Master of Commerce in Development Economics

Purpose

The purpose of Master of Commerce in Development Economics is to develop the applied competence of the learner on an advanced level in the mastering, developmental economic principles. This qualification will prepare learners to reflect on their own economic applications to assess the effect thereof in the holistic context of economics as social sciences. Furthermore, to develop a theoretical and practical macro vision of Development Economics nationally and globally. An in-depth understanding of the marketplace will provide them with a competitive advantage for employment.

Rationale

The Master of Commerce in Development Economics was designed to address the demand individuals with a theoretical and practical macro vision of Development Economics, nationally and globally in terms of socio-cultural, economic, institutional, technological and political macro factors reflecting on the differences among countries, even countries within the same region. Macroeconomic issues such as poverty and equality political and economy of development, trade, industrial and competition policy will be addressed to prepare the learners for a career in these fields.

Mastering of the research process will enable learners to be prepared for the professional industry areas of labour markets, trade and industry economic development. The qualification emphasises competence, integrity, and application of ethics in a professional environment. The successful learner will gain a global and South African Macroeconomic development perspective as well as an in-depth understanding of the marketplace which will provide them with a competitive advantage for employment.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It acknowledges that all learning has value will endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant. RPL is managed according to the institution's RPL policy, which will be applied as follows for purpose of this qualification as set out in the policy:

i. Through RPL, a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies at the institution.

ii. Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied by the Faculty.

iii. RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements.

• Is conducted after payment of the prescribed fees in accordance with the policy and guidelines of the institution.
• Is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience.
• Is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF-level.
• Takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the programme.
• Is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel to the Dean's Committee of CBE.
• Is finally decided upon by the Dean's Committee.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• An Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Economics or Econometrics, NQF 8 or equivalent.

This qualification consists of a compulsory module at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Module, Level 9

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Apply the theoretical principles of problem identification and solving in the field of Information Management.
2. Communicate with the different role players in the Development Economics.
3. Organise and co-ordinate resources and opportunities in the field of Development Economics.
4. Work effectively in self-directed teams.
5. Plan and execute research in Development Economics.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Present the relevant theoretical principles according to standards (problem solving skills).
• Communicate the process of problem solving in the field of Development Economics clearly.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Communicate effectively according to standards, orally and in writing with the different role players in the field of Information Management is effective.
• Apply the theoretical principles of communication (oral/written) accurately.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Organise resources and opportunities in the field of Development Economics according to relevant theoretical aspects (entrepreneurship).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Implement the relevant theory of teamwork.
• Discuss acceptable social sensitivity in the relationship with others thoroughly and clearly.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Display relevant information, including the gathering, analysing, synthesising and interpretation of information on Information Management issues through oral and written work.
• Use relevant theoretical research principles in the research.
• Display appropriate theoretical principles towards cultural and aesthetic sensitivity in the research.
• Address responsible global citizenship, according to standards, towards the holistic application of management capabilities in business.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment: Seminar presentations and learner/supervisor consultations; progress reports.

Summative assessment: Submission of the dissertation.