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:

Master of Science

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
122801	Master of Science
ORIGINATOR
University of Zululand
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Master's Degree	Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences		Mathematical Sciences
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	180	Not Applicable	NQF Level 09	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0526/24	2024-08-22	2027-08-22
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-08-22		2031-08-22

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 Master of Science is to provide its graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify, interpret, analyse, and solve complex problems to provide accurate and possible solutions in mathematical sciences and related fields such as engineering, health sciences, and other quantitative disciplines. The qualification will build the core mathematical and statistical skills common to all modern sciences, facilitate the flow of ideas and techniques across the disciplines involved provide learners with direct access to knowledge currently being generated and discussed at the forefronts of mathematical science, and finally further the creation of a network of mathematical scientists across Africa and globally.

On successful completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:

Apply advanced knowledge in mathematical sciences.

Plan and execute a substantial research project.

Apply precise oral and written communication skills for Mathematics or Statistics

Highly develop computational skills using software such as MATLAB, R, mathematical, latex etc.

Apply generated research knowledge in current situations.

Critically evaluate and apply mathematical and statistical theories.

Rationale:
The qualification will equip learners with a range of transferrable mathematical skills needed for employment and future research. The qualification has been designed to meet several employer-based requirements as well as to develop graduates with Mathematics or Statistics competencies. In Mathematics, these competencies and skills have been identified in alignment with the needs of potential employers. The graduates will be therefore equipped with the essential skills and knowledge that can be used in a variety of fields, some of which are: algebra, geometry, differential topology, complex manifolds, analytic methods in partial differential equations and Stochastic Calculus with Applications to non-Linear Filtering.

In Statistics, candidates will be equipped to focus on the relationships between groups of measurements, and similarities and differences, using probability theory and techniques derived from it. The qualification includes instruction in the principles of probability theory, distribution theory, time-series analysis, multivariate analysis, regression analysis, stochastic processes, Monte Carlo method, Bayesian statistics, non-parametric statistics, sampling theory, Biostatistics, and other statistical techniques.

Envisaged occupations for the graduates are:

Academics/ researchers.

Actuarial analysts.

Risk analysts / Business Analysts/ Credit Analysts.

Investment banking.

Management consultancy.

Data analysts/ data scientists.

Quantitative analysts.

Machine Learning/ Artificial intelligence specialists.

Statisticians.

Mathematicians.

The candidate will develop a willingness to work collaboratively with other researchers in the same field or other fields requiring their expertise.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

The Recognition of Prior Learning in this qualification will be conducted in accordance with the Institution's Policy and Procedures for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in line with the national policies for RPL, CAT and Assessment which states that only 10% of a cohort of learners can be admitted using the RPL route. RPL is regarded as one of the critical mechanisms for achieving redress and equity and accelerating access in the institution.

RPL for access:

This policy and set of procedures will be used in the admission of a learner to a learning programme where the minimum requirements have not been met (excluding the mature age exemption category of exemption for admission to undergraduate qualifications) but the candidate has evidence that the requirements can be met through RPL.

All potential learners who are not in possession of an Honours degree in Mathematics/ Statistics need to provide proof of an equivalent qualification.

Those who claim that they have achieved relevant prior learning which should give them access to the qualification need to apply to the Head of the Department of Mathematics for recognition of prior learning and the procedure will be followed according to the RPL policy.

RPL for credits:

Potential learners who want to be credited for prior need to apply in writing to the Head of the Department of Mathematics clearly stating the title(s) of the module or modules they want to be credited for, as well as the basis on which they believe the accreditation should be granted.

The principles of RPL are subscribed to and will be implemented in a flexible manner.

The principle of flexible and open access will, however, be offset against the provision that this should not be to the detriment of the potential learner and that his/her chances of success are reasonable.

The Committee will assess the competencies of these learners to determine whether they are eligible or not.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematics, NQF Level 8.
Or

Bachelor of Science Honours in Statistics, NQF Level 8.
Or

Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Statistics, NQF Level 8.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory Dissertation at NQF Level 09 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 180 Credits:
Dissertation in Mathematics, 180 Credits.
Or
Dissertation in Statistics, 180 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate how the title is aligned with the research project.
2. Show how the conceptual and theoretical focus and quality of the literature study are relevant to the research conducted.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of research methods, techniques, and technologies to address research problems.
4. Show an ability to engage with current research in the discipline of Mathematics or Statistics research.
5. Show an understanding to comply with the technical, language and scholarly writing requirements/standards, e.g., referencing techniques as applied at the master's level.
6. Demonstrate ethical sensitivity when the research is conducted.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Align the title cover to the topic meaningfully.

Align the title with the central research problem/research questions/hypothesis.

