SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Bachelor of Social Science Honours

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
109291	Bachelor of Social Science Honours
ORIGINATOR
Sol Plaatje University
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Honours Degree	Field 07 - Human and Social Studies		General Social Science
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 08	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2019-03-08	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

Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours is to consolidate, deepen and intensify the learners' theoretical and conceptual knowledge and expertise in the specialised fields of Social Sciences. It provides the learners with the opportunity to study human behaviour and actions. Within the different fields of specialisation provide learners advanced intellectual education in research, analysis and writing. The methodologies and techniques will prepare them to undertake an approved independent social science research project and construct new knowledge in their fields of specialisation (Anthropology, History or Sociology). The Bachelor of Social Sciences Honours Degree prepares learners as future public leaders, professionals or managers, with relevant and highly valued specialised knowledge of society's establishments, cultures and ethics.

The qualification will enable learners to be critical and reflective practitioners and specialists in their respective fields of specialisation. Critical thinking and reflective skills will enable these graduates to address numerous complexities relating to Anthropology, History or Sociology respectively. Further it will equip them to be agents of change in their respective local community contexts as well as in the broader South African and international contexts. This will only be possible if graduates are equipped with the necessary skills and competencies to engage critically on a high level with theory and if they are honed to be intellectually independent.

The qualification is developed for three separate fields of specialisation in the Social Sciences, namely Anthropology, History or Sociology. Each of the specialisations will consists of five modules. Three of the modules are compulsory. Two of these engage with the theoretical aspect of the subject discipline, while the third module focus on research under supervision. The elective modules place emphasis on themes and issues related to local, national, continental and global issues in Social Sciences.

Rationale:
The Bachelor of Social Science Honours is designed to consolidate the learning in the undergraduate qualification. This qualification focuses on research and research methods, as well as contextual-specific approaches and skills in critical thinking, conducting research, and presenting findings to both the academic community and larger public. The electives will deepen knowledge and engagement in more specific fields, and the mini-thesis offers a practical application of research that will contribute to research and offer a platform into further postgraduate study or work in diverse settings.

The qualification offers an opportunity for continuing academic and professional development in the different disciplines. It provides for the integration of theory and research approaches. This allows learners to engage with specific scenarios as committed thinkers and actors. A high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence is required from learners enrolling for this qualification.

Qualifying learners would have the advantage of serving the community and society with academic knowledge on many of the major current problems facing society. This knowledge can be of great use in working in government departments, as well as the public-and private sector in helping to address issues that are currently crippling our economy and causing various societal issues e.g. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), gender issues, land issues, poverty and many other related current problems.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The Institutional Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy applies. For admission via RPL learners will be required to demonstrate their suitability either through work experience and/or other prior learning that has taken place.

The RPL principle recognise prior learning experiences, as long as the prior learning can be assessed and that credits can be awarded on the basis of the mentioned assessment.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement:
Bachelor of Arts (BA) Degree or equivalent degree or qualification at National Qualification Framework (NQF) Level 7 with one of the specialisation courses as a major subject. The learner must have obtained an average of at least 60% at third year level in the discipline in which the learner would like to specialise.

An approved Advanced Diploma in Education (ADE) at NQF Level 7.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of compulsory and elective modules at Level 8, totalling 128 Credits.

For specialisation in Anthropology:
Compulsory modules (80 Credits):

Research Project: Mini Thesis/Mini-dissertation, 32 Credits.

Research Methods and Ethnographic Practice, 24 Credits.

Theory in Anthropology, 24 Credits.

Elective courses (choose any two modules - 48 Credits):

Belonging and the Body, 24 Credits.

Media, messaging and representation, 24 Credits.

Gender Studies, 24 Credits.

For specialisation in History:
Compulsory modules (80 Credits):

Research Project: Mini Thesis/Mini-dissertation, 32 Credits.

Historical Method and Approaches, 24 Credits.

Historiography, 24 Credits.

Elective courses (choose any two - 48 Credits):

Themes in Land and Labour History, 24 Credits.

Conflict Studies in Historical Perspective, 24 Credits.

Themes in Urban History, 24 Credits.

A Comparative Study of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (BRICS) Countries, 24 Credits.

For specialisation in Sociology:
Compulsory modules (80 Credits):

Research Project: Mini Thesis/Mini-dissertation, 32 Credits.

Research Methodology, 24 Credits.

Social Theory, 24 Credits.

Elective courses (choose any two - 48 Credits):

Social Organisation and Structure, 24 Credits.

Social Deviance and Control, 24 Credits.

Conflict, Ideology and Radical Social Change, 24 Credits.

Gender Studies, 24 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding on a variety of theoretical approaches to the study of the Social Sciences.
2. Critically interrogate these sources to ensure that they understand and make meaning of the contents and contribute in a meaningful and active way to the ongoing critical discourses and debates in their field of specialisation.
3. Identify, appreciate, analyse and evaluate complex problems that they may be faced with in the different disciplines.
4. Demonstrate strong understanding of the ethical principles governing Social Sciences.
5. Demonstrate understanding towards diligence and accountability towards fulfilling various different academic tasks within the qualification.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Ability to amass, assess and equate a variety of theoretical approaches to the study of Social Sciences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Ability to interpret and actively participation in subject content knowledge.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Present an understanding of to how solve complex problems in their different disciplines.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Assemble research findings for assignments and the research project based on strong ethic al principles.

Comply to the ethical method of conducting interviews, research, research findings, report writing and any other principles of upholding academic integrity at all times Literature searches are conducted in order to contextualise and frame the research problem, question or issue and frame the area of investigation.

