Doctor of Philosophy in Archaeology

The purpose of this qualification is to develop researchers who can make independent and innovative contributions to the advanced development of knowledge in Archaeology. This is done through the successful production of a research project wherein adequate understanding of the sub-discipline(s) under study are demonstrated through the two-fold process of developing a research proposal and secondly, an extended length research project in the form of a thesis. In the thesis, the learner must demonstrate that they can pursue research through the scientific methods of enquiry, interpretation, analysis of relevant data, critical reflection and other discipline-specific techniques, all of which must be in keeping with recognised academic standards, linguistic skills and data collection competencies.

Rationale

This qualification develops learner expertise in the theories, methodologies and practice of Archaeology in both the academic and professional realms. In particular, the qualification prepares learners for an academic career in archaeology. It requires them to make an original contribution to knowledge in archaeology or one of its associated sub-disciplines in such a way that it demonstrates their competence in their chosen field of specialisation and their ability to work independently in the field and/or laboratory and/or theory production. This contribution to knowledge and disciplinary competence is evidenced in the production of innovative knowledge and/or methodologies and/or theoretical perspectives.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Admission may be granted through RPL to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements. All admissions through RPL must be in accordance with the principles laid down in the Unisa RPL Policy. This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through Recognition of Prior Learning. The University of South Africa (Unisa) RPL office can supply full details of processes relating to the assessment and accreditation of learning from prior experiences. Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records. All such evidence should be judged according to the general principle of assessment described in the notes to assessors.

Entry Requirements

A Master's Degree in Archaeology, Level 9 with at least 60% for the dissertation.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Archaeology consists of two compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

Modules

• Research Proposal, 0 Credits.
• Research Project and Thesis, 360 Credits.

Learners completing this programme are expected to demonstrate

1. Expertise and critical knowledge in the current theoretical and methodological trends in archaeology or specified archaeological sub-discipline; the ability to situate their own work with regard to these trends; and, ultimately to contribute to local and international scholarly debates in archaeology.
2. The ability to formulate new research questions that will contribute new knowledge to the discipline, and to design and implement innovative methods and techniques or to use existing techniques in a novel way, where appropriate.
3. Leadership and decision-making in the management and organisation of data collection, possibly through the supervision of field and/or laboratory assistants.
4. The capacity to apply archaeological theories and techniques to gather relevant data in order to address complex practical and theoretical problems in archaeology.
5. The ability to conduct archaeological research in an ethical and professional manner that will characterise their mode of practice, interaction with the authorities and engagement with relevant stakeholders. Learners should be able to anticipate and proactively address emerging ethical concerns.
6. The ability to conduct research on an advanced topic in archaeology or a specified archaeological sub-discipline which is publishable in peer reviewed journals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• Pro-actively solve problems when designing and implementing research methodology, in the analysis and presentation of data and in interactions with stakeholders.
• Work co-operatively and manage relations with supervisor(s), field crews, laboratory assistants, stakeholders (communities, landowners, government agencies) as well as, where relevant, fellow members of a joint research team.
• Show initiative in working independently in data collection, analysis and research write-up.
• Assume responsibility for reporting to research funding agencies, communities, landowners, heritage institutions and government agencies.
• Collect, analyse and store knowledge from a variety of sources.
• Communicate with peers and other interested parties.
• Write up and graphically represent research results in the form of the thesis.
• Develop presentation and communication skills through conference and seminar presentations.
• Use a broad range of comparative and holistic analyses.
• Be familiar with the local, national and global significance of heritage contexts and contribute to the overall protection of these contexts and show respect to the wishes of those with a vested interest in specific contexts.
• Working with people from diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds.

Integrated Assessment

• All assessments are conducted in line with the principles of assessment as defined in the University of South Africa (UNISA) Assessment Policy.
• Submitted proposals are assessed and approved by the supervisor and Departmental Research and Higher Degrees Committee to be ratified by the College Research and Higher Degrees Committee.
• After consultation with the co-supervisor (where applicable), the supervisor gives the learner permission to submit his/her thesis.
• Assessment will include input from three external examiners of which at least one should be from a county other than South Africa. External examiners must be recognised experts in their fields and must not be attached to or affiliated with UNISA. All examiners are recommended by the Department Chairperson and/or Departmental Research and Higher Degrees Committee and their names are forwarded for appointment by the College Management Committee.
• The completed report of the panel of examiners is regarded as the examiners' final recommendation. The result of the Doctoral thesis is based on a judicious appraisal of the examiners' reports.
• After the result of the learner's thesis has been approved the non-examining chairperson makes the examiners' report available to the Chairperson of the Department, the supervisor, the co-supervisor, the candidate and the other examiners if requested.

In addition, learners must demonstrate the ability to engage in the field of Archaeology in an integrative way, dealing with mathematical challenges strategically and effectively. It is recommended for this ability to be demonstrated by the publication of at least one article based on the research, in a scientific peer reviewed journal.