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 Environmental Health 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99016  Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health 
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(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Promotive Health and Developmental Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  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 
Learners satisfying the requirements for this qualification will be able to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as Environmental Health Practitioners.

Environmental Health Practitioners function within the scope of the profession in order to improve the health of the community and, the environment and contribute to sustainable development. They will be able to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of control measures in order to make necessary improvements. In addition, they will be able to apply research skills and interpret and apply legislation, regulations and policies related to Environmental Health and to advise/educate role players on specific issues. The Environmental Health Practitioner will function as a member of a multi-disciplinary team of professionals in accordance with the scope of the profession. The learner will be able to communicate effectively, foster entrepreneurship, uphold professional and Environmental Health ethics and manage human, financial and physical resources within the scope of profession.

Rationale:
Environmental Health comprises those aspects of human health, including the quality of life, that are determined by physical, chemical, biological, social, socio-economic and psycho-social factors in the environment. It also refers to the theory and practice of ascertaining, correcting, controlling, minimising and preventing those factors in the environment that can potentially and adversely affect the health of present and future generations. The Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) will further give credence to the right of individuals to an environment that is conducive to health and well-being as contained in the Constitution of SA (Section 24 A and B, Section 26, Section 27, Schedule 4 of the Constitution of SA).

Changing norms and standards compounded by traditional and emerging challenges, both nationally and internationally, require a new cadre of professionals competent to deal with the complexity of environmental and public health issues. The Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP) will be functioning as an independent practitioner within various government sectors, private industry and as consultants. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of relevant prior learning and through prior experience as a practitioner in the field of Environmental Health. A structured way to assess individual learners will be conducted against the exit level outcomes of the qualification on a case-by-case basis. The necessary evidence as required by the exit level outcomes, and presented by the learner, should meet the following principles: currency of evidence, sufficiency of evidence, validity of evidence and authenticity of evidence. RPL must be in accordance with the policies and procedures of the individual providers and in agreement with procedures of the relevant Quality Council and relevant statutory Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

