Master of Science in Geography and Environmental Management

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to enable students to acquire specialist and advanced knowledge and skills which are needed for research and research methodology in the field of Geography as well as Environmental Management. Many employers require a Master of Science (MSc) as the minimum qualification for working in a particular field. Thus, the qualification will embody aspects of practical training essential for functioning as a senior scientist in a work environment. The purpose is also to equip graduates with the tools necessary for them to be professional academic practitioners in the field of Geography and Environmental Management. Most universities also insist on an MSc level qualification or evidence of attainment of this standard as the minimum entry standard for Doctor of Philosophy training. The second purpose of this qualification is to provide the country with graduates in the natural sciences in order to ensure that the local leadership base of innovative and knowledge based economic and scholarly activity in the field of Geography and Environmental Management is widened.

Rationale

The qualification is intended to provide the country with thoughtful and sensitive environmental practitioners who combine specialised in-depth knowledge of Geography with the skills associated with Environmental Management. The emphasis is on identifying, evaluating and offering solutions to environmental, social and management issues through innovative research, backed by a strong understanding of the natural science basis of environmental systems. Such graduates can serve the community in a variety of important ways, in both the public and private sectors and will have the competency and skills to advance to a Doctor of Philosophy Degree.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL for access purposes will require the candidate to comply with the admission requirements of the institution.

Entry Requirements

• Honours qualification in Geography or Environmental Sciences.

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

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of Geography and Environmental Management and of the ethics of research and practice in this field of study.
2. Think critically and creatively, work as an individual and in research teams within a multidisciplinary environment, showing leadership and performing critical functions.
3. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with scientific and lay audiences.
4. Use appropriate research methods, techniques and principles underlying the research project.
5. Plan and execute research work, gather, analyse, evaluate and interpret appropriate scientific literature and data, and be competent to report in detail on such work by writing reports and a dissertation.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment will be aimed at determining whether the student has achieved the requisite level of knowledge required at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 9, as well as the student's ability to use and apply specific methodological skills to critically review current literature in the subject area and to formulate and carry out a research a project, report on it and generate an integrated dissertation of research findings.

Assessment is initiated when the research proposal is considered by the Committee for Advanced Degrees. Approval by this committee is a requirement for the study. The supervisor also assesses continuously while the dissertation is being written. Examination of the dissertation is done by at least two examiners of which one is external, all experts in the field of specialisation.