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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Postgraduate Diploma in Nuclear Science and Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
74251  Postgraduate Diploma in Nuclear Science and Technology 
ORIGINATOR
North West University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Postgraduate Diploma  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 8 and above  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Postgraduate Diploma in Nuclear Science and Technology educates and train learners from different background disciplines in relevant nuclear engineering and technology subjects, thus equipping them to follow a career in either nuclear power projects or nuclear plant operations (or both).

The purpose of the qualification is firstly provides learners who are in possession of Bachelor Science (Physics and Mathematics to at least second year level) Degree or Bachelor of Technology in Engineering, with:
  • A wider and deeper knowledge of nuclear engineering sciences and technology.
  • Advanced training in the field of nuclear engineering and technology.
  • Problem solving ability.
  • Integration of knowledge across fields.
  • The ability to execute a project in the field of nuclear engineering and to communicate the results orally and in writing.

    The qualification pursues knowledge and innovation in the field of nuclear power generation and will develop and empower learners to think laterally and critically and to serve the country specifically within the field of power generation with a low carbon footprint.

    The qualification develops and train learners to supply innovative solutions to the challenges within the nuclear power industry. The qualification is compiled to include projects of which the results will benefit the community and country. This is currently a field characterised by a shortage of people in the profession of nuclear power generation.

    The qualification purposely focuses on the environmental impact and safety of nuclear power and promotes sensitivity to the environment and the reduction of gasses responsible for climate change.

    Rationale:
    ESKOM recently announced plans to expand South Africa's nuclear power generation capacity by approximately 20 GW over the next 18 years. (Equivalent to one Koeberg size plant every two years for the next 18 years). In addition, Government has approved the PBMR qualification, which it intends to use as vehicle to develop a self-sufficient nuclear power industry.

    ESKOM has published research to indicate that they will need at least 2000 engineers in the field of nuclear engineering in the next five years. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning:
    A Recognition of Prior Learning process is applied to allow learners (or learners with a similar Qualification) to register for this Qualification. Workplace experience refers to practical experience gained in the workplace which develops the learner's competencies towards those specified for the Qualification, with cognisance to the relative importance of such competencies for continued studies in the field applied for here.

    The Recognition of Prior Learning will widen access to this qualification.

    The qualification is presented in English to ensure wide access (enabling people from all cultural backgrounds to enroll for the qualification).

    The qualification is delivered to full-time and part-time learners. This gives access to learners who are already employed and thus widen access.

    The qualification is supported by e-Learning and distance facilitation to widen access.

    The faculty's Recognition of Prior Learning policy is aligned with that of this institution. The Recognition of Prior Learning process is formal and requires the learner to compile and present to an admission panel a personal portfolio, where he/she has to argue and provide evidence that shows the extent to which the outcomes set for the Qualification have been achieved.

    Entry Requirements
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Science, 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.
  • Mathematics for Nuclear Engineers/Technologists; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Subtotal: 16 Credits.

    Core:
  • Nuclear Engineering I; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Thermal Fluid Sciences; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Nuclear Physics; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Nuclear reactor Technology; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Radiation and the Environment; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Project; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Nuclear Reactor Safety; 16 Credits; NQF Level 7(8).
  • Subtotal: 112 Credits.

    Electives:
    Subtotal Minimum Electives required.

    Qualification Rules:
    Refer criteria and guideline document for required details. An example of rules:
  • All the Fundamentals totalling 16 Credits are compulsory.
  • All the Core modules totalling 112 Credits are compulsory.

    A minimum of 128 Credits is required to obtain the Qualification. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    After completion of the qualification the learner should be able to demonstrate:
    1. A comprehensive and systematic knowledge base in nuclear engineering, as well as a depth of knowledge in nuclear physics and thermal fluid sciences.
    2. A coherent and critical understanding of the principles and theories of nuclear engineering; an ability to critique current research and advanced scholarship in an area of nuclear engineering; an ability to make sound theoretical judgements based on evidence and an ability to think epistemologically (i.e. from a sound knowledge framework).
    3. An understanding of a range of research methods, techniques and technologies and an ability to select these appropriately for a particular research problem in an area of nuclear engineering.
    4. An ability to identify, analyse and deal with complex and/or real world problems and issues using evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments in the field of nuclear engineering.
    5. Efficient and effective information-retrieval and processing skills; the identification, critical analysis, synthesis and independent evaluation of quantitative and/or qualitative data; an ability to engage with current research and scholarly or professional literature of a discipline/field.
    6. An ability to present and communicate academic professional work effectively catering for a range of audiences by using a range of different genres appropriate to the context. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:
  • The learner demonstrated adequate knowledge and skills in the stated learning outcomes by successfully passing all taught modules in terms of the faculty rules.
  • The learner successfully conducted independent research on a topical nuclear engineering topic in accordance with current research methodology processes and practices.
  • The learner compiled a research report in accordance with current best practices, wherein (she demonstrates that she/he has mastered the research process.
  • The learner successfully presented and defended his/her research report and research findings to a panel of peers.

    Integrated assessment.
    Integrated assessment practice statements:
  • Assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, so that an integrated approach to assessment is incorporated into the Qualification.
  • Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably interwoven. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the Qualification should be integrated.
  • Assessment of fundamental should be integrated as far as possible with other aspects and should use practical contexts wherever possible. A variety of methods must be used in assessment and tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working or will work. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, simulations, case studies, role-plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment.
  • The term Integrated Assessment` implies that theoretical and practical components should be assessed together. During integrated assessments, the assessor should make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies.

    Continuous assessment should be provided through:
  • Portfolios.
  • Simulations.
  • Workplace assessments and practical workbooks.
  • Written assignments.
  • Written tests.
  • Case studies and case presentations.
  • Peer group evaluation.
  • Competency evaluations of clinical skills.
  • Face to face contact with learners. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Required details include:

    Which countries have best practice/s in the area of the Qualification?
    The Post Graduate School of Nuclear Science and Engineering is a member of ENEN: European Nuclear Education Network, and are able to benchmark their offerings against the ENEN standards.

    Furthermore The Post Graduate School of Nuclear Science and Engineering has existing links with industry and academic institutions in the USA, who regularly visit the school for teaching and research purposes.

    How the best practices are reflected in this Qualification?

    The design and delivery of this Qualification will make use of the inputs from international industry and academic experts from Europe and the USA who will ensure that the Qualification and training offered in South Africa is nationally relevant and internationally comparable. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Vertical articulation:
  • Master of Engineering in Nuclear Engineering, NQF Level 9.

    Horizontal articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Nuclear Energy, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    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.
     
    1. North West University 


    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.