Bachelor of Philosophy Honours

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to enable students to acquire a comprehensive, critical and systematic knowledge of Christian Theology, and/or a particular theological discipline, and to become conversant with contemporary theological discourse. Furthermore, students will be enabled to develop a foundational understanding and use of the research methodologies relevant to theological disciplines. A second purpose is to provide students with the necessary applied and theoretical competencies to carry out a limited research project under supervision worth a minimum of 32 Credits, and communicate their new insights creatively, thus playing a constructive role within church and society.

Rationale

This honours qualification has been compiled to offer deeper insight in the (philosophical) foundations and context (i.e. meta-theoretical assumptions) of the special disciplines included in the programme, and the world in which the graduate will work and live. The degree will also develop the competency to study independently and perform a supervised research project under supervision on exit level. We therefore envision this qualification that gives students the advantage of the advanced critical and meta-theoretical insight that philosophy offers as well as the development of independent research skills. This qualification thus prepares students for postgraduate study in Philosophy on a Master's level (Dissertation).

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This 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 programme of this institution. Prior accredited learning at the Further Education and Training (FET) or Higher Education and Training (HET) level in relevant domains which constitute credit-bearing units or modules should be recognized if evidence can be produced that shows that the student has achieved, at a satisfactory level, the outcomes and associated assessment criteria specified for modules of this qualification and, if appropriate, allow the recognition of prior learning for the achievement of the qualification in part or in full. Non-formal and informal prior experiential learning: 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 programmes prior to admission or to parallel programmes after admission.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirements for admission into the Honours studies are

• Cognate Bachelors Degree on Level 7.

This qualification comprises compulsory and elective modules at Level 8.

Elective Modules, Level 8l

• SIS Philosophy B (FILH680), 24 Credits.
• SIS Philosophy A (FILH679), 24 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8

• Reformational Philosophy (FILH674) 24 Credits.
• Major Assignment (FILH677), 32 Credits.
• History of The Philosophy (FILH678), 24 Credits.

1. Analyse, interpret, reconstruct and criticise, as well as creatively apply to contemporary problems, the most important philosophical ideas that they have become acquainted with.
2. Identify and contextualise philosophical problems.
3. React in thinking and critical way to identified philosophical problems from a personal philosophical point of view and with special reference to the Reformational-Christian, but also other traditions within philosophy.
4. Communicate philosophical knowledge and viewpoints in clearly formulated and coherent essays/report/mini-dissertation, which adheres to all academic standards and protocols, as well as in visual and oral presentations with the use of appropriate Information Technology (IT).

Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner to the Exit level Outcomes

• A systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories is achieved.
• The ability to apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information is demonstrated.
• An understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice is critically reflected.
• Professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment, with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations is displayed.
• Scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas, written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology are communicated.
• Effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress is demonstrated.

Integrated Assessment

Continuous formative and summative assessments are employed throughout the study in the form of mainly written assignments and examinations. Students will be assessed on the application of the skills they develop in the various sub-disciplines and in an integrated manner in the project module of Assessment the qualification, wherein not only the students evidence of the mastery of the mentioned philosophical knowledge and skills is assessed, but also his/her writing and communication skills as well as her / his computer literacy.