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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma: Chemical Process Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
88064  Diploma: Chemical Process Technology 
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences  Physical Sciences 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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   2033-06-30  

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 this three year, full-time Diploma is to produce Chemical Process Technicians who:
  • Have a solid knowledge of the applicable basic chemical and engineering principles.
  • Are thoroughly grounded in the basics of the major chemical processes.
  • Are capable of applying their knowledge and skills to competently and safely operate, optimally control and maintain chemical processes and key process components.
  • Have a thorough understanding of communication, team work, basic process economics and safety principles to operate effectively in any industrial setting as a Process Technician.

    The qualification has been developed on the basis of a widely consulted competency profile for a chemical process technician, in collaboration with an international service provider, namely KBC Process Technologies Ltd. The following key competency fields will be developed through the knowledge and skills contained within the curriculum qualification:
  • Personal effectiveness competencies.
  • Academic knowledge competencies.
  • Professional skills' competencies.
  • Industry regulatory knowledge competencies.
  • Technical skills' competencies.
  • Organisational skills competencies.

    Rationale:

    This programme will fill a gap in the current South African Higher Education Institutions' offerings in support of local industry, which need is not currently being met by existing related programmes. Industry has attempted to meet its needs through internal training programmes, but increasing technical sophistication, environmental and health compliance requirements and economic pressures to optimise processes, require completing learners to have a sound and multi-disciplinary education and training to maintain, operate and optimise chemical process plants. The successful learner will be able to find quality employment in a wide variety of industries as this educational foundation is designed with industry participation to meet the needs of chemical and chemical-related industrial activities, e.g. bulk products storage, transport and handling facilities. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Students accessing this programme should demonstrate their ability to read and communicate effectively using English in written and oral form. Students must be able to manage their own study programme and time effectively.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Students that do not meet the minimum admission requirements, but have proven expertise and competency will be allowed to apply for provisional status for acceptance onto the programme in line with the NMMU and Recognition of Prior Learning policies. In addition, candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules achieved by previous study.

    In all cases, recognition will be considered in accordance with standard NMMU policies and procedures.

    Access to the Qualification:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC).
  • National Senior Certificate with a pass in English and Home Language, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification has 360 Credits, and all the modules are compulsory.

    Modules at NQF Level 5:
  • Essential Computer Skills I, 15 Credits.

    Total: 15 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 6:
  • Mathematics I, 15 Credits.
  • General Chemistry, 18 Credits.
  • Introductory Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, 12 Credits.
  • Introductory Physics, 8 Credits.
  • Electromagnetism and Optics, 7 Credits.
  • Professional Skills I, 15 Credits.
  • Introduction to process technology, 15 Credits.
  • Basic process technology, 15 Credits.
  • Quality Assurance and Plant Performance, 15 Credits.
  • Applied Computing II, 15 Credits.
  • Professional Skills II, 15 Credits.
  • Physical process chemistry, 15 Credits.
  • Routes to chemicals, 15 Credits.
  • Process Equipment and operation, 15 Credits.
  • Process control, 15 Credits.
  • Chemical Process Technology Laboratory II, 15 Credits.
  • Chemical Process Technology Practice, 60 Credits.

    Total: 285 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 7:
  • Chemical Process Technology III, 20 Credits.
  • Process Chemistry III, 20 Credits.
  • Chemical Process Technology Laboratory III, 20 Credits.

    Total: 60 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge of chemical and engineering principles.
    2. Operate, control and maintain chemical processes and key process components.
    3. Demonstrate basic economics process and safety principles to operate effectively in any industrial setting as a Process Technician.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    All the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed in the qualification. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Apply knowledge of mathematics, basic science and engineering sciences from first principles to solve engineering problems.
  • Describe and examine correct policies, procedures, and work practices in the handling of all materials according to the health and safety regulations.
  • Use physical laws and knowledge of the physical world as a foundation for the engineering sciences and the solution of engineering problems.
  • Explain and identify hazards and characteristics of all materials handled.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply principles of data acquisition and automatic controls to unit operations.
  • Explain and apply the characteristics and functions of basic control and process instrumentation.
  • Describe and implement the operations of all processes and flows within the unit.
  • Apply technical knowledge to repair and troubleshoot instruments.
  • Identify and resolve equipment and process problems systematically.
  • Explain and implement the basic principles of plant management in terms of organising, controlling and optimising the principle physical and human assets.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Plan and prioritise work to manage time effectively to accomplish assigned tasks.
  • Generate innovative solutions to problems encountered.
  • Evaluate, and implement solutions generated to solve problems.
  • Keep accurate and detailed records.
  • Explain and apply scientific and engineering principles and methods to technically solve problems.
  • Articulate the characteristics and functions of process equipment.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Regular assessments of holistic skills of learners will be performed. The essence of the assessment approach will be that of formative and summative assessments, which will incorporate written assignments, class tests, and written examinations. Written assignments are directly linked to theory and will incorporate the theory and skills related to the Exit Level Outcomes.

