Doctor of Philosophy in Arts

This qualification requires learners to undertake independent research at the most advanced academic level culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis. The defining characteristic of this qualification is that learners will demonstrate high-level research capability and make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of the discipline and practice of Visual Arts.

Rationale

This qualification enables qualified learners to further develop as advanced Visual Art theorists and practitioners. They will acquire advanced research competencies that involve the capacity to independently plan, implement and manage the research process and to write a research proposal and a Doctoral thesis that reflects the ability to engage in scholarly debate and practice, making an original contribution in the generation and validation of knowledge and expression in Visual Arts.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The University of South Africa (UNISA) policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be applied where required. Recognition of Prior Learning may be applied for learners to gain access to the qualification. Knowledge and experience acquired through non-formal and informal learning may be assessed though RPL processes. Learners may provide evidence of prior learning for which they may receive Credit towards the qualification by means of portfolios or other forms of appropriate evidence which may include, verified accounts of previous relevant work done and performance records and which evidence is in accordance with the requirements of the relevant institution. This qualification recognises formal prior learning. Learners' prior accredited learning at tertiary level in relevant domains which constitute credit-bearing units is recognised.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• A Master's Degree in Visual Art or a related field at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 9 with an average of minimum 60%.
• For admission to the practice-led Doctoral research option in Art requiring a creative component, learners are required to submit a digitised portfolio of their practical art.

The qualification consists of a research proposal module and a thesis to the value of 360 Credits.

Modules

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

Learners completing this qualification are expected to demonstrate

1. A coherent and critical understanding of relevant theories in Visual Art and related fields.
2. An ability to rigorously critique and evaluate current research and trends in art.
3. An ability to identify, analyse and contextualise local, national and global art issues.
4. Advanced skills in information retrieval and processing.
5. An ability to rigorously participate in scholarly debates in the area of art.
6. Mastery in undertaking a research project and applying relevant research methods and techniques in an independent and innovative manner.
7. An ability to produce a research-based thesis which meets the standards of professional.
8. Academic writing and in the case of a practice-led research, original artistic expression.
9. A capacity for continual critical self-evaluation.
10. A capacity to manage complex tasks autonomously, professionally and ethically.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
• Demonstrate high-level networking and intersubjective skills.
• Organise and manage oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.
• Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
• Communicate effectively using visual and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation.
• Demonstrate cultural and ethical sensitivity in dealings with subjects, colleagues and communities.
• Demonstrate critical, ethical and professional behaviour.
• Lay the foundation for life-long learning and ongoing competency.

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.
• When a learner's thesis is nearing completion, he/she should inform the Registrar of his/her intention to submit if for examination at least two months before the anticipated date. After consultation with the co-supervisor (where applicable), the supervisor gives the learner permission to submit.
• Assessment will include input from three external examiners, and all must be recognised experts in their fields and must not be attached to or affiliated with UNISA. At least one of the external examiners should be from a county other than South Africa. 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 learner and the other examiners if requested.

In addition, learners must demonstrate the ability to engage in the field of Arts in an integrative way, dealing with art 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.