Yearbooks

Programme: BScHons Biochemistry

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Code Faculty Department
02240701 Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Department: Genetics
Credits Duration NQF level
Minimum duration of study: 1 year Total credits: 135 NQF level:  08

Admission requirements

  1. Relevant BSc degree
  2. A weighted average of at least 60% in Biochemistry at final-year level
  3. An admission examination may be required

Other programme-specific information

  • A pass mark is required for all the components of the honours programme and the average mark is calculated proportionally to the credits.
  • Additional modules can be prescribed to remedy shortcomings in a candidate’s undergraduate training.

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 Biochemistry. For more information, please refer to the programme information for the BScHons Biotechnology.

Core modules

  • Module content:

    Students are guided to collect relevant and up-to-date literature on broad 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 and presentation skills.

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  • Module content:

    Students are guided through the methodology of research planning and data handling. They are given hands-on and in-depth practical experience in a range of biochemcial and molecular biological techniques. 

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  • Module content:

    This module covers current topics in biochemistry, selected due to their applications in academia and industry. The course has a clear focus on research induction, providing students with the opportunity for individual learning in a laboratory environment. Ethical and philosophical issues in the broader field of the cellular and molecular sciences are also addressed.

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  • 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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