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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Analytical Chemistry 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
96978  Diploma in Analytical Chemistry 
ORIGINATOR
University of Johannesburg 
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
2027-06-30   2029-06-30  

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 Analytical Chemistry Diploma is primarily industry specific. The purpose of this qualification is to develop graduates who can demonstrate focused knowledge and skills in analytical chemistry. The qualification is designed to equip learners with an in-depth and specialised knowledge of the general principles and practical skills applicable to the analytical chemistry industry. As part of the learning, and in collaboration with the relevant workplace institutions, learners are also exposed to the relevant world of work in order to gain experience in applying the acquired knowledge and practical skills in the workplace context. The tuition and workplace experience enable successful learners to access a number of career and employment opportunities relating to analytical chemistry from the onset.

Rationale:
The purpose of the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry is to develop graduates who can demonstrate focused knowledge and skills in analytical chemistry. The qualification focuses on equipping learners with an in-depth and specialised knowledge of the general principles and practical skills applicable to the analytical chemistry industry. As part of the diploma study, and in collaboration with the relevant workplace institutions/ bodies/organisations, learners are also exposed to the relevant world of work in order to gain experience in applying the acquired knowledge and practical skills in the workplace context. The tuition and workplace experience enable successful learners to access a number of career and employment opportunities relating to analytical chemistry from the onset.

The four-year diploma programme (extended) extends the three-year curriculum over four years and starts with a generic first semester component. The first semester presents with a fundamental curriculum as the core of the programme with foundational provision embedded in the teaching and learning. Specialised methodology will provide learners with the content and skills to continue with the second semester which is the one component of the first year main stream curriculum. The support and foundational provision extends into the second year where the curriculum provides the second component of the first year main stream curriculum. After completion of the first two years learners will be well rounded with foundational principles in subject discipline, skills in language, computers and academic literacies and would then continue to the second and third year curriculum. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The Faculty of Science accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the Faculty of Science will endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant.

The Faculty of Science manages RPL according to the institutional RPL policy, which will be applied as follows for purposes of this qualification as set out in the Faculty of Science policy:
  • Through RPL a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies at the UJ.
  • Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied by the Faculty of Science.
  • RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements:
    > Is conducted after payment of the prescribed fees in accordance with the policy and guidelines of the institution.
    > Is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience.
    > Is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF-Level.
    takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the programme.
    is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel to the Dean's Committee of the Faculty of Sciences and is finally decided upon by the Faculty of Science Dean's Committee.
  • A Diploma or Degree that does not satisfy the formal entrance requirements for the Diploma in Applied Chemistry programme, but the holder of a such a Diploma or Degree, may apply for admission to the Diploma in Applied Chemistry through RPL, which application may be granted subject to such conditions as may be considered to be appropriate.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement to the qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC).
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) passed with Diploma studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)) at Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of modules at NQF Level 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.
    Modules at Level 5:
  • Chemistry 1A1E, 5 Credits.
  • Mathematics 1AE1, 5 Credits.
  • Physics 1AE1, 5 Credits.
  • End-User Computing 1, 16 Credits.
  • Skills for Success, 10 Credits.
  • Adapting To Science in Higher Education, at Level 5.
  • Analytical Chemistry 1AY1 (Theory), 5 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry 1AY2 (Practical), 5 Credits.
  • Chemistry 1CY1 (Theory), 5 Credits.
  • Chemistry 1CY2 (Practical), 5 Credits.
  • Mathematics 1YE2, 5 Credits.
  • Physics 1YT1 (Theory), 5 Credits.
  • Physics 1yp1 (Practical), 5 Credits.
  • Skills for Success, 10 Credits.
  • Plagiarism and Copyright, at Level 5.
  • Analytical Chemistry 2AY1 (Theory), 8 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry 2AY2 (Practical), 8 Credits.
  • Chemistry 2CY1 (Theory),, 6 Credits.
  • Chemistry 2CY2 (Practical), 6 Credits.
  • Communication Skills (Module 1), 16 Credits.
  • Mathematics 1YE3, 5 Credits.
  • Physics 1YT2 (Theory), 5 Credits.
  • Physics 1YP2 (Practical), 5 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry 2,, 8 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry Practical, 8 Credits.
  • Organic Chemistry 2,, 8 Credits.
  • Physical Chemistry, 8 Credits.
  • Communication Skills (Module 2), 16 Credits.
  • Engineering Mathematics 2, 7 Credits.
  • Rights And Responsibilities Of Citizens 3, at Level 5.
  • Inorganic Chemistry 2, 15 Credits.
  • Organic Chemistry 3 (Theory), 15 Credits.
  • Organic Chemistry 3 (Practical), 15 Credits.
  • Physical Chemistry 3, 15 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry 3 (Instrumental Techniques), 8 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry 3 (Analytical Technology), 8 Credits.
  • Analytical Chemistry Practical 3, 15 Credits.
  • Chemical Quality Assurance, 15 Credits.
  • Inorganic Chemistry 3, 15 Credits.

    Modules at Level 6:
  • Science in Society.
  • Science in Society.
  • Entrepreneurial Skills, 5 Credits.
  • Materials and Processing Science, 20 Credits.
  • Polymer Chemistry 3, 20 Credits.
  • Physics 2, 8 Credits.
  • Chemical Technology Practical Training, 60 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Solve both routine and unfamiliar problems using correct procedures, methods and techniques for Analytical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry.
    2. Evaluate information, theories and ideas associated with Analytical Chemistry.
    3. Present and communicate information effectively and meaningfully using scientific and academic/professional discourse conventions and formats.
    4. Work effectively with others in a team and be able to work independently in a practical environment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The principles of organic, inorganic, analytical and physical chemistry are applied to chemical problems encountered during chemical analyses and syntheses both in theory and practice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • An understanding of the principles and applications of different instrumental analysis techniques are demonstrated in theory and practicals.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Correctly use scientific language to formulate fundamental theoretical principles.
  • Use theoretical concepts to solve fundamental analytical problems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Correct analytical procedures are planned taking into account what factors will influence the analysis; to carry out the analytical procedure; to analyse the data using statistics and to write a scientific report for each practical as either part of a practical group or as individual work.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Every module is different and therefore there is a diverse array of assessments conducted.

