Master of Science

The purpose of the qualification is to provide an opportunity for students to prove that they have a depth of understanding in the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills specific to a particular area in science, through supervised research.

Learning already in place

Before students register for this qualification they need to have

• A minimum level of expertise proved through their student record (or equivalent).

Entrance requirements

• An Honours Degree in the core discipline in which they wish to prove their Master's capabilities.

Or.

• A four-year degree in the core discipline in which they wish to prove their Master's capabilities.

Or.

• A qualification deemed by Senate to be equivalent to the above.

Critical Outcomes

Graduates of the programme will be able to

1. Demonstrate an understanding of research- and topic-related concepts, principles and acquired knowledge in Science.
2. Demonstrate innovative problem solving skills to answer the question(s) or prove or disprove the hypotheses stated in the situation of concern & problem statement by analysing data collected using quantitative and qualitative methods.
3. Demonstrate effective oral and written modes of communication in English by:

• Presenting results at conferences, research seminars or through journal papers; and.
• In a written dissertation with recognition of intellectual property rights.

1. Demonstrate the use of science and technology effectively and critically.
2. Demonstrate the ability to transfer the application of knowledge and skills across contexts by using existing studies and knowledge applied to the particular questions or hypotheses involved in this research project.

Process outcomes

Graduates of the programme should be able to

1. Demonstrate the ability to work in a team effectively, considerately and responsibly, through effective collaboration with their supervisor(s) and other possible members of the research team.
2. Demonstrate the necessary applied thinking, learning and research skills, for the project to be a success.
3. Demonstrate learning independence through effective project management skills - for example: time-management, resource management and people management.
4. Motivate how the results of the research are a benefit to society and that recommendations are made responsibly.
5. Motivate how the procedures followed in the research process and any recommendations made, demonstrate cultural, social and environmental awareness, where relevant.
6. Have a broader understanding of the career opportunities for a scientist in both the industrial and education sectors, in order to take advantage of what is on offer.
7. Utilise the available opportunities for research opportunities & funding better through gaining an understanding on how the academic accreditation system for research works and how to solicit funding from both public and private sectors sources.

The various types of assessment within the programme is linked to the Outcomes and the Modules in "Integrated Assessment".

Integrated Assessment

Assessment Practice: Formative.

• Regular meetings with supervisor(s) to provide feedback and guidance on the theoretical and practical aspects of the research project.

Outcome(s): 6,7,8,9,10,11,12.

Module(s): Treatise/Dissertation.

• Draft submissions of any written work.

Outcome(s): 3.

Module(s): Treatise/Dissertation.

• Oral presentations made to the Department to obtain a broader perspective.

Outcome(s): 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,9,10.

Module(s): Treatise/Dissertation.

Assessment Practice: Summative.

• Examination.

Outcome(s): see core discipline.

Module(s): Coursework.

• A treatise or dissertation describing the research methods used, the research and conclusions drawn from the research.

Outcome(s): 1,2,3,4,5.

Module(s): Treatise/Dissertation.

• Upon request, the student may be required to defend the research project to test communication, understanding, capacity to think quickly under pressure and knowledge of procedures.

Outcomes: 1,3,5.

Module(s): Treatise/Dissertation.