Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry

Purpose

Rationale

Learners achieving this qualification will be competent scientific researchers who can work independently in creating and applying knowledge and skills to make an original contribution to the global knowledge and technology in the particular field chosen for the study.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts Recognition of Prior Learning (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

• Master of Philosophy in Chemistry or equivalent Level 9.

This qualification comprises of a compulsory thesis at NQF Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

1. Contribute to fundamental global knowledge in the particular field/area chosen by applying research methods, theories and techniques appropriately and correctly and produce a thesis which, meets international standards.
2. Work effectively with others in a particular field at a high academic level.
3. Manage one's own time to achieve the study and exposition of the thesis.
4. Communication in scientific terms, in internationally acceptable style, both orally and in written form.
5. Use science and technology to contribute fundamental knowledge and technology in the field chosen for the study.

The following associated assessment criteria apply across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Conduct independent research into the literature within the broader context of the field/area of investigation to synthesise and critically evaluate existing information and knowledge.
• Plan, design, motivate, budget for, and conduct a comprehensive scientific research project.
• Critically analyse, evaluate and interpret the findings.
• Report the findings in a thesis and scientific format for international consumption.
• Identifying and solving problems and thinking critically and creatively in designing, executing and reporting on a specialised area of Chemistry.
• Collect, organise, analyse and evaluate information and synthesis of a logical, valid original contribution to the global knowledge and technology.
• Reflect mastery of the listed and cited literature of the literature survey and the exposition of the research of relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field.
• Analyse, explain and juxtapose models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies in the chosen field correctly in oral presentations and the written record of research.
• Identify, define and detail the research problem in the research proposal.
• Select and apply appropriate techniques and methods.
• Develop a budget for the research accurately, honestly and responsibly.
• Conduct the experimental research responsibly and ethically.
• Apply the appropriate mathematical and statistical methods correctly to analyse qualitative data and quantitative data where appropriate.
• Reflect a clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study in the interpretation of data and evaluate contradictory information.
• Produce valid ihe inferences, interpretation and conclusions from measurements and analyses.
• Used information sources correctly and appropriately.
• Applied information technology skills effectively in the production of the thesis.
• Applied language and numeracy skills effectively and correctly in clearly communicating the research problem, its investigation, the outcome, and the recommendations.
• Contribute to new knowledge, or technology, or solution to a problem and publish in appropriate journals.
• Present findings are presented at an appropriate conference.

Integrated assessment

Formative assessment

• Oral presentations.
• Research proposals.
• Written progress reports.

Summative assessment

• Research thesis.

May also include

• Publications in journals.
• Conference presentations.