Undergraduate Studies
The Bachelor of Science (B.Sc. degree) is an undergraduate academic degree offered by universities. The study duration of a B.Sc. programme is three in South Africa. Many students complete the degree in four to six years. The Council for Higher Education (CHE) throughput (how many students who start studying finish studying) data indicates that about 53% of students who enroll in an undergraduate degree complete it.
I began my B.Sc in 1989 and failed one of my four courses (Physics) in my first year. I completed my degree in 1992 and completed it in four years. My B.Sc was in Biological Sciences.
From 2007 to 2009 I also completed modules from the B.Sc syllabus from UNISA in Physics and Chemistry for non-degree purposes.
Biological Sciences
Biology involves the study of living organisms, from understanding genes to managing ecosystems. This includes the biochemistry of molecules, such as DNA, RNA, and proteins; the physiological functions of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems; the influ- ence of evolutionary relationships on biological problems; and aquatic and terrestrial ecology.
Subjects
Zoology is the branch of biology that studies the animal kingdom, including the structure, embryology, evolution, classification, habits, and distribution of all animals, both living and extinct, and how they interact with their ecosystems.
Botany a branch of biology that deals with the study of plants, including their structure, properties, and biochemical processes. Also included are plant classification and the study of plant diseases and of interactions with the environment.
Chemistry is the science that deals with the properties, composition, and structure of substances (defined as elements and compounds), the transformations they undergo, and the energy that is released or absorbed during these processes.
Mathematics (Special). Course in Mathematics and Statistics. Mathematics is the science of structure, order, and relation that has evolved from elemental practices of counting, measuring, and describing the shapes of objects. It deals with logical reasoning and quantitative calculation. Statistics is the science of collecting, analyzing, presenting, and interpreting data.
Complementary Biological Sciences is an enriching course that extends knowledge and skills in more specialized areas of interest within Biology. To be credited with Complementary Biological Sciences you had to complete three short courses including a course in Genetics, Biochemistry and Microbiology.
Biblical and Religious Studies is an academic field devoted to the study of religious beliefs, behaviours, and institutions.
