Duration
The Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Science is at exit level 8 on the HEQSF, with a requirement of 120 credits as a minimum.
The programme is offered as:
- 1 year, full time, or
- 2 years part time
Description of the Programme
The programme consists of core and elective modules designed to provide both foundational and specialist knowledge in Environmental Science.
Core Modules (Compulsory)
The following modules are common to Honours programmes within the School of Biology and Environmental Sciences:
- Research Methodology (15 credits)
- Philosophy of Science and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (15 credits)
- Independent Research Project (30 credits)
These modules provide essential training in advanced research design, scientific reasoning, ethical research practice, and the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems within environmental scholarship.
Specialist Theory Modules
Students select four specialist theory modules to complete the 120-credit requirement. These modules enable students to develop in-depth and current knowledge in key areas of Environmental Science.
The research project and theory modules will be in the area of specialisation and will amount to 75% of the 120 credits. The modules on research methodology and on the philosophy of science and IKS represent essential foundational knowledge, albeit it at level 8, and amount to 25% of the 120 credits.
The core and elective modules in the Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Science at the University of Mpumalanga.
| Module |
Year |
Credits |
Level |
Core/
Elective |
| Core modules |
|
|
|
|
| Research Methodology |
1 |
15 |
8 |
C |
| Philosophy of Science and Indigenous Knowledge Systems |
1 |
15 |
8 |
C |
| Research Project |
1 |
30 |
8 |
C |
| Advanced Global Change and the Impacts of Climate change on Biodiversity |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Advanced Integrated Biodiversity and Environmental Management |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Advanced Studies of Environmental System Processes and Landscapes in Southern Africa |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Advanced Climatology and Meteorology |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Human Dimensions of Wildlife Ecology |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Integrated Water Resources Management |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
| Wastewater Treatment and Water Recycling |
1 |
15 |
8 |
E |
Teaching and learning will be through lectures, seminars, field school, and independent studying. A year-long research project worth 30 credits will allow students to conduct independent research.
Admission Requirements
The minimum requirements for admission are:
A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification at NQF level 7) with a minimum average mark of 60% in final year Environmental Science modules.
Students who meet or exceed the minimum entrance requirements will be offered places.
Teaching will be by contact and will include lectures, tutorials, practicals, field trips, group work and online learning..
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT)
The University 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 University accepts the challenge to assess prior learning that is aligned to programmes and award credit (through CAT) to promote lifelong learning. The purpose of the University of Mpumalanga’s RPL and CAT policy, is to recognize prior learning in order to provide for admission to programmes, grant advanced placement in programmes and grant credits for modules using the principles and processes that serve as basis for RPL practices.
Articulation
Graduates from the Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Science will be able to continue into an MSc programme in Environmental Science.
Enquires
Ms Mandisa Makhatini
Programme Coordinator: Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Science Degree
Email:
Mandisa.Makhathini@ump.ac.za