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: 

Diploma in Nature Conservation 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99056  Diploma in Nature Conservation 
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga 
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 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Nature Conservation 
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
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

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:
This Diploma is designed to enhance the supply of learners with a sound understanding of relevant theory and a well-developed ability to apply the theory in practice. The learners will be able to perform competently, independently, creatively and innovatively to assist nature conservation in the region and more widely.

The qualification will provide opportunities for learners to become independent thinkers, trustworthy employees that need little monitoring: are able to complete daily tasks diligently: work under pressure and solve problems quickly and effectively. Talented employees will be good communicators who are able to innovate by identifying opportunities within the conservation arena. Managerial skills will be learnt so that learners can lead a team effectively.

By allowing learners to focus on a particular aspect of conservation such as the conservation of birds or endangered flora, learners will have a competitive edge over those from other similar qualifications.

Tourists who visit Mpumalanga to enjoy natural attractions and the link between conservation and tourism in Mpumalanga will be considered. Apart from learners studying nature conservation, learners will also gain knowledge on certain aspects of conservation by completing conservation modules. Also learners will similarly gain knowledge of the important role that tourism plays in conservation.

Rationale:
The Provincial (Mpumalanga) Economic Review and Outlook 2012/2013 suggest that the province builds on areas where it has a comparative advantage, including conservation. The Diploma in Nature Conservation will support the effort of the province to conserve its natural resources for conservation and tourism purposes.

The Diploma will form part of a suite of qualifications in conservation, tourism and heritage studies, and the natural and environmental sciences at Diploma and Bachelor levels, designed to provide education and training for learners with differing abilities, backgrounds and interests. The suite of qualifications will create a range of career. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Admission to the Diploma is open for all who qualify, however, in particular circumstances learners without such a qualification, or with low Admission Point Score (APS), but with proven expertise and competence will be considered for RPL.

The Institution's RPL policy will provide guidance on how to administer RPL for learners who deservedly qualify. Until the draft policy is completed, the RPL policy of the Sister University will be used and applied. The current Admissions Policy of the Institution states that RPL can be used for admission and for exemption from certain modules.

Entry Requirements:
Learners must have obtained either of the following to gain entry into the qualification.
  • Senior Certificate (SC).
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) passed with Diploma studies and with English (home language or first additional language); Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy; Life Sciences or Geography.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV) at Level 4, and with English (home language or first additional language); Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification comprises compulsory modules at Levels 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.

    Modules at Level 5, 104 Credits:
  • Computer Usage I, 10 Credits.
  • Conservation Ecology I, 10 Credits.
  • Plant Studies I, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Studies I, 12 Credits.
  • Environmental Management I, 10 Credits.
  • Resource Management I, 10 Credits.
  • Cost and Management Accounting I, 10 Credits.
  • Human Resources management I, 10 Credits.
  • Fire Ecology I, 10 Credits.
  • Environmental Education I, 10 Credits.

    Modules at Level 6, 256 Credits:
  • Conservation Ecology II, 12 Credits.
  • Animal studies II, 12 Credits.
  • Environmental Law I, 10 Credits.
  • Resource Management II, 12 Credits.
  • Animal Studies III, 12 Credits.
  • Plant Studies II, 12 Credits.
  • Human Resource Management II, 10 Credits.
  • Soil Science I, 10 Credits.
  • Resource Management III, 12 Credits.
  • Conservation Ecology III, 12 Credits.
  • Plant Studies III, 10 Credits.
  • Environmental Education II, 12 Credits.
  • Nature Conservation Applications I, 60 Credits.
  • Nature Conservation Applications Il, 60 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate a sound theoretical knowledge about Nature Conservation and core subjects such as: Zoology, Botany, Soil Science, Environmental Science and Resource Management.
    2. Apply the principles and philosophy of nature conservation in practice, in order to implement policies and strategies related to nature conservation.
    3. Apply ethical behaviour in relation to animal welfare legislation in Nature Conservation.
    4. Implement legislation and best practice regarding the control of fire.
    5. Implement relevant legislation relating to the employment of staff.
    6. Apply a range of financial management tools to promote effective decision making and sustainability of a nature conservation enterprise.
    7. Use Information and Communications Technology (ICTs) for data analysis and communication of conservation related issues.
    8. Undertake independent research in nature conservation. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Incorporate an in-depth knowledge of the core subjects into all planning of projects.
  • Evaluate and critique existing plans for nature conservation enterprises.
  • Demonstrate high level of knowledge and understanding for the conservation of two plant and two animal taxa in separate conservation plans.
  • Develop conservation plans and projects considering the interconnectedness of biotic and abiotic factors.
  • Evaluate and critique existing plans in terms of the extent to which they take an ecosystem approach to conservation.
  • Evaluate a existing soil conservation plans by taking into account the principles of soil conservation.
  • Develop soil conservation plans for different ecosystems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Interpret relevant policy documents and make recommendations that are in line with the policies.
  • Interpret and evaluate conservation plans according to the principles, policies and philosophy of nature conservation.
  • Implement laws applicable to nature conservation accordingly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Evaluate and critique existing plans in terms of ethics and animal welfare.
  • Develop plans for different systems (conserving different taxa) that take into account issues of ethics and animal welfare.
  • Identify nature conversation knowledge that is relevant to current societal issues.
  • Make ethically and culturally sensitive decisions on the effects of nature conservation based activities on society.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Evaluate existing fire control plans taking into consideration the legislation and best practice.
  • Develop fire plans for different ecosystems that take into account legislation and best practice, and demonstrate an understanding of the importance of fire in conservation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply relevant legislation and basic principles of Human Resource Management (HRM) in the development of a staffing plan for a nature conservation enterprise.
  • Interpret and evaluate staffing plans according to relevant legislation and HRM practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply basic principles of accounting in the development of financial plans for nature conservation enterprises.
  • Interpret financial statements for conservation enterprises interpreted.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Compare and use available tools for data analysis appropriately to address the question.
  • Evaluate and use available tools for written and spoken communication appropriately based on the audience.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Compile project reports that demonstrate an ability to formulate research processes.
  • Select appropriate methodologies for conducting the research.
  • Collect, analyse and synthesise data.
  • Present research data in written and verbal form.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment serves multiple purposes, for the development of improvement strategies in learning and for feedback to the learners. Academic staff will receive formal training in assessment, and courses are under development.

