Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Political Science

Political Science is a discipline with both academic and vocational elements. It equips learners with the ability to reason abstractly through understanding and analysing political concepts. It enables them to grasp the political dimensions of social and economic phenomena. It provides them with the ability critically to analyse, interpret and explain political events and processes both in South Africa and globally. A strong research skills component, focussing specifically on the methodology and techniques used for political science research (both qualitative, such as data interpretation, and quantitative) and on training in IT skills, are central to all qualifications earned through the qualification. This qualification has a clear vocational aspect in that it equips learners with both knowledge and analytical skills necessary to careers in the public service, politics, journalism, corporate governance and the NG0 sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts RPL in terms of the policy and guidelines of the institution to recognise other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. In cases where learners do not comply with the formal admission requirements, the institution applies its RPL policy.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Political Science in Political Studies, NQF Level 7.

1. Demonstrate well-developed study habits: location and use of sources; ability to write in response to topics set;
2. Demonstrate competent academic writing skills and knowledge of standard academy writing conventions;
3. Demonstrate basic computer literacy;
4. Participate in small group discussions,
5. Engage in argument around, and analysis of issues in a manner that displays an informed and skilful deployment of a wide range of the relevant concepts including analytical categories;
6. Demonstrate knowledge of the historical background of, and principal issues associated with, contemporary political developments in South Africa, Africa, and globally;
7. Demonstrate knowledge of the major sub-disciplines of Political Science (Political Theory; International Relations; Comparative Politics; Area Studies).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• Locate and use a variety of sources, secondary and primary, documentary and electronic;
• Demonstrate the knowledge of appropriate research skills for different kinds of research projects;
• Deploy advanced writing skills and a thorough knowledge of and ability to deploy the conventions of writing research papers in Political Science,
• Demonstrate the knowledge of computer qualifications for research, both quantitative: and qualitative;
• Deploy advanced skills of seminar presentation;
• Work with others on a research project;
• Apply a wide range of concepts, analytical techniques and modes of theorization to contemporary political issues.

Integrated assessment

Integrated assessment appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved

Learners will be assessed by means of classwork of various kinds, assessment and (at appropriate graduate levels) by dissertation. Quantity and demands of classwork will be in accordance with the level of study. Assessments are set for all coursework components of the qualification.