Master of Laws

This qualification includes the various specialisations in Laws. Please refer to "Notes" for details on the specialisations.

Purpose

1. To equip the learner with a deeper understanding of a chosen area in law
2. Equip the learner with greater skills in comparative research of legal issues
3. Develop in the learner critical and evaluative thinking
4. Provide society with a citizen who can enter an academic career, and the teaching and research of law
5. Enable the learner to apply his/her specialised knowledge and skills to the benefit of clients and society as a whole.

LL B degree from Vista University or a recognised tertiary institution.

The learner has a deeper insight into and knowledge of

• South African law in the research topic
• The law in comparative jurisdictions in the area of the research topic
• The methodologies and methods that underlie scientific research

Associated assessment criteria are whether the learner knows how to submit scientifically correct reports and findings.

The learner is able to

1. Make scientific use of particular methodologies and research methods, including the comparative method
2. Collect, analyse and interpret data
3. Formulate, write and record his/her research findings
4. Recommend and substantiate proposals for the reform of the law where necessary
5. Communicate his/her insights to interested parties
6. Disseminate his/her findings through specialised academic publications

Associated assessment criteria are whether the learner is able to

1. Deliver scientifically based work that is publishable
2. Demonstrate the ability to apply different analysing tools to the data
3. Make some contribution to the knowledge of law

The values instilled in the learner are amongst others

1. Independent assessment, self study, self discipline and initiative
2. Underlying ethical values in research

Associated assessment criteria are whether the learner

1. Is able to undertake independent research and writing at an advanced level
2. Is able to independently analyse problems relating to his/her area of speciality
3. Attains and maintains a high level of ethical standard in regard to the research undertaken, such as due recognition of sources

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT

Formative assessment is undertaken by amongst others the following: continuous supervision by the supervisor, regular individual or group contact between the supervisor and the learner, through individual or group discussions based on submissions of the learner.

Summative assessment will be undertaken by the supervisor and at least two external assessors approved by the university senate. A pass mark of 50% is required.