Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sociology

Purpose

Within the social sciences, the purpose of a Bachelor of Arts Honours (BAHons) (Sociology) is to deliver graduates who have an advanced knowledge and understanding of sociological aspects that they can apply within a working environment, such as the Non-governmental organisations (NGO), state sector and research sector, to investigate, analyse and interpret sociological aspects and offer workable solutions to realistic problems. It further provides every graduate with opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, for gainful economic activity in a range of related careers, for rewarding and constructive contributions to society and gives admission to more advanced studies, such as a cognate Master's Degree.

Rationale

The rationale behind the composition of the qualification is to enable the student to develop as a researcher and to prepare him/her for further study at Level 9. There is a need to produce competent qualitative social researchers able to function effectively in a number of specialised areas. Graduates that are well equipped with a broad range of fundamental research and writing skills are essential to meeting this need.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The North-West University (NWU) subscribes to the principles underlying outcomes based, source-based and lifelong learning. In this context, considerations of articulation and mobility play an important role. The NWU endorses the view that Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) constitutes an essential element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning programme at Honours Level. RPL does not only imply assessment of the submitted portfolio, to determine the level of skills and knowledge comparable to Level 7 the candidate already possesses, but also the skills and knowledge the candidate has to master additionally prior to being accepted for the honours qualification. The assessment processes involved with RPL are the same as those followed for awarding credits in the formal graduate setting. An RPL candidate seeking credits for previously acquired skills and knowledge, must still comply with all the requirements as stated for modules, programmes and qualifications. The difference lies in the route of the assessment, since RPL assessment may be holistic in nature taking the context of the programme as well as the prior knowledge and experience of the person who is being assessed into account.

Entry Requirements

Admission to the Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA) (Hons) programme is open to approved students who have been awarded a Bachelor's Degree, or a qualification designated by the Senate as equivalent, with a major in Sociology or Social Anthropology. Senate may require any candidate, before being admitted to the Honours programme, to attend and complete,as may be determined by Senate, such undergraduate courses or portion of courses of a Bachelor curriculum as the senate may prescribe. The modules at the exit level must have been passed with an average of at least 65%, barring exceptions as approved by the School Director.

This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at Level 8.

Compulsory Modules

• Sociology of Development (SOCL621), 16 Credits.
• Women's Studies (SOCL627), 16 Credits.
• Gender Identity (SOCL628), 16 Credits.
• Sociology of South Africa (SOCL629), 16 Credits.

Elective Modules

• Social Theories (SOCL611), 32 Credits.
• Research Methodology (SOCL612), 32 Credits.
• Research Project (SOCL671), 32 Credits.

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge and advanced socio-analytical skills that would enable them to engage with advanced methodologies, including a basic knowledge of statistical methods, to identify, formulate, investigate and offer a viable solution to a current sociological problem in South Africa.
• Demonstrate a well-rounded and systematic knowledge of Sociology as well as a detailed knowledge of the specialisation fields of The Sociology of Development, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Studies, Women Studies and the Sociology of South Africa.
• Render a service with the acquired knowledge in order to analyse social questions in South African society and to show a well-founded knowledge in this regard.
• Write a research report in accordance with accepted academic standards and communicate the findings to an audience of academic peers with the aid of suitable Information technology (IT).

Integrated Assessment

Continuous formative assessment strategies in the form of assignments, portfolios, tests etc. are employed as well as integrated summative assessments in the form of formal examinations and a mini dissertation/project report etc. Oral presentations of smaller integrated research projects or seminars in individual as well as group context may also be employed. Students are continuously assessed on the application of integrated knowledge and advanced skills in order to assure that they are competent for the work place.