A theoretical framework for the research design is developed and the most suitable method of investigation determined.

The relevant data are collected, analysed, processed and interpreted, making use of appropriate data gathering techniques, appropriate software and analytical tools.

A research report is prepared and presented with findings, conclusions and recommendations that meet the requirements of a scientific document and academic style.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Comprehend the value of being accountable for their own learning as well as he learning of others, as integral part of life-long learning.

Integrated Assessment:
Formative and Summative Assessment:
Formative Assessment within the qualification consists of a range of formal, non-formal, and informal Formative Assessment procedures. These assessment procedures might differ in nature from discipline to discipline, but the assessment principle would be the same for all the respective disciplines within the Social Sciences.

Summative Assessment will take place in the form of a formal exam or the submission of a portfolio of evidence or a formal assignment/case study for assessment at the end of the respective modules. In the case of the research project, a dissertation/research report will be submitted for examination at the end of the year.

Integrated Assessment will take place to test the knowledge of the learners and their practical application thereof. Throughout the modules the learners' conceptual understanding of different theories and concepts will be evaluated through the approach they take in applying it in practice. These assessments will be done through individual tasks, group assignments or formal activities.

The submission of late assignments and supplementary assessment opportunities will be dealt with in accordance with the university's policy on assessment.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland - Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA Hons) qualification in Social Sciences:
Through the BA Hons qualification in Social Sciences the learners are given a good grounding in a broad range of subjects, including history, psychology, criminology and sociology. As in case of the Edinburgh Napier University, the BA Honours qualification in Social Sciences at Sol Plaatje University (SPU) will help learners gain a comprehensive understanding of society, culture and human interaction and develop relevant skills for employment including the ability to think critically and analytically. Likewise, the BA Honours qualification in the Social Sciences at SPU will also offer an insight into many different aspects of our lives as individuals and as part of society.

The Open University:
BA (Honours) Social Sciences:
Very similar to the case at the Open University, the different disciplines of the BA Honours qualification in the Social Sciences at SPU will be utilised to seek answers to the big questions people face as a society. Those answers inform the work of anyone needing to base their decisions on the best available evidence - civil servants, policy makers, business executives and many more. Another similarity in the two qualifications are that studies in the Honours qualification in Social Sciences at SPU will also give learners a firm grounding in knowledge and ideas central to the social sciences. Whatever path/field of specialisation learners choose, they will acquire valuable transferable skills opening up employment opportunities in private, public and voluntary sector organisations.

Key features of the two Honours qualifications that correlate are:

Both provide a thorough introduction to the social sciences and explores a range of topical social, political and economic issues.

Both qualifications give learners the option to specialise in various different disciplines within Social Sciences.

In both instances the qualifications apply cutting edge social science theory and knowledge to real world situations.

The qualifications both enhances learner employability, equipping them with valued skills, including the ability to analyse and evaluate evidence, and communicate specialist ideas and information to different audiences.

The focus on the understanding of society, culture and human interaction could be regarded as the strongest attribute in comparing this program with the envisaged Honours program at SPU. Much can be learned from the way in which the different disciplines in this program are individually dealing with matters of common interest regarding society, culture and human interaction.

African Leadership University, Pamplemousses, Mauritius:
BA Honours, Social Sciences:
The importance of this program (in comparing it with the planned program at SPU) would be seated in the "Africanist" approach to it. Although the program at SPU will also focus on issues outside the continent, its major focus will be on African and South African issues. An added asset the program at the African Leadership University is the fact that the university is situated "offshore", thus it is view to have a more objective approach to issues facing the continent.

Apart from that, the two Honours qualifications in the Social Science (at African Leadership University and at SPU) explores how societies function and look at the institutional frameworks which underpin them, examining issues such as crime, immigration, gender, human rights and the environment.

The Social Science (Honours) qualifications at both African Leadership University and SPU provides learners with the opportunity to develop a wide knowledge base from a selection of subject areas that include politics, history, sociology and anthropology.

Something that can be learned from African Leadership University is the potential option to study additional modules including media and languages, that could broadening the learners' knowledge the scope of their career options. Graduate employability is high on the agenda African Leadership University and is embedded throughout their qualification. Looking at adding additional "outside" modules, as African Leadership University is doing, could only be to the benefit of our learners at SPU.

Lastly the two Honours qualifications at the two universities compare well in the idea of equipping learners with skills in presentation, research and computing, critical evaluation and concise writing.

National University of Singapore:
Bachelor of Arts/Social Sciences (Honours):

Although the BA Honours in Social Sciences at SPU and the Bachelor of Arts/ Social Sciences (Honours) qualification at the National University of Singapore are in many ways different, there is much to be learned from the qualification at the National University of Singapore.

The core of the Honours qualification at National University of Singapore is new media studies, which focus on the societal impact of new technologies on our social, cultural, political and economic landscape. This focus area is very interesting because the SPU Honours qualification in the Social Sciences also focusses on certain aspects of the impact of new technologies on our social, cultural, political and economic landscape, although not in so much detail.

The other interesting part of the CNM program is the fact that it incorporated media studies, which focuses on the societal impact of new technologies on various landscapes, including social and cultural. It is a very refreshing way of looking at society and culture and could be useful to SPU when thinking of adding new modules in various disciplines in the near future.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification offers the following articulation possibilities:

Successful completion of the Bachelor of Arts (BA) Honours Degree in Social Sciences meet the minimum entry requirement for admission to a cognate Master's Degree qualification (vertical articulation).

Horizontal Articulation:
Bachelor of Science Honours in Computer Science, Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:
Master of Science Degree, Level 9.

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:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

1.	Sol Plaatje University