SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Master of Arts

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
118672	Master of Arts
ORIGINATOR
University of Mpumalanga
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		General Social Science
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
Reregistered		EXCO 0333/25	2025-07-10	2028-07-10
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-07-10		2032-07-10

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 Master of Arts is to provide learners with an opportunity to undertake independent and original primary research under supervision and contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level in an area of specialisation in the humanities and social sciences. Whilst undertaking the research project, learners will gain first-hand experience of all aspects of the research process.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:

Undertake further independent research and contribute to the generation of new knowledge in their area of specialisation.

Undertake scholarly independent research and report on this to reflect independent thinking, originality, critical analysis, and advanced insight in the chosen field of specialisation.

Demonstrate in-depth, advanced and specialist knowledge and an ability to engage critically with current concepts, theories, methodologies, approaches, and research in the field of specialisation.

Evaluate the knowledge production processes and research paradigms that are used in the humanities and social sciences and select an appropriate paradigm and process to use for a research project.

Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the boundaries, inter-connections, value and knowledge creation systems, including Indigenous Knowledge Systems, of the chosen discipline/s and an ability to critically evaluate these.

Select, apply and modify where necessary research methods to address a particular research question.

Use the acquired knowledge and understanding of the particular discipline as a basis for the original and critical development and application of ideas to contribute to knowledge production in the area of specialisation.

Act reflectively, ethically and with integrity and be accountable for their work, their actions, and their decisions.

Manage, collate, critically evaluate, and synthesise information from a range of sources as relevant to the field of specialisation to generate sustained written and verbal arguments.

Communicate fluently, effectively, and efficiently with both professional and lay audiences using appropriate language, academic discourse and technology. Defend new ideas using logical argumentation that is supported by information.

Have responsible and effective personal organisation skills, work independently and respond productively, critically, and appropriately to questions and feedback.

In terms of how the curriculum will contribute towards the intended outcomes, the independent research project, under the supervision of an experienced supervisor, is the single most powerful and appropriate way to provide learners with an opportunity to achieve the outcomes.

Rationale:
The qualification is designed to produce qualified researchers whose knowledge and skills can contribute to both national and international enhancement of the humanities and the social sciences. Successful learners will be able to demonstrate their research skills and to further their studies, thus promoting life-long learning. The qualification also derives from national priorities which are to augment the pool of outstanding South African graduates to conduct high-level research that would impact the numerous key challenges faced regionally, nationally and globally.

in line with the principles of the National Development Plan 2030 (2012:262), where universities are seen to be key to national development and responsive to national priorities and societal needs, the qualification will equip graduates to address the challenges impacting the provinces, national and global communities in general. It is anticipated that the learners through research would draw from communities and contribute to their well-being using reciprocal relationships which would not only be beneficial to the graduate but also the community in which the research was undertaken..

Qualifying learners with a Master of Arts degree can work and contribute in many varied facets of the job market, depending on their area of specialisation including but not limited to all areas dealing with people, and in all areas demanding higher levels of language usage, interpretation, rhetoric, communication and meaning production. Given the breadth, adaptability, and utility of undertaking original research in the Humanities and Social Science, employment opportunities abound for qualifying learners. Qualifying learners will work in a wide and diverse range of fields including for National and Provincial Governments and the Private sector.

Learners will progress to Doctoral studies and contribute to research-based solutions to challenges and issues in the humanities and social sciences. They may also find employment in the higher education system and contribute to the production of the next generation of academics.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
This qualification may be achieved in part or whole through the Recognition of Prior Learning, which includes formal, informal, and non-formal learning and work experience. The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment process involves the identification, mediation, assessment and acknowledgement of knowledge and skills obtained through informal and non-formal learning. RPL is applied in terms of policy and criteria of the institution. The necessary documentary evidence will have to be provided and a formal RPL process will be followed. The institution will apply in this qualification the RPL for both access and credits in line with the National Policy and Criteria for the Implementation of RPL (Amended in March 2019).

RPL for Access:
Learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements of the required qualification may be considered for RPL. There are two options:

Advanced Standing, in which case the minimum entry requirements are waived by the admitting institution based on evidence of prior learning, work experience or any other relevant circumstances that may apply to an individual learner. No portfolio is required.
OR

Applicants may provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that the applicant has acquired sufficient relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies to be able to reasonably meet the expectations for learning demanded by the qualification for which they are seeking access.

In instances where RPL is applied for the purposes of access, no credits will be awarded for any previous learning. However, the candidate may choose the option of being assessed for credit.

RPL for credits:
Learners who do meet the necessary entry requirements for admission to a qualification may be awarded some or all the credits towards the qualification. There are two possibilities:

Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from a module or some modules by providing sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that a level of competency, equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module or modules, has been achieved. Credits will be awarded for such modules.
OR

Learners may apply for RPL to be awarded all the credits required for the qualification. Sufficient evidence must be provided that demonstrates a level of competency equivalent to all the learning outcomes of the qualification.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:

Bachelor of Arts Honours, NQF Level 8.
Or

Postgraduate Diploma in the related field, NQF Level 8.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory module at National Qualifications Framework at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Thesis/Dissertation, 180 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Undertake scholarly independent research and report on this to reflect independent thinking, originality, critical analysis and advanced insight in the chosen field of specialisation.
2. Demonstrate in-depth, advanced and specialist knowledge and an ability to engage critically with current