Master of Management

Purpose

The qualification aims to combine specialised knowledge, skills and experience in the chosen field of management with research mastery. In addition, the purpose of the qualification is to:

• Assist learners in developing focused competence in the chosen research topic.
• Assist learners in applying appropriate research methodologies and written communication to support the research process and findings.
• Enhance the ability of learners to reflect on research outcomes and results within an ethical framework and in the context of General Management.
• Equip learners with knowledge and skills necessary for employment in a related field (including teaching and research positions) and further independent research at Doctorate level.

Rationale

This qualification responds directly to the needs expressed by the public and private sectors for increasing contributions to management science and research output in South Africa. It facilitates high level management, research and the development of management specialists. The qualification contributes to expanding the body of independent and original scientific research in the field of management, a field in which research output is lagging behind compared to other scientific disciplines.

The qualification requires original applied research relating to management in Southern Africa and within the global context. This will contribute to both the social and economic development in the region and therefore the quality of life and wealth of its people. By facilitating research in the field of management, the qualification will enable learners to gain access to local or international higher education institutions for further independent research required at doctoral level.

The qualification is offered in the specialist areas of strategic management, leadership, economics, financial management, public sector financial management, international management, project management, human resource management, marketing management, public sector management and disaster risk reduction.

It is assumed that learners who access this qualification have met the entry requirements and are competent in English as the language of teaching and learning. It is also assumed that learners have the necessary theoretical basis of conducting research at the appropriate level. Should this not be the case, applicants will be required to broaden their curriculum to include preliminary modules in research prior to admission to the qualification.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The learner can be given access to the qualification through RPL and can achieve this qualification through RPL. The institution's RPL policy and Academic Credit and Qualification Completion policy guide this process. Skills, knowledge and experience in respect of competencies acquired through informal and non-formal learning are assessed in the RPL process.

Access to the Qualification

An Honours Degree or equivalent qualification including a Postgraduate Diploma, in a recognised field or cognate discipline, with the necessary Modules in Research Methodology, is required to obtain access to this qualification.

The qualification comprises a dissertation which consists of 180 Credits at NQF Level 9.

1. Undertake independent research.
2. Demonstrate a competent knowledge of research methodology.
3. Produce a research dissertation according to stipulated institutional requirements.
4. Apply advanced knowledge for problem-solving purposes, displaying responsibility towards the environment and the health of others.
5. Exhibit a thorough comprehension of the systems approach in problem-solving.
6. Demonstrate cultural and aesthetic sensitivity in respect of the communities they work with.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

All the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are addressed in this qualification.

A comprehensive range of assessment criteria will be used to determine learner achievement. The overall criteria will include, but will not be confined to:

1. Mastery of advanced knowledge in the chosen field of the endorsement as well as research methodology.
2. Competence in the skills of managing interdisciplinary dynamics in respect of problem-solving aimed at reconstruction and development.
3. Sensitivity in respect of cultural diversity and gender issues pertaining to research and knowledge application.
4. Applying research methodology in a morally responsible way appropriate to the field of the endorsement.
5. Production of a dissertation of sufficient quality to pass examination.

Integrated Assessment

This qualification is awarded for successful completion of a dissertation. The research proposal must be approved by at Research Committee prior to the learner commencing work on the research dissertation. This Committee is responsible for assessing the validity and relevance of the proposed research. The summative assessment comprises of the evaluation of the research dissertation. This dissertation will be assessed by an internal as well as external assessor.