Meaningfully use the title in the demarcation of the research topic.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Show adequate knowledge base in the conducted research dissertation in Mathematics or statistics.

Apply the principles and theories in the field of study.

Analyse and/or critique current research.

Make sound theoretical judgments based on evidence.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Align the dissertation's methodological orientation with the theoretical conceptual orientation of the study.

Identify and apply the research methods, techniques, and technologies for addressing the research problem.

Deal adequately with methodological challenges.

Select, apply, and manage appropriate statistical software, instruments, and experimental techniques in the analyses of quantitative data or research samples.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Identify, analyse, synthesise, and evaluate quantitative and/or qualitative data.

Engage with current research in the discipline or field of study.

Present and communicate academic/professional work appropriate to the context and level of the study.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Adhere to technical, linguistic, and scholarly writing requirements/standards.

Construct a meaningful and integrated argument in the dissertation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Elaborate on and show ethical sensitivity as well as evidence of how the research has been conducted in the dissertation.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The qualification was compared with similar qualifications offered by the following countries.

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Adelaide
Qualification Title: Master of Mathematical Sciences
Duration: 2 years full-time
Entry Requirements:

Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Honours)

A completed Bachelor's degree or equivalent in mathematical sciences or a related background.

Purpose:
Master of Mathematical Sciences is an intensive degree designed for learners with backgrounds in related study areas.

The qualification will develop advanced research skills and mathematical knowledge to an advanced level through one of the following majors:

Applied Mathematics use mathematical techniques to answer questions about the world around us. These answers might come in the form of insights, explanations, solutions, or predictions.

Pure Mathematics studies abstract theories built by logical deduction that underpin modern science and technology.

Statistics solve real-world problems through the collection, analysis, and modelling of data.

Graduates have the flexibility and portability to work across a wide variety of industries in analytical and consulting positions. Mathematicians also make great managers and CEOs due to their excellent problem-solving skills.

Similarities:

The University of Adelaide (UoA) and the South African (SA) qualifications require applicants who completed an Honours degree or equivalent in Mathematics/Statistics or a related field of study.

Graduates from the UoA and SA qualification are expected to demonstrate advanced knowledge in these disciplines as well as the ability to plan and carry out a significant research project.

Difference:

The UoA qualification takes 2 years to complete while the SA qualification takes one year of full-time study.

Country: United Kingdom
Institution: University of Liverpool
Qualification Title: Master of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences
Duration: 12 months full time
Entry requirements

Applications are welcome from learners who have (or expect to obtain) a good Honours degree (first class or 2:1) or an equivalent qualification.

Similarities:

The University of Liverpool (UoL) and the South African (SA) qualifications require applicants who completed the Honour's degree in Mathematics or an equivalent qualification.

The UoL and SA qualifications are offered over 12 months of full-time study.

Difference:

The UoL qualification offers a unique approach to appropriate mathematical or statistical results that are used to model and solve problems through coursework whereas the SA qualification does not have an option of coursework.

Country: Canada
Institution: University of Manitoba
Qualification Title: Master of Science in Mathematics / Master of Science in Statistics
Duration: 1 - 2 years full time
Entry requirements:

A Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Honours or 4-year Major) or a degree with an equivalent mathematical background.

A four-year bachelor's degree in Statistics.

Purpose/Rationale:
Mathematics and statistics provide powerful tools for understanding the natural world and human endeavours, ranging from health care to logistics to economics. Qualified mathematicians and statisticians are in high demand due to a national shortage. High-level skills in this field are sought after in business, government, and research organisations.
The Master of Science (Mathematics and Statistics) aims to provide learners with an intensive advanced education in preparation for doctoral studies.

Qualification structure:
The qualification is offered as a thesis and coursework route.

Similarities:

The University of Manitoba (UoM) and the South African (SA) qualifications require applicants who completed the Bachelor of Science in Mathematics/Statistics (Honours or 4-year Major).

Both qualifications are offered over 1 -2 years of full-time study.

Similar to the SA qualification, the UoM qualification is available in Mathematics or Statistics.

Both qualifications culminate into the Full research thesis.

Both qualifications articulate to the Doctoral degree in a cognate field.

Difference:

The UoM qualification is flexible in that there is an option of coursework and the thesis whereas the SA qualification has no option of coursework.

The UoM qualification has 120 credits while the SA qualification has 180 credits.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Master of Science in Applied Mathematics, NQF Level 9.

Master of Science in Mathematics, NQF Level 9.

Master of Science in Mathematical Statistics, NQF Level 9.

Master of Commerce in Statistics, NQF Level 9.

Master of Science in Statistics, NQF Level 9.

Master of Science, NQF Level 9.

Vertical Articulation:

Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Philosophy, NQF Level 10.

Diagonal Articulation:
There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification.

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.

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