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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma: Industrial Physics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
88122  Diploma: Industrial Physics 
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Physical Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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   2033-06-30  

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:

This qualification will equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to function in either the Photonics or Nuclear technology fields. All students acquiring this qualification will be able to communicate technical information accurately. Furthermore, they will be able to solve metrology problems and calibrate instruments.

Students specialising in the field of Photonics will be able to:
  • Operate and maintain various vacuum pumps and gauges.
  • Apply non-destructive techniques and interpret the outcomes.
  • Identify, handle and assemble optical components and instruments.
  • Apply thin films and coating techniques onto lenses.
  • Choose appropriate laser and laser measurement techniques and apply these within health and safety standards.

    Students qualifying in the field of Nuclear Technology will acquire the necessary skills and expertise in the various nuclear disciplines. They will be able to:
  • Exercise protection measures in accordance with national regulations and legislation of the International Commission of Radiological Protection.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of accidental and incidental precautionary measures in order to limit local incidents and avoid site and public emergencies.
  • Advise/educate role players on specific issues.

    These students will be able to function as essential members of a multi-disciplinary task team of professionals in accordance with the scope of their position in the nuclear field. Professional and environmental health ethics will be upheld and human and physical resources managed within their scope of expertise. Students must be registered with the Department of Health as Radiation workers for the duration of their studies.

    Rationale:

    There is global demand for skilled people within the field of Industrial Physics. Industrial Physics is a term used to describe a broad field of study in Physics. However, the focus for this qualification would either be in Photonics or in Nuclear Technology. There is a need for qualified and skilled people in the fields of Photonics (Laser technology) and related fields such as Vacuum Technology, Metrology and Non-destructive Testing as these are regarded as scare skills. The field of Photonics is a fast growing industry in need of trained technicians.

    This qualification will provide students with the necessary competencies in either photonics or nuclear technology. Students qualifying with this qualification specialising in the field of Photonics will work as Optical instrument Technicians, Lens Coating Technicians, Laser Technicians, Vacuum Technicians, Metrologists (optical), Non Destructive Testing Technicians. Whereas, students specialising in the field of nuclear technology can be employed as General Nuclear Technicians, Radiation Protection Technicians, Waste Management Technicians, Radiation Risk Technicians, Radioactive Contamination Risk Technicians.

    The development of this qualification is in line with the Government policies to provide necessary professional career paths for students to access higher education qualifications in Photonics and Nuclear Technology. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Mathematics at NQF Level 4.
  • Natural Sciences at NQF Level 4.
  • English Language at NQF Level 4.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    For the qualification Industrial Physics: with electives in Photonics and Nuclear Technology, employed personnel from the fields of Photonics and Nuclear Technology could be admitted into this Diploma programme provided they meet the requirements as stated in the Recognition of Prior Learning policy of TUT.

    Access to the Qualification:
  • Senior Certificate issued before 2008.
    OR
  • National Senior Certificate (NCS) since 2008.
    OR
  • Any recognised Grade 12 Certificate with the necessary subjects. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Students must achieve a minimum of 360 Credits to be awarded the qualification.

    Students may specialise in either Phototonics or Nuclear Technology from Level 6. Both these Electives carry the same number of credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Industrial Physics I, 25 Credits.
  • Mathematics I, 25 Credits.
  • Chemistry I, 25 Credits.
  • Communication Skill, 9 Credits.
  • Engineering Drawing, 15 Credits.
  • Computer Skills, 9 Credits.
  • Life Skills, 2 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning I, 10 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 5: 120.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Material Science I, 15 Credits.
  • Mathematics II, 20 Credits.
  • Industrial Physics II, 20 Credits.
  • Computer Programming, 15 Credits.
  • Electronic Principles, 10 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning II, 20 Credits.

    Elective Modules at NQF Level 6 (select one):
  • Photonics I, 20 Credits.
  • Nuclear Technology I, 20 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 6: 120.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Material Science II, 15 Credits.
  • Metrology 15, Credits.
  • Industrial Physics III, 30 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning III, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules at NQF Level 7 (select one):
  • Photonics II, 30 Credits.
  • Nuclear Technology II, 30 Credits.

    Total Credits at NQF Level 7: 120. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Interpret technical information in order to satisfy standard requirements.

    2. Apply scientific, computer programming and technological knowledge within various fields of industrial physics (vacuum, non-destructive testing and metrology).

    3. Function under supervision in projects according to specified limits and criteria.

    4. Demonstrate communication and interpersonal skills in an industrial environment.

    5. Perform and monitor safety, health, environmental and quality assurance procedures in the industrial environment to ensure professional service and safety of all.

    6. Write computer programmes to address optimisation of different generic functions.

    Electives:

    Photonics:

    1. Analyse optical drawings and measuring techniques.

    2. Assemble and detect faults in basic optical instruments to meet national and international quality standards.

    3. Manufacture optical components according to industrial specifications.

    4. Apply lasers within the optical environment.

    Nuclear:

    1. Apply safety precautions based on radiation protection rules, procedures and standards for a specific task or environment.

