Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to develop a strategy for learning that will enable learners to identify and solve problems and communicate effectively using the full range of available technologies in both written and oral form as well as developing sound understanding of the economic challenges facing South Africa.

Rationale

This qualification is intended for learners wishing to specialise in Economics as a specific field of study, with a view to equipping them with the foundations required to continue into Masters level study. The skills learners will develop on the qualification are those that will facilitate their potential to work as an Economist a specialised field.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts the principle underlying outcomes-based, source-based and life-long learning, in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a significant role, and subscribes to the view that Recognition of Prior Learning, whether acquired by formal education curricula at this or another institution or informally (by experience) is an indispensable element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning qualification of the institution.

An applicant who falls outside of the formal qualifications system, but who can demonstrate (through the production of substantial and satisfactory evidence) experiential or work-based learning or a non-formal qualification (or a combination), may be considered for admission and/or for the Recognition of Prior Learning for the achievement of the qualification in part or in full. An applicant who after such assessment, is deemed to have sufficient potential, but is in need of further academic development, must be directed to other suitable learning qualifications prior to admission or to parallel qualifications after admission.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of commerce, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 128 Credits.

Compulsory Modules 1, Level 8, 96 Credits

• Intermediate Econometrics, 16 Credits.
• Mathematics for Economists, 16 Credits.
• Macroeconomics, 16 Credits.
• Microeconomics, 16 Credits.
• Economics Research Project, 32 Credits.

Elective Modules 1, Level 8, 32 Credits (Choose two)

• Special Topics Economics, 16 Credits.
• Research Methodology in Economics, 16 Credits.
• Industrial Organisation, 16 Credits.
• International Trade16 Credits.
• Labour Economics, 16 Credits.
• Economics of Health Care, 16 Credits.
• Environmental Economics, 16 Credits.
• Industrial Economics, 16 Credits.

1. Source and analyse economic data using relevant Econometric techniques.
2. Apply mathematical techniques such as linear algebra and calculus to a range of economic problems.
3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key macroeconomic theories and their usefulness in analysing real-world macroeconomic aggregates such as output, employment and inflation.
4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of key microeconomic theories and their usefulness in analysing real-world microeconomic scenarios, such as consumer behaviour, firm behaviour and market failure.
5. Provide extended commentary and analysis of an economic issue.
6. Obtain, interpret and critically evaluate information, solve problems and make financial decisions.
7. Demonstrate effective written and verbal communication skills.
8. Apply economic theories and principles in sub-disciplines in economics, for example labour economics, health economics, environmental economics, and development economics.

• Use critical reasoning in general in a logical and creative way.
• Apply critical reasoning to the solution of problems.
• Apply appropriate quantitative skills in the solution of problems.
• Utilise appropriate techniques/methodologies for the effective presentation of an argument.
• Analyse problems/situations/the literature critically and present the results.
• Interact with peers and work as the member of a team, where appropriate.
• Access, synthesise, analyse and interpret data and information.
• Think creatively and utilise critical reasoning to place data and information in context.
• Use appropriate quantitative and qualitative analytical techniques.
• Interact with peers and work as the member of a team, where appropriate.
• Creatively and originally in the selection and treatment of a research topic of his/her own choice, usually but not necessarily relating to the South African economy.
• Apply theory to a real-world problem and appropriateness of quantitative and qualitative skills to the analysis and evaluation of data.

Integrated Assessment

Integrated assessment of learning outcomes: Seminar presentations, tests, assignments and formal examination are the key means of assessing learning outcomes. Learners are required to apply and integrate key principles of economic analysis consistently across the modules of the qualification. Learners obtain feedback on these assessments as a means of facilitating and encouraging learning improvements. Selection of moderators and external examiners: Moderators and external examiners who have competency in the subject areas covered in the modules will be appointed through the Qualification Coordinator.