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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Master of Arts in Development Studies

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
105283	Master of Arts in Development Studies
ORIGINATOR
Nelson Mandela University
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Master's Degree	Field 07 - Human and Social Studies		Public Policy, Politics and Democratic Citizenship
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	180	Not Applicable	NQF Level 09	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0324/24	2024-07-01	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2031-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

The purpose of the Master of Arts in Development Studies is to develop intellectually independent development specialists who can engage in sustainable socio-economic development practice and research activities, while maintaining ethical standards. Graduates will have acquired in-depth theoretical knowledge and insights to approach development issues from a variety of perspectives, demonstrating critical competencies and lifelong learning, leading to successful careers as development practitioners in the public sector, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), multilateral and bilateral agencies, embassies, as members of international trade missions and as consultants in educational and cultural exchanges, among others.

Graduates will be able to engage with and critique current theory and policy, and advance scholarship by conducting research in socio-economic reconstruction and development, disseminating findings and conclusions, thus making a significant contribution to the development of knowledge and professional practice in this field at an advanced level.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Interpret and analyse policy documents.

Participate in policy formulation and implementation processes.

Contribute to development and social change.

Infuse participatory approaches in development programmes/projects.

Understand key institutional factors that enhance or inhibit development and know how to develop effective strategies to manage the required change.

Conduct research on development issues related to their work focus area.

Identify factors that impede the socio-economic development of developing countries and propose ways to approach challenges faced by these countries.

The qualification aligns with the institution's graduates' attributes by engaging the candidates in areas of knowledge creation through the development of their treatises/mini-dissertations in research topics that reflect the impact they want to make in their communities. It also enables them to broaden their knowledge of development studies discipline and inspires them to think innovatively about development challenges and solutions needed to improve their workplace and communities. Through various teaching and learning methods used when they complete the qualification, they can conduct themselves professionally and with integrity, they are persistent, resilient, socially conscious and able to uphold social justice.

Rationale:
Reflecting on the challenges humanity faces, it is clear that the very social fabric of humanity is fighting for survival globally. Major global challenges threaten our habitat, including a population explosion, gender inequalities, poverty, conflict and poor governance, fuelled by corruption. These are just some of the drivers of the challenges. Development Studies as a discipline provides a platform for approaching these challenges through a multidisciplinary interrogation of past and current development practices, pulling developing countries away from aid dependency to empowered communities. Key to developing future leaders, community practitioners and academics is education and training in development studies. The qualification truly reflects this by providing graduates with the knowledge and competence tolled humanity out of these crises.

The qualification offers significant benefits to the sector, society, and the economy through the development of highly skilled, ethically grounded, and critically engaged professionals. It contributes to building a skilled workforce by producing professionals with expertise in policy, theory, monitoring and evaluation, social movements, and development economics, all essential for designing and implementing effective development qualifications. Graduates can analyse and critique development policies through policy influence, offering valuable insights for improving public and private sector strategies. Additionally, with research training and treatise/mini-dissertation writing, graduates contribute to the body of knowledge and support decision-making with solid data and contextual analysis. Benefits to society include social consciousness that may improve social justice and inclusion, which is needed in South Africa's highly unequal state. Training in social movements, gender, and human rights equips graduates to champion marginalised communities and promote equity. Through participatory development methods and monitoring and evaluation, graduates help ensure that development projects respond to community needs, leading to empowered communities.

The typical learners likely to be attracted to the qualification are those who are passionate about social change, sustainable development, and policy reform. These individuals are often driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact at local, national, or global levels.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with regards to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate eligible applicants. However, candidates admitted through the RPL process cannot comprise more than 10% of each intake. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied to access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification.

RPL for access:

Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.

To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations, should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

RPL for exemption of modules:

Learners may apply for RPL to be exempt from modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner requires providing sufficient evidence, in the form of a portfolio, demonstrating that competency has been achieved for learning outcomes equivalent to the module's learning outcomes.

RPL for credit:

Learners may also apply for RPL for credit towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio demonstrating prior learning through formal, non-formal, and/or informal learning.

Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

Entry Requirements:

Bachelor of Arts Honours in Development Studies, NQF Level 8.
Or

Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies, NQF Level 8.
Or

Bachelor of Development Studies, NQF Level 8.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9, totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 9, 120 Credits:

Development Studies Treatise/mini-treatise, 80 Credits.

Advanced Development Theory, 20 Credits.

Advanced Development Policy, 20 Credits.

Elective Modules, NQF Level 9, 60 Credits: (Select 3 Modules)

Political Geography: Space, State and Nations, 20 Credits.

Development Economics, 20 Credits.

International Finance, 20 Credits.

Democratic Transitions and Economic Reconstruction, 20 Credits.

Social Movements, Social Change and Development, 20 Credits.

