Doctor of Philosophy in Geography

Purpose

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Geography, Level 10 is to provide training at advanced Postgraduate level in geographical research on topics covering the spectrum from earth systems to real world problems that affect the relationship between humans and the environment in the 21st century. To this end the graduate will engage with and explore a range of geographical research themes and the necessary geographical perspectives, knowledge and research methodologies to be able to identify, conceptualise, develop and conduct research leading to creation of a better understanding of and new knowledge about earth systems and/or possible solutions to the identified real world problems.

Learners will be mentored through their development towards independent researchers in the field of Geography within a trans and multi-disciplinary context and will be guided in their application of the findings of their research in a variety of contexts that include, but are not limited to academia, industry, research and the broader community.

Rationale

The rationale of the Doctor of Philosophy in Geography, Level 10 is to provide learners with the opportunity to make a novel contribution to the discipline that can be of an applied and/or theoretical nature. The qualification allows specialisation in various fields encompassing modern day Geography covering the spectrum from exploration of earth systems to research aimed at seeking integrated and sustainable solutions to the numerous challenges facing humans and the environment they live in the present century.

The integrated perspective of Geography, that bridges the human, social and natural sciences is ideal to prepare learners to contribute meaningfully towards a sustainable future. Depending on their area of specialisation in Geography, Graduates of this Doctoral qualification will be sufficiently equipped to take up a leading role in a variety of initiatives that seek to obtain localised, but at the same time, spatio-temporal solutions for sustainable living beyond the 21st century.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Admission may be granted through RPL to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements.

All admissions through RPL must be in accordance with the principles laid down in the University of South Africa RPL Policy.

This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through Recognition of Prior Learning.

The University of South Africa RPL office can supply full details of processes relating to the assessment and accreditation of learning from prior experiences. Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records.

All such evidence should be judged according to the general principle of assessment described in the notes to assessors.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for admission to this doctoral Degree is a Master's Degree in Geography, Level 9 or in a related discipline/field.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Geography Graduate can

1. Identify, analyse, formulate and solve highly complex problems in a variety of geographical contexts in a creative, autonomous and responsibly way.
2. Work effectively as a team member in research or other groups and contribute to the group output of task associated with Geography.
3. Plan, manage and organise his/her life and activities in responsible and effective way, including his/her studies, research and career.
4. Collect, analyse, organize and critically evaluate information at an advanced, highly specialized level, especially related to geographical research problems.
5. Communicate effectively and can sustain discourse in a variety of modes, including oral and/or written presentations.
6. Use science and technology effectively and critically in the context of Geography, showing responsibility towards the environment and well-being of others.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation, and by acknowledging responsibility to those in the local and broader community.
8. Carry out original research in a specialised field of Geography and report on its findings in writing and orally.

1. Preparation of the thesis is in line with the research and ethics outline as set out in the approved Research Proposal.
2. Comprehensive and systematic understanding of Geography's body of knowledge with expertise and specialist knowledge is demonstrated in a specific area (field) of research in Geography.
3. Comprehensive and thorough understanding of recent and most advanced geographical research methodologies, techniques and technologies (including information retrieval and data processing skills) applicable in the broad field of research, and more particularly in relation to the specific research focus is demonstrated.
4. Geographical knowledge, theory and research methods creatively to complex practical, theoretical and/or epistemological problems are engaged with enabling substantial, independent research and advanced scholarship resulting in the (re)interpretation and expansion of knowledge.
5. Scholarly debates at the cutting edge of research in the field of specialisation are participated in and research undertaken is communicated to specialist and non-specialist audiences
6. Each chapter of the thesis is developed in line with acceptable scientific norms applicable to Geography, in terms of logic, rationale, academic writing style, referencing techniques and the presentation of tables and figures.
7. Literature in the broad field of research in Geography is critically evaluated more particularly in relation to the specific research focus.
8. Recent and the most advanced research methodologies, techniques and technologies relevant in the broad field of research are critically evaluated and a detailed and logical motivation and justification for the chosen research methodologies, techniques and technologies are given.
9. A well-researched, well-documented and grounded thesis in Geography, encompassing current theoretical and methodological practices, and solid empirical scholarship in keeping with international norms and standards is presented.
10. A research topic and thesis that make an original contribution to Geography and with an overlap with other existing publications verified by electronic similarity testing as insignificant is presented
11. Independent preparation of manuscripts/papers based on the thesis for presentation at workshops, symposia and conferences and submission of such manuscripts to scholarly journals for purposes of publication is carried out
12. Reviewers' critique on manuscripts is defended and research is published in scholarly journals.

Integrated Assessment

All assessments are conducted in line with the principles of assessment as defined in the UNISA Assessment Policy.

Submitted proposals are assessed and approved by the supervisor and Departmental Research and Higher Degrees Committee to be ratified by the College Research and Higher Degrees Committee.

After consultation with the co-supervisor (where applicable), the supervisor gives the student permission to submit his/her thesis.

Assessment will include input from three external examiners of which at least one should be from a county other than South Africa. External examiners must be recognised experts in their fields and must not be attached to or affiliated with UNISA. All examiners are recommended by the Department Chairperson and/or Departmental Research and Higher Degrees Committee and their names are forwarded for appointment by the College Management Committee.

The completed report of the panel of examiners is regarded as the examiners' final recommendation. The result of the doctoral thesis is based on a judicious appraisal of the examiners' reports.

After the result of the student's thesis has been approved the non-examining chairperson makes the examiners' report available to the Chairperson of the Department, the supervisor, the co-supervisor, the candidate and the other examiners if requested.

In addition, candidates must demonstrate the ability to engage in the field of Geography in as integrative way, dealing with environmental challenges strategically and effectively. It is recommended for this ability to be demonstrated by the publication of at least one article based on the research, in a scientific peer reviewed journal.