University of Fort Hare

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Development Studies

Human and Social Studies - People/Human Centred Development

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Overview

Purpose

The purpose of this qualification is to help students understand issues of management of development in developing countries, the research process, and to master writing and thinking skills, including logical and coherent argumentation. Additionally, it aims to equip students to address poverty and policy management issues effectively.

Rationale

This qualification serves as a bridge for students from other disciplines into Masters and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs. It empowers students with skills in Development Planning and Public Policy related to Economic Development. The department is affiliated with the South African Development Studies Association (SADSA), promoting multidisciplinary studies. Applications are encouraged from students, public servants, development practitioners, social activists, and others.

Career Opportunities

Upon completion of this program, graduates can pursue career opportunities in various fields, including:

  • Education
  • Policy Making
  • Diplomacy
  • Trade Unions
  • Research
  • Planning
  • Social Impact Assessment
  • Development Consulting
  • Social, Civil, and Human Rights Activism
  • Government and Non-Governmental Organizations
  • Development and Rural Extension Officers

Program Details

  • Duration: One year
  • Mode of Learning: Face-to-face interaction
  • Assessments: Internal assessments include assignments, tests, class participation, seminar presentations, and written examinations moderated internally and externally.
  • Outcomes: This program aims to produce academics with enriched scholarly and practical experience.

By undertaking this qualification, students can enhance their knowledge and skills in development studies, preparing them for a range of career opportunities in the field.

Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes:

  • Assignments and group discussions: Students will be required to complete assignments and participate in group discussions to demonstrate their understanding of the course material and their ability to engage with their peers in academic discourse.

  • Research paper required: Students will need to conduct independent research and write a research paper on a topic related to the course material. This will assess their ability to critically analyze information and communicate their findings effectively in a written format.

  • Research papers, Seminar presentations, group discussions and debates: These activities will provide students with opportunities to showcase their research, critical thinking, and communication skills in various formats, including written papers, oral presentations, and debates.

  • Continuous assessment through class tests, group presentations and assignments: Students will be assessed continuously throughout the course through a variety of methods, including tests, presentations, and assignments. This will allow for ongoing feedback on their progress and understanding of the material.

  • Written examinations to all: At the end of the course, students will be required to take a written examination to assess their overall understanding of the material covered.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Formative assessments: Formative assessments will include continuous assessments through class lectures, seminar presentations, group discussions, debates, class tests, group presentations, and assignments. These activities will help students develop their knowledge and skills over time.

  • Major end of semester exam: The major end of semester exam will serve as the summative assessment for the course, testing students on their overall grasp of the material covered throughout the semester. This exam will help determine the students' final grades and measure their achievement of the course objectives.

Qualification Details

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

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University of Fort Hare
University of Fort Hare
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Description
The University of Fort Hare is a public university located in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa. It was established in 1916 and is one of the oldest universities in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and management. It is known for its commitment to providing quality education and promoting social justice and equality. The University of Fort Hare has a diverse student body and is recognized for its contributions to research and community engagement.

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.