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: 

Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93904  Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management 
ORIGINATOR
Central University of Technology, Free State 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Environmental Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

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 Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management is designed to develop graduates with the scientific knowledge, practical skills, and analytical competencies required to understand, monitor, and sustainably manage water resources. The qualification equips learners with expertise in hydrological processes, water quality assessment, data analysis, and the application of technological tools for solving water-related challenges such as scarcity, pollution, and climate variability. It targets learners who have an interest in environmental sciences, water systems, and sustainable development, particularly those seeking careers in hydrology, environmental management, water resource planning, and related scientific fields. Learners who complete this qualification gain both theoretical and applied knowledge through fieldwork, laboratory investigations, and problem-solving projects, preparing them for employment in government agencies, environmental consultancies, research institutions, and the water industry, as well as for further postgraduate studies. Ultimately, the qualification benefits learners by enhancing their employability, developing professional competencies, and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to sustainable water management and environmental protection in South Africa and beyond.

Upon successful completion of the qualification, learners will be prepared to follow academic, professional, and occupational pathways within the water and environmental sectors. Graduates will possess a comprehensive understanding of hydrological systems, water resource assessment, and environmental monitoring techniques, and will be able to collect, analyse, and interpret hydrological data to support informed decision-making. They will be responsible for tasks such as conducting water resource assessments, monitoring water quality, developing sustainable water management strategies, and applying scientific tools and technologies to address water-related challenges in government agencies, research institutions, environmental consultancies, and the private sector. The qualification also provides a strong foundation for further academic progression to honours and postgraduate studies in hydrology, environmental science, and related disciplines, as well as for professional registration in relevant scientific fields.

A qualified learner will be able to collect, analyse, and interpret hydrological and environmental data to support informed water resource management decisions; monitor and assess surface water and groundwater systems using appropriate scientific and technological tools; evaluate water quality and identify potential sources of pollution or environmental risk; apply hydrological principles and modelling techniques to address water scarcity, climate variability, and resource sustainability challenges; contribute to the planning and implementation of integrated water resource management strategies; prepare and communicate technical reports, data analyses, and management recommendations to both scientific and non-scientific stakeholders; and operate effectively within multidisciplinary teams in government agencies, environmental consultancies, research institutions, and the water sector. Through these competencies, graduates will contribute to sustainable water management, environmental protection, and improved water security in support of socio-economic development.

Rationale:
The qualification was developed in response to the growing demand for specialised skills in hydrology and sustainable water resource management in South Africa. The country faces significant water-related challenges, including water scarcity, pollution, climate variability, and increasing pressure on limited water resources due to population growth and economic development. These challenges require professionals who possess specialised scientific knowledge and practical competencies in hydrology, water monitoring, and integrated water resource management. While several environmental science and earth science qualifications exist on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), there is limited availability of undergraduate qualifications that specifically focus on hydrology and water resources management as a dedicated discipline. As a result, this qualification addresses an identified skills gap in the water sector by providing a structured academic pathway for the development of hydrology specialists. A review of existing qualifications on the NQF indicates that no directly equivalent qualification combines hydrological science with applied water resource management at this level, thereby confirming the need for the Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management as a specialised qualification to support the development of competent professionals in the water sector.

The development of the qualification responds to the urgent need for skilled professionals capable of addressing water security challenges in South Africa. The demand for hydrologists and water resource specialists has been highlighted by key sector stakeholders, including the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), the Water Research Commission (WRC), the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA), and the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), all of whom have identified shortages of qualified professionals in areas such as hydrological monitoring, water quality assessment, groundwater management, and integrated water resource planning. Consultations with academic departments, industry representatives, and professional bodies during the qualification review and redevelopment process further confirmed the need for a qualification that produces graduates with specialised hydrological knowledge and applied competencies relevant to the water and environmental sectors. The qualification is designed to meet the needs of government departments, water utilities, environmental consultancies, research institutions, and non-governmental organisations involved in water resource management and environmental protection. By producing graduates equipped with scientific and technical skills to assess, monitor, and manage water resources effectively, the qualification will strengthen institutional capacity within the water sector and contribute to improved water governance and sustainable resource management. In addition, the qualification will benefit society and the broader economy by supporting sustainable water use, protecting aquatic ecosystems, and improving public health outcomes associated with safe water supply and environmental protection. The qualification also aligns with national priorities and strategies such as the National Water Resource Strategy (NWRS) and the National Development Plan (NDP), which emphasise the importance of building human capacity in the water sector and supporting the transition towards sustainable development and a green economy. Through the development of competent hydrology and water resource management professionals, the qualification contributes to addressing scarce skills in the sector while supporting long-term environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and national water security.

