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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Biokinetics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97899  Bachelor of Biokinetics 
ORIGINATOR
University of the 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(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Rehabilitative Health/Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  584  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  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   2034-06-30  

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 in Biokinetics is to provide learners with a sound scientific knowledge base in the field of Human Physiology, Anatomy, Kinesiology and Human Movement Science as well as practical skills and appropriate attitudes and values to enhance health, optimise wellbeing and performance, and prevent the progression of certain ailments of individuals and communities.

The main focus of this qualification is to provide professional training in respect of scientifically based prescriptive exercise in the following four domains of practice:
  • Wellness, disease/injury prevention and health promotion.
  • Optimal performance.
  • Final phase orthopaedic rehabilitation.
  • Management of chronic disease and disabilities.

    Practice of the four domains will be done once the condition has been clinically stabilised e.g. diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease and others.

    Rationale:
    Biokinetics is the profession concerned with health promotion, prevention of diseases of lifestyle, the final phase rehabilitation of orthopaedic injuries and the management of chronic diseases and disabilities by means of individualised, scientifically based exercise programme prescription, physical activity intervention programmes and/or health education. Biokinetics thus forms part of the holistic and multidisciplinary approach to health care.

    All the professionals registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) are trained in a professional setting with a professional Degree. The four-year professional Degree in Biokinetics was necessitated by the professional sector in which Biokinetics functions (part of the paramedical discipline and Board of Physiotherapy and Podiatry). To establish the professional status of Biokineticists a four year professional Degree in Biokinetics is required, such a qualification will allow Biokinetics to be in line with the other professions that are regulated by the Board of Physiotherapy, Podiatry and Biokinetics. The scientific knowledge needed at this professional level therefore required that such students should be trained on a par with other professions on the same level. Such a professional qualification should comply with national and international best practice standards, and this programme has been designed to adhere to these requirements.

    There is a growing need in our country for the optimisation of physical performances in the workplace and on the sports field, for preventive medicine for sports injuries, hypokinetic diseases and other ailments and for rehabilitation of ailments and injuries. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Applicants who do not meet the admission criteria as stipulated, but who can demonstrate competence and relevant experience in biokinetics may be considered for admission to the qualification through RPL in terms of the University of the Free State RPL Policy.

    Credits for informal and formal learning in biokinetics obtained at other institutions and in the workplace may be granted towards the completion of this qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with matriculation endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to h Bachelors' Degree studies admission.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV) granting access to Bachelors' Degree studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification consists of compulsory modules at Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 584 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Motor Learning and Control, 32 Credits.
  • Growth and Development, 32 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Anatomy, 32 Credits.
  • Social Psychology, 16 Credits.
  • Nutrition 1, 16 Credits.
  • Human Physiology, 32 Credits.
  • Sport Management and Biokinetics Practice, 16 Credits.
  • Biomechanics, 16 Credits.
  • Exercise Physiology, 16 Credits.
  • Health Promotion and Wellness, 16 Credits.
  • Science of Coaching, 16 Credits.
  • Measurement and Evaluation (Baseline), 16 Credits.
  • Sport Management and Health Care and Ethics, 16 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Nutrition 2, 16 Credits.
  • Musculo-skeletel injuries and rehabilitation 1, 16 Credits.
  • Therapeutic Recreation, 8 Credits.
  • Measurement and Evaluation (Advanced and Clinical), 32 Credits.
  • Professional internship 1, 32 Credits.
  • Movement Development and Rehabilitation, 16 Credits.
  • Health Promotion, 16 Credits.
  • Exercise Science 1, 16 Credits.
  • Exercise Science 2, 16 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 8:
  • Musculo-skeletel injuries and rehabilitation 2, 32 Credits.
  • Research Methods in Biokinetics, 16 Credits.
  • Clinical exercise physiology and management of chronic diseases and Disabilities, 32 Credits.
  • Professional Internship 2, 48 Credits.
  • Research Project in Biokinetics, 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the structure and function of the human body systems.
    2. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to the psycho-socio aspects of health, function and human performance.
    3. Demonstrate adequate knowledge understanding, skills and attitudes related to biomechanics.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise physiology and clinical exercise physiology for rehabilitation.
    5. Demonstrate adequate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to exercise science.
    6. Plan and implement effective and efficient therapeutic and recreation programmes.
    7. Demonstrate specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to human motor behaviour.
    8. Apply relevant and appropriate knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to the prevention and rehabilitation of musculo-skeletal injuries.
    9. Apply specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes related to health promotion, health education and health related aspects of exercise and physical activity.
    10. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in conducting scientifically sound/based measurement and evaluation in biokinetics contexts.
    11. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to management of chronic diseases and disabilities.
    12. Apply relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes to biokinetics related research.
    13. Manage a private or public biokinetics practice or health care facility effectively and efficiently. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The macroscopic and microscopic structure of each body system is described.
  • The normal function of each of the body's systems is explained.
  • The mechanisms responsible for homeostasis of the human body system is understood.

