Master of Theology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to equip learners with advanced and integrated specialist knowledge and practical understanding of Theology. Learners can function as effective and critical researchers who can identify, investigate and answer relevant research questions and generate new knowledge in the chosen field of Theology. Learners thus contribute towards the improved understanding of Theology. Successful completion of this qualification also provides candidates with the possibility of further study at the doctoral level.

Rationale

The qualification responds to the need to provide faith communities and the South African society at large with graduates possessing the critical knowledge, skills and competence required to make a positive but critical contribution to theological, ethical and global-political debates. These graduates can design, write and offer courses to foster an awareness of the crucial importance of Theology in contemporary society.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. The application of RPL is according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment (CHE 2016) and the institution's RPL policy.

• The Faculty of Health Sciences ensures the implementation of quality assurance processes in the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems). It also ensures that administrative and support systems, both before and after RPL assessment, are in place.
• Learners' assessment is against NQF Level 8 competencies.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Relevant Postgraduate Diploma, NQF Level 8.
• Bachelor Honours in Theology, NQF Level 8.
• Bachelor of Divinity, NQF Level 8.

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

• Compulsory Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Perform exegetical and theological analysis and interpretation of Christian sources relevant to Theology at an advanced level. The ability to apply the integrated knowledge by critically using a variety of methods including historical debate, textual and literary analysis and philosophical discourse.
2. Integrate, order, appropriate and communicate relevant sources of knowledge effectively in the context of research in Theology.
3. Analyse, understand and position oneself and one's community within the scope of the history of Christianity and the world in a manner appropriate to Theology as a field of study.
4. Choose and apply methodology appropriate to Theology as a field of research and Participate confidently in discussion and research into issues and problems relevant to Theology as a field of study and report their findings clearly in written and oral form.
5. Present a coherent written research model supported by references as appropriate through effective communication skills.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Reflect on and demonstrate functional capacity in Theology by applying hermeneutical issues specific to Theology.
• Evaluate and apply Christian theology in a manner appropriate to Theology as a field of study.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Analyse and interpret knowledge with methodological soundness.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Demonstrate the capacity for informed, independent, critical thinking and ability to perform appropriate library and online research utilised in the professional study of Theology.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Write a concise and substantial dissertation that utilise theories from the discipline of Theology that integrate knowledge and interpretative skills to analyse topics related to the field of Theology.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Demonstrate a sensitivity to and knowledge and understanding of the ethical needs of the country, and the ability to satisfy international standards of excellence.
• Identify problems and questions and critically evaluate solutions and answers in the practical aspects of research into ethical problems;
• Write a concise and substantial dissertation that utilise theories from the discipline of Theology that integrate knowledge and interpretative skills to analyse topics related to the field of Theology.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification by dissertation awarded by the institution offers the opportunity for high-quality research in various theological disciplines. Among them are the exegetical, historical, systematic, philosophical, jurisprudential and practical theological disciplines. The assessment practice and approach, which is characterised by ongoing supervision to culminate in a final summative assessment.

Integrated assessment: Design of a research proposal, the submission of an argued dissertation in terms of language, style, argumentation and documentation, internal and external assessment.