Master of Commerce in Economics

Purpose

The Masters of Commerce in Economics intends to provide learners with an opportunity to specialise in an area of their choice within the domain of Economics. On completion, the qualifying learner will be expected to analyse and understand contemporary economic issues and public policy. In addition, the qualifying learners are expected to use their knowledge of economic models and research skills to solve economic problems and make sound decision making.

Rationale

The Master of Commerce in Economics builds on the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) Honours Degree in Economics to provide further knowledge and research skills in Economic Analysis and its application to real issues confronting societies not only in the Limpopo province of South Africa, but also at national and regional level.

The qualification prepares learners for different sectors such as higher institutions of learning, research centres, government, industry and commerce by providing them with an opportunity to deepen their theoretical base, analytical ability and research capabilities necessary to succeed in today's competitive job market.

Further, the qualification will prepare learners for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) study.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Applicants who do not meet the admission criteria for the Masters of Commerce in Economics but can demonstrate experiential or work-based learning at an equivalent level may be considered for admission at the discretion of the University and in strict adherence to the relevant University policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements to the Master of Commerce in Economics is a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) Honours in Economics or its equivalent at NQF Level 8 with an aggregate pass of at least 60%.

Foreign qualification that is equivalent to the above qualifications as determined by SAQA.

The Masters of Commerce in Economics is a research/ dissertation worth 180 Credits.

1. Write a research proposal.
2. Identify, collect, and analyse relevant primary or secondary data to provide findings relevant for economic policy.
3. Communicate research outcomes effectively.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Formulation of research questions and rationale for study.
• Critical appraisal of recent literature on the area of economics chosen for study.
• Relate economic theory to practice.
• Selection and description of research methods and econometric techniques that apply in the area of Economics chosen for study.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Production of research instruments for primary data collection.
• Creation of a data bank for primary or secondary data on the economic area of choice.
• Use of econometric and statistical analysis software such as STATA, EVIEWS and Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS).
• Interpretation of results and findings to inform policy.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Production of written dissertation.
• Presentation of research methods, findings and policy recommendations using oral and electronic medium.
• Defend ideas that are outcomes of research.

Integrated Assessment

The formative assessment includes a written project proposal which is assessed by the school and university higher degrees committees.

The summative assessment applies on the end product, which is a dissertation. Appointed internal and external examiners grade the dissertation in accordance with the applicable University rules.