Doctor of Philosophy in Comparative Labour Law

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to offer specialised training in theories, concepts and research methods appropriate to the field of Comparative Labour Law.

At the end of this qualification, the learner should be able to

• Critically engage with the key scholarly debates, key theories in the field of Comparative Labour Law.
• Have an understanding of research methodologies in qualitative and quantitative research design, and the ability to select those appropriate for their own work.
• The ability to identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of topics relevant to the field.
• The ability to present a well-structured and developed piece of research which is of publishable standards.
• Critically demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research.
• Demonstrate the ability to coherently and logically structure and organise his/her study.
• Critically demonstrate the ability to analytically and conceptually apply research tools to the topic under investigation.
• Demonstrate the ability for critical review and analysis of literature in the field under investigation.

Rationale

The rationale for the qualification is the development of highly advanced knowledge and skills and applied competence in the area of Comparative Labour Law and to the benefit of the learners; and to provide opportunities for continued personal intellectual growth, as well as the pursuit of gainful economic activity and the ability to make rewarding contributions to society.

This qualification will contribute to the further development and strengthening of engaged scholarship on issues of great relevance to societies and labour and in Africa in particular. Thus another aim that the qualification will serve is to build capacity for effective societal responses to social change.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access to the qualification can also be provided in terms of the university's RPL policy and its admission criteria stipulated by Senate. In addition, in the RPL process learners have to undergo a Portfolio Development Course to support the learner's admission. The PDC will focus on written submission explaining the reasons for the candidates' interest in in the discipline as an adjunct to their existing professional competencies and indicating the nature of a possible research project.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• A Master's Degree in Comparative Labour Law or any equivalent discipline, Level 9.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Levels 10 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules at Level 10: 360 Credits

• Thesis, 360 Credits.

1. Made an original contribution in a specific area of specialisation in the field of Comparative Labour Law.
2. Independently initiate and conduct research in the chosen area of specialisation in Comparative Labour Law.
3. Demonstrate specialist knowledge in the field of Comparative Labour Law.
4. Produce a thesis, which meets international standards of scholarly and professional writing.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria applies across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Prepare a proposal to research a topic related to a specific area in Comparative Labour Law studies with its sub-areas of specialisation for evaluation.
• Identify, analyse, and formulate a particular problem creatively, ethically, autonomously and responsibly.
• Demonstrate skills of critical thinking, problem solving, collection and analysis of data, and effective written communication, which all contribute substantially to knowledge.
• Conduct advanced literature searches and critique current literature in the form of a review.
• Submit a thesis for external assessment and should represent a significant contribution to new knowledge presented in a scholarly manner.
• Conduct independent research of high quality, and indicate considerable experience in using a variety of research techniques.

Integrated Assessment

The learners' knowledge in the area of research will be assessed by the supervisor and faculty members as a formal proposal for PhD research by the end of their first year. This will be assessed by a Committee of at least three external Professors. Learners will complete a research project to be presented as a thesis. Assessment of the thesis will be carried out where possible by international external examiners.