University of Cape Town

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Organisational Psychology

Human and Social Studies - Psychology

Purpose and Rationale

Honours Programme in Organisational Psychology

The Honours programme in Organisational Psychology is the first year of postgraduate study in the field. It offers a comprehensive exploration of Organisational Psychology, with a focus on in-depth study and research methods training. The programme aims to provide students with the necessary skills for future employment in organisations, self-employment, or further academic pursuits at the Masters and Doctoral levels in Organisational Psychology or related fields.

Upon completion of the programme, students have the opportunity to become registered as psychometrists, subject to passing an examination administered by the professional Board for Psychology. This qualification opens up career opportunities in various settings where an understanding of human behaviour in the workplace is essential.

Overall, the Honours programme in Organisational Psychology equips students with advanced knowledge, research skills, and practical experience to succeed in the field and make meaningful contributions to the workplace and beyond.

Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

The achievement of these outcomes is assessed in the integrated assessment of the programme. The learner's achievement of general programme outcomes is assessed through a range of formative and summative assessments throughout the course, and particularly in the capstone activity outlined under integrated assessment. Assessments include theoretical papers, practical reports, and research projects. Formative assessment includes the preparation of papers written under supervision. Summative assessments mainly take the form of the capstone literature review, research proposal, and project report.

Integrated assessment: The integrated assessment of an Organisational Psychology Honours graduate includes measurement of foundational, practical, and reflective competencies taught through the formative coursework components of the programme. The student is required to complete a series of exercises which integrate skills learned during the Honours year and to prepare those candidates who wish to continue to the master's level. In all assignments, performance will be assessed on the basis of the student's ability:

  1. to organize ideas and facts logically and coherently
  2. to incorporate relevant technical data into descriptive and argumentative writing
  3. to cite references accurately and consistently.

As the summative assessment of the programme, the student produces a research paper which demonstrates the capacity for independent thought and research, knowledge of the theoretical foundations of the subject, and of scholarly literature. The following components are integral parts of the production of the research paper:

  1. a focused literature review based on the use of a variety of text and other media which informs a potential research question. The review is written up in the form of an academic paper that accords with the publication conventions of the discipline of psychology.
  2. The formulation of a research question and the development of a research proposal based on the literature review. The proposal must specify a research design and the method/s to be applied to answer the research question. It must also consider the ethical implications of the research design and method/s.
  3. The demonstration of a professional working relationship by responding to the comments of the project supervisor.
  4. The carrying out of the research proposed and its presentation in a manner which accords with the publication conventions of the discipline.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of Cape Town
Description
The University of Cape Town (UCT) is a prestigious public research university located in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1829, it is the oldest university in South Africa and has consistently been ranked as the top university on the African continent. UCT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and commerce. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, research, and social impact. UCT's campus is situated on the slopes of Devil's Peak, providing stunning views of Cape Town and Table Mountain. The university attracts a diverse student body from South Africa and around the world, fostering a vibrant and multicultural learning environment.

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.