Master of Arts in Communication

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is for a student to develop the critical theoretical and practical knowledge and skills associated with scientific research in a specialised field of Communication, under leadership of an academic mentor. The qualification thus prepares the learner to become an independent researcher in a chosen field of specialisation in Communication, able to identify and resolve real-life problems, also in a work environment, critically and creatively.

Rationale

The rationale behind a Master of Arts in Communication, is to develop and deliver to practice graduates who have a critical theoretical and practical knowledge and the necessary skills associated with scientific research in a specialised field of Communication with the ability to identify and resolve real-life problems, also in a work environment, critically and creatively.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts the principle underlying outcomes oriented, source-based and lifelong learning in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a meaningful role. The institution also underwrites the view that recognition of previous learning, obtained either by formal teaching programmes at this or another institution, or informally (obtained by experience), is an indispensable element in granting admission or credits with the aim of placing in a specifically chosen teaching-learning programme of the institution. In recognising previous learning, it deals with provable knowledge and learning that the applicant obtained by following formal teaching programmes or by experience. At all times the question will be what level of competence was reached, judged in the context of the exit level skills required for the contemplated teaching-learning programmes (or modules therein) or status for which the applicant is applying and not merely about the experience the applicant can prove. Recognition of previous learning takes place in terms of the relevant skills that the applicant demonstrated in the application with reference to the exit outcomes that should be reached in the chosen programme. The institution accepts that the recognition of previous learning does and should take place within the normal, existing policy of admission, as well as the granting of credits to prospective or existing learners from this or another institution in a valid, creditable and reasonable way.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement is

• A relevant Bachelor Honours Degree.

This qualification consists of a dissertation module at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Module

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Find and interpret scientific information.
2. Identify a problem for research purposes.
3. Analyse, integrate and present the information in a written format adhering to the protocols suitable for a dissertation at Level 9.
4. Communicate the necessary information to an audience of peers and academics in a reliable, accurate, and comprehensive format using appropriate Information Technology.
5. Take responsibility for own learning and its progress within a semi-structured and partially managed learning environment and be able to evaluate own performance.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment occurs in the form a detailed research proposal for a comprehensive research project done under supervision of a study leader, which culminates in a dissertation performed on an integrated topic submitted for assessment. Three examiners, experts in the field of the study, are appointed for this master's dissertation, of which at least one has to be external to the institution. A supervisor can not be appointed as an examiner. Approval of the research proposal by this Committee for Advanced Degrees is a requirement for the study. The supervisor also assesses continuously while the dissertation is being written.