| DESCRIPTION: |
| A Certificated Natural Scientist is a scientist working in one of the fields of practice identified in the Natural Professions Act (Act 27 of 2003). They may only perform work as a Natural Scientist under the guidance and supervision of a Professional Natural Scientist. |
| AWARDING CRITERIA |
| For the Professional Designation to be awarded, professionals must comply with the following minimum requirements: |
| Underlying Registered Qualification or Part Qualification: |
The scientist must have either a relevant 2 or 3 year science qualification from a tertiary institution (either RSA or international) and relevant work experience.
Academic Component:
Two or three year qualification in a science field relevant to the fields of practice indicated in Schedule 1 if of the Act. |
| Experiential Learning or Experience |
| If a 2 year qualification is obtained 5 years relevant work experience is required.
If a 3 year qualification is obtained 1 years relevant work experience is required. |
| Competency Assessment |
In order to register an applicant must provide the following:
Certified copies of all relevant qualifications and the academic record.
Title page and abstract of any project identified in the academic record.
Full work experience document.
The names of 2 referees who will be contacted by the office for referee reports.
A list of any publications.
SAQA certificate if there are foreign qualifications.
Each application is reviewed by the Professional Advisory Committee (PAC) prior to being approved by the registrations committee. Foreign qualifications are reviewed by the Qualifications Assessment Committee (QAC) prior to going to the PAC.
Each field of practice has a separate PAC. |
| Designation RPL Statement |
| This Designation may be awarded through Recognition of Prior Learning. |
| RETAINING CRITERIA |
| In order to ensure the currency of professional knowledge and to retain the Professional Designation, the professional must comply with the following minimum requirements: |
| Code of Conduct |
| Members must adhere to the Professional Body Codes of Conduct and Ethics. |
| Continuing Professional Development (CPD) |
| CPD will be activated April 2017 a Natural scientist will need to accumulate 25 points over 5 years across 3 categories in order to retain registration. |
| Fees |
| Ensure that the annual membership fee is paid. |
