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 in Sustainable Agriculture 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93593  Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch 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
Master's Degree  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Primary Agriculture 
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-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 purpose of the qualification is to train researchers in understanding and working within sustainable agriculture. This will be achieved by teaching learners to view sustainable agriculture as a system through modules like "Introduction to Systems Thinking" and "Systems Analysis and Simulation". This is then followed by teaching concepts in sectoral sustainable agriculture e.g. sustainable animal production, sustainable plant production, livelihood perspectives, etc. To generate knowledge in sustainable agriculture, courses like "Systems Analysis and Simulation", QUALUS and Biometry will help improve the learner's quantitative and analytical skills. A work integrated learning opportunity where learners are linked to organisations in industry will give the learners real life perspective and will make them more employable.

Specifically the purpose of this qualification can be broken down as follows:
  • To ensure a high level of knowledge in the field of sustainable agriculture via analysing new information in complex systems and finding workable solutions to problems and challenges.
  • To prepare learners who can apply their skills to the task of answering the relevant questions and meeting the critical needs of the country's agricultural sector.
  • To educate and train individuals who are able to independently perform research and who can contribute to the development of knowledge in this field of study at an advanced level.
  • To contribute to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure advancement in the field of Sustainable Agriculture and to make provision for the country's needs in a skilled and competent workforce.
  • To prepare learners who aspire to move to a higher level of academic research work for Doctoral Studies and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics.

    Rationale:
    There is a need in the agricultural sector to produce graduates who are versatile enough to contribute in the academic sphere within the sector. It is envisaged that this qualification will train graduates who will teach agriculture in the educational system of the country. In order to develop and expand new initiatives in agriculture, a consideration has been made to encourage research practice. The qualification aims to develop learners who will work as a team to academically develop each other and gain a better understanding of agricultural practice. This qualification will train graduates to look at agriculture as a system and how best to sustain that system.

    Land-users will be invited to participate in the planning and development of the curriculum, allowing knowledge exchange between graduates and their future employers and clients earlier on in their university career. The qualification is also embedded in a bigger project that promotes the inclusion of all stakeholders at the level of the Faculty, including many members of academic staff. An academic qualification that is better informed by the needs of employers will ensure higher employability in the sector. The qualification is designed to attract and promote education of members of all groups, and also to consider other issues in developing the curriculum. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Applications will be subjected to approval by the qualifications committee based on the Prior Learning Policy of the Faculty. According to the policy, candidates with extensive, relevant experience in the specific field of study, and a number of recognised research outputs in this field, e.g. peer reviewed publications, will be considered.

    Entry Requirements:
    The qualification is open to learners with:
  • An appropriate 4 year Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Science with Honours in Conservation Ecology.
    Or
  • A Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
    Or
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture at NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification comprises twelve compulsory modules at NQF Level 9. 5 modules of 6 Credits each, 5 modules of 8 Credits each, one module of 20 Credits and the thesis-module of 90 Credits totalling 180 Credits. Learners must pass all modules to obtain the qualification.

