Master of Science in Horticultural Sciences

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifiers with

• Cutting-edge research skills in a chosen field of specialisation in Horticultural Sciences through supervised research.
• Knowledge and skills to engage in independent Horticultural Sciences research, selecting from a range of appropriate research designs, technologies, methods and techniques in the chosen focus area of Horticulture.
• Graduates should be able to undertake rigorous research and to communicate the results by means of a dissertation and scientific paper that meet internationally acceptable standards.
• Advanced, in-depth knowledge of a specific field of Horticultural Sciences.
• The ability to practically apply advanced professional skills in Horticultural Sciences.

This qualification also allows access to continuation of learning, namely the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Agriculture in Horticultural Sciences.

Rationale

This qualification is designed to provide the necessary advanced expertise, knowledge and research skills in Horticultural Sciences, hence promoting the achievement of Horticultural Sciences for the following:

• To provide Southern Africa with significant number of highly trained graduates in Horticultural Sciences to ensure the broadening of the regional leadership base of innovative and knowledge based economic and scholarly activities.
• To stimulate and prepare learners to cutting-edge study by the provision of required knowledge, skills and insight to develop as Horticultural Researchers and Educators on the highest academic levels and to provide the region with Scientists who will have a clear understanding of methods and progress of Horticulture and their responsibilities to provide food and nutrition to enhance people wellbeing in an economically viable and environmental friendly way.
• This Horticultural Sciences qualification is also designed to enable candidates to pursue further personal and professional development and to promote life-long learning.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL will be decided on case-to-case basis. Current research competencies that have been acquired by prior learning or through related practical experience will be assessed against the outcomes of appropriate Master's qualifications to determine compliance with access requirements. Candidates must, at the time of application, provide proof in the form of an academic record or other documentation to substantiate required level of knowledge and expertise. Such competencies may help gain access to the programme leading to this qualification, or advanced placement therein. See University of Venda (UNIVEN) policy on Recognition of Prior Learning.

Entry Requirements

• The minimum admission requirement is a relevant Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Horticultural Sciences).

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma.

Or

• A relevant Bachelor of Science Degree at NQF Level 8, with above average marks may be recognised as meeting the minimum entry for this program.

There is no course work required. This is a Master by research only at 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate ethical and professional behaviour.
2. Access, analyse, transform and critically evaluate existing knowledge.
3. Access, process, produce and communicate information effectively to colleagues and other groups.
4. Engage in independent social work research and produce findings in the form of a research report selecting from a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies in the chosen focus area.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Discussions reflect a clear understanding of the context (including policy, legislation and global issues), appropriate concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in the chosen field.
• Presentations reflect the appropriate application of the relevant concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in the chosen field.
• Written work on the chosen field displays critical analyses and a degree of intellectual independence.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Current literature and research are accessed, analysed and transformed systematically in the chosen focus area.
• Evaluations demonstrate clear evidence of effective application of the principles of Horticultural Sciences.
• Conclusions and recommendations are justified by the use of appropriate evidence and arguments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Discussions reflect the ability to obtain, process and communicate information effectively to colleagues and other groups.
• Presentations display analytical skills and a degree of intellectual independence.
• Written and oral communication convey and appropriately highlight the information to specific target groups.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• The research inquiry is planned and conducted on the basis of a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies for the specific research problem.
• Research themes are appropriately identified and demarcated.
• Analyses of the research theme include a comprehensive and critical review of current literature and investigations.
• Selected research methods, techniques and technologies are based on a clear understanding of Agricultural research theory and practice.
• Research reports critically and coherently describe theoretical arguments, the research process, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations.
• Research reports display skill in extrapolating key findings, justifiable conclusions and making feasible recommendations.

Integrated Assessment

The candidate must demonstrate integration of learning by successfully completing an advanced research project and present in form of a dissertation.