Master of Consumer Science

A student who has achieved the outcomes for the M Consumer Science will be qualified for managerial, research and subject matter specialist positions in industry related and small business sectors

Students are required to have a Baccalaureus Degree or an equivalent qualification with a major in the area of research.

A student will have developed competence in at least three or more of the following outcomes with regard to their specific field of research. The student should be able to:

1. Develop a contextual framework within which the relationships, critical issues and policies can be analysed.
2. Develop the abilities to contribute to the organisation and management of resources that will ensure a satisfactory end result for the responsible consumer.
3. Apply accurate accounting in the allocation and use of resources and to take responsibility for and have a positive attitude towards the environment.
4. Demonstrate the ability to critically compare, analyse, evaluate and manage situations arising in the different activities of the household.
5. Focus on safety, utilisation principles and procedures, appropriate and acceptable goals for the health and well-being f the household, community and society.
6. Focus on the construction of clothing / preparation of food, evaluation of retail products, care for raw and/or fresh products, the quality of the end product and the good management of an enterprise.
7. Anticipate the future and respond to the demands that new developments and changes in the field to satisfy the needs of households and communities.

The student needs to develop competence in the critical outcomes, as well as the specific outcomes set for each module and thereby comply with the following assessment criteria

1. Demonstrate the ability to analyse relationships, critical issues and policies to organise and manage resources to the benefit of the consumer.
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply accurate accounting in the allocation of resources
3. Collect, process, interpret, analyse and present data with regard to sustainable household and small and micro enterprise resource allocations.
4. Establish and manage small and micro enterprises based on business principles
5. and processes. Draw up a business plan.
6. Interpret policy formulation for programme planning, implementation and evaluation.
7. Demonstrate the ability to utilise scientific knowledge and technology to plan and manage small and micro-enterprises in the fields of Clothing, Food and Food Service Management

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT

Case studies, research projects and a dissertation based on appropriate methodologies will be a basic requirement for all specialised modules. Assessment will be based on research project, case studies, oral and written examinations