University of the Free State

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Music

Culture and Arts - Music

Purpose and Rationale

The Honours degree in Music is designed to enhance and deepen a learner's expertise in the field of music following the completion of a Bachelor's Degree. This qualification allows for specialisation options within the music discipline, enabling learners to focus on areas such as Music Performance (including orchestral and/or choral conducting), Musicology, Music Theory and Composition, Music Education, or Music Technology.

Through advanced training in research methodology and the completion of a mini-dissertation, learners will develop their research capacity in the field of music. This programme aims to equip learners with the necessary skills to conduct musicological research at a more advanced level than that of a Bachelor's degree. Additionally, learners will acquire advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen modules within the BA Honours programme, as well as in their selected specialisation option.

Upon completion of the BA Honours in Music, learners will be well-equipped to make a meaningful contribution to both private and public sectors within the music industry.

Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate the knowledge of and engagement in an area at the forefront of a field, discipline or practice.
  2. To be able to interrogate multiple sources of knowledge in an area of specialisation and can evaluate knowledge and processes of knowledge production.
  3. To have an understanding of the complexities and uncertainties of selecting.
  4. Applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to unfamiliar problems in a specialised field, discipline or practice.
  5. They should be able to use a range of specialised skills to identify, analyse and address complex or abstract problems drawing systematically on the body of knowledge and methods appropriate to a field, discipline or practice.
  6. To identify and address ethical issues based on critical refection on the suitability of different ethical value systems in specific context.
  7. To critically review information gathering, evaluation and management processes in specialised contexts in order to develop creative responses to problems and issues.
  8. To present and communicate academic, professional or occupational ideas and texts effectively to a range of audiences.
  9. To operate effectively within a system.
  10. To apply, in a self-critical manner, learning strategies, which effectively address his/her professional and ongoing learning needs and the professional and ongoing learning needs of others.
  11. To take full responsibility for his/her work, decision-making and use of resources.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:

  1. Competence and practical experience in musicological research at a more advanced level:

    • Demonstrated ability to conduct in-depth research in musicology, including analysis of primary sources, synthesis of secondary literature, and critical evaluation of findings.
    • Evidence of practical experience in applying research methods to musicological inquiries, such as archival work, fieldwork, or digital humanities techniques.
  2. Advanced knowledge and critical insight and their applications in their chosen subject(s) and in Research Methodology:

    • Mastery of advanced concepts and theories in their chosen area of specialization within music (Performance, Musicology, Music Theory and Composition, Music Education, or Music Technology).
    • Ability to critically engage with and evaluate scholarly work in the field, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of key debates and methodologies.
  3. Knowledge, critical insight, and practical skills with regard to a specialization option:

    • Proficiency in the practical skills specific to their chosen specialization, whether in performing, composing, teaching, or utilizing technology for musical purposes.
    • Ability to apply critical insight to their practical work, demonstrating a deep understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of their creative or pedagogical decisions.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Integration of Concepts, Ideas, and Actions:

    • Demonstrated ability to connect and apply knowledge and skills across different areas of music study, showing a holistic understanding of the field.
    • Evidence of coherent and grounded competence in relation to the overall purpose of the qualification, showcasing a well-rounded skill set that integrates various aspects of music scholarship and practice.
  • Authentic Assessment Methods:

    • Use of a variety of assessment methods that mirror real-world scenarios in music research, performance, composition, education, or technology.
    • Emphasis on showcasing how competencies in individual areas can be interconnected and utilized to achieve a comprehensive outcome aligned with the exit level outcomes of the program.
  • Selection of Musicians for Assessment Purposes:

    • It is recommended that learners engage with a diverse group of musicians for assessment, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of music studies and the ability to collaborate with others in the field.
    • By working with musicians from different backgrounds and specializations, learners can demonstrate their adaptability and competence in various musical contexts.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of the Free State
Description
The University of the Free State (UFS) is a public research university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It was established in 1904 and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, natural and agricultural sciences, law, health sciences, education, and economic and management sciences. UFS is known for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and it strives to provide quality education and promote social justice. The university has a strong research focus and collaborates with national and international partners to address societal challenges and contribute to knowledge creation. UFS also has a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, sports facilities, and cultural activities.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.