Doctor of Philosophy in Social Science

• To enable learners to undertake advanced study and original research in a specialised field in the humanities (including the social sciences) (excluding language);
• To broaden and deepen the knowledge base of the chosen field of specialisation by the reinterpretation of existing, and the generation of new, knowledge;
• To enable learners, as members of the international community of scholars, to participate in, and contribute to, the universal pursuit of knowledge and by doing so, advance the frontiers of science;
• To provide academic leaders in their respective fields who will take responsibility for the training of the next generation of scholars and for ensuring quality higher education in future;
• To provide our country with a sufficient number of highly qualified people to maintain its leadership position on the continent and to remain competitive in an era of growing global competition.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution conducts RPL in terms of the policy and guidelines of the institution to recognise other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. In cases where learners do not comply with the formal admission requirements, the institution applies its RPL policy.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Master of Social Science in Philosophy, NQF Level 9.

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

• Full thesis for 360 Credits.

• Demonstrate expert and advanced knowledge of the chosen field of study.
• Show an in-depth understanding of the complexity of the problems involved.
• Knowledge of the latest developments in international research in the specific subject.
• Demonstrate an expert understanding of the relevance and applicability of research results.
• Produce a dissertation that places research within the broader context of the field and that withstands international intellectual scrutiny.
• Contribute to original knowledge in the field and deal with complexities, lacunae and contradictions in the knowledge base.
• Undertake further research at an advanced level and select appropriate tools and research methods with confidence.
• Synthesise and evaluate information autonomously.
• Make sound evaluations on the basis of independently generated criteria.
• Design and manage complex systems effectively.
• Work constructively in a group and assume leadership when needed.
• Motivate others and resolve conflict.
• Communicate professionally with other colleagues working in the field.
• Intellectual independence.
• Mature and sound judgement.
• Accountable and accurate assessment of the views of others.
• High levels of self-reflexivity and adaptability.
• An enquiring mind and an innovative spirit.
• The ability to manage risk-taking ventures.
• Dedication to the identical of scholarship.

Integrated Assessment

1. The assessment used for this qualification complies with the stated purposes of the qualification.
2. A range of formative and summative assessments is used, but the emphasis falls on a dissertation or scholarly publications in which students have to display the desired outcomes.
3. The appropriate kinds of assessment are used in an integrated manner to determine whether the specified outcomes have been achieved.

The assessment used meets the standard and level or achievement for NQF Level 8b.

Integrated Assessment

A DPhil dissertation supervised by a member (or members) of staff and assessed by the promotor and at least two examiners selected from the student's university as well as from appropriate institutions other than this university.