Monitoring and Evaluation for Development Practitioners, 20 Credits.

Political Economy of Development, 20 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate specialist knowledge of development theory and practice, and conceptualise new approaches that contribute to knowledge development in Development Studies.
2. Review and critique the application of development resources and the implementation of development plans to promote accountable, responsive and ethical programme planning and delivery.
3. Participate in and contribute to the development, implementation and review of development policy and legislation.
4. Analyse and evaluate socio-economic development programmes and projects, and propose strategies to improve their sustainability, effectiveness and impact.
5. Access, process and manage information to design, conduct and report research grounded in development theory and relevant research methodology.
6. Integrate and apply development theory, concepts and techniques within selected specialised fields of Development Studies.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Present and critically review a substantive overview of contemporary development theories.

Differentiate between and compare conventional and alternative development theories.

Conceptualise and critique existing alternative models of development.

Appraise socio-economic, cultural, environmental and political tensions against a background of contemporary development theory.

Research and describe the impact of globalisation on the cultural practices and traditions of selected developing countries.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Apply new methods, processes, systems and technologies in innovative ways to review and critique contemporary development plans, practices and resource application, demonstrating cultural awareness and sensitivity for the rights of minority and other groupings.

Contribute to the development and application of ethical standards in specific socio-economic and political development contexts, demonstrating autonomous ethical decision-making.

Analyse complex socio-economic and political development challenges and recommend appropriate interventions within defined development contexts.

Promote community acceptance of development planning and implementation processes through advanced communication skills and development-appropriate discourses for diverse audiences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Analyse and evaluate cases of past and present local, national and international socioeconomic and political development policy and implementation.

Critically engage with selected development policy perspectives and evaluate their impact on the allocation of natural resources.

Identify and report on diversity challenges in a rapidly globalising world for local managers and socio-political leaders.

Evaluate the role of civil society in the success or failure of development policy and implementation at meso and micro levels, considering culture, gender and human rights; community needs and aspirations; local pressure groupings and power structures; and political, legal, social and financial realities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Critically analyse and evaluate selected socio-economic development programmes and projects for effectiveness, impact and sustainability using case study approaches.

Systematically identify and critically analyse challenges affecting the planning and implementation of development programmes and projects.

Develop and justify contextually appropriate, evidence-based interventions and alternative development strategies informed by sound developmental theories, principles, and best practices.

Critically assess the extent to which development programmes and projects promote meaningful community participation, social equity, inclusion, and sustainable development outcomes.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Produce a coherent, concise and well-structured research treatise/mini-dissertation of approximately 30 000 words (100 pages) demonstrating appropriate academic and research conventions.

Formulate, refine, and justify a clearly defined research problem, supported by relevant literature, and anchored in an appropriate theoretical and conceptual framework within the field of Development Studies.

Design and implement a methodologically sound research approach, applying appropriate qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods research designs for the systematic collection, processing, and analysis of data.

Critically analyse and interpret research findings, demonstrating logical reasoning and the ability to draw valid, evidence-based conclusions linked to the research questions and objectives.

Demonstrate advanced academic writing proficiency, including coherent argumentation, critical engagement with literature, and accurate application of referencing conventions in accordance with recognised academic standards.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Critically integrate development theories, policies, and practices within selected specialised fields of Development Studies to address complex socio-economic and developmental issues.

Critically apply developmental principles and analytical frameworks to contemporary socio-economic challenges within specialised areas of development.

Critically evaluate the role and contribution of specialised fields such as Development Economics, International Finance, Political Economy, and Monitoring and Evaluation in promoting sustainable socio-economic development and policy transformation.

Demonstrate advanced disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge, independent problem-solving and decision-making competencies within selected specialised fields of Development Studies.

Integrated Assessment:
Integrated assessment holistically evaluates a learner's ability to synthesise knowledge, apply skills, and demonstrate attitudes consistent with the outcomes of a Master's level qualification. It ensures that assessment is not limited to discrete content but reflects the interconnectedness of learning and the real-world application of knowledge.

Applied competence is assessed by:

Problem-solving tasks through policy critiques, development strategy evaluations, and monitoring and evaluation reports.

Research competency shown in conceptualising, designing, and implementing a research study (treatise/mini-dissertation).

Practical scenarios and simulations, particularly in modules like Monitoring & Evaluation and International Finance, require the use of practical tools and strategic thinking.

Criteria for successful completion
A learner will be deemed to have completed the qualification if they:

Achieve a minimum of 50% pass mark per module, with both coursework and examination considered.

Complete and pass the treatise/mini-dissertation through both internal and external examination.

Accumulate a total of 180 credits at NQF Level 9.

Demonstrate the ability to apply critical thinking, problem-solving, research, and ethical practice across coursework and the treatise/mini-dissertation.