Upon completion of the qualification, graduates will be prepared to enter a range of occupations and professional fields related to hydrology and water resource management. These may include roles such as hydrologist, water resource analyst, environmental scientist, water quality officer, catchment management practitioner, environmental consultant, and hydrological data analyst within government departments, water utilities, research institutions, environmental consulting firms, and non-governmental organisations. The qualification also provides learners with opportunities for further academic progression through postgraduate studies in hydrology, environmental science, water resource management, and related disciplines, while also supporting pathways toward professional recognition within the natural sciences and environmental management sectors.

In accordance with Section 28 of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Act, consultation with relevant professional bodies is necessary to ensure that qualifications align with recognised professional standards and support pathways for professional registration. The development and review of the Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management considered the requirements of professional bodies within the natural sciences and water management sectors, particularly the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), which is the statutory body responsible for regulating natural science professions in South Africa. The curriculum structure, scientific content, and applied training components of the qualification have been designed to align with the knowledge areas and competencies required for registration upon graduation as a Candidate Natural Scientist with SACNASP in fields such as hydrology, environmental science, or water resource management. Consultation with SACNASP and engagement with sector stakeholders during the qualification review process helped ensure that the qualification supports professional development pathways within the natural sciences. The qualification therefore provides an appropriate academic foundation for graduates who wish to pursue professional registration and further career development within the water and environmental sectors. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy that applies to equivalent qualifications for admission to the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access to and admission into this qualification, as well as advancement within it. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules, and credits for or towards the qualification.

RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission into the qualification may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission into the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

    RPL for module exemption:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from modules that form part of the qualification. > For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC), NQF Level 4, granting access to the bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV), NQF Level 4, granting access to the bachelor's degree studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, with endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of compulsory modules and/or elective modules at NQF Levels 5, 6 and 7, totalling 372 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 5, totalling 102 Credits:
  • Personal Information Management, 0 Credits.
  • Academic Literacy and Communication Studies, 12 Credits.
  • Digital Literacy, 6 Credits.
  • Chemistry, 12 Credits.
  • Physics, 12 Credits.
  • Mathematics I, 12 Credits.
  • Applied Mathematics, 12 Credits.
  • Hydrology I, 12 Credits.
  • Water Resources Management I, 12 Credits.
  • Environmental Science, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 6, totalling 136 Credits:
  • Hydrochemistry, 24 Credits.
  • Geohydrology, 30 Credits.
  • Hydrology II, 24 Credits.
  • Water Resources Management II, 30 Credits.
  • Environmental Engineering, 18 Credits.
  • Work-integrated Learning (General), 10 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 7, totalling 110 Credits:
  • Hydrology III, 30 Credits.
  • Water Resources Management III, 30 Credits.
  • Work-integrated Learning, 20 Credits.
  • Advanced Water and Wastewater Treatment Technology, 30 Credits.