    2. Implement management programmes for radiation protection according to specified limits and criteria.
  • Range: Programmes include environmental, waste management and transportation programmes.

    3. Operate and calibrate various nuclear instruments.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    The qualification addresses all the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Interpret and produce drawings related to the photonics and nuclear field.
  • Develop and produce computer aided drawings.
  • Adhere to appropriate measurements in the nuclear and photonics fields.
  • Interpret the results that comply with industry requirements; codes, standards, specifications and procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Select mathematical, statistical and scientific methods to suit the problems that need to be solved.
  • Explain the structure, role and function of the international measurement system in terms of scope and responsibility.
  • Develop calibration and test methods and procedures to suit specific situations.
  • Analyse captured data to determine calibration interval to be documented.
  • Verify performance of calibrated instruments in accordance with manufacturer specifications, before issuing calibration certificates.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the non destructive testing equipment of vacuum pumps, gauges and coupling in vacuum pumps.
  • Apply non-destructive methods such as radiographic testing of materials, to test for flaws in various industrial materials.
  • Operate relevant testing equipment.
  • Interpret and apply electronic diagrams relevant to the industrial physics field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Follow guidelines in order to illustrate the ability to work within laid down rules and regulations.
  • Implement projects in order to ensure personal safety, health and environmental protection according to the organisation's quality management and safety policy.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Apply verbal and non-verbal skills in a nuclear and photonic environment for optimum service delivery.
  • Interpret and apply relevant information in order to solve problems and accomplish specific applications.
  • Apply academic referencing procedures to avoid plagiarism.
  • Apply conflict management, negotiation, mediation and collaboration in the nuclear and photonic environment to facilitate resolution of problems.
  • Plan a wellness programme in conjunction with management to deal with radiation protection.
  • Compile concise, comprehensive, clear and courteous medico-legal reports to avoid confrontation.
  • Record information accurately and efficiently to assure optimal radiation protection.
  • Validate data and specifications obtained during manufacturing procedures according to applicable legislation and company specifications.
  • Compare test results to standard norms and take corrective action to address variances.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Monitor the quality system of prescription interpretation in accordance with the organisation's quality management policy.
  • Identify technical problems and take appropriate actions.
  • Identify and/or assess adverse or hazardous environmental conditions in order to comply with national and international norms and standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Use computers to interface with equipment.
  • Write programmes in order to solve industrial specific problems.

    Electives:

    Photonics:

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Interpret and produce basic optical drawings.
  • Develop and produce computer-aided drawings.
  • Demonstrate various measurements in optical instruments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Demonstrate the assembling of optical instruments to meet the operational requirements.
  • Monitor the operational and functionality of optical equipments.
  • Investigate irregularities to detect faults and take appropriate measures to repair the instrument.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify the various chemicals used for cleaning optical instruments.
  • Select the relevant gluing methods appropriate for various materials.
  • Detect failure through investigations.
  • Apply hardening methods in coating processes.
  • Identify the required protection against ultra-violet and infrared radiation.
  • Apply tint and coating processes to ophthalmic lenses.
  • Apply surface reflection methods during coating processes in accordance with industry quality and safety standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Differentiate between various types of lasers to meet specific standards.
  • Apply laser measurement techniques.
  • Identify laser operations and hazards.
  • Work effectively using the standards and legislation of lasers.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of reducing laser hazards.
  • Promote, implement and maintain procedures that support safety, health and the environment when using lasers.

    Nuclear:

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Monitor the application of safety precautions based on radiation protection rules, procedures and standards for a specific task or environment.
  • Evaluate radiological activities to ensure compliance.
  • Compile a report on radiological safety compliance of a specific context/work unit.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Draw up procedures and/or plan of action to enforce compliance in radiation protection.
  • Develop principles to manage occupational exposures.
  • Communicate safety information so that it meets specified requirements.
  • Communicate surveillance requirements to relevant persons.
  • Supervise radiation protection team workers to achieve given work, quality and control objectives.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Differentiate and operate various types of nuclear instruments to meet specific standards.
  • Calibrate nuclear instruments and carry out measurements.
  • Identify operations and hazards related to nuclear instruments.
  • Work effectively using the standards and legislation of nuclear protection.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of reducing nuclear hazards.
  • Promote, implement and maintain procedures that support safety, health and the environment when using nuclear instruments.

    Integrated Assessment:

    A combination of both formative and summative assessment methods will be applied throughout the duration of the period of study for each learner, at the appropriate NQF Level. These include:
  • Tests.
  • Theoretical examinations.
  • Practical examination.
  • Project assessments.