    Assessment is integrated into the academic year so that it can play a formative role in learning and a summative role.

    Experiential learning is evaluated on two levels: The first level comprises a matrix-based integrated assessment of the learner's integrated knowledge and skills capabilities, as well as learner attributes, while the second comprises the assessment of a dedicated project to be carried out by the learner.

    Feedback on formal term tests and assignments to learners is given orally and in written format on the scripts of individual learners. If learners have additional queries they will be able to contact the lecturer at an alternative time. Learners may be provided with specimen answers and exemplars.

    Learners are allowed to see their examination scripts so that formal summative assessment will also include a formative component. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    A review of University level first qualifications in nature conservation, wildlife management or similar reveals that many are in fact offered at South African universities. Internationally, the trend is to offer a Bachelor level qualification over 3 or 4 years, and exiting at Level 7 or 8 and as such, the full qualification cannot be directly compared with the Diploma in Nature Conservation.

    Most of these Bachelor level qualifications are linked to a BSc and not surprisingly, have a stronger emphasis on fundamental science than does the Diploma. A similar review of qualifications offered by colleges in Canada for example, indicates that in most cases the qualification (Diploma or Certificate) is two years in duration with relatively low entrance requirements, and a very strong technology and application focus. A comparison is presented with a few international universities and colleges, with emphasis on the extent to which they include a focus on communities and wildlife, or the human, wildlife interface, and on the completion of a period of workplace-based learning.

    The Holland College in Canada offers a two year Wildlife Conservation Technology Programme. In first year the fundamental modules in biology and conservation are very similar to those of the Diploma in Nature Conservation. In second year the programme includes a number of field camps which are in some ways similar to WIL and a range of skills based modules including driving and shooting. This programme is much more skills based than the Diploma in Nature Conservation.

    The University of Kent (UK) offers a 4 year Bachelor's Degree which provides comprehensive training in natural science aspects of conservation (including genetics, ecology, wildlife management and species reintroductions) together with training in the human dimensions of conservation (for example environmental economics, international biodiversity regulation, the politics of climate change and work with rural communities).The programme includes a significant lab-based and field-based component. Additionally, there is an opportunity to conduct a research project in the UK or abroad at the end of the second year. As such, there are similarities with the Diploma in that there is a focus on working with rural communities, and the inclusion of workplace-based learning.

    Deakin University (Australia) offers a 3 year Bachelor's Degree which includes some of the focus areas of the Diploma (management modules), however there is no obvious focus on communities and wildlife, nor is there a period of WIL.

    The University of Florida (USA) offers a 4 year Bachelor's level Degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. In the first two years, which may be seen as equivalent to the Diploma, there are modules in common including foundational modules in biology, ecology and conservation.
    The University of Guelph (Canada) offers a 4 year Bachelor's Degree in wildlife conservation. Modules include People and the Environment, Environmental Policy and Management, Habitat Management and Restoration, Conservation Biology. There is some focus on communities and wildlife in the People and the Environment module.

    The University of Glasgow (Scotland) offers Degree qualifications with a similar focus to the Diploma. These qualifications aim to equip learners with the knowledge needed to pursue a career in the environmental sector. Fieldwork and practical experience (equivalent to WIL) are at the core of these qualifications, providing learners with valuable skills to take into the workplace. Modules include Introduction to environmental science, Earth System Science, Introduction to Global environmental issues, Text and Communication, Research methods for environmental scientists, applied ecology and conservation, Human impact on the environment, and rural tourism and stewardship. Here there a focus on humans and wildlife and the students complete a small project.

    Bangor University in Wales offers a 3 year Bachelor degree in wildlife conservation. Modules include: Ecosystem Function and Services, Environmental Management and Conservation, Ecology and Evolution, Environmental Data and Analysis, Principles of Conservation, Research Methods and GIS, Field Course: Environmental Conflict, Conservation Practice, Wildlife Ecology and Conservation and Environmental Policy.

    The University of Egerton (Kenya) offers a 4 year Bachelor's Degree with modules in ecology, climate, management courses, applied courses, planning, research seminars, and students' projects, policy, law and administration.

    In summary there are qualifications, often at Bachelor degree level throughout the World in nature or wildlife conservation. The curricula of these qualifications typically reflect their context and as a result, many of the modules offered differ from those in the Diploma in Nature Conservation. Some of the programmes reviewed do include a focus on communities and wildlife or the Human wildlife interface, and a period of workplace-based learning or equivalent designed to improve the employability of the graduates, and share this in common with the Diploma in Nature Conservation. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification provides specific vertical articulation options:

    Horizontal Articulation:
    Will be possible into another qualification at the same HEQSF level as long as the entrance requirements of the target qualification are met. In this instance, horizontal articulation into qualifications in agriculture and natural science will be possible.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • A general Bachelor of Science, Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, Level 7. 
    		•

    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 Mpumalanga 


    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.