Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Studies

Purpose

The Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Studies enables learners to acquire both methodological sophistication and substantive knowledge appropriate to Higher Education. The qualification encourages the study of substantive concerns, methodological approaches, research and communication skills necessary either for employment or for further independent research. It also provides the opportunity for a learner to undertake independent research and advanced study, under the guidance of a supervisor, building on knowledge gained, in a particular subject area. The thesis presented must constitute a substantial contribution to knowledge in the chosen subject and may embody only the original work of the learner.

Rationale

Globally, there is a growing need for scholarship, research and policy in higher education, research, innovation and policy studies for societal development. There is also a widely held belief that systematic knowledge solutions are needed in those areas of social life where most social problems persist and hinder the progress of society and humanity. In this context, higher education institutions have been in the spotlight and under scrutiny, as the key knowledge institutions of the 21st century. Society demands from higher education knowledge solutions to practical problems of hunger, malnutrition, energy, natural disasters and so forth. Over the centuries, higher education has built a reputation and an identity of the place of generation and dissemination of new knowledge through teaching, research and 'community engagement'. Therefore, higher education lies in the heart of the knowledge society and knowledge solution to societal problems.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access to the qualification can also be provided in terms of the institution's Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy and its admission criteria. In addition, in the RPL process learners have to undergo a Portfolio Development Course (PDC) 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

• Master of Education, NQF Level 9 or equivalent.

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

Compulsory Module

• Research Thesis, 306 Credits.

1. Apply expert and critical knowledge and the ability to conceptualise new research initiatives or create new knowledge in the broad field of higher education studies with sub-areas of specialisation.
2. Initiating and conducting research in the chosen area of specialisation.
3. Perform critical reading of scientific research papers in the area of specialisation.
4. Identify, address and manage emerging ethical issues, and advance processes of ethical decision making which will include monitoring and evaluation of the consequences of the decisions where appropriate.
5. Demonstrate creativity in the original contribution by developing new methods techniques, processes and systems appropriate to the specific area of specialisation.
6. Produce a dissertation which meets international standards of scholarly and professional writing.

Associated Assessment Criteria

The achievement of these outcomes is assessed in the integrated assessment of the qualification.

• Modes of integrated assessment are outlined in integrated assessment.
• Final assessment are outlined in integrated assessment.

Integrated Assessment

The integration of skills learnt in the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is assessed by means of a thesis.

Evidence of a high degree of scholarship, competence in scholarly exposition, and ability to select, organise, and apply knowledge must be presented by the candidate in the form of a written thesis. The learner must demonstrate a capacity for independent thought, as well as ability and originality in the application of principles or in the development of a new generalisation under scientific controls. However, in order to be acceptable as a thesis, the professional project must be accompanied by a written discourse demonstrating the nature of the research and including such theories, experiments, and other rational processes as were used in effecting the final result. The final thesis is submitted to at least 3 international assessors.