Doctor of Philosophy

Purpose

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) is to enable learners to research the most advanced academic level, culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis. The learner is required to demonstrate high-level research capability and to make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers in the field of specialisation. In certain instances, artefacts, publications, or other appropriate outputs may constitute the partial fulfilment of the research requirements.

In all cases where an artefact or product may result, the Doctoral learner will be required to achieve the specified Exit Level 10 Outcomes. Also, and at a standard suited to the marking of the doctoral thesis, which requires at least on the international assessor, the learner will apply these in identifying, developing and resolving a research project as appropriate to the discipline. In so doing, the learner will need to demonstrate the ability to:

• Select and deploy appropriate research methods and processes to the research project as approved by the higher Degrees committee;
• Analyse, synthesise and expand the research topic into an approved brief which underpins the investigation;
• Write the thesis in which a developed and thorough understanding of theoretical and practical aspects is demonstrated, and which includes a literature survey and review;
• Select and apply the most appropriate means for the creation of the chosen artefact and present this following established standards and protocols;
• Develop the artefact to an appropriate level of detail (for example, mechanical, artistic, structural and innovative).

Rationale

The Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) allows for flexibility in our Postgraduate studies. This qualification will be used for a variety of inter-, multi- and transdisciplinary programmes providing broad access to learners. The fields of study included in the scope of the qualification include the sub-disciplines of the Arts and Humanities, Design and related fields, Finance and Economics, Education, Engineering, Health Science, Law, Management, and Science. The fields of study provided in the proposed qualification will increase responsiveness and ensure the ability to expand in fields which dominate society.

This qualification promotes the principles of lifelong learning and is aligned with the institution's teaching and learning strategy. Qualifying learners will be able to display insight and will have the ability to conceptualise high-level research initiatives and create new knowledge or practices in their relevant fields of study. This qualification will enable learners to apply their knowledge to solving problems in the fields of specialisation. It will also offer articulation opportunities for professionals who currently hold an NQF Level 9 Master's Degree or equivalent in the field of specialisation.

The qualification will, furthermore, enhance the institution and the faculties in terms of research excellence. It will appeal to researchers from Africa and beyond, thus strengthening the internationalisation strategy of the institution. Individuals who obtain the qualification can compete for research positions internationally. In the process, it will also enhance the research output since the aim is to ensure that the qualification is obtained with publications attached to it.

The specialisations represent developed areas of competence and provide articulation for qualifying learners.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and prior learning will be assessed where relevant:

• Through RPL a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies at the institution.
• Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures.
• RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements

> Is following the policy and guidelines of the Institution.

> Is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience.

> Is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF-level.

> takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.

> Is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• An appropriate Master's Degree or equivalent qualification, NQF Level 9.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at NQF Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Module, Level 10

• Thesis, 360 Credits.

1. Demonstrate a high level of research capability, in-depth knowledge and high levels of theoretical understanding in a complex and specialised area or across multiple areas.
2. Make a significant and original academic contribution in the discipline, within academic, professional and/or defined ethics.
3. Conduct independent research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Apply sophisticated knowledge and research methodologies to solve complex, unfamiliar territories.
• Apply knowledge and theory to new contexts.
• Interrogate, expand and redefine existing knowledge boundaries.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Independently interrogate existing knowledge boundaries and practices and respond to problems that expand or redefine existing knowledge.
• Challenge complexities and contradictions in the knowledge base.
• Provide evidence of the unique contribution/s to the discipline.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate research leadership within a field or across disciplines.
• Demonstrate high levels of responsibility, self-reflexivity, adaptability and intellectual independence.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment

• Seminar presentations and learner/supervisor consultations.

Summative Assessment

• Submission of a Thesis.