    Modules:
  • Introduction to Systems thinking.
  • Sustainable soil management.
  • Sustainable Plant Production and Plant Protection.
  • Sustainable Animal Production.
  • Biometry.
  • Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Agrilandscapes.
  • Sociological Perspectives on Social Relationships, Agricultural Sustainability and the Environment.
  • Economics of Sustainable Agriculture.
  • Systems Analysis and Simulation.
  • Analysis of Land Use Systems.
  • Work Integrated Learning.
  • Research Thesis. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Distinguish the main components of farming systems and rural livelihoods.
    2. Explain production and ecological principles of crop production.
    3. Describe the agro-ecological determinants of cropping systems.
    4. Explain advanced principles of animal production and how they relate to intensive and extensive animal production systems (small and large scale) in different biomes.
    5. Appreciate the value of 'the sociological imagination' for understanding human action and social relationships in agricultural contexts.
    6. Identify and analyse policies that shape environmental economics in agriculture.
    7. Give an overview of the qualitative and quantitative methods for (sustainable) regional land use analysis.
    8. Contribute to agricultural practice at a professional and academic level within a team setup. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The complexity of the farming systems and their context are appreciated.
  • The basic concepts of systems analysis are explained.
  • The importance of the different disciplines for the multiple dimensions of sustainable agriculture with food security as an overarching issue is described.
  • A problem tree is used to assess sustainability of a farming system.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The importance of soil characteristics is recognised and understood for crop production and select relevant nutrient and soil management solutions.
  • The complexity in the relationship between soils, including soil organisms, plant and a cultivation practice is appreciated.
  • Long-term carbon and nutrient balances of cropping systems are interpreted.
  • Cropping systems are evaluated with respect to sustainability indices (e.g. soil quality, water and nutrient productivity, input-output ratios, biodiversity and landscape).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Systems approaches to farms using basic knowledge of plant production are used.
  • The influence of diverse farming methods on natural resources and on the environment is recognised.
  • Insect and pathogen ecology as related to integrated pest management in diverse agricultural systems are explained.
  • The dynamics of biological control of pests and diseases are evaluated.
  • The processes related to the influence of climate change on crop production and crop protection are explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Environmental indicators of animal production systems and their innovations are calculated.
  • The potential use of environmental indicators from a farm and life cycle perspective are explained.
  • Stakeholder analysis is made making use of a power analysis.
  • Farmers and other stakeholders are interviewed to obtain data on e.g. social sustainability issues such as animal welfare, power relations and gender and analyse it statistically.
  • The sustainability of innovations in farming systems using a round table discussion and a decision matrix is evaluated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Key sociological concepts, e.g. social structure, human agency, modernisation, power, social stratification, gender, social identity are explained.
  • Key sociological debates on sustainability, livelihoods and the sociology of the environment are joined.
  • The social dynamics in the South African countryside, including in relation to land and conservation are described.
  • Participatory research methodologies useful for research and practice in the management of natural and agricultural resources are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • The organisation of supply chains and how they affect sustainability are analysed.
  • Understanding of key concepts in economics and integration are demonstrated.
  • The role and importance of typical farm modelling as a farming system planning tool are discussed.
  • The potential of certification to value environmental services is assessed.
  • Market forces governing credit and insurance are recognised.
  • Contractual arrangements as to land and labour are evaluated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • The role of models within land use design and planning are explained.
  • Competing claims between various types of land use, such as agriculture and nature conservation are explained.
  • A qualitative evaluation of sustainable land use using QUALUS is carried out.
  • The influence of temporal and spatial scales on the methodology and the results of land use analysis are explained.
  • Data collection (mainly literature) on different aspects of sustainable land use is carried out.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • With a team and in close interaction with a client, the goals of a project and formulate tasks and a project plan on the basis of their disciplinary knowledge and general academic skills and attitude are established.
  • Viewpoints and conclusions are defended in a professional and representative way and academically correct.
  • At an academic level contributions are made to the execution of an interdisciplinary project both in terms of process and content related to own disciplinary training by gathering, selecting and analysing information and integrating this into project deliverables.
  • Reflective learning is implemented by an assessment of personal functioning in and contribution to a professional team and reflection on this in writing and during an assessment interview.
  • Contribution of other team members and other stakeholders is assessed on team functioning and execution of project tasks and appropriately reflect by giving feedback in writing and verbally.

    Integrated Assessment:
  • All modules will make use of continuous assessment: At least four assessment opportunities per module will be created comprising a final examination and any three of the following: written tests, written assignments, practicals reports, seminars, scientific presentations, group paper.
  • All final examinations, be it oral or written, are subjected to internal and external moderation. Moderators are appointed and approved by the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences.
  • The Work Integrated Learning report will be marked by the internal supervisor and the industry supervisor.
  • The Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture thesis will be examined by internal and external examiners as governed by the Faculty regulations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security - Lancaster University, UK:
    There is a one year full time or two years part time taught Masters, the Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security, which comprises 6 specialised taught modules, followed by an individual piece of research. There is also a two year full time International MSc (Research) in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security, which also comprises the 6 specialised taught modules, and includes a 12 months overseas research placement.

    Applicants to the taught Masters Degrees require a relevant, good first Degree (normally 2:1 or equivalent). They also consider applicants with a 2:2 (or equivalent) if they have relevant work experience (including voluntary work).

    Applications from professionals who have relevant work-related qualifications but not necessarily a first Degree are also encouraged.

    Master of Sustainable Agriculture - Charles Sturt University, Australia (CSU):
    The Master of Sustainable Agriculture aims to promote advanced, critical reflection by:
    Promoting the acquisition of advanced analytical and problem solving skills and conceptual insight that will enhance the capacity of the candidate to undertake positions of significant responsibility in their chosen field.
    Encouraging excellence in scholarship and/or focused research within the candidate's discipline area.

    The Sustainable Agriculture program is flexible, and designed to meet the needs of agriculture by equipping learners with the necessary skills to balance the natural resource, human and economic factors that affect agricultural sustainability.

    Applicants to the Master's programme will have completed a Bachelor Degree or the Graduate Diploma of Sustainable Agriculture.

    For each 8 point subject at CSU, learners should normally expect to spend between 140-160 hours engaged in the specified learning and assessment activities (such as attending lectures or residential schools, assigned readings, tutorial assistance, individual or group research/study, forum activity, workplace learning, assignments or examinations). The learner workload for some subjects may vary from these norms as a result of approved course design.

    Learners will be assessed on the basis of completed assignments, examinations, workplace learning, or other methods as outlined in specific subject outlines.

    To graduate from the Master of Sustainable Agriculture learners must successfully complete 12 subjects including 7 Core subjects (one of which is a 16 point subject) and 4 elective subjects equating to 96 points. Learners will graduate with the award Master of Sustainable Agriculture.

    The course is offered over 18 months fulltime or 36 months part-time. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture will articulate horizontally with:
  • Master of Agriculture in Agricultural Management.
  • Master of Science in Agriculture.
  • Master of Science in Agriculture in Agricultural Economics.
  • Master of Science in Agriculture in Agronomy.

    The Master of Science in Sustainable Agriculture will articulate vertically with:
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Sustainable Agriculture.
  • Doctor of Science in Agriculture. 
    		•

    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 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. Stellenbosch 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.