Master of Military Science in Organisation and Resource Management

The primary aim of the programme is to equip selected officers of the SA National Defence Force and other Defence Forces with:

• The ability to analyse and synthesise the theoretical and scientifically based content of the broader managerial science;
• The ability to analyse and synthesise the current issues and projects faced by managers in the military;
• Knowledge, comprehension and skills with regards to research methodology and statistics aimed at independent research; and
• A theoretical and practical base in order for the student to be able to use his/her knowledge in the SANDF.

The second aim of this programme is to lay the foundation for Doctoral research in Organisation and Resource Management within the context of the SANDF.

The third aim of this programme is to equip those not furthering their studies with a rounded off and comprehensive education which will enable them to function successfully as managers in the Defence Force.

Purpose of qualification

The (first) purpose is to consolidate and deepen what has been learned in the first degree or qualification and to undertake advanced study in a chosen field of specialisation.

The (second) purpose is to prepare qualifiers for the profession(s) related to the field of study and to acquire the necessary professional skills to operate successfully in such an environment.

The (third) purpose is establish a proper base for undertaking independent research through the acquirement of the necessary research skills and tools.

The (fourth) purpose is to stimulate interest in academic study and research and to ensure a constant supply of well-equipped professionals, critical thinkers and socially aware people for the Department of Defence.

The qualification is directly career orientated as it has been developed in co-operation with the main client namely, the SANDF. It is aimed at preparing selected officers for their careers as managers in the SANDF.

A BMil in Organisation and Resource Management or a related B degree is required for the four year part time MMil in Organisation and Resource Management. An average of 60% is required in the final year of study, in two of the following main subject groups, namely, Economics, Military Management, Public and Development Management or Accountancy and Auditing. An honours in Organisation and Resource Management will be obtained after the first two years.

An Honours BMil in Organisation and Resource Management, with an average of 60%, is required in case of the two-year part time MMil in Organisation and Resource Management.

N/A

1. Demonstrated ability of conceptual thinking and the synthesis of new ideas and concepts learnt from the study of the management sciences in Organisation and Resource Management within the context of the SANDF.
2. Demonstrated ability to:

• Make a constructive contribution to management regarding strategic management, as a comprehensive management process for an organisation. Taking into account external and internal influences.
• Manage logistics systems as well as to perform effective decision-making with regard to Material Management and Physical Distribution.
• Manage, evaluate and recommend improvements, within a financial context, in order to manage the organisation and its resources effectively.
• To conduct independent scientific research and the ability to make a decision regarding the research topic, the research sample, measurement method and the statistical handling thereof.
• An understanding of the required knowledge with regards to the unstable nature of the environment, in which an organisation operates, and how management accountancy adds value in this situation.
• Analyse an advanced management accounting system by making use of different methodologies within a specific framework.
• To understand and apply the theory, methodology and strategic planning of development.
• Understand the theory, methodology and management of labour relations.
• Analyse selected applications within the field of Public Management, and apply it in practice.
• Understand, analyse and implement strategic decisions on macro and micro level.
• Produce sensible and coherent reports.

1. The assessment used for this programme ensures that the purpose of the programme is achieved.
2. A range of formative and summative assessment methods such as simulations, computer assignments, written and oral presentations, tests; examinations and thesis-type work are used.
3. The required range of modalities is integrative to assess whether the specified outcomes have been achieved.
4. The assessment used meets the standard and level of achievement for NQF level 8a.

Integrated assessment

The nature of the programme is such that successful study requires the student to draw on the knowledge and expertise gathered in previous years of study.In this sense the assessments that are devised for this programme are also integrated assessments for the entire study.

Assessment takes place by way of a variety of procedures, including cross-disciplinary assignments, simulations, computer assignments, work-place assessments, written and oral presentations, tests and examinations.

In the case of the structured course, the completion of an advanced research project (mini thesis) is required. Students following the option of a dissertation with a prescribed reading list will not be exposed to the entire list of assessment methods.