Master of Philosophy

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Philosophy is to enable qualifying learners to develop high levels of specialised knowledge and expertise in research within the field of specialisation, using advanced problem-solving skills and critical, reflective thinking, as well as the ability to report on research conducted in ways appropriate to the relevant academic and disciplinary discourses.

The learner will report the findings in a manner that meets the accepted criteria and ethical principles of the profession. Learners will contribute to the existing body of knowledge in the application of advanced theoretical or applied knowledge to develop and advance the study and practices in the field of specialisation.

In certain fields or disciplines, artefacts may be submitted in partial fulfilment of the Degree. In all cases where an artefact or product may result, the learner will be required to achieve the specified Exit Level 9 Outcomes and apply these in identifying, developing and resolving a research project as appropriate to the discipline. In so doing, the learner will need to demonstrate the ability to:

• Select and deploy appropriate research methods and processes to the research project as approved by the higher Degrees committee;
• Analyse, synthesise and expand the research topic into an approved brief which underpins the investigation;
• Write the thesis in which a developed and thorough understanding of theoretical and practical aspects is demonstrated, and which includes a literature survey and review;
• Select and apply the most appropriate means for the creation of the chosen artefact and present this following established standards and protocols;
• Develop the artefact to an appropriate level of detail (for example, mechanical, artistic, structural and innovative).

Rationale

The qualification allows for flexibility and will be used for a variety of inter-, multi- and transdisciplinary qualifications, providing access to a broad range of learners. The fields of study include the sub-disciplines of the Arts and Humanities, Design and related fields, Finance and Economics, Education, Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Management, and Science. The fields provided for by this qualification will increase responsiveness and ensure the ability to expand in the fields which dominate society.

This qualification promotes the principles of lifelong learning and qualifying learners will be able to display insight and will have the ability to conceptualise research initiatives and create knowledge or practices in their relevant fields of study. This qualification will enable learners to apply their knowledge to solving problems in their chosen areas of research. The MPhil will offer articulation opportunities for qualifying learners with an NQF Level 8 Honours or Postgraduate Diploma or equivalent in a relevant field or discipline.

The qualification will, furthermore, will appeal to researchers from Africa and beyond, thus strengthening the internationalisation strategies within higher education. Qualifying learners can apply for research positions internationally.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the institution will endeavour to assess prior learning where relevant. RPL is managed according to the institution's RPL policy, which will be applied. A learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status. RPL in the case of a learner not complying with the formal entry requirements is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience, considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF-level and takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• An appropriate Bachelor Honours or Postgraduate Diploma or equivalent qualification at NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Module Level 9

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate advanced application of concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes concerning a specified area of research.
2. Address an identified research need by taking social, economic, legal, ethical, environmental, cultural and demographic influences into consideration.
3. Demonstrate a comprehensive, systematic and integrated specialist knowledge and skills of the chosen research area.
4. Display advanced research skills.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Critically analyse and evaluate technologies, techniques, models and theories in the specialist field/s by explaining models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies to establish recent trends in the chosen field/s.
• Identify and solve problems by thinking critically and creatively in designing, executing and reporting on a specialised area.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Effectively address research needs and problems within the relevant social, economic, legal, ethical, environmental, cultural and demographic trends/realities/frame-works.
• Demonstrate constructive and effective interaction with people and environments, as relevant to the field/s.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Apply theories, research methodologies, epistemologies, and methods/techniques relevant to the discipline/s.
• Utilise a range of specialised and related skills to identify, analyse and deal with complex problems and issues.
• Cite relevant literature and recent trends in the technologies, techniques, models and theories in the relevant field/s.
• Demonstrate advanced information, retrieval and processing skills to identify, analyse, synthesise and independently evaluate quantitative and/or qualitative data in the field/s.
• Apply ethical decision-making skills within the relevant contexts.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Identify and define the research problem.
• Develop and present a research project by applying the correct research methodologies and techniques.
• Systematically and creatively draw on the theories, research methodologies, methods/ techniques (including statistical and mathematical techniques), literature and materials of their discipline/field of choice.
• Operate responsibility for their work autonomously.
• Critique and evaluate current research, and participate in scholarly debates, addressing both theory and practice, in the area of specialisation.
• Present and communicate the results of research using appropriate academic and/or professional discourse.

Integrated Assessment

Formative Assessment

• Seminar presentations and student/supervisor consultations; progress reports.

Summative Assessment

• Submission of the dissertation.