Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies

Purpose

To equip the student with both theoretical and methodological grasp towards building conceptual and empirical oversight. The intended outcome is the ability to work at the paradigmatic level of development. The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is predicated upon the premise that the student has mastered the ability to translate or operationalise theory into a research programme at Master's Level. The student will be able to make a contribution to society, planning, policy management in government, Non-Governmental Organisations and the Private Sector, and contribute to scholarly activities.

Rationale

• The qualification is a multidisciplinary field which takes students from other disciplines. This is in line with the University transdisciplinary programme of trying to promote learning across disciplinary boundaries.
• The students should be able to deal with development planning and policy formulation towards addressing social transformation in South Africa and Southern Africa. The department is part of the South African Development Studies Association (SADSA).
• Since Development Studies is a multidisciplinary study, the Department encourages and invites applications from students, public servants, development practitioners, social activists, policy analysts and others. Career opportunities after completion include the following, Educationists, Policy Makers, Diplomats, Trade Union Officials, Research Officers, Planners, Social Impact Assessors, Development consultants, Civil and Human Right Activists, Employees of Government and Non-Governmental Organizations, Development Officers , and Rural extension officers.
• Full blown research, Master's Degree with research methodology seminars for new students. Mode of delivery is constant, face to face consultation with the supervisor include, full communication through internet and face to face contact arranged for students outside the country
• It exposes academics and students to enriched scholarly and practical experience and outcomes. Students also contribute to scholarly activities.

Entry Requirements

• Appropriate Masters Degree in Development Studies or related discipline.

Mode of delivery is by Research Only.

Exit Level Outcome 1

• The student will be able to analyse and apply the conceptual and theoretical underpinnings of development thinking and action.
• Student will be able to understand and to successfully carry out the analysis and evaluation of policy and to determine the political economy of policy paradigm shifts.
• Student will acquire the capacity to design and write a thesis that can respectably stand alongside refereed and published research in the same field and have practical application in the social context.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Seminar presentations, group discussions and debates including written research proposals which are used to assess mastery of the theory and conceptual clarity.
• Research competence and analytical skills are assessed from the thesis and the use of case Studies.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment - Developing a research proposal and assisted by seminar presentations, group discussions and debates at department level. The proposal is defended at the Faculty Research and Higher Degrees Committee.

Summative assessment - Conducting research in the field, analyse and interpret findings, write a thesis and submit it relevant authorities for external moderation.