Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry

Purpose

Persons 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 experience and technology in the particular field chosen for the study.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts 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, NQF Level 9.

• Thesis, 360 Credits.

1. Contribute to original 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. 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.
3. Plan, design, motivate, budget for, and conduct a comprehensive scientific research project.
4. Critically analyse, evaluate and interpret the findings.
5. Report the findings in a thesis and scientific format for international consumption.
6. Identifying and solving problems and thinking critically and creatively in designing, executing and reporting on a specialised area of Chemistry.
7. Collecting, organising, analysing and evaluating information and synthesis of a logical, valid original contribution to the global knowledge and technology.
8. Work effectively with others in a particular field at a high academic level.
9. Manage one's own time to achieve the study and exposition of the thesis.
10. Communication in scientific terms, in internationally acceptable style, both orally and in written form.
11. Use science and technology to contribute original knowledge and technology in the field chosen for the study.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria are used in an integrated manner across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Reflects mastery of relevant and recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the listed and cited literature of the literature survey and the exposition of the research in the chosen field.
• Analyse, explain and justapose models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies in the chosen field in oral presentations and the written record of research.
• Identify, definely and detaily the research problem is in the research proposal.

> Appropriate techniques and methods are selected and applied.

> The budget for the research is accurate, honest and responsible.

> The experimental research is responsibly and ethically conducted.

> The appropriate mathematical and statistical methods are applied correctly to analyse qualitative data and quantitative data where applicable.

> Logical interpretation of data reflects a clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.

> The inferences, interpretation and conclusions from measurements and analyses are valid.

• Use information sources correctly and appropriately.

> Information technology skills are applied effectively in the production of the thesis.

> Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in clearly communicating the research problem, its investigation, the outcome, and the recommendations.

> New knowledge, or technology, or solution to a problem is contributed and published in appropriate journals.

> Present findings 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.