Bachelor of Science (Biology major)
Overview
The Bachelor of Science – Biology is offered from the Pietermaritzburg Campus. Biology aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the natural world, focusing on living organisms and their interactions.
SAQA
84728
NQF LEVEL
07
DURATION
3 Years
CAO CODE
CLOSING DATE
30 September
DISCIPLINE
Entry Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) – Degree (Pass).
- APS score of no fewer than 28 points.
- Mathematics at Level 4 and Physical Science, Life Science or Agricultural Science at Level 4.
Modules
Semester 1
- The Smaller Side of Life – BIOL101 (16 Credits)
- General Principles of Chemistry – CHEM110 (16 Credits)
- Mathematics for Natural Sciences – MATH150 (16 Credits)
- Intro Physics for Life Sciences & Agriculture – PHYS131 (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Life on Earth – BIOL102 (16 Credits)
- Chemical Reactivity – CHEM120 (16 Credits)
- Introduction to Statistics – STAT130 (16 Credits)
- Elective (16 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Plant and Animal Ecophysiology – BIOL204 (16 Credits)
- Introductory Genetics – GENE240 (16 Credits)
- Level 2 Modules from second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Plant Diversity and Use – BIOL211 (16 Credits)
- Molecular DNA Technology – RDNA202 (16 Credits)
- Level 2 Modules from second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
Semester 1
- Plant Growth and Development – BIOL321 (16 Credits)
- Evolution and Animal Physiology – BIOL324 (16 Credits)
- Level 3 modules from second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits
Semester 2
- Evolution and systematics – BIOL304 (16 Credits)
- Applied Biotechnology – BIOL315 (16 Credits)
- Level 3 modules from second major (32 Credits)
Total Credits: 64 Credits.
What do they actually do?
Biology is the study of living organisms and helps us understand the living world and the ways its many species function, evolve, and interact. It is a broad discipline
that covers a number of sub-fields including botany, cell-biology, ecology, entomology, evolutionary biology, molecular biology, physiology and zoology.
Biology is useful and impactful across a broad spectrum of areas, and most biologists choose to specialise in a dedicated field. Biologists often establish careers as scientists, researchers and educators. The work undertaken by biologists is usually laboratory and/or field based.
The study of living organisms develops our biological knowledge and understanding of living processes, and ultimately, can guide us in making informed decisions in conserving and protecting natural resources.
Areas of Employment
- Government departments (e.g. Trade & Industry; Environmental Affairs, Forestry & Fisheries)
- Universities and tertiary institutions
- Research institutes and organisations such as ARC, CSIR, SABS and Onderstepoort
- Organisations such as SA National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and SA National Parks (SANParks)
- Museums
- Game reserves and Zoos
- High school biology teacher
- Non-profit organisations and conservation trusts
- Self-employment
Apply today and take the next step toward your future.