RPL may be used to grant access to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum requirement for this qualification is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) passed with Bachelors' Degree admission.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV), Level 4 passed with Bachelors' Degree admission. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 480 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 5, 99 Credits:
  • Anatomy and Physiology, 13 Credits.
  • Chemistry and Biochemistry, 16 Credits.
  • Sustainable Development, 7 Credits.
  • Computer Literacy, 11 Credits.
  • Introduction to Environmental Health (Ethics and Professional Practice), 7 Credits.
  • Mathematics, 7 Credits.
  • Microbiology, 16 Credits.
  • Physics, 9 Credits.
  • Sociology and Anthropology, 7 Credits.
  • Academic Literacy and Communication Studies, 6 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6, 147 Credits:
  • Biostatics and Introduction to Research, 12 Credits.
  • Community Development, 12 Credits.
  • Waste Management, 8 Credits.
  • Environmental Health Management and Administration II, 13 Credits.
  • Epidemiology II, 9 Credits.
  • Food and Meat Hygiene, 30 Credits.
  • Occupational Health and Safety (Physical Stressors), 16 Credits.
  • Planning for the Built Environment, 8 Credits.
  • Vector Control, 8 Credits.
  • Water Quality Management, 17 Credits.
  • Environmental Health Education and Promotion, 14 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7, 108 Credits:
  • Air Quality Management, 8 Credits.
  • Environmental and Legal Processes III, 14 Credits.
  • Environmental Health Management and Administration III, 14 Credits.
  • Environmental Noise Pollution, 8 Credits.
  • Epidemiology III, 14 Credits.
  • Food and Meat Processing, 17 Credits.
  • Occupational Health and Safety (Chemical and Biological Stressors), 17 Credits.
  • Project Management, 8 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 8 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 8, 126 Credits:
  • Disaster Management, 8 Credits.
  • Environmental Health Information Management System, 8 Credits.
  • Environment Health Management and Administration IV, 16 Credits.
  • Environmental Law and Legal Processes IV, 8 Credits.
  • Environmental Management, 8 Credits.
  • Environmental Toxicology, 8 Credits.
  • Ethics and Professional Practice, 8 Credits.
  • Food Hygiene Management System, 16 Credits.
  • Occupational Health and Safety (Management Systems), 16 Credits.
  • Research Project, 30 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of control measures in order to make necessary improvements.
    2.Integrate and apply scientific principles and knowledge to Environmental Health sciences research.
    3. Apply the principles of ethics and professional behaviour within the Environmental Health milieu.
    4. Interpret and apply legislation, regulations and policies related to Environmental Health. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Current and potential health risks are identified and their impacts are assessed within the Environmental Health field, using applicable strategies.
  • A comprehensive risk management plan is compiled in accordance with relevant legislation and best practice.
  • All intervention measures for the identified Environmental Health risk are evaluated to determine corrective actions.
  • The effectiveness of the comprehensive risk management plan is monitored and reviewed.
  • Current and potential risks are addressed by applying various strategies.[Range: various strategies include: Environmental Impact Assessment, Social Impact Assessment, Strategic Environmental Assessment, and Health Impact Assessment].
  • The effectiveness of the comprehensive risk management plan is monitored and reviewed.
  • Verification tools are developed to measure and evaluate all elements of the Environmental Health risk management.
  • Public participation is conducted at all stages of the development and implementation of the risk management plan.
  • A situational analysis is performed in the community by collecting information, conducting meetings and interviews and by complying with acceptable protocols.
  • Sustainable health promotion programmes are designed, implemented, monitored and evaluated in compliance with accepted National policies and guidelines of health promotion.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • A research need/theme/problem is identified.
  • The research proposal is compiled reflecting national and international accepted guidelines and ethical norms.
  • Research principles are applied in the design and conduct of investigation.
  • Research data is managed in line with prescribed guidelines.
  • Intervention measures are developed to confirm research objectives.
  • Results are communicated in appropriate format (verbal and in writing).
  • The report reflects interpretation, prioritisation and applicability of data completely and accurately.
  • The research report addresses the identified problem as stated in the proposal.
  • The report reflects intervention measures according to the findings of the research.
  • Feedback of research results and recommendations is given to all role players.
  • The presentation demonstrates the research capability according to institutional guidelines.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Ethical responsibilities pertaining to the profession are applied during all interactions with clients, colleagues and/or the community.
  • All activities are performed in terms of ethical rules of the HPCSA, the scope of the profession, the Environmental Health services and the Batho Pele principles.
  • Professional and personal growth is achieved through the assumption of various roles within the Environmental Health milieu or community setting and is evidenced during interactions between practitioners and communities/clients and/or practitioner and colleagues.
  • Interactions with community groups, Non-Governmental Organisations, clients and media are handled using tactful, objective, non-confrontational, and culturally acceptable and language sensitive communication skills.
  • Communication strategies are developed and managed to improve Environmental Health services.
  • All forms of communication are handled promptly, politely, and professionally.
  • Protocols for communicating Environmental Health issues to community members are developed.
  • Systems for the communication of strategies for the delivery of Environmental Health services are developed and reviewed.
  • Resolution of conflicts is facilitated within the work environment.

    Associated assessment Criteria for Exit Level outcome 4:
  • Policies, legislation and guideline gaps are identified,analysed and recommendations are developed and applied.
  • Labour relations policies and legislation are reviewed and applied in context.
  • Financial matters and physical resources of an Environmental Health service are managed adhering to relevant legislative requirements.
  • Accounts, budgets and financial procedures are controlled in accordance with applicable legislation.
  • Health risks are recognised in accordance with relevant legislation and best practice.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The learners'applied competencies will be assessed using both formative and summative assessments.