    Elective Modules at NQF Level 7, totalling 24 Credits:
    Choose ONE of the following electives:
  • Reticulation Design and Management, 24 Credits.
  • Water Pollution Control, 24 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an integrated understanding of hydrological and environmental science principles, concepts, and theories relevant to water resource management.
    2. Apply appropriate scientific methods, techniques, and tools to collect, analyse, and interpret hydrological and environmental data.
    3. Design and implement sustainable water resource management strategies and interventions.
    4. Communicate scientific information effectively to diverse audiences using appropriate formats.
    5. Make independent decisions or judgments, considering all the relevant scientific, technical, environmental, economic and social factors.
    6. Work as a team member and contribute to positive team dynamics and multi-disciplinary team productivity. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Explain and apply scientific and technical principles underlying surface and groundwater hydrology, hydrogeology, and water quality management.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the interrelationships between water, the environment, and human activities.
  • Analyse hydrological data using appropriate methods, models, and tools.
  • Critically evaluate the reliability and limitations of scientific data and methods.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Conduct field and laboratory investigations using standard hydrological and environmental techniques.
  • Process and interpret data using relevant software and statistical tools.
  • Produce accurate, evidence-based conclusions supported by quantitative and qualitative data.
  • Able to collect, analyse, interpret and synthesize appropriate meteorological, hydrological, environmental and geographical information data.
  • Apply Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and hydrological models for water resources management.
  • Undertake water resources simulation for problem solving.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Assess water availability, demand, and use efficiency at various scales (catchment, regional, national).
  • Formulate integrated water management plans that consider environmental, social, and economic factors.
  • Demonstrate understanding of national water policies, legislation, and regulatory frameworks.
  • Competent in laboratory procedures in determining water- and wastewater-related parameters.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Prepare clear, structured technical hydrological reports and presentations.
  • Communicate hydrological results to both specialist and non-specialist audiences using suitable language and media.
  • Demonstrate the ability to justify decisions and recommendations based on sound evidence.
  • Use information and communication technologies (ICT) to enhance scientific communication.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Analyse all relevant scientific, technical, environmental, and socio-economic factors for sound decision-making.
  • Demonstrate independent decision-making.
  • Undertake Environmental Impact Assessments.
  • Comply with professional codes of conduct and regulatory frameworks such as SACNASP and DWS guidelines.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Display positive attributes and interaction in teamwork.
  • Participate actively and responsibly in collaborative projects and fieldwork.
  • Demonstrate adherence to ethical and safety standards in data collection and handling.

    Integrated assessment
    Assessment in the qualification is guided by the institution's Learner Assessment Manual and the Assessment Policy. Assessment is designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and applied competence. The assessment strategy integrates formative and summative assessments, including class tests, main tests, practical exercises, assignments, and design projects. At the end of each semester or academic year, continuous summative assessment and moderation of all modules ensure that learners meet the required standards for progression and completion.

    To determine learners' applied competence, a range of assessment methods is employed. These include case studies, problem-solving assignments, portfolios, projects, presentations, written and oral examinations, as well as authentic practical or field exercises and demonstrations. This variety ensures that learners are assessed on foundational knowledge, practical skills, and reflexive abilities in real-world contexts. Formative assessments provide ongoing feedback to support learning, while summative assessments verify that learners can successfully apply their knowledge and skills to solve hydrological and water resource management challenges.

    Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) at second- and third-year level and other forms of integrated learning are key components of the assessment strategy. Learners are required to engage in field-based, industry-relevant experiences where they analyse, design, develop, and implement water management solutions. The combination of assignments, assessments, projects, and WIL ensures a balanced assessment of both academic understanding and practical capability, confirming that graduates are competent to operate professionally within the water sector. The ratio of formative to summative assessment will be 60:40.

    Formative assessment:
    The formative assessment strategy for the qualification is designed to support continuous learning, early identification of academic challenges, and progressive development of applied scientific skills. Formative assessments will be integrated throughout the academic year and will include a combination of class tests, assignments, laboratory and field practicals, data analysis exercises, project-based tasks, presentations, and problem-solving activities. These assessments are structured to provide regular feedback to learners, enabling them to improve their understanding of hydrological processes, water quality assessment, modelling, and water resource management practices. Given the applied and scientific nature of the qualification, formative assessment emphasises practical engagement with real-world water-related problems, including field data collection, interpretation of hydrological data, and the use of relevant analytical and modelling software. The strategy also allows lecturers to monitor learner progress continuously and provide timely academic support where necessary, thereby enhancing learner performance, retention, and overall qualification throughput.

