Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level by completing an approved research project at an advanced level. A second purpose of the qualification is for learners to gain competencies to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences, demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level, and continue to advance their knowledge, understanding and skills in the field of Criminology.

Rationale

This qualification is designed to accommodate learners who have finished their Masters in Safety and Security related field, like Criminology, Criminal Justice and or Penology, etc. This qualification consists of a research thesis and will equip the learner with in-depth research skills and a thorough knowledge of his or her chosen research topic.

This qualification will directly contribute to safety and security at the national and international level with regards to the following:

• There is a definite shortage of professional Criminologists at NQF Level 10 in South Africa.
• Any research at NQF Level 10 must address a specific crime challenge in a practical manner that ensures the safety and security inhabitants of the Republic of South Africa and outside of the borders of our country.
• This qualification ensures that the learner contributes to an environment that is more crime-free.
• Typical learners come especially from South Africa and consist of members that are actively working in a law enforcement environment and wants to enhance their knowledge and professional careers.
• The learning pathway is in the field of safety and security and this Doctorate make it possible for them to operate at the highest levels of professionalism in South Africa and outside of South Africa.

There is a desperate need to professionalise the law enforcement agencies in South Africa. A Postgraduate qualification like this one at NQF Level 10 will enhance the professional image of those working with crime related issues in a law enforcement environment in South Africa and outside the country.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Recognition of Prior Learning in this qualification is in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) of the institution. RPL is one of the critical mechanisms for achieving redress and equity and accelerating access in the institution.

This policy and set of procedures will be used in the admission of a learner to a qualification where the minimum requirements have not been met (excluding mature age exemption category or exemption for admission to undergraduate qualification), but the learner has evidence that the requirements can be achieved through RPL.

All potential learners not in possession of a Master's Degree in Criminology need to provide proof of an equivalent qualification. Those who claim that they have achieved relevant prior learning which should give them access to the qualification need to apply to the Head of the Department of Criminal Justice for Recognition of Prior Learning.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Masters of Arts in Criminology or any other relevant qualification in the field of safety and security at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 9.

And

• Thesis on an approved subject in a criminal justice or safety and security related field of study.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Module: 360 Credits.

• Research Thesis, 360 Credits.

1. Undertake a research project and produce a research thesis under supervision.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Demonstrate comprehensive and systematic knowledge of criminology.
• Display the ability to relate theory to practice and vice versa and to think epistemologically.
• Display a coherent and critical understanding of the theory, research methodologies and techniques in policing as well as the valid application thereof under supervision.
• Master the application of research methods, techniques and technologies appropriate to Criminology as described in the research proposal.
• Participate in scholarly debates in the field of criminology as described in the research proposal is rigorously critiqued and evaluated.
• Identify and analyse complex and real-world problems and issues, and deal with drawing systematically and creatively on the theory, research methods and literature applicable.
• Display advanced information retrieval and processing skills.
• Identify, analyse and synthesise quantitative and qualitative data.
• Undertake a study of the literature and current research in policing as described in the research proposal.
• Present and communicate research results to specialist and non-specialist audiences using the resources of an academic/professional discourse.
• Produce a thesis which meets the standards of scholarly/professional writing.

Integrated Assessment

• Examiners of theses shall not have any insight into the assessments of other examiners before completing and submitting their reports.
• Theses examiners are expected to complete an assessment form and also submit a separate assessment report.
• Examiners must indicate whether:

> The Degree be awarded unconditionally (without corrections).

Or

> The thesis is provisionally accepted pending minor corrections of a technical nature (e.g. spelling, typing, the numbering of pages/ sections, references) which will typically be required to be made to the satisfaction of the supervisor.

> The thesis is provisionally accepted pending more substantial corrections, which will generally be required to be made to the satisfaction of the examiner, or a specified person or body other than the supervisor.

> The thesis is not accepted in its current form and that it must be referred back to the learner for revision, comprehensive restructuring or expansion after which it should be resubmitted for examination.

> The thesis is not accepted and the Degree is not awarded.