Bachelor of Biological Sciences

Programme Objective

Entry Requirements

The purpose of this qualification is to provide biological sciences graduates with: • a comprehensive understanding of key disciplines such as the anatomy and physiology of plants and animals, ecology, microbiology, conservation biology, biochemistry, and many more. The students will also expand their knowledge of the Cell and Molecular Biology, Genetics, Plant and Animal Development, Evolutionary Biology, Behavioural Ecology, and Homeostasis. This will allow the graduates to maintain the key concepts of biology whilst gradually venturing into potential research areas as they progress through the programme such as • practical skills required in the study of life. These include dissection of specimens, cataloguing of organisms, creation of scientific knowledge, assessment and evaluation of biological science information, and critical cross-cutting skills such as problem-solving, written and spoken communication, computer literacy; and competence in applying knowledge through basic research methods and practice. • obtaining sufficient depth of knowledge, values and ethics that will enable them to grow personally, academically, and professionally.

Senior Certificate with Matric exemption or equivalent qualification with a minimum SG (D) or HG (E) symbol in Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Sciences and English. A student may qualify for admission if s/he has attained at most one SG-E or HG-F symbol in any of these four major subjects. Using the National Senior Certificate, the certificate must indicate that “the candidate has met the minimum requirements for admission to a bachelors’ degree study.” Additional requirements include a minimum achievement rating of Level 4 (50%) in Mathematics, Physical Science, English and Life Sciences. A student may qualify for admission if s/he has attained at most one Level 3 in any of these four major subjects. A student who has attained SG-E or HG-F or Level 3 in any two of these major subjects may qualify for admission into the Extended programme. Candidates holding a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) Level 4 certificate must meet the statutory requirements and attain a 60% pass in at least three fundamental subjects including English or 70% pass in at least four vocational subjects and at least 50% in Life Sciences. Applicants who do not meet the minimum admission requirements i.e., without a matriculation endorsement but have at least three years of work experience in the field of Biological Sciences may be considered for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). They must however have attempted the following subjects at NSC level: English, Mathematics, Physical Science and Life Sciences. Such applicants will write an aptitude test to establish interest and commitment to the profession and service. Candidates will then be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) in the prescribed university format. If the courses to be assessed are primarily university-based, evidence from other areas of learning may be introduced if pertinent to any of the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs).