Bachelor of Social Sciences in Political and International Studies
Human and Social Studies - Public Policy Politics and Democratic Citizenship
Purpose and Rationale
Qualification Overview
Purpose:
The purpose of the qualification is to produce learners with in-depth knowledge, and sustained proficiency in both scholarship and specialised training in the fields of Political and International Studies. Demonstrating initiative and responsibility in an academic context, learners will be equipped with sound analytical skills at a foundational level that will allow them to engage with key social, political and economic issues within the disciplinary areas. The qualification will also prepare learners to conduct research in the field of Political and International Studies. Combining the critical perspectives and theoretical grounding of Political and International Studies with the competencies required for public and international affairs, the qualification is designed to equip learners for a diverse range of career opportunities in the public sector, civil society (including Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)), consultancy bodies, research institutes, diplomatic and military academies as well as higher education. The qualification enhances learner attributes in the following four areas:
- Traditional Intellectual Knowledge.
- Personal attributes.
- Communication skills.
- Organisational and or institutional awareness.
Within the premise of Political and International Relations, learners will learn how to apply theoretical discourses, conduct independent research, and apply specific models and analytical tools under closely supervised conditions. With this, learners will develop a sound theoretical and practical understanding of the processes, functions and practices in the field of political and international relations. It thus aims to provide an integrated understanding of key issues in the study of power (politics broadly understood) and the interaction of state, economy and civil society.
Rationale:
The increasing demand for experts in the field of political science and global politics (International Studies) is critical and essential in a growing international system, thus making it imperative for developing the training, analysis, research and practitioner needs in the broader South Africa's socio-political landscape and its engagement with the international community. A qualification (Political and International Studies) of this nature is aimed at providing South Africa with a significant number of skilled political and international relations experts who can operate in a number of different areas of critical capacities and applied competencies in the general field of Political and International Relations. These areas include the public sector, Non-Governmental Organisations, Consultancy Bodies, Military Academies as political analysts, Policy Advisors, Researchers, Diplomats, as well as academics in Tertiary Institutions. This qualification will help locate the changing political landscape of South Africa within the broader international environment. Furthermore, the qualification offers broad spectrum of modules which could lead to advanced study as well as specialisation in fields of political and international relations with professional occupations-particularly since Political and International Relations is a discipline that encompasses a majority of all other disciplines to form a distinct discipline of its own.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate integrated knowledge in the fields of political and international studies and be able to apply theories.
- Exhibit understanding about the extent to which knowledge in these fields is contested and is in a constant state of flux.
- Develop the ability to select and apply a range of methods to resolve problems or introduce change within research practices or approaches.
- Identify, analyse, evaluate, critically reflect on and address complex problems, applying evidence-based solutions and theory-driven arguments in the field of political and international studies.
- Act ethically and professionally to justify decisions and actions drawing on appropriate ethical values and approaches within political and international studies.
- Access, process and manage information concerning political and international studies.
- Demonstrate the ability to develop and communicate ideas and opinions in well-formed arguments, using appropriate academic, professional or occupational discourse.
- Demonstrate the ability to take full responsibility for work, decision-making and use of resources, and limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others in varied or ill-defined contexts.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Explain key terms, concepts, and facts in a detailed manner.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of theories and concepts in political international studies.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Display knowledge literacy in political and international studies.
- Evaluate different types of knowledge and explanations in these fields.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Select specific methods and procedures to investigate problems.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Identify and apply problem-solving skills by utilizing respective theories.
- Critically analyze and evaluate problem-solving skills in relevant scenarios.
- Reflect on problem-solving skills in applying respective theories to specific cases.
- Address complex problems with theory-driven arguments.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Understand moral values, ethics, and professional practices in political and international studies.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Select appropriate processes for information gathering in the field.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Produce and communicate information on different theories, approaches, and debates in the discipline.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
- Demonstrate accountability in various contexts, taking ownership of one's agency.
Integrated Assessment:
- Continuous assessment through research, written assignments, lecture attendance, and participation in discussions.
- Assessment methods include essays, tutorials, exams, and class discussions.
- Multi-mode assessment designed to assess various competencies of learners.
Qualification Details
- Type
- National First Degree
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 360
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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