Master of Sustainable Mining

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Sustainable Mining by research is to develop individuals involved within the mining value chain, from exploration to rehabilitation in research and innovative practices towards sustainable mining practices within the African continent. Advanced abilities in applying engineering technologies or related inter-disciplinary principles such as methods, strategies and designs within all mining related sectors in Africa as well as advanced capability to conduct fundamental research of an inter-disciplinary nature independently, will be developed.

Rationale

The qualification is developed with the conviction that African countries need effective sustainable mining to stand a meaningful chance of overcoming underdevelopment and poverty. With the increased focus on research and innovation, a demand for Master's Degree in mining has emerged where other offerings have only partially met the demand of the industry and sector. This proposal is to therefore offer a Master of Sustainable Mining by research which seeks to meet the needs of Postgraduate cohorts. The qualification provides a research opportunity for Master level students to acquire the much needed research knowledge and skills in an area of such importance to the region, country and continent.

This qualification is intended to focus research on the specific yet varied areas of sustainable mining practices within Africa and abroad. This body of knowledge seeks to add value to key areas of the entire mining value chain, that being from exploration right up to rehabilitation It is hoped that research into mining sustainability will assist in developing alternative uses for waste products and by-products, benefiting communities and the environment. The qualification also seeks to include studies into water use, treatment in order to improve the utilisation of scarce resources. A qualification of this nature, will contribute towards the national objectives, geared towards the development of scarce skills, energy infrastructure planning and management in order to support local and national socio-economic growth.

This qualification will provide an opportunity for graduates and professionals in related fields (engineers, project developers, financiers and public officials) to advance their knowledge and grow their careers in field of sustainable mining, as it relates to the various domains. Stakeholders also include participants in the energy sector, government, research institutes, the Chamber of Mines and Professional Institutes.

It is anticipated that this qualification will produce well-versed, academically robust, adept and mature professionals with analytical and astute leadership capabilities, who would be expediently responsive to the needs of the industry and of modern society.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The Faculty accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the will endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant.

The Faculty manages RPL according to the RPL policy, which will be applied as follows for purposes of this qualification as set out in the Faculty policy:

• Through RPL a student may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies.
• Recognition takes place in terms of applied requirements and procedures.
• RPL in the case of a student not complying with the formal entry requirements.

> Is conducted after payment of the prescribed fees in accordance with the policy and guidelines.

> Is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience.

> Is considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required National Qualifications Framework (NQF)-level.

> Takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.

> Is considered in terms of an assessment procedure that includes a motivated recommendation by an assessment panel.

> A qualification that does not satisfy the formal entrance requirements for a Master's Degree qualification, but the holder of a such a qualification, may apply for admission to the Master's Degree through RPL, which application may be granted subject to such conditions as may be considered to be appropriate.

Entry Requirements

The following minimum admission requirements will apply to this qualification

• Bachelor Honours Degree or a relevant Postgraduate Diploma at Level 8.

Or

• A relevant Bachelor's qualification with appropriate industry experience and subsequent recognised industry qualifications such as the Government Certificate of Competency may also be recognised as meeting the minimum entry requirement to the proposed Master's Degree qualification.

This qualification consists of a compulsory module at Level 9 with 180 Credits.

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Conduct independent and original research pertaining to the field of Sustainable Mining.
2. Apply knowledge that is highly specialised, authoritative competent to address solution to the challenges of sustainable mining.
3. Critically evaluate and consider internal and external stakeholder influence and impact in the field of sustainable mining.
4. Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with specifically research audiences and the community at large, in so far as they are affected by the research, using appropriate data analysis and interpretation.
5. Participate as a responsible citizen in the life of local, national and global communities by acting ethically in the chosen field of research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Complete a dissertation by identifying and formulating a research problem related to sustainable mining challenges or problems.
• Independently plan, co-ordinate and review research work, usually under supervision.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Perform a critical and relevant literature survey.
• Assess the significance of the research findings, as they relate to challenges in the mining industry.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate knowledge that the inter-disciplinary and integrated aspects that affect sustainable mining, have been considered.
• Identify external stakeholders and their impact on the mining sector.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Produce a dissertation in an acceptable structure, style and language.
• Describe the research findings and clearly emphasize its importance to the field of sustainable mining.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Demonstrate an awareness of the social implications of the research conducted.
• Illustrate ethical considerations in the gathering of research data.

Integrated Assessment

• Assessment is guided by the institution's policy.

Formative Assessment

• Seminar presentations and student/supervisor consultations.

Summative Assessment

• Research Dissertation.