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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93617  Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation 
ORIGINATOR
Mangosuthu University of Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Advanced Diploma  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Nature Conservation 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  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 this qualification is to supply the nature conservation industry with competent nature conservators and resource managers who are able to manage a conservation team efficiently. Learners achieving this qualification will be competent to perform advanced management of natural resources and biological diversity.

Rationale:
The global community is faced with the depletion of natural resources. There is a significant need for measures to be put in place to deal with such problems. Individuals with knowledge of how to conserve nature for a sustainable future are in demand. These individuals will also impact positively through taking a leading role in research that will have the potential to inform future decisions in relation to nature conservation. The qualification objective is to develop a career path for qualified Nature Conservators by developing their skills in management fields aimed specifically at management within Protected Areas, and developing research skills to prepare them for Postgraduate study. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
In accordance with the University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy candidates may gain access to the programme without the prerequisite formal qualification by being granted advanced standing on the basis of the assessment of prior learning. In addition registered students in the programme may have prior learning assessed to be granted exemption from certain modules according to the University's policy and procedures.

Entry Requirements:
The requirement for enrolment is:
  • Diploma in Nature Conservation, National Diploma: Nature Conservation or equivalent, with an aggregate of 60% for all major subjects. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of four compulsory modules of 20 Credits each and two elective modules also of 20 Credits each, at NQF Level 7, totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules:
  • Resource Management.
  • Conservation Management.
  • Plant Studies.
  • Research Methodology.

    Elective Modules (Choose two):
  • Freshwater Management.
  • Principles of Management.
  • Environmental Education.
  • Financial Management.
  • Coastal and Marine Management. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform advanced natural resource and conservation management.
    2. Demonstrate knowledge on biodiversity.
    3. Use general knowledge in the field of conservation that benefits all involved and the environment.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of conducting substantial research to inform the practice within the field.
    5. Apply plant and animal studies important in nature conservation environment.
    6. Communicate effectively with supervisors, peers, subordinates and other nature conservation professionals. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    1.1 Knowledge of the major national and international conventions and treaties pertinent to natural resources and conservation management is demonstrates and applied.
  • Range of Conventions and Treaties must include:
    > The Convention on Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.
    > The Antarctic Treaty.
    > The Montreal Protocol for the Protection of the Ozone Layer.
    > The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat.
    > The Convention on Biological Diversity.
    > The International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling.
    > The World Heritage Convention.
    1.2 Knowledge of the persons/bodies responsible for the negotiation, implementation and policing of the appropriate conventions is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    2.1 Knowledge of the species within a biological unit is demonstrated.
    2.2 Understanding of the dynamic nature of biological diversity at all levels of biological, phylogenetic and evolutionary organisation is demonstrated.
    2.3 Knowledge of global diversity losses is demonstrated.
    2.4 Knowledge of the genetics applicable to intra-species diversity is demonstrated and applied.
    2.5 Knowledge of ethical and economic values including indirect value is demonstrated and applied.
    2.6 Natural area assessment of a given region is demonstrated and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    3.1 Wilderness management and methods and strategies for care of rare and endangered species are effectively applied within a specified area.
    3.2 The importance of ecotourism in the economy is explained and marketing products and production possibilities are identified.
    3.3 Integrated environmental management methods are selected, evaluated and applied.
    3.4 An urban conservation management plan is drawn up, explained and applied in a given area.
    3.5 Knowledge of the restoration process is demonstrated and applied.
    3.6 The principles of freshwater ecology in the management of local water resources are understood and applied.
    3.7 The principles of aquaculture for the marine and coastal ecology are understood and applied within a selected area.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    4.1 The term research is defined and discussed in relation to a nature conservation project.
    4.2 Current research publications are consulted and analysed to produce a credible researched paper.
    4.3 Typical problems relating to nature conservation and/or technological research are described.
    4.4 Papers for presentation at scientific and technological seminars are written and delivered.
    4.5 Appropriate research methodology is applied.
    4.6 Data and conclusions are effectively interpreted and presented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    5.1 An appropriate bush control method is selected and implemented effectively within a specified area.
    5.2 The carrying capacity of the selected area is determined and accurately interpreted.
    5.3 Appropriate soil conservation measures for the given area are selected, implemented and effectively managed.
    5.4 Knowledge of the ecology and population dynamics of animals within a specified area is demonstrated and applied.
    5.5 Knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the digestive systems of the animals found within the given area is demonstrated.
    5.6 The principles of genetics as part of a game management plan are effectively applied in animal breeding within a given area.
    5.7 Appropriate legislation is applied within the conservation programme at all times.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
    6.1 Current conservation terminology is utilised in all record keeping and correspondence.
    6.2 Integrated writing and analytical reading skills are demonstrated in the interpretation and appropriate application of a wide range of data.
    6.3 Interpersonal skills are demonstrated through effective communication with supervisor, peers and subordinates.
    6.4 Conflict resolution skills through negotiations are demonstrated.
    6.5 A variety of routine and non-routine responsibilities are handled effectively, such as the efficient management of correspondence and a filing system.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment is continuous and done on the following basis:
    Formative assessment:
    Formative assessment is carried out at regular intervals throughout the period of learning and may take the form of:
  • Assignments.
  • Written tests.
  • Practical tests.
  • Mini projects.
  • Research proposal.
  • Research project progress reports.
  • Reports.
  • Oral evaluation.
  • Presentations.

    Summative assessment:
    Summative assessment is carried out at the end of the period of learning and may take the form of:
  • Written examinations.
  • A research project report.
  • Practical examinations.
  • The presentation a portfolio of work is compiled and submited for assessment. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Advanced Diploma in nature conservation can be compared with other qualifications offered by institutions globally. This qualification is similar to others in terms of purpose, duration and modules that learners must complete. International qualifications considered may not be Advanced Diploma due to the difference in NQF levels, but the content is considered to be the same.

    The Institute of Continuing Education at the University of Cambridge offers an Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in Ecological Monitoring and Conservation. This course is open to all those with an interest in ecology and conservation who have qualifications in or who can demonstrate previous experience of this subject or a related discipline at an advanced level.

    The Undergraduate Advanced Diploma in Ecological Monitoring and Conservation is a part-time, research-based course that focuses on developing participants' awareness and understanding of key issues in ecology and conservation.

    The University of Glasgow offers Degree qualifications with a similar focus to this qualification. These qualifications aim to equip learners with the knowledge needed to pursue a career in the environmental sector. Fieldwork and practical experience are at the core of these qualifications, providing learners with valuable skills to take into the workplace.

    The following topics are considered vital for learners:
  • Introduction to environmental science, Earth System Science, Introduction to Global environmental issues, and Text and Communication.
  • Research methods for environmental scientists, sustainability of farming systems and Energy: options for sustainability.
  • Applied ecology and conservation, Human impact on the environment, and Rural tourism and stewardship.

    Conclusion:
    Although the qualifications used for comparison purposes are not identical to the Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, the similarity in duration, modules and access across all indicates that this qualification is of international standard. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with any other Advanced Diploma in a related field, such as Agriculture, at NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with a Post Graduate Diploma in Nature Conservation at 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 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. Mangosuthu University of Technology 


    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.