Master of Philosophy in Arts

Purpose

The purpose for M Phil (Arts) is to equip learners with the necessary research skills and expertise that will enable them to undertake independent scientific research in a specialised area of inquiry, with aims that meet the requirements of each specific field of interest within the School of Arts. These specific areas include:

• Communication and media studies.
• Criminal justice and criminology.
• International studies.
• Geography and environmental studies.
• Philosophy.
• Sociology.
• Psychology

Completion of the programme will signify that the candidate has successfully fulfilled the course requirements and demonstrated that she/he can carry out a research project, critically analyse the results, and present them in relation to the current literature on a topic to the satisfaction of both internal and external examiners. Although the topic does not have to be an original major contribution to a body of knowledge as a PhD would, nevertheless the content of the research project should make an adequate contribution to an existing body of knowledge by applying, clarifying, critiquing or interpreting current knowledge. Such research skills acquired through attainment of a Masters Degree is in keeping with the mission of Monash South Africa and the University as a whole as stated above.

The aim of postgraduate research at MSA is

• To create an environment that values, supports and nurtures future research and development leaders.
• To expand a broad range of disciplines in 10 faculties and over 36 specialist research centres and institutes to serve the African content.
• To provide South African and African students access to generous scholarships, grants and funding opportunities.
• To expand the world-class level of academic and technical expertise to enhance the research experience.

Rationale

The purpose of a Master's Degree is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level, or prepare graduates for advanced and specialized professional employment.

The successful student will be able to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements using data and information at his/her disposal and communicate conclusions clearly. Students will be able to demonstrate self-directed learning and originality in tackling and solving problems, act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional level and continue to advance own knowledge, understanding and skills.

Applicants should also be able to communicate well, articulate thoughts and concepts verbally and in written form, work well in teams and demonstrate the ability to solve problems collectively and as an individual. Applicants should also be proficient in computer use.

Participants in the Masters programme should have knowledge of mathematics, general management as well as more detailed knowledge of some related sector.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition of Prior Learning may be used by learners who do not comply with the entrance requirements to gain admission to the programme.

Access to the qualification

Prospective students should meet the following entry requirements

• A four year qualification or equivalent honours degree (NQF Level 8) in a related field of study from an accredited institution with an average of 65% or higher.
• As English is the language of instruction and assessment at Monash South Africa, students must meet one of the following English requirements in order to be eligible for admission:

> A pass in an examination equivalent to English at the higher grade (first or second language) in the South African Senior Certificate, or a score of 4 (50 - 59%) in the National Senior Certificate (NSC).

> A pass in English at A level, O level, International Baccalaureate or equivalent.

> American Tests of English (paper based) as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), achieving a minimum score of 580 with a Test of Written English (TWE) score of 4,5 or more - scores must be available for both TOEFL and TWE.

> Computer-based TOEFL, achieving a minimum score of 237 and an essay rating (ER) score of 5 or more.

> Internet-based TOEFL: 90 overall, Writing 20 and no section below 20.

> International English Language Testing Service (IELTS), achieving a minimum score of 6.5 (Reading 6.5, Listening 6.5, Writing 6, Speaking 6).

• Practical experience in a related field is highly recommended.

The MPhil is a 24 months full-time programme at NQF Level 9. The programme consists completely of research, the results which are presented in a thesis consisting of no more than 40,000 words. The research and presentation are to conform with internationally accepted standards for masters degrees.

Graduates who completed this qualification would be able to

• Conduct independent research in a specialised area.
• Generate the ability to contribute to knowledge in a specialised area.
• Report and communicate research findings in a scientific manner.
• Demonstrate expertise and leadership in a specialised area.
• Handle cultural diversity as well as human and environmental rights in a sensitive manner.
• Utilize science and technology appropriately and responsibly when dealing with the research area.
• Think laterally, critically and creatively when dealing with their research area.
• Develop and apply skills and programmes to assist the relevant systems, society, the economy and policy makers to deal more effective with the specialised area nationally, in Africa and internationally.
• Work and communicate with others as a member of a multi-disciplinary team to deal effectively with a variety of aspects within the chosen discipline.
• Act in a professional and ethical manner.
• Know how apply the knowledge acquired in a specialised area in an entrepreneurial way in order to create employment opportunities in the public and private sectors.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

Successful completion of the programme will signify that the candidate has successfully completed a research training and development course and has satisfied the examiners that he/she can carry out a research project and analyse critically the results.

While it is not necessary that an M Phil thesis would make a major contribution to the discipline by way of new knowledge (as a PhD would require), an MPhil thesis would be expected to make a contribution to an existing body of knowledge by applying, clarifying, critiquing or interpreting that knowledge.