    Summative assessment:
    The summative assessment strategy for the qualification is designed to evaluate the overall achievement of learning outcomes at the end of a learning cycle. Summative assessments will consist of integrated evaluations such as major tests, research projects, fieldwork reports, WIL report, practical assessments, and where applicable, written examinations. Assessment papers, memorandums, and answer booklets will undergo standard moderated processes. These assessments measure learners' ability to apply theoretical knowledge, analyse hydrological data, interpret water quality results, and propose scientifically sound solutions to water resource management challenges. Emphasis is placed on applied and problem-based tasks that reflect real-world hydrological and environmental scenarios. The summative assessments are structured to ensure that learners demonstrate competence in scientific reasoning, data interpretation, and professional reporting, thereby confirming that graduates have attained the required knowledge, technical skills, and analytical abilities expected of a hydrology and water resource management professional. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification is comparable to the following international qualifications:

    Country: Australia
    Institution name: Flinders University
    Qualification title: Bachelor of Science in Hydrology
    Duration: 3 years full-time

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Hydrology is to provide learners with a comprehensive scientific understanding of water systems and the processes that influence the availability, movement, quality, and management of water resources. The qualification develops learners' knowledge and practical skills in areas such as surface water and groundwater systems, hydrochemistry, environmental monitoring, data analysis, and sustainable water resource management. Through scientific investigation, fieldwork, laboratory activities, and analytical approaches, learners develop the ability to apply scientific principles to address complex water-related and environmental challenges. The qualification prepares graduates for professional roles in hydrology, environmental management, water resource planning, research, and related scientific fields, while also providing a foundation for further study at postgraduate level.

    Learning outcomes:
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of hydrology, water science, and environmental systems.
  • Explain the processes governing the movement, storage, distribution, and quality of surface water and groundwater resources.
  • Apply scientific knowledge from areas such as hydrochemistry, geology, environmental science, mathematics, and data analysis to solve water-related problems.

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications are designed to prepare graduates to understand, assess, and manage water resources using scientific principles.

    Differences:
  • The Australian qualification places greater emphasis on Australian water challenges such as groundwater management, arid-zone hydrology, hydrochemistry, hydraulics, and public health aspects of water quality, whereas the South African qualification generally places greater emphasis on integrated water resources management, catchment management, water supply, and water security issues relevant to Southern Africa, including drought, water allocation, and development.

    Country: United States of America
    Institution name: University of Texas, Austin
    Qualification title: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Hydrology and Water Resources

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management is to equip graduates with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles, technical skills, and practical competencies required to assess, manage, and protect surface water and groundwater resources. The qualification provides a strong foundation in hydrology, hydrogeology, water resources management, environmental science, mathematics, and geospatial technologies, enabling graduates to analyse hydrological systems, address water-related environmental challenges, and develop sustainable solutions for water resource planning and management. It also prepares graduates for professional careers in government, industry, research, and environmental consulting, while providing a solid academic foundation for postgraduate study and lifelong learning in hydrology, water resources, and related fields.

    Modules:
  • Physical hydrology.
  • Groundwater hydrology.
  • Hydrogeology.
  • Aqueous geochemistry.
  • Climate, water, and the environment.
  • Geospatial data (GIS).

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications provide a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, geology, and environmental sciences.
  • Both qualifications focus on the scientific principles governing the hydrological cycle, including precipitation, evaporation, infiltration, runoff, and groundwater flow.

    Differences:
  • The University of Texas qualification is rooted in the geosciences and places greater emphasis on hydrogeology, groundwater systems, geochemistry, and advanced hydrological modelling, while the South African qualification places greater emphasis on integrated water resources management, catchment management, environmental sustainability, and water governance within the Southern African context.

    Conclusion:
    The three qualifications demonstrate substantial equivalence in terms of curriculum content, learning outcomes, graduate competencies, and professional preparation. The differences reflect local environmental conditions, legislative frameworks, and industry needs rather than any significant variation in academic standards. Consequently, the South African Bachelor of Science in Hydrology and Water Resources Management is broadly comparable with the hydrology qualifications offered by Flinders University and the University of Texas at Austin and aligns well with international standards for undergraduate education in hydrology and water resources. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for horizontal, diagonal, and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management, NQF Level 7.
  • Possible horizontal articulation options between Sub-Frameworks for this qualification reached the registration end date in December 2025.

    Vertical articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Hydrology, NQF Level 8.

    Diagonal articulation:
  • Possible diagonal articulation options for this qualification reached the registration end date in December 2025. 
    		•

    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. Central University of Technology, Free State 


    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.