    Every assessment tool has a memorandum. Marks are strictly allocated according to the supplied memorandum, to maximise the accuracy, consistency and credibility of results regardless of who is carrying out the assessment/s. Academic staff has applicable qualifications and experience to conduct assessment. Criteria of assessors and moderators are in accordance with the policy of the institution. The Head of Department is responsible for all the external and part time appointments. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The undergraduate institution in the United States, East Stroudsburg University, offers a qualification with similar modules to this qualification in the form of a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Physics.

    The following are the modules that make up the Degree:

    Compulsory modules:
  • GE: Physics I and II.
  • Physics III and IV.
  • Engineering Graphics.
  • Advanced Laboratory I.
  • Statics.
  • Dynamics.
  • Electronics.
  • Electromagnetic Theory I.
  • Thermal Physics.
  • Optics.
  • Computational Physics.
  • Independent Study/Senior Project.

    Two from the following:
  • Theoretical Mechanics.
  • Strength of Materials.
  • Special Problems in Physics.
  • Electromagnetic Theory II.
  • Statistical Physics.
  • Advanced Electronics.
  • Analytical Chemistry I.

    Mathematics Modules:
  • GE: Calculus 1 and 2.
  • Multivariate Calculus.
  • Linear Algebra.
  • Differential Equations.

    Chemistry Modules:
  • GE: General Chemistry I and II.
  • GE: General Chemistry I Lab and II Lab.
  • GE: Introductory Biology I (Biology Module).

    Economics Modules:
  • GE: Principles of Macroeconomics.
  • GE: Principles of Microeconomics.
  • Technical Writing (English course).
  • GE: Speech Communication.

    Computer Science Module - choose one of the following:
  • Scientific Computing with FORTRAN.
  • Scientific Computing with C.

    Benson Idahosa University in Nigeria offers a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Industrial Physics, which is delivered in semesters for four years.
    The modules that the qualification consists of are as follows:

    Level 1:
  • Mechanical, Thermal and Properties of Matter.
  • Vibrations, Waves and Optics.
  • Elementary Mathematics I (Algebra and Trigonometry).
  • Statistics for Physical sciences and Engineering.
  • Introduction to Computer Sciences and Basic programming.
  • General Chemistry 1 (Inorganic Chemistry).
  • Use of English and Library.
  • Philosophy and Logic.
  • General physics Laboratory.
  • Electromagnetism and Modern physics.
  • Vectors, Geometry and Dynamics.
  • Calculus.
  • General Chemistry II.
  • History and philosophy of science.

    Level 2:
  • Thermal Physics.
  • Classical mechanics 1.
  • Nuclear and modern physics.
  • Computational physics 1.
  • Electric Circuit and Introductory Electronics.
  • Mathematical Methods I.
  • Real Analysis.
  • Elementary Differential Equation.
  • Computer Programming 1.
  • Experimental Physics.
  • Waves and Optics.
  • Energy and Environment.
  • Classical Mechanics.
  • Computational Physics II.
  • Computer Programming II.

    Level 3:
  • Industrial Work Experience.
  • Electromagnetism.
  • Statistical and Thermal Physics.
  • Solid state Physics I.
  • Linear Algebra I.
  • Complex Analysis I.
  • Vector and Tensor Analysis.
  • Experimental Physics II.
  • Electromagnetic Waves and Optics.
  • Solid Physics II.
  • Network Analysis.
  • Quantum Physics.
  • Complex Analysis II.

    Level 4:
  • Industrial Works II.
  • Mathematical Methods in Physics.
  • Quantum Mechanics I.
  • Ind. Electronics II and Quality Control.
  • Nuclear and Practical Physics II.
  • Physics and Society/Seminar.
  • Research Project.
  • Experimental physics III.
  • Mathematical Methods in Physics II.
  • Quantum Mechanics II.
  • Modern Optics.

    Any two courses from the following electives:
  • Introduction to Material Science.
  • Low Temperature physics.
  • Geophysics.
  • Biophysics.
  • Meteorology and physics of lower atmosphere.
  • Solar Energy Physics.
  • Nuclear and Particle Physics II.
  • General Relativity.
  • Atomic and Molecular Spectroscopy.

    The Diploma in Industrial Physics compares favourably with the above international qualifications in content, even though they are at Bachelor level. There do not seem to be any Diploma level qualifications in this area of study offered internationally. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Vertical Articulation:

    The qualification articulates vertically with the Bachelor of Science: Physics at NQF Level 7. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • External moderators will be appointed by the Senate for all exit level subjects/modules.
  • External examiners and moderators are required to have a qualification at least one level above that of the programme being assessed. They are also required to have at least two years' experience of lecturing in this programme or its equivalent.
  • For subjects/modules assessed through continuous assessment, the moderator moderates at least 50% of the assessment opportunities (tests, projects, assignments, presentations and examinations). 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    To qualify as an assessor an individual must:
  • Have a relevant Higher Education qualification at least one level higher than that of the course being assessed.
  • Be qualified and experienced as an assessor.
  • Be the tutor responsible for that particular module. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 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. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 


    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.