    Associate Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Foundational theories with regard to psychology and sociology in biokinetics contexts are analysed, interpreted and applied.
  • The effect of the human psyche on health behaviour, health promotion (wellness), human functioning and performance is reflected on.
  • Appropriate motivational and interviewing skills in health care contexts are applied.
  • Effects of negative psycho-social factors on the individual and environment are recognised.
  • The psycho-social stratification impact within the South African community in health care contexts is explained.
  • The phases of grief after a catastrophic life event are analysed and interpreted.
  • An individual is informed and educated on the meaning of pain and practical coping strategies are suggested or prescribed.
  • Understanding of the effects of distress on human physiology, health and behaviour are applied in health care contexts.
  • The purpose of different relaxation techniques and coping strategies for individuals experiencing stress are explained.
  • Appropriate motivational knowledge, skills and attitudes to cultural diversity in a Biokinetics practice are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Foundational theories in physics as they apply to human motion and exercise are analysed, integrated and applied.
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of dynamic, muscle function, movement biomechanics, integrative functioning of the neuromuscular and musculo-skeletal systems in exercise and physical activity programmes are analysed and integrated.
  • Different movement skills to identify possible dysfunctions of biomechanical analyses are performed.
  • Kinetics and kinematic variables associated with posture, movement, injuries and general health are assessed.
  • Bio-mechanically principled exercises or activities for specific population groups for the improvement, adaptation or modification of exercises and activities are planned and implemented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Understanding of the effects of different types of exercise on the cardiovascular, pulmonary, neuromuscular, metabolic and endocrine systems to real and simulated cases is applied.
  • Understanding of the interrelationship between responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise is demonstrated.
  • Understanding of the influences of internal and external factors and the use of ergogenic aids and supplements on exercise and physical activity are demonstrated.
  • Understanding of the differences in exercise capacity between genders and the different age groups is applied.
  • Laboratory tests and experiments in the field of human exercise physiology are planned, conducted and interpreted.
  • Appropriate exercise interventions to enhance exercise capacity are designed.
  • Basic understanding of nutrition and biochemistry as it relates to exercise physiology is demonstrated.
  • Basic understanding of common pathological conditions such as diabetes mellitus and the effects of such conditions on exercise capacity is demonstrated.
  • Understanding of clinical exercise physiology, nutrition, exercise metabolism and human performance to the effective and efficient implementation of health promotion, injury prevention and rehabilitation programmes are integrated and applied.
  • The physical abilities required of people to perform their jobs or tasks are assessed.
  • Applicable exercise programmes that would enable a person to perform a certain job or task are designed and prescribed.
  • A person's level of disability to perform his/her daily tasks is assessed.
  • Rehabilitation programmes to restore a person's function after suffering an injury or contracting a disease are designed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Understanding of the different components of fitness is analysed and integrated.
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of appropriate training principles to injury prevention and optimal performance within different environments and for different populations, i.e. women, pregnant women, children, men, elderly, asthmatics, etc is applied.
  • Good working knowledge of different forms of physical activity, exercise and sport in health care and health promotion contexts is demonstrated.
  • Fundamental and basic understanding of psychological factors that may impact on physical activity and exercise science is applied.
  • Physical assessments for different individuals and groups are planned, executed and interpreted.
  • Appropriate and scientifically sound physical activities, physical fitness and exercise programmes for individuals and groups are designed.
  • Appropriate and scientifically founded physical activity/exercise training programmes for different groups/populations are implemented.
  • Biokinetics technology is used in professional and scientific manner when implementing activities and programmes.
  • Individuals and groups in a variety of biokinetics contexts displaying patience, compassion and empathy are effectively communicated with.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Understanding of recreation as a therapeutic intervention tool for different populations is applied.
  • Knowledge of the pathology and psychology of people with disabilities and of those who suffer from long term conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes is analysed, integrated and applied.
  • A variety of different evaluation protocols for different individuals and groups in therapeutic and recreational contexts are planned, implemented and interpreted.
  • Appropriate and scientifically based therapeutic recreation programmes for different groups/populations are implemented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of fundamental motor development and perceptual-motor development theories and concepts to a variety of contexts is applied.
  • Knowledge and understanding of human growth, development, maturation and aging to a variety of biokinetics contexts is applied.
  • Basic understanding of the structure and function of the central nervous system as it relates to human functioning in biokinetics context is demonstrated.
  • Understanding of normal and abnormal human movement patterns in relation to neuro-muscular functioning to real and simulated cases for rehabilitation of motor behaviour is applied.
  • Understanding of the interrelationship between physical activity, fitness, functional constraints and perceptual motor development and neurological aspects of motor control over the lifespan to rehabilitation of human motor behaviour is applied.
  • Appropriate and effective rehabilitation and intervention programmes for individuals with functional constraints over the lifespan are designed and implemented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Understanding of common musculo-skeletal injuries and conditions, including, among others their incidence, symptoms, possible causes (aetiology) and treatment is demonstrated.
  • Observation, palpation and specialised manual evaluation techniques in assessing an individual's injury are applied.
  • Advanced exercise testing equipment and techniques to assess individuals with different injuries are utilised.
  • Possible signs and symptoms indicating emergency medical attention, further investigation or referral of the patient are recognised.
  • Evidence based individualised rehabilitation exercise programmes are designed, demonstrated and implemented.
