Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours in Political Studies

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to deliver graduates who have an advanced knowledge and understanding of politics that they can apply within a working environment, such as the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), state sector and research sector, to investigate, analyse and interpret political 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 this honours qualification is to be found in the empowerment of students with advanced scientific knowledge, and sound and in-depth analytical and conceptual skills within the discipline of Political Science/International Relations. Students are thus provided with a platform for examining issues of human interaction within the polity. The programme also aims to turn out academic researchers for engagement in South Africa in the discipline of Political Science, who will be able to contribute to advancement of knowledge for the use of policy makers in the country.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution 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 institution endorses the view that Recognition of Prior Learning 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

The minimum entry requirement is

• A Bachelor's Degree in Political Studies or any other Bachelor's Degree approved by the Senate.

This qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules at Level 8 totalling 128 Credits.

Compulsory Modules

• Methodology, 16 Credits.
• Policy Studies, 16 Credits.
• Political Philosophy, 16 Credits.
• Research Project, 30 Credits.

Elective Modules

• Comparative Politics, 16 Credits.
• Issues in World Politics, 16 Credits.
• Political Dynamics, 16 Credits.
• Politica in the Developing World, 16 Credits.

1. Motivate and use relevant research literature and applicable research methods and techniques to examine, analyse and evaluate typical issues in the field of political science and international politics.
2. Identify, explain, critically evaluate and judge the most important political ideas over time from a personal ethical view point.
3. Describe, critically evaluate and judge important current issues in world politics.
4. Explain analytical approaches to the study of politics, apply them within the global context of a developing world, and critically explain and evaluate them.
5. Explain and apply methods of political comparisons and compare and evaluate political systems in the world.
6. Analyse formulated policy (in general but also specific policy outputs in South Africa) and evaluate it according to specific criteria in order to determine the potential of success.
7. Evaluate South Africa's political system and compare it with other democracies in the rest of the world, in order to point out the differences and similarities; perform basic research on a contemporary political issue, and communicate the findings in written format and orally, with the aid of Information Technology (IT), to an academic audience of peers.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes.

• Demonstrate 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.
• Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
• Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
• Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
• Demonstrate 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.

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. Learners are continuously assessed on the application of integrated knowledge and advanced skills in order to assure that they are competent for the work place.