    Practical application of knowledge and understanding is demonstrated through a variety of practical training exercises, self-study assignments, projects (including a 6 month co-operative learning project within a chosen manufacturing industry), team exercises, simulated and real-life pilot plant operation. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The purpose of this International Comparability study is to facilitate the development of a meaningful learning path and its associated curriculum, incorporating both theoretical and practical vocational skills which will ensure compatibility, comparability and compliance with existing international qualifications.

    This Diploma in Chemical Process Technology was compared with other chemical process technology qualifications in Malaysia and Singapore.

    Malaysia: University Kuala Lumpur:

    Qualification Title: Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology (Process).

    Programme Learning Outcomes:
  • Apply knowledge of mathematics, science, chemical engineering technology fundamentals in chemical process area procedures, system and methodologies.
  • Identify, analyse and solve chemical engineering technology problems using appropriate engineering tools.
  • Solve solutions for chemical engineering technology problems and contribute to sustainable development.
  • Conduct investigation in area of chemical engineering technology problems specialising in chemical process areas through systematic approaches.
  • Function effectively as an individual and as a team player with leadership credibility.
  • Communicate effectively on chemical engineering technology activities with the engineering technology community and with society at large through verbal and non verbal means.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the societal, health, safety, legal and cultural issues and the consequent responsibilities of chemical engineering technology practices.
  • Apply ethics, responsibilities and norms of chemical engineering technology practices.
  • Demonstrate an awareness and understanding of management, business practices and entrepreneurial competencies.
  • Demonstrate the need for information management and an ability to engage in life-long learning.

    The University Kuala Lumpur's, Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology (Process) is very similar to, and compares favourably with, this South African Diploma, as shown in its Programme Learning Outcomes. It is obvious that the Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology (Process) is designed for the further professional development of Chemical Process Technicians.

    Singapore: Singapore Polytechnic.

    Qualification Title: Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology (to be changed to Diploma in Applied Chemistry with Pharmaceutical Science).

    First Year Modules:
  • Materials in Practice.
  • Physical Chemistry.
  • Analytical Chemistry.
  • Inorganic Chemistry.
  • Organic Chemistry.
  • Pharmaceutical Microbiology.
  • Basic Biochemistry.
  • Environmental Studies.
  • Report Writing and Presentation.
  • Critical Reasoning and Persuasion.
  • Basic Mathematics.
  • Engineering Mathematics.
  • Critical Reasoning and Augmentation.

    Second Year Modules:
  • Basic Instrumental Analysis.
  • Corrosion Science.
  • Quality Assurance and Statistics.
  • Laboratory Management.
  • Forensic Chemistry.
  • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing.
  • Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) and Validation.
  • Bioprocess Engineering Principles.
  • Organic Chemistry - Reaction Mechanism.
  • Environmental Systems and Management.
  • Independent Study Project.
  • Engineering Mathematics 2.
  • Social Innovation Project.

    Third Year Modules:
  • Medical Chemistry Research Option.
    OR
  • Industrial Chemistry Option.

    The majority of the Modules offered in the above Diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology do not articulate very well with the competencies contained in this South African qualification. However, both are of three years in duration and are comparable in terms of environmental studies, and the management modules. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    This Qualification articulates horizontally with the National Diploma: Engineering: Industrial, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
    This Qualification articulates vertically with the Bachelor of Engineering: Chemical Engineering, NQF Level 7. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The moderation policy and registered assessors for the Diploma in Chemical Process Technology modules are governed by the NMMU policy and include external experts with at least relevant and sufficient experience in the field.
  • All modules will be internally examined and moderated, while exit level modules will be externally moderated.
  • Feedback from external moderators informs teaching and learning interactions. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    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.
     
    1. Nelson Mandela University 


    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.