    Formative assessment: Formative assessment is a process consisting of a variety of assessment opportunities (such as written tests, assignments and presentations) scheduled on an ongoing basis and structured as part of teaching and learning during the module.
    These types of formative assessments will be used:
  • Written tests on completed theory.
  • Laboratory work is assessed where applicable.
  • Practical work is assessed where applicable.

    Summative assessment: This assessment is conducted onto ensure the learner attains the exit level outcomes of the qualification.

    These types of summative assessments will be used:
  • One written theoretical examination.
  • One written practical examination.

    In addition, each learner will receive a logbook indicating the topics and activities to be addressed during the WIL period. A personnel member will visit each learner at the place of WIL to do a performance evaluation. Each learner will receive a set of questions to complete after each activity as part of the WIL assessment (case studies, procedures, questions, posters and other). 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    These two international qualifications were chosen for a comparability study as both qualifications have been accredited by their respective higher education councils.

    The Bachelor of Science Environmental and Occupational Health Program offered by Boise State University in Idaho, United States of America is accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council. The qualification prepares learners for employment in the fields of environmental protection, occupational hygiene and public health.

    The qualification enables learners to:
  • Think critically and apply scientific principles to preserve the global environment.
  • Develop leadership skills in the field of Environmental and Occupational Health.
  • Pursue innovative research on critical environmental and occupational health issues.

    Abu Dhabi University in the United Arab Emirates also offers a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health and Safety which is accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation. The purpose of the Environmental Health and Safety qualification is to produce graduates who will be able to demonstrate their acquired knowledge, skills and scientific techniques by becoming active professionals in the field of environmental health and safety, both in the private and public sectors. Graduates will have qualities of confidence, independent critical judgment, reflection, leadership and the ability to work as part of a team. Additionally learners will acquire an in-depth knowledge and be able to develop skills associated with certain core Environmental Health themes.
  • Understanding of the fundamental scientific, legal and technological principles underlying Environmental Health issues. and knowledge of circumstances giving rise to health inequalities and the wider determinants of health.nderstanding of the physical, social and human worlds and their interface with the environment.nowledge of a range of stressors, their public health impacts and the identification and implementation of appropriate interventions with the purpose of eliminating, controlling or mitigating those public health impacts.n-depth knowledge of significant areas of intervention.roblem solving capabilities, particularly in a multidisciplinary environment.bility to work as an effective team member but also to operate independently where necessary.ommunicat and interpersonal skills appropriate to the audience.Ability to adapt to rapid changes in professional and administrative requirements; ability to maximize effectiveness through intersectoral collaboration and to recognize the role of other professionals in tackling complex Environmental Health and Public Health problems.Illustrate and explain the scope of environmental health.Discuss selected scientific and social science principles and concepts.
  • Explain the ways in which environmental health problems have arisen and illustrate this by using appropriate case study materials.
  • Illustrate the role of environmental health problems in selected workplace situations.
  • Explain the effects of environmental health problems in physical and social contexts.
  • Use critical thinking to identify and assess environmental health risks.
  • In-depth knowledge of significant areas of intervention.
  • Problem solving capabilities, particularly in a multidisciplinary environment.
  • Ability to work as an effective team member but also to operate independently where necessary.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills appropriate to the audience.
  • Ability to adapt to rapid changes in professional and administrative requirements; ability to maximize effectiveness through intersectoral collaboration and to recognize the role of other professionals in tackling complex Environmental Health and Public Health problems.

    Conclusion:
    Although the titles of the international qualifications cited above may from this one, the qualifications are comparable in terms of their purposes and the competencies the learners will develop upon graduating. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers vertical articulation opportunities with the Master of Environmental Health, Level 9 (ID 86777) offered by the Central University of Technology.

    This qualification allows for systemic articulation opportunities with qualifications offered by other institutions. They are:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelors' Degree in Health Sciences and Management, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Human Ecology: Community Nutrition, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Community Nutrition, Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Community and Development Studies: Childhood and Youth Development, Level 9.
  • Master of Environmental Health, 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. 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.