Bachelor of Social Science Honours in Policy and Development Studies

Human and Social Studies - Public Policy Politics and Democratic Citizenship

Purpose and Rationale

To achieve a high degree of sustained proficiency in both scholarship and professional training at all postgraduate levels in policy and development studies. This program aims to produce skilled practitioners who can address the governance and development needs, particularly in South Africa and other comparable societies. As a result, this qualification has a dual focus on academic and vocational training, providing students with practical skills to make a tangible impact in the field of policy and development.

Outcomes

Demonstrate a thorough understanding of issues, problems, ideas, discourses, processes, structures and trends pertaining to both policy and development, especially in relation to South Africa and comparable societies.
Demonstrate a full understanding of various models of public policy analysis and development.
Demonstrate a comprehension of different research methods, techniques and methodologies applicable to the fields of policy and development studies.
Demonstrate an acquired critical awareness and capacity for research so as to be able to investigate and understand issues, problems and trends in policy and development studies.
Demonstrate independent and original research that can advance scholarship would be the ideal here.
Demonstrate an ability to present research findings that meet appropriate academic and professional standards in policy and development studies.
Demonstrate the attributes to become a scholar: to inculcate a passion for learning and to appreciate the necessity for accuracy, honesty, fairness, generosity, integrity in the context of policy and development studies.
Demonstrate an acquired appreciation of the virtues of being an independent learner, as well as recognising the value of cooperating and collaborating with others in policy and development studies.
Demonstrate an ability to respond to the challenges of democracy and development in South Africa in relation to policy and development studies.

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Methods:

Seminars: Participation in seminars will demonstrate understanding of issues, problems, and trends in policy and development.
Exercises (research methods, policy designs): Completion of exercises will showcase comprehension and application of research methods and policy analysis models.
Visual Material: Creating visual material such as infographics or charts can be used to present arguments and policy designs effectively.
Oral Presentations: Delivering oral presentations will showcase the ability to communicate policy designs and reports competently.
Essays, Reports, Portfolios: Writing essays, reports, and compiling portfolios will demonstrate knowledge of various discourses, structures, and processes in policy and development.
Research Project, Dissertation, Thesis: Undertaking a research project will showcase the application of research methods, techniques, and methodologies in a comprehensive manner.
Examinations: Traditional written examinations will be used to assess the integration of learning outcomes and understanding of key concepts in policy and development.

By incorporating a variety of assessment methods such as continuous assessment, written examinations, oral presentations, and research projects, the institution ensures that students are able to effectively demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and understanding of policy and development issues.

Qualification Details

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

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University of KwaZulu-Natal

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The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a public research university located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. It was formed in 2004 through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. UKZN is one of the top-ranked universities in South Africa and is known for its excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. The university has multiple campuses spread across the province, including Durban, Pietermaritzburg, and Westville. Each campus has its own unique character and facilities, providing students with a diverse and vibrant learning environment. UKZN is committed to producing graduates who are academically competent, socially responsible, and globally competitive. It strives to promote innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among its students. The university also actively engages with local communities through various outreach programs and initiatives. Overall, the University of KwaZulu-Natal is a prestigious institution that offers high-quality education and research opportunities to students, contributing to the development and advancement of South Africa and the African continent as a whole.

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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.