
  • Metabolism and Endocrinology.
  • Lactation and Milk Production.
  • Dairy Production.
  • Sheep Production.
  • Beef Cattle Production.
  • Pig Production.
  • Deer Production.
  • Poultry Production.
  • Advanced Studies in Animal Science.
  • Advanced Studies in Animal Science.
  • Nutrient Management in Grazed Pasture Systems.
  • Nutrient Management in Arable Systems.
  • Research Methods in Animal, Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences.
  • Research Methods.
  • Research Methods and Communication in the Biosciences.
  • Advanced Soil Fertility.
  • Soil and Land Evaluation.
  • Soil and Water Pollution.
  • Advanced Soil Conservation.
  • Advanced Soil Water Management.
  • Advanced Pasture Production and Practice.
  • Advanced Agronomy.
  • Urban and Farm Forestry.
  • Quantitative Plant Breeding.
  • Vegetable Production Science.
  • Fruit Production Science.
  • Post-harvest Physiology.
  • Topics in Advanced Plant Protection.
  • Advanced Equine Production 1.
  • Equine Science.

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications have the same admissions requirements with 120 Credits.
  • Both qualifications articulate to the same master's qualification and are offered in one year.

    Differences:
  • The New Zealand qualification does not have compulsory modules, all modules are electives, while the South African qualification has both compulsory and elective modules. 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Agricultural Management Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Agricultural Science Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Agriculture Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Agriculture Honours in Agricultural Economics, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Agriculture, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Agricultural Management, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Agricultural Science, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Agriculture, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Agriculture in Crop Protection, 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.