Bachelor of Library and Information Studies Honours

This Honours programme is the first year of Postgraduate study in Library and Information Science. It is designed to provide the opportunity for further intensive study in Library and Information Science and training in concepts and research methods that equip the candidate with the skills necessary either for employment in/for employment at a middle management level in a library, resource centre, information service or other activity where the organisation and supply information is the objective or for further study at Masters and Doctoral level in Library and Information Science or a related subject area.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Non-graduates who have shown by examination or publication or a record of appropriate training that they have reached a level in the subject or a cognate subject equivalent to a Bachelor's Degree may be permitted to register for the Degree.

Entry Requirements

The normal admission requirements is possession of either the Bachelor's Degree in Library and Information Science (BBibl) or Postgraduate Diploma in Library and Information Science; candidates with professional qualifications in the domain of Library and Information Science at a similar level will also be admitted:

1. Senior Certificate with Matriculation Exemption or Equivalent university admission qualification.
2. Bachelor of Arts (BA).

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

1. Production of a focused literature review that is based on the use of a variety text media, and that informs a potential research question. The review is written up in a form of an academic paper that accords with the publication conventions of the discipline of library and information science.
2. Conducting and writing up pilot research (in a manner that accords with the publication conventions of the discipline), that is designed to be the first stage of the research to be conducted for the Master's Degree.
3. Bring an informed insight to many practical issues of direct relevance to best practice in penal reform, juvenile justice, policing practice and the administration of correctional institutions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Understand and manipulate qualitative and quantitative data within an area of specialisation.
• Design and conduct research in his or her area of specialisation.
• Produce academic papers that reflect an ability to interrogate the professional literature and engage in critical debate.
• Find information of professional relevance efficiently and independently.
• Use information-technology efficiently and independently.
• Embark on an Honours level research study under supervision.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Articulate an understanding of an area of specialisation at a high level of abstraction.
• Independently apply discipline-based knowledge and practises to an understanding of conceptual and practical problems.
• Design and conduct research utilizing the methods of the discipline.
• Apply the theory and research methods of the discipline to the development of research questions.
• Produce theoretical and research communications that draw on a range of information bases.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Marshall the most recent theoretical perspectives for an understanding of the complex causalities of crime and deviance in modern society.
• Analyse and critically assess the basis of criminal justice reforms in the light of international trends.
• Undertake exploratory research into a variety of social issues surrounding the workings of the criminal system.

Integrated Assessment

The Integrated Assessment of the Library and Information Science Honours graduate includes measurement of foundational reflective, technical and practical competencies. Learners are required to complete a series of exercises. These serve both to integrate skills learnt during the Honours year, and to prepare for the Library and Information Science (BBibl) dissertation in the case of those learners wishing to continue to this level.