University of Johannesburg

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Urban Studies

Human and Social Studies - Urban and Regional Studies

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Purpose

The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide qualifying learners with the ability to:

  1. Discuss the theory and methodology of Urban Studies.
  2. Contribute to current debates in Urban Studies at an intermediate level.
  3. Apply their knowledge to issues relevant to the field of Urban Studies in the Southern African context.
  4. Plan, design, and execute research, using appropriate methodology.
  5. Report on research findings effectively.
  6. Understand, interpret, analyze, and present research data accurately.

Outcomes

  1. Critically and creatively, describe and apply different theoretical models and constructs in Urban Studies to specific social problems in authentic South African contexts, at an intermediate level### reflect on their problem-solving process###
  2. Work in a group and reflect on their participation in groups###
  3. Accept responsibility for own learning in terms of time-management and quality of work at an intermediate level###
  4. Design, plan, and execute a meso-level framework within an authentic context### reflect on their own research and report on research findings at an intermediate level###
  5. Engage with, and critique in a constructive manner, the ideas of their peers and others###
  6. Use science and technology, effectively and critically, based on a theoretical framework, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others, reflecting on this process at an intermediate level###
  7. Propose solutions to specific social problems in the Southern African context by taking race, ethnicity, political issues, gender and multi-culturalism into account###
  8. Search for and access appropriate resources employing a range of learning strategies and technologies within the field of Urban Studies at an intermediate level###
  9. Develop responsibility towards other members of society###
  10. Project cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to people from different cultures, based on theoretical knowledge and reflecting on this process###
  11. Develop employment-seeking skills within the field of Urban Studies###
  12. Explore entrepreneurial possibilities within the field of Urban Studies.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Urban Studies Qualification:

  1. Provide an in-depth discussion of theoretical models in the field of Urban Studies:

    • Apply theoretical constructs and models in authentic Southern African contexts at an intermediate level.
    • Reflect on problem-solving process.
  2. Interact well with peers:

    • Contribute positively in group contexts.
    • Reflect on participation in groups.
  3. Take responsibility for own learning:

    • Demonstrate time management skills.
    • Ensure quality of work meets acceptable standards at an intermediate level.
  4. Formulate a research question and conduct social research:

    • Select appropriate methodology for a specific research question.
    • Use suitable data-collection techniques.
    • Interpret research data accurately.
    • Uphold high ethical standards in research.
    • Recognize limitations of research design.
    • Address validity and reliability concerns.
    • Defend validity and reliability of study.
    • Report research findings accurately.
    • Write research report in appropriate register.
    • Structure research report effectively.
    • Make logical, coherent arguments.
    • Present research results to an academic audience.
  5. Interact well with peers and others:

    • Contribute positively in group contexts.
    • Engage in class and seminar discussions.
    • Critique research proposals or arguments logically.
    • Display cultural sensitivity in critiquing.
  6. Make decisions supported by theory and experience:

    • Compile bibliography in appropriate style.
    • Source material using various technologies.
    • Find relevant and up-to-date information.
    • Use appropriate media for presentations.
    • Consider environment and health in research process.
  7. Explore challenges and problems facing South Africa:

    • Apply theoretical knowledge to South African context.
    • Consider race, ethnicity, political issues, gender, and multiculturalism.
  8. Explore and reflect on learning skills and strategies:

    • Demonstrate learning skills at an intermediate level.
  9. Show responsibility towards society.

  10. Project cultural and aesthetic sensitivity:

    • Apply theoretical knowledge in cultural interactions.
  11. Develop employment-seeking skills in Urban Studies field.

  12. Identify and develop entrepreneurial opportunities in Urban Studies.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Continuous assessment practices are integral to the qualification.
  • Learning outcomes are clear to learners with a coherent assessment strategy.
  • Formative assessment includes short essays, group presentations, and practical activities.
  • Self-assessment and peer-assessment opportunities are provided.
  • Summative assessment includes written assignments, module tests, research projects, and final examinations.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of Johannesburg
Description
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was established in 2005 through the merger of the Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University. UJ is one of the largest universities in South Africa, with over 50,000 students enrolled across its four campuses. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields, including arts, humanities, sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences. UJ is known for its commitment to providing quality education, promoting social justice, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

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.