School of Biological Sciences - Honours

Potchefstroom Campus Honours:

Advance your scientific career with an Honours degree in the School of Biological Sciences (SBS) at North-West University. This BSc. Honours degree in Environmental Sciences is available on the Potchefstroom Campus (not to be confused with the BSc. Honours in Microbiology (2ES L01) or the BSc. Honours in Botany (2ES L01), both available on the Mahikeng campus only - see below). Our programme combines advanced coursework with hands-on research, allowing students to specialise in fields such as botany, microbiology, zoology, and One Health. Guided by experienced researchers, students gain practical laboratory and field skills, critical thinking abilities, and research experience that prepare them for careers in science, conservation, environmental management, biotechnology, or postgraduate studies.

Programmes:

There are currently 4 honours programmes in the Environmental Sciences:

  • Aquatic Ecosystem Health (2DM L03 N601P): Research in this programme focuses on the health and sustainability of freshwater and marine ecosystems, with an emphasis on water quality and its impact on both human well-being and biodiversity in South Africa. Students explore aquatic ecology, environmental change, and the conservation of aquatic resources through hands-on fieldwork and laboratory research.
  • Biodiversity and Conservation Ecology (2DM L02 N601P): Research in this programme contributes to the protection and conservation of biodiversity, ecosystems, and human well-being. Students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to conserve species and manage natural ecosystems sustainably, with a focus on biodiversity, conservation planning, restoration ecology, and the ecological processes that shape terrestrial and aquatic environments.
  • Ecological Interactions and Ecosystem Resilience (2DM L01 N601P): Research in this programme focuses on the future of terrestrial ecosystems in the face of anthropogenic impacts, particularly climate change. Students investigate ecological interactions, ecosystem resilience, and the processes that shape biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, equipping them with the knowledge to address environmental challenges and support sustainable ecosystem management.
  • One Health (2DM L09 N601P): Research in this programme embraces the One Health approach, recognising the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Students investigate infectious diseases, zoonoses, environmental health, and ecosystem sustainability through interdisciplinary research, developing solutions to complex global health challenges while promoting the well-being of people, animals, and ecosystems.

Prerequisites:

  • a BSc degree (NQF level 7) or equivalent
  • >60% average for main BSc subjects
  • Please note that there is limited space and selection is competitive
  • Selection for the Honours programme will be based on academic performance, appropriate subject combinations, and relevant prior learning

NWU BSc Honours in Environmental Sciences (NQF 8):

  • You will need to make up 128 credits
  • This includes a 1-year research project (32 credits)
  • It also includes 6 lecture modules (16 credits each):
    • 2 compulsory
    • 4 electives
  • The modules will be determined by the programme you select
  • For more information on the different programmes and the modules, please download the FNAS postgraduate yearbook: https://studies.nwu.ac.za/studies/yearbooks 

Information for applying:

  • All relevant information, checklists and contact details for applying can be found here: NWU Online Application Guide
  • Online application portal: VSS-AAA
  • Closing date: 30 September 2026
  • Please contact Mrs Nandi Du Plessis (Nandi.DuPlessis@nwu.ac.za) if you require assistance. 
  • Remember to submit your final marks as soon as they are available (on the portal or to Mrs Nandi Du Plessis).

Important links and numbers:

Contact information:

SBS Honours coordinator: Prof. Kerry (Hadfield) Malherbe

Mr Glenville Fransman

 

Mahikeng Campus Honours:

For more information about the Honours programmes in Botany and Microbiology, please visit the links below.

BSc. Honours in Botany (2EL L01 N601M): Honours - Botany

BSc. Honours in Microbiology (2ES L01 N601M): Honours - Microbiology