Master of Science in Construction Economics

Purpose

This qualification will enable the learner after completion

• To provide students with a basic training in research methods and procedures appropriate to construction economics.
• To produce students for the economy with the capacity to work in teams which must carry out research in the construction field.
• To provide a rigorous and theoretically informed approach to the research study of construction economics that will serve the students throughout their subsequent careers, and will equip them either for senior management positions or for further research in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) leading to academic careers.

Rationale

This qualification contributes to the international body of knowledge related to the construction and property development industries. This is to produce graduates capable of building upon and extending the research base of construction Economics, thereby contributing towards skills development and the future growth of the field. Furthermore, the rational is to develop students with research capabilities in the field and therefore allow admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Degree studies.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL will be done according to Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for admission is

• A Bachelor of Science Honours in Quantity Surveying.

Or

• A similar qualification deemed by Senate.

This qualification comprises of compulsory module at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 180 Credits

• Dissertation Construction Economics, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of epistemological issues and research methods of construction economics.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of deep theoretical underpinnings of the discipline, use and communicate this effectively.
3. Write a research proposal.
4. Use the literature to identify the theoretical issues pertaining to the proposal.
5. Frame precise research questions.
6. Develop appropriate methods to address the research questions; execute the research, analyse the results and report the results, orally and as written dissertation.
7. Communicate research findings to peers and others in a multidisciplinary setting.

• The listed and cited literature of the literature survey and the exposition of the research reflect familiarity with relevant and recent trends in the chosen field.
• The use of literature surveys is justified fully and correctly on oral presentations and written record of research.
• The research problem is clearly identified, defined and detailed in the research proposal. The hypotheses direct the investigation.
• Logical interpretation of data reflects clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.
• Information sources are used correctly and appropriately and include a range of media.
• The appropriate mathematical and statistical methods are applied correctly to quantitative and qualitative data. The inferences, interpretations and conclusions from measurements and statistical analysis are valid.
• Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in communicating the research problem, its investigation, outcome and recommendations.

Integrated Assessment

The evaluation of the thesis is formative and summative in character and synoptically evaluates all outcomes. The thesis is assessed by the research supervisor and examined by internal and external examiners.