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SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Agricultural Economics 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
102209  Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Agricultural Economics 
ORIGINATOR
North West University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Honours Degree  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Finance, Economics and Accounting 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to empower learners to make a contribution towards the economic growth and development in South Africa, specifically through the agricultural sector. A further purpose is to equip the learner with a high level of theoretical and applied engagement and intellectual independence with regards to relevant aspects of agricultural economics and thereby to consolidate and deepen the learner's expertise in this field of study. Furthermore, the learner will come to understand the important role of research in agriculture, particularly in agricultural economics, and will be trained to perform authentic evaluations and independent research under supervision, aimed at actual and relevant problems in agricultural economics. The qualification aims to foster progressive thinking by developing learners with a wider and deeper understanding of Agricultural Economics.

Rationale:
Changes in consumer preferences globally, highly volatile input and output prices, changing climatic conditions, land reform issues, and concerns regarding food and energy security are amongst others, the high risk factors associated with agriculture and agricultural related industries. It is therefore the intent of the institution to extend the existing undergraduate Bachelor of Commerce in Agricultural Economics and Risk Management qualification to include an Honours qualification in Agricultural Economics at the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.

In a developing economy such as South Africa, the importance of a viable and efficient agricultural sector cannot be overstated. Although agriculture only contributes between 3 and 4 percent to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the sector indirectly contributes between 20% and 30% to the national economy. The indirect contribution of the agricultural sector thus forms an integral part in a healthy growing economy. Furthermore, agriculture is the backbone of the fight against food insecurity and poverty, especially in the rural regions.

Due to the dynamic global agricultural environment there is a specific demand from organised agriculture and agribusinesses for candidates with strong strategic thinking and leadership skills in the agricultural environment. There is also a shortage in management development skills, with specific focus on management and administration of agribusinesses as well as sound financial management skills. The changing agricultural environment and the immediate environment of the institution create a definite need for specialised agricultural economists on a postgraduate level. This need provides the institution with an opportunity to develop a competitive advantage in this field. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL for this qualification will adhere to and be applied in accordance with the relevant General Academic Rules and RPL policy of the institution as well as the accepted procedures for RPL as stipulated by the Faculty and the School. This entails that a committee appointed with this task, will evaluate the applicant's application and ensure that the policy and rules are adhered to.

If a learner does not meet the admission requirements necessary to be admitted to the qualification, recognition of prior learning, gained either through formal qualifications or programmes from this institution or other institutions, or informally (through experience), may be considered when deciding on granting of credits for modules in this particular qualification. The learner will be thoroughly informed about the process that will be followed. If the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this qualification, the appropriate credits will be assigned to the learner for the applicable module(s).

At all times the level of skill and competence, reviewed in the context of the Exit Level Outcomes required for this qualification, or the outcomes of modules within it, will be the determining factor. Recognition of prior learning will thus be done on the grounds of applied competences that the applicant has demonstrated with regards to the Exit Level Outcomes to be reached with this Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Agricultural Economics.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entrance requirements are:
  • Bachelor of Commerce at Level 7 with specialisation in Agricultural Economics.
    Or
  • Another relevant Bachelor's Degree as deemed appropriate by the Senate, Level 7. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules and Level 8 totalling 144 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 8: 80 Credits:
  • Econometrics, 16 Credits.
  • Microeconomics, 16 Credits.
  • Advanced Production Economics, 16 Credits.
  • Project and Seminar, 32 Credits.

