Master of Social Sciences in Development Studies

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Social Sciences in Development Studies is to deliver learners who are well able to undertake advanced research on complex academic and realistic problems within the discipline with the view to generating new scientific knowledge and/or develop policy options/workable solutions to socio-economic and political challenges, and to report on such in a prescribed scientific, concise and comprehensive format. With the knowledge acquired in this programme, learners will be adequately equipped to enhance their career with confidence and also contribute to the development of the society and country in general.

Rationale

The rationale behind the Master of Social Sciences in Development Studies is to equip learners with in-depth disciplinary and research knowledge and skills that will enable them to do investigative research in issues relating to development, and also contribute to the advancement of knowledge for the use of policy-makers in the country. The qualification enables the learner to develop as a researcher in development studies and to conduct a research project successfully and thereby produce skilful researchers to society.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

For access purposes will require the learner to comply with the admission requirements of the institution. The institution accepts the principle underlying outcomes-oriented, source-based and lifelong learning in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a meaningful role. The institution also underwrites the view that RPL, obtained either by formal learning, or informally (obtained by experience), is an indispensable element in granting admission or credits with the aim of accepting the learner.

RPL deals with provable knowledge and learning that the learner obtained by following formal learning or by experience. At all times the question will be what level of competence was reached, judged in the context of the exit level skills required for the contemplated qualification or modules, or status for which the learner is applying and not merely about the experience the learner can prove. RPL takes place in terms of the relevant skills that the learner demonstrated in the application with reference to the exit outcomes that should be reached in the qualification.

Entry Requirements

Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours in a cognate field, NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of a compulsory module and elective modules at Level 9 and can be done through course work or research.

Course work

Compulsory Module

• Mini-Dissertation, 120 Credits.

Elective Modules (Choose two Modules: 60 Credits)

• Rural and Urban Development, 30 Credits.
• Development Theories, 30 Credits.
• Gender Issues and Development, 30 Credits.
• Development Issues and Problems, 30 Credits.
• Sustainable Development, 30 Credits.
• Community Development, 30 Credits.
• Development Planning, Policy and Management, 30 Credits.

Or

Research

Compulsory Module

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Apply in-depth knowledge and advanced competencies in the identification of a viable research question that can be researched individually or within a group, both discipline-specific or interdisciplinary.
2. Design and apply appropriate qualitative and/or quantitative formats and procedures in an ethical and scientific way to investigate the problem.
3. Interpret and report the research findings scientifically and communicate the findings in writing in accordance with academic protocols, and also orally with the aid of IT, to an audience of academic peers.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be assessed in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes.

• Demonstrate a systematic and integrated knowledge and understanding of, and an ability to analyse, evaluate and apply the fundamental terms, concepts, facts, principles, rules and theories.
• Apply appropriate discipline-related methods of scientific inquiry and independently validate, evaluate and manage sources of information.
• Demonstrate critical reflection on, and understanding and application of, appropriate methods or practices to resolve complex discipline-related problems and thereby introduce change within related practice.
• Demonstrate professional and ethical behaviour within an academic and discipline-related environment with sensitivity towards societal and cultural considerations.
• Effectively communicate scientific understanding and own opinions/ideas in written or oral arguments, using appropriate discipline-related and academic discourse as well as technology.
• Demonstrate effective functioning as a member and/or leader of a team or a group in scientific projects or investigations, with self-directed management of learning activities and responsibility for own learning progress.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment of a master's dissertation initially takes place 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 finally done by at least two examiners of which one is external, all experts in the field of specialisation. A supervisor may not be appointed as an examiner.