| Code | Faculty | Department |
|---|---|---|
| 02240705 | Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences | Department: Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology |
| Credits | Duration | NQF level |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum duration of study: 1 year | Total credits: 135 | NQF level: 08 |
The honours study programmes serve as the first level of postgraduate training and the aim is therefore to introduce students to the methods of research – from the reading of research papers, through to the conceptualisation, planning, execution and communication of a research project.
A pass mark is required for all the components of the honours study programme and the final honours mark is calculated proportionally to the credits of the respective prescribed modules.
Minimum credits: 135
Additional information:
Suitably qualified candidates may also apply for the interdepartmental BScHons Biotechnology (Code 02240393) with a registration in the Division of Genetics. For more information, please refer to the programme information for the BScHons Biotechnology.
Module content:
Students are guided to collect relevant and up-to-date literature on large topics from databases using referencing software, and to select and condense relevant papers into the outline for a literature review. Critical reading of research papers, article discussions and presentations. Scientific writing skills.
Module content:
A mini-dissertation with well-defined limits is undertaken under the guidance of a supervisor. The students are allowed to choose from a number of projects from the different research programmes in the department. The module also has a strong theoretical component since emphasis is placed on writing and presenting a comprehensive literature review and project proposal. Additional technical and analytical training is provided. The project is concluded with a final report, presented in the format of a short manuscript, as well as a poster and an oral presentation.
Module content:
Discussions and essays focusing on a selection of current topics, as well as recent advances in the field of genetics. There is emphasis on contextualising these developments in the broader framework of the biosciences and its role in the workplace and modern society. Ethical and philosophical issues in genetics are debated. Concepts related to intellectual property, legal issues and biosafety in biotechnology are introduced.
Module content:
Students are guided through the methodology of research planning and data handling. They are offered hands-on experience in a range of advanced techniques employed in molecular research and analysis.
Module content:
Principles and applications of recombinant DNA, and other novel molecular and genomics technologies, to address questions in the biological sciences and/or biotechnology. Strong emphasis is placed on the principles of research planning, including identifying suitable research objectives, formulating a research strategy and understanding the relevance and feasibility of research. The module is assessed by means of a research project proposal, conceived and formulated by each student. The proposal must focus on the use of molecular technologies in addressing realistic questions in biology and/or biotechnology. There is also an oral defense of the project proposal.
This module is jointly presented in the Departments of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology and Plant and Soil Sciences.
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