  • Understanding of a multi-disciplinary approach in rehabilitation is demonstrated.
  • Criteria for successful discharge of a rehabilitated patient within the criteria for returning to optimal functioning are applied.
  • Injury prevention strategies for different individual and groups are proposed, prescribed and implemented.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Knowledge and understanding of health and disease patterns (epidemiology) as a result of inactivity as observed in different parts of the world over the last few decades is demonstrated.
  • Factors impacting on health and disease in different populations and their causes are explained.
  • International and national trends in relation to health promotion, such as Millennium Development Goals and/or HIV Pandemic are analysed and interpreted.
  • Understanding of the benefits of regular exercise and physical activity on health to health promotion contexts is applied.
  • Components of health and wellness are distinguished and such a distinction is applied to health promotion contexts.
  • Understanding of the different medical models and the Wellness Continuum by means of relevant real-life and simulated examples is illustrated.
  • Understanding of the causes of common diseases of lifestyle; risk factors related to diseases of lifestyle; signs, symptoms, incidence and causes of chronic diseases of lifestyle to real-life and simulated cases is applied.
  • Lifestyle interventions as well as the management of the antecedence, adherence, and compliance of exercise and related behaviour thereof are implemented.
  • Specialised knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes in screening for a variety of diseases and conditions are applied.
  • The ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups regarding health related information is demonstrated.
  • Appropriate exercise programme prescription strategies for a wide variety of clients/patients in promoting the health and wellness of the individual, companies and the community are implemented.
  • Behavioural change strategies used in health promotion and wellness are designed and implemented.
  • Education awareness and screening programmes to promote health and wellness in the community are designed and implemented.
  • Appropriate knowledge, skills and values related to the role of mentoring and coaching in health promotion and wellness are applied.
  • Wellness programmes in a variety of community contexts are planned, implemented and managed.
  • Exercise testing and programme prescriptions for special populations (children, adolescents, young adults, adults, pregnancy, disabled and the elderly) as it relates to physical ability for health and performance are implemented and managed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Basic understanding of different research methodologies to biokinetics contexts is applied
  • Scientific approaches to measurement and evaluation in biokinetics contexts are applied.
  • Basic statistical procedures for analysing results and findings in biokinetics contexts are applied.
  • Variety of physical health and exercise physiological assessments, such as measuring body composition and flexibility are designed, planned, executed and interpreted.
  • Progress and appropriate adjustments to exercise programmes are made and assessed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Understanding of the interrelationship between the incidence, aetiology and patho-physiology of various chronic diseases and disabilities is applied.
  • Knowledge and understanding of applicable clinical sciences to the pathology of disease and disabilities is applied.
  • Individually based risk stratification are planned, implemented and performed.
  • Effective and efficient techniques to assess the conditions of chronic disease or disability and their implications for managing the relevant conditions by means of appropriate exercise interventions are planned and implemented.
  • Special investigation methods and their clinical usefulness in chronic disease and disability management contexts are applied.
  • Effective and efficient exercise intervention programmes for various chronic diseases and disabilities are planned and implemented.
  • The inter-disciplinary approach and the use of referrals in the management of chronic diseases and disabilities is understood and applied.
  • Basic pharmacology is understood and applied in the application of exercise and physical activity as intervention modality for chronic diseases and disabilities.
  • Relevant legal and ethical requirements related to the management of chronic diseases and disabilities are understood and applied.
  • Basic proficiency of first aid principles (Level 2), emergency oxygen use and basic life support (AED and CPR) are demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Understanding and application of a broad and systematic knowledge-base of health and human movement science related research as well as associated research methods is demonstrated.
  • Critical concepts of relevant theories, research methods and techniques to identify and resolve complex real-life problems are applied.
  • Research skills to react to complex and real life problems and challenges using appropriate information and systematic data-analysis techniques are applied.
  • Research methods, techniques, analysis and technology are applied in an ethical and responsible way.
  • Research findings are communicated with compassion and sensitivity to professional colleagues as well as to the general public and communities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 13:
  • Relevant knowledge and understanding of the scope of practice and ethical rules concerning biokinetics are applied.
  • Different economic models as used in other countries are adapted and applied to the South African context.
  • Basic management functions and competencies are applied in private and public biokinetics practice/health care facility contexts.
  • Entrepreneurial skills in establishing and managing a biokinetics practice are applied.
  • Health policy, health systems and structures, capacity building and interdisciplinary healthcare as required in South African legislation are managed and implemented.
  • Specialised theoretical and practical knowledge, understanding and values for the implementation of Biokinetics acts to enhance health, wellness and optimal performance in the community is demonstrated.
  • Systematic knowledge-base and implementation skills of health related ethical and legal aspects within the profession of Biokinetics are demonstrated.
  • Human resources and supervise programmes, individuals, teams and subordinates within the value system of the profession are managed.
  • Relevant materials, equipment and assets are maintained and managed according to generally accepted financial management principles and practices.
  • public health policies, relevant legislative obligations, general practices according to human rights principles and the constitution are implemented.
  • A Practice/facility is managed with due consideration for and in collaboration/conjunction with policy makers.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative assessment practices will be implemented. Formative assessment will be mainly by formal and informal class tests, module or semester tests (where applicable), projects, practical tests, assignments, tutorials and presentations.

    Summative assessment practices will be implemented throughout the duration of the module to assess the achievement of outcomes. Integrated assessment, focusing on the achievement of the exit-level outcomes, will be done where applicable by written examinations, practical examinations, project evaluations and final examination in each module, project reports and presentation evaluations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The 4-year Biokinetics professional qualification is compared with other international qualifications with the same basic minimum requirements of course work and practical work. Various titles are used internationally for the term Biokineticist, for example, Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Kinesiologist, and Exercise and Sport Scientist. The following are examples of similar international qualifications.

    Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training at Boston University, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Sargent College (USA):
    The qualification prepares graduates for a variety of entry-level positions in athletic training. In addition to academic studies and clinical training in the sciences and health-related disciplines it includes course work that develop the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Graduates with this qualification are eligible to take the Board of Certification examination to become a certified athlete trainer.

    The qualification consists of 128 Credits. Credits are given for both academic and clinical preparation.

    The qualification is recognised by the American Medical Association (AMA) for allied care professionals. The AMA recommends athletic trainers in every high school.

    Bachelor of Kinesiology (General) at the University of Calgary (Canada):
    The qualification consists of 75 modules. Experience in various activities and movement patterns and the study of the fundamental factors that influence the activities we choose and the way we move. A variety of activities to experience the short-term benefits of exercise. An introduction to research in kinesiology with an emphasis on understanding the research process, including basic statistical knowledge, and its relationship to critical thinking. Practical application of concepts through direct involvement in individual and group projects. A socio-cultural foundation for kinesiology that examines the historical relationship between physical culture (emphasis on sport) and medical sciences (antiquity to the twentieth century). An examination of current methodologies in the study of cultural meanings of sport, leisure, and physical education.

    Bachelor of Arts in Applied Science (Exercise Physiology) at the University of Sydney (Australia):
    is a program which provides both academic and professional training in a specialised area of health care. The course may be undertaken in the areas of Diagnostic Radiography, Exercise and Sport Science, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, or Speech Pathology.

    High-achieving students may be eligible to undertake the combined Bachelor of Applied Science (Exercise and Sport Science) and Master of Nutrition and Dietetics. The Bachelor of Applied Science program incorporates extensive clinical and professional fieldwork opportunities, providing hands-on experience with real clients in a supervised environment. This combines the academic components of the course with the practical abilities required of a chosen profession.

    Conclusion:
    The results of the comparability studies conducted reveal that this qualification is at an equivalent standard to some of the best qualifications in Biokinetics, in Sports Science and in Human Movement Psychology. This qualification compares very well with the qualification cited above in terms of subject content, duration, admission requirements and practical learning. A formal research project is not a formal requirement of the international qualifications. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    ARTICULATION OPTIONS
    This qualification offers vertical articulation opportunities with the following qualification offered by the University of the Free State:
  • Master of Arts in Human Movement Science, Level 9, (ID 9201).

    This qualification allows for possibilities of both systemic horizontal and vertical articulation with qualifications offered by other higher education institution provided the student meets the minimum entry requirements. The possibilities are:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Human Movement Science in Biokinetics, at NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Biokinetics, at NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Human Movement Science Honours in Biokinetics, at NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Biokinetics, at NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Psychology (Sport Psychology), at NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Human Movement Science, at NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Sports Science in Biokinetics, at NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Biokinetics, at NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    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. University of the 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.