University of the Witwatersrand

Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies

Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology - Engineering and Related Design

Purpose and Rationale

Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies aims to provide advanced knowledge in Property Studies. After completion the learner will have acquired comprehensive, systematic, and integrated knowledge and techniques in:

  • Property Investment
  • Property Management
  • Facilities Management
  • Property Valuation and Appraisal
  • Research
  • Teamwork Skills

Research forms an integral part of the curriculum that will equip learners with the skills to:

  • Collect and analyse data
  • Use quantitative and qualitative methodology
  • Produce and communicate research findings and recommendations at an appropriate level

Objectives of the Qualification

  1. Provide learners with qualifying-level knowledge, skills, and competence appropriate to a vocation in Property Studies.

  2. Equip learners with a foundation for further intellectual development and opportunities for gainful employment and rewarding contributions to society.

  3. Provide learners with the ability to solve well-defined and frequently encountered problems, using well-established procedures and techniques.

  4. Contribute towards meeting the prerequisites for professional registration with the South African Council for the Property Valuers Profession and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, as well as to proceed for further postgraduate studies.

  5. Provide the profession with graduates who possess contextually specific fundamental skills, thereby facilitating upliftment, empowerment, and transformation.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities are available in related fields such as Real Estate, Property Development, Property Investment, and Property Valuation, which have been classified by the Government as being scarce skills. Graduates can find employment in companies such as banks, consultancy firms, and Government departments from National to Municipal levels. Career opportunities also exist with housing associations and utility companies.

Rationale

South Africa, as a developing country, should strive to improve and maintain its physical and economic development. Further development is essential to meet the aspirations of society, dependent on the provision of appropriate infrastructure, facilities, and processes. The availability of graduates in Property Studies is crucial to provide the necessary skills and competencies for development, management, and maintenance of facilities.

In recent years, there has been an increased need for specialized skills in the property industry. Professional Bodies like SAPOA, CSCM, and IPPSA have offered short courses to enhance skills in the industry. However, the demand for an academic and professional qualification in tertiary institutions is necessary to fill the gap for professionals in the property industry. The Honours Degree aims to address this need by equipping graduates with advanced knowledge and skills and providing opportunities for further studies at Master's and Doctoral levels.

Outcomes

  1. Analyse and solve problems related to the property and real estate sector.
  2. Manage legal, commercial, entrepreneurial and management issues.
  3. Communicate effectively on all matters within the property and real estate sector.
  4. Apply and use information technology appropriate to the built environment.
  5. Conduct research within the context of the built environment, including consideration of interdisciplinary aspects.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Create and innovate systems for identification, assessment, formulation, and solving of problems in property work.
  • Assess the impact, risks, and benefits of property.
  • Exercise judgement based on knowledge and experience.
  • Perform management tasks, analyze and evaluate alternative solutions.
  • Identify and solve open-ended property valuation, investment, and management problems.
  • Apply valuation, appraisal, and management techniques and principles.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Demonstrate understanding of management skills.
  • Apply management principles for managing resources in facilities and property maintenance.
  • Apply quality control and assurance processes within legislation.
  • Ensure client needs are met and customers are satisfied within legal requirements.
  • Understand legal, environmental, social, and community issues related to properties.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Demonstrate knowledge through effective writing and formatting of letters and reports.
  • Show excellence in spelling, grammar, vocabulary, citing, and referencing sources.
  • Impart information effectively in various settings using appropriate technology.
  • Develop discernment through effective listening.
  • Use basic graphical communication techniques like plans, diagrams, maps, pictures, and models.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

  • Use relevant information systems competently.
  • Utilize software systems, facilities management packages, construction/design packages, communication systems, and valuation/appraisal software.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

  • Implement sound research techniques, identify problems, formulate hypotheses, objectives, and methodologies.
  • Conduct research, draw conclusions, and make recommendations.
  • Participate in teamwork, recognize roles, and consider viewpoints of team members.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Formative assessment through presentations, discussions, and tutorials.
  • Participation in self-assessment, peer assessment, and assessment by academic staff.
  • Summative assessment through a research project integrating practical, theoretical, and reflective competence.
  • Oral examination incorporating verbal, written, and visual submissions.
  • Objective and structured practical and oral examinations requiring integration of information from different content areas.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

Education Cost Calculator

University of the Witwatersrand
Description
The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits University or simply Wits, is a renowned public research university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Established in 1896, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country. Wits University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, commerce, health sciences, and law. The university is known for its academic excellence, research contributions, and commitment to social justice. It has a diverse student body and a vibrant campus life, with numerous student organizations and cultural activities. Wits University is recognized internationally for its high-quality education and is consistently ranked among the top universities in Africa.

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.