Master of Science in Computer Science

Purpose

The primary purpose of the qualification is to provide Master of Science in Computer Science learners with the knowledge, specific skills and applied competence within a specialised Computing field of study to enable them to do independent research. A second purpose of the qualification is to provide South Africa (and other countries) with learners with advanced knowledge of Computer Science in order to ensure that the leadership base of innovative and knowledge-based economic and scholarly activity is widened. A third purpose of the qualification is to provide South Africa (and other countries) with people who can play an innovative role they need to play as intellectual leaders in their society and who are empowered to play that role.

Rationale

The Master of Science in Computer Science qualification articulates from Computing, Data Communication and Information Systems, enabling learners the opportunity to specialise in these and related areas. The qualification is designed as a response to meet the Mobile e-services sector needs of the ICT industry in consultation with the SATNAC community of academics and professionals. Upon completion, the learner will be ready to provide well-researched solutions to complex industry, civil society and organisational problems using ICT specialised knowledge. The qualification prepares an Honours holder with appropriate Engineering/Technology/Computing background with skills required for the digital economy and age.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) will be conducted following the Policy and Procedures for its of the institution. RPL is regarded as one of the critical mechanisms for achieving redress and equity and accelerating access in the institution. This policy and set of procedures will be used in the admission of a learner to a qualification where the minimum requirements have not been met (excluding mature age exemption category of exemption for admission to undergraduate qualifications), but the learner has evidence that the requirements can be met through RPL.

All potential learners who do not have an honours qualification in Computer Science need to provide proof of an equivalent qualification. Those who claim that they have achieved relevant prior learning, which should give them access to the qualification, need to apply to the Head of the Department of Computer Science for recognition of prior learning. Potential learners who want to be credited for prior learning and/or experience for a particular module or modules, need to apply in writing to the Head of the Department of Computer Science clearly stating the title(s) of the module or modules they want to be credited for, as well as the basis on which they believe the accreditation should be granted. The principles of RPL are subscribed to and will be implemented flexibly. The principle of flexible and open access will, however, be offset against the provision that this should not be to the detriment of the potential learners and that his/her chances of success are reasonable. The RPL Committee will assess the competencies of these learners.

Entry Requirements

• Cognate Bachelor of Science Honours, NQF Level 8.

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

Compulsory Module

• Research Dissertation, 180 Credits, Level 9.

1. Conduct independent research that shows potential to contribute to the discipline.
2. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the topics as specified by the discipline or field of study.
3. Effectively communicate the defined area of research within the discipline/field of study and the results of that research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level 1

• Search the literature and extract relevant references.
• Define the scope of the research.
• Apply relevant research procedures to investigate the given problem.
• Process, analyse and present data.
• Formulate a clear research hypothesis.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level 2

• Provide a critical overview of the relevant topics.
• Apply acquired knowledge to solving problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level 3

• Arrange the contents of the dissertation logically and coherently.
• Use technical presentation, layout and language that conform to standards expected for submission to a recognised scientific journal.

Integrated Assessment

At least two non-supervising reviewers assess submitted proposals and subsequently recommended by the supervisor to be orally presented before a Faculty Panel. The accepted proposal is then ethically cleared before being recommended to the University Higher Degrees Committee via the Faculty Board of Science and Agriculture. After consultation with the co-supervisor (where applicable), the supervisor gives the learner permission to submit his/her thesis.

Assessment will include input from two external examiners of which at least one should be from a country other than South Africa. External examiners must be recognised experts in their fields and must not be attached to or affiliated with the institution. All examiners are recommended by the Department Head in consultation with Supervisor/co-supervisor(s) and their names are forwarded for appointment by the Higher Degrees Committee on the recommendation of the Faculty Board of Science and Agriculture.

The completed report of the panel of examiners is regarded as the examiners' final recommendation. The result of the Doctoral thesis is based on a judicious appraisal of the examiners' reports.

After the result of the learner's thesis has been approved by the Faculty Examiners Committee, the Faculty Dean makes the examiners' report available to the Head of the Department, the supervisor, the co-supervisor, the learner and the other examiners if requested.