Doctor of Philosophy in Human Ecology

Purpose

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Ecology is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in Human Ecology at an advanced level, through independent research. Graduates should be able to undertake rigorous research and communicate the results by means of a dissertation and a scientific paper that meets internationally acceptable standards.

Rationale

There is a need established to develop highly skilled Human Ecologists to ensure continuation of knowledge within related disciplines through innovative research design and the use of new technological advances that would address current consumer related issues. The Doctor of Philosophy in Human Ecology will thus not only benefit individuals but will support economic and sustainable development within communities. This qualification will contribute to addressing these challenges by producing researchers who can use a wide range of specialised skills in identifying, conceptualising, designing and implementing research projects that address complex and challenging problems within communities.

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 students have to undergo a Portfolio Development Course to support the student'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. In addition, an application can be made in terms of rule A.2 via Senate.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• A Master's Degree in Human Ecology or any equivalent discipline.
• Students should have achieved a minimum average mark of 65% in the relevant Master's Degree.

There are no rules of combination; the student must submit a thesis for external examination.

1. Understanding of research methodologies in qualitative and quantitative research design, and the ability to select those appropriate for their own work.
2. Ability to identify, analyse, synthesise and undertake independent evaluation of topics relevant to the field.
3. Ability to present a well-structured and developed piece of research which is of publishable standards.
4. Critically demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research.
5. Demonstrate the ability to coherently and logically structure and organise his/her study.
6. Critically demonstrate the ability to analytically and conceptually apply research tools to the topic under investigation.
7. Demonstrate the ability for critical review and analysis of literature in the field under investigation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• Make an original contribution in a specific area of specialisation in the field of in Human Ecology.
• Capable of independently initiating and conducting research in the chosen area of specialisation in Human Ecology.
• That the researcher has specialist knowledge in the field of in Human Ecology.
• Capable of producing a dissertation, which meets international standards of scholarly and professional writing.

Integrated Assessment

The students' knowledge in the area of research will be assessed the supervisor and faculty members a formal proposal for Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) research by the end of their first year. This will be assessed by a committee of at least three external professors. Students 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.