    Elective Modules: 64 Credits (Choose four):
  • Research Methods in International Trade, 16 Credits.
  • Agricultural Marketing, 16 Credits.
  • Agricultural Policy and Development, 16 Credits.
  • Economic Modelling, 16 Credits.
  • Agricultural Finance, 16 Credits.
  • International Monetary Relations, 16 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate integrated knowledge and critical understanding of different theories, principles and methods applicable within the field of agricultural economics, and the ability to apply such knowledge and understanding in the context of this particular area of study.
    2. Interrogate multiple sources of knowledge, especially published journal articles on studies within the field of agricultural economics, and review and evaluate the methods of research as well as the results and recommendations produced by such research critically.
    3. Select, evaluate and apply a range of appropriate procedures, processes and scientific methods of enquiry to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to agricultural economics, thereby contributing to positive change within the practice of this field of study.
    4. Identify and address ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems in order to effect change in conduct and adaptation where necessary.
    5. Critically review information gathering, synthesis of data, evaluation and management processes in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues in the agricultural economic environment.
    6. Present and communicate innovative ideas and texts effectively to a range of audiences, offering creative insights, rigorous interpretations and solutions to problems and issues in the context of agricultural economics, using different types of media and technologies.
    7. Work effectively as an individual and in a group to solve discipline-related problems while taking responsibility for self-regulated learning, decision-making and use of resources when studying agricultural economics processes and systems. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Explain, discuss and analyse the key questions in the field of agricultural economics, drawing on different theories and methods.
  • Present oral and written reports and presentations of results.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Write integrated research essays that draw on multiple sources.
  • Compare the predictions of different theories.
  • Contrast the results of different methods.
  • Critically evaluate published work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Estimate statistical and analytical models and interpret the results.
  • Synthesise the results of different methods into a coherent answer to a research question.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Explain the ethical aspects of a particular research project.
  • Identify, argue and respond to any ethical concerns arising from agricultural economic activities.
  • Recommend creative responses with regards to the responsible management of agricultural policies, development and strategic aims.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Gather primary and secondary data and analyse it using econometric models.
  • Present a synthesised and organised review of recent and relevant literature, information, standards and other resources available in the agricultural economics field.
  • Critically evaluate the knowledge in the context of the research problem.
  • Draw conclusions from analytical results and communicate it to policymakers and stakeholders.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Act, lead, work and communicate in a manner that resembles a professional Agricultural Economist.
  • Focus on effective interaction with peers and other role-players in the agricultural environment.
  • Present research results to specialist and non-specialist audiences using appropriate Information Technology (IT).
  • Successfully conduct the proposed project under supervision.
  • Write an appropriate report on the project.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Effectively work as a team by engaging in and leading group work assignments.
  • Select or develop an appropriate mix of learning strategies and apply them in a self-critical manner to sustain or enhance independent learning.
  • Take full responsibility for his or her work, decision-making and use of resources.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The assessment and moderation procedures are based on the Assessment and Moderation Policy of the institution, which concurs with the National Education Policy for Outcomes-based Education and the Level Descriptors of the National Qualifications Framework. The assessment approach of the institution is one of appropriate, continuous formative and summative assessment activities within an outcomes and programme-based higher education environment.

    Opportunities for both formative and summative assessments are embedded in the learning design of this qualification. Examples of methods by which informal and formal formative and summative assessment are done, include class and semester tests, discussions, feedback and critique during contact sessions and performances, written and practical assignments, peer group evaluation and examinations. Most assessments will be based on real or hypothetical case studies simulating real-life agricultural economic practice. Progress in the learning process will be discussed in face-to-face contact with students in order that adjustments can be made in time to make the teaching and learning process more effective. Feedback from informal formative assessment opportunities are utilised by the lecturer for improvement of the teaching.

    Summative assessment in each of the modules in the qualification will be conducted by means of a three hour written and/or practical examination and/or report and will ensure that the main outcomes and key purpose of the qualification are realised. The mini-dissertation or report will determine whether the leaner is able to demonstrate critical application of theory, concepts, principles, rules, processes and structures to solve real world problems and issues. The outcome of the mini-dissertation or report will also determine the student's ability to find new information and to integrate this information with existing knowledge. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The trend in the USA at HEI presenting qualifications in the field of Agricultural Economics are Bachelor of Science qualifications.

    The Bachelor of Science Degrees at United States of America (USA) Higher Education Institution are undergraduate Degrees (four year Degrees) that articulate into graduate Masters' Degrees. In the case of our South African under-graduate degree, the Bachelor of Commerce Degree (three-year Degree), the articulation route is the Bachelor of Commerce Honours (one-year Degree) which is a Postgraduate Degree followed by a Master of Commerce Degree also a Postgraduate Degree.

    The Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Agricultural Economics Degree is equivalent to a final year of a Bachelor of Science (BSc) Agriculture Degree in Applied Economics or Agricultural Economics in the United States of America (USA).

    The University of Texas A&M (TAMU) (USA) (https://catalog.tamu.edu/undergraduate/agriculture-life-sciences/agricultural-economics/) presents a undergraduate Baccalaureate of Science. The similar focus of the NWU BComHons (Agricultural Economics) and the TAMU final year include Agricultural Policy and Macroeconomics as part of the core curriculum. The TAMU curriculum does not specify research credits on the exit level. Another USA based university, Oklahoma State University (OSU) (http://agecon.okstate.edu/) offers an undergraduate Baccalaureate of Science programme in Agricultural Economics. The study of agricultural economics or agribusiness applies business methods and economic principles to solve real-world problems in the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods and services. The OSU curriculum also does not specify research credits at the exit level. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers the following articulation possibilities:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce Honours, Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Agricultural Economics, Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.