University of the Western Cape

Bachelor of Science Honours in Population Studies

Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences - Life Sciences

Purpose and Rationale

Degree Program: Bachelor of Science Honours in Population Studies

Purpose

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Population Studies program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamentals of demography and population studies. The program will focus on training students in the measurement and analysis of vital rates, fertility, mortality, and migration data. Additionally, students will be equipped with the necessary background knowledge to understand and apply various population studies applications.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be prepared to pursue careers in development within the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and government departments such as the Department of Health, Department of Population and Welfare, and Stats SA.

Rationale

In today's data-driven world, demographic data is essential for all government departments to inform policy decisions and program planning. There is a growing need for individuals with the skills to collect, analyze, and interpret demographic data effectively. The Bachelor of Science Honours in Population Studies program aims to meet this demand by providing students with the academic expertise and practical skills needed for careers in various sectors that rely on population data. By offering specialized training in population studies, the program seeks to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world applications.

Outcomes

  1. Acquired basic theoretical and practical knowledge in demography according to approved assessment criteria.
  2. Acquired basic research skills to enable the student to be a life-long learner.
  3. The ability to communicate demographic knowledge in both written and oral form.
  4. Development of research skills in the discipline of demography via a guided research project. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes: Identify and solve problems in which responses display critical thinking. Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, or organisation. Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively. Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information. Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical, and/or language skills in the modes of written and/or oral presentation.

Assessment Criteria

The module on Population Issues aims to develop students' specialised scholastic and basic research skills in this field. Throughout the course, students are required to demonstrate an adequate level of text comprehension, by engaging with a range of relevant sources to grasp key population problems. Assignments and final assessment papers are designed to assess students' ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, as well as to provide solutions to population-related challenges.

Lecturers model assignments and assessments on the module outcomes, ensuring that students are able to access and critically evaluate a variety of sources. This process encourages students to deepen their understanding of population issues and to develop their analytical and research skills. By working on theoretical and practical assignments, such as case studies, students are able to apply their knowledge to real-world situations and propose solutions to complex problems.

Additionally, students are expected to collaborate in a team environment, demonstrating their ability to work effectively with others to manage projects. This collaborative aspect of the assessment process helps students develop important teamwork and project management skills, which are valuable in both academic and professional settings.

The University's Continuous Assessment System includes a variety of assessment instruments, such as tests, essays, practical reports, project reports, and oral presentations. These assessments are designed to evaluate students' comprehension of course material, their ability to conduct research, and their capacity to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations. By engaging with these assessment events throughout the year, students are able to demonstrate their proficiency in population issues and their readiness to apply their skills in a professional context.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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University of the Western Cape
Description
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is a public university located in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1959, it is one of the leading universities in the country and is known for its commitment to social justice and transformation. UWC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, business, education, law, and health sciences. The university is recognized for its research excellence and community engagement, with a focus on addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities. UWC is also known for its diverse student body and inclusive campus 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.