    However most of the assessments are in the form of: Major Tests, Tutorial Tests, Assignments, Pre-Practical tests, Major practical tests, oral presentations, supplementary tests and the main final examination.

    Assessment:
    In addition to assessments done in the first semester, students will write a mid-year assessment in June. A progress mark will be calculated using the marks obtained in the mid-year assessment and all the other assessments done in the first semester. Based on this progress mark, the student's continuation of the programme will be decided on.

    Entrance requirements for the mid-year assessment:
  • To be allowed access to the mid-year assessment, a student is required to obtain a minimum first semester mark of 40%.

    Criteria for continuation of the programme:
  • Students in the extended programme will be permitted to continue with their studies during the second semester of their first year of study, provided they attain a progress mark of at least 40% in their extended curriculum modules in the first semester (basic foundational provision phase).

    Final Assessment.
  • During the second semester several assessments will be done. The marks of all the assessments done during the year will be used to calculate the year mark. A student must obtain a minimum year mark of 40% to be granted entrance to the final integrated assessment of all the modules that will be written at the end of the year.

    Pass Requirements:
  • Students in the extended programme will be permitted to continue to their second year of study provided they have passed all their modules in the first year.
  • However, a student who failed only one module which is not a prerequisite for entry to any module in the second year and therefore not a critical requirement for progress, may be granted an opportunity to register and continue with his/her studies in the second year and be allowed to register for the pending first year module provided it does not clash with any other module on the time table.
  • In order to be allowed to continue with their third year of studies, students must have passed all modules of the first and second year at the end of their second year. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry offered at UJ is competitive and relates quite well to objectives set out at other international education institutions such as: Indira Gandhi National Open University and Okanagan College.

    A brief description is provided below on what is offered at the respective institutions. The information was obtained from their websites:

    Indira Gandhi National Open University (Post Graduate Diploma in Analytical Chemistry) (http://www.ignou.ac.in/):
    Post Graduate Diploma in Analytical Chemistry (PGDAC) is a continuing education programme aimed for the enhancement of skills of the chemists employed in Industry, Research and Development and National Laboratories. It is also useful for all those Science Graduates who are aspiring to get employment in these labs.

    The broad objectives of the Programme are:
  • To provide training in modern analytical techniques to the learners.
  • To provide appropriate theoretical background and develop practical skills for analysing materials even in trace amounts using modern analytical methods and instruments.
  • To enable students, acquire the analytical data and interpret the same using statistical principles.
  • To inculcate a problem solving approach by coordinating different analytical techniques.

    Okanagan College (http://www.okanagan.bc.ca/):
    The Diploma in Analytical Chemistry Technology (ACT) trains students as Chemical Technologists in industry relevant and employment ready instrumental analysis skills. The ACT program is a two-year, four-semester program that requires the completion of 70 Credits of coursework. The program provides graduates with a solid understanding of the protocols common to analytical laboratories including sampling and sample preparation, quality assurance, quality control, quality assessment, instrumental analysis and calibration, data processing and interpretation, and reporting. In particular, this program involves thorough integration of statistical analysis and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) within its curriculum while stressing effective and relevant report writing and communication skills. Students will also receive extensive experience with a variety of the modern instruments they will encounter in future work environments, will be trained in safe and environmentally sound laboratory practices, will develop technical writing and public presentation skills, and will gain experience in the team-work approach to problem solving. Graduates of the ACT program will acquire instrumental analysis skills that will enable them to readily enter laboratories, becoming productive employees with a minimum of specific job orientation and training.

    Graduates can seek employment as trained Chemical Analysts in a wide variety of laboratories in industry, government, and institutions. These could include academic, environmental, chemical, mining and smelting, pulp and paper, petrochemical, food, beverage, brewer and vintner, and health laboratories. Graduates of the ACT program may have the option of pursuing Bachelor of Technology programs at other institutions in British Columbia and across Canada, or other Bachelor Degrees that have completion of a two-year Diploma level program as the admission requirement. The College is currently seeking national accreditation for this program by the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board (CTAB) which would allow graduates to be eligible for professional registration as an Applied Science Technologist (A.Sc.T.) after two years of related work experience. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Students who enrol for the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry (4 years) can change to either the Diploma in Biotechnology (4 years) or Diploma in Food Technology (4 years) after their first year. Focussing only on the Chemistry modules they will get credits for Chemistry 1A1E and Chemistry 1A2E.
    If a student wants to change to a qualification that falls under another faculty, e.g. Engineering and the Built Environment or Health Sciences, approval of both the relevant Head of Departments will be required. Once approved, the student can apply for credits for equivalent modules.
    Currently the Diploma in Analytical Chemistry grants a student entrance to the Bachelor of Technology (B Tech) (Chemistry), Master of Technology (M Tech) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), progressively. The B Tech Degree is in the process of being phased out on the NQF. Exactly when this will be done is not certain at this stage. The latest date provided is 2020.

    Once phased out, the progression path will be National Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Post Graduate Diploma or Honours Degree, MSc and PhD. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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. University of Johannesburg 


    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.