Formative Assessment:
Formative assessments help guide learning and provide feedback throughout the qualification. Assignments and essays allow learners to apply theory, critically engage with readings, and build argumentation. Presentations are also used to assess communication skills, depth of understanding, and engagement with academic literature. Additionally, case study analyses evaluate learners' ability to apply concepts to real-world development challenges. Collaborative skills are also enhanced through class discussions and group work, ensuring critical debates on development concepts and issues. Therefore, this assessment method promotes reflective thinking, consolidates learning, and guides improvement before final summative assessments.

Summative Assessment:
These assessments measure the overall achievement of learning outcomes. Examinations or end-of-module assessments for continuous assessments are used in core and elective modules (e.g., Advanced Development Policy, Development Economics) to assess theoretical understanding, knowledge synthesis, and analytical skills.

A treatise/mini-dissertation with 80 credits is the capstone assessment in which learners conduct independent research, demonstrating mastery of research design, data analysis, ethical engagement, and academic writing. This helps evaluate the learners' ability to integrate theory and practice in solving complex development problems.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The comparison considers qualifications offered in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Kenya.

Country: United Kingdom
Institution: University of Sussex
Qualification: MA Development Studies

Purpose:
The qualification develops analytical and practical skills required to address pressing global development challenges, including inequality, sustainability and security. It further enables students to engage critically with development debates and approach development problems creatively, confidently and collaboratively.
The MA Development Studies offered by the University of Sussex is a postgraduate qualification that combines development theory, policy, interdisciplinary analysis and independent research through coursework and a dissertation.

Similarities:

Both qualifications are postgraduate Development Studies qualifications that engage with development theory, policy and interdisciplinary development challenges.

Both qualifications include coursework and a substantial independent research component in the form of a dissertation, treatise or mini-dissertation.

Differences:

Nelson Mandela University foregrounds South African and African development contexts, while the University of Sussex adopts a broader global development orientation.

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Melbourne
Qualification: Master of Development Studies

Purpose:
The qualification provides specialist training in development and environment, development and gender, development and urbanisation, and health policy and development. It prepares learners to engage with urgent development issues and refine transferable skills such as critical analysis, communication, cross-cultural understanding, research methods, project design, project management and teamwork.

The Master of Development Studies offered by the University of Melbourne is a postgraduate coursework qualification that develops knowledge and skills in development theory, development practice, research methods, policy, project design and development-related professional practice.

Similarities:

Both qualifications are multidisciplinary and address development theory, policy, socio-economic transformation, governance, sustainability, inequality and globalisation.

Both qualifications include coursework and research-related components that develop analytical, research and professional development competencies.

Differences:

Nelson Mandela University has a fixed 180-credit NQF Level 9 structure with an 80-credit treatise/mini-dissertation, while the University of Melbourne uses a credit-point structure with different entry pathways and capstone or minor thesis options.

Nelson Mandela University emphasises South African and African development contexts, while the University of Melbourne reflects broader global and Asia-Pacific development contexts.

Country: Kenya
Institution: University of Nairobi
Qualification: Master of Development Studies

Purpose:
The qualification equips learners with the skills and knowledge required for careers in the field of development. It gives learners an understanding of the development experiences of different countries and develops the analytical and conceptual skills needed to understand and respond to development challenges.

The Master of Development Studies offered by the University of Nairobi is a multidisciplinary postgraduate qualification that addresses contemporary development issues through development theory, methodological approaches, coursework, field exposure and research.

Similarities:

Both qualifications are postgraduate Development Studies qualifications located within multidisciplinary social science traditions.

Both qualifications include coursework and a substantial research component that develops advanced knowledge, analytical competence and research capability.

Differences:

Nelson Mandela University includes a defined 80-credit treatise/mini-dissertation, while the University of Nairobi includes a research project paper or thesis option.

Nelson Mandela University focuses on South African and broader African development contexts, while the University of Nairobi focuses on Kenyan, regional and global development contexts.

Conclusion:
The comparison confirms that the Nelson Mandela University Master of Arts in Development Studies is comparable with selected international postgraduate qualifications in Development Studies in terms of level, purpose, disciplinary focus, coursework, research, policy engagement, interdisciplinary analysis and graduate preparation. The qualification is also distinctive in its South African and African contextual focus, particularly through its emphasis on socio-economic reconstruction, development policy, monitoring and evaluation, development economics, development finance, social movements and sustainable community development.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

The qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options:
Horizontal Articulation:

Master of Commerce in Economics, NQF Level 9.

There are currently no horizontal articulation possibilities between Sub-Frameworks for this qualification as OQSF does not have qualifications at NQF Level 9.

Vertical Articulation:

Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies, NQF Level 10.

Diagonal Articulation:
This is a specialised qualification; therefore, diagonal articulation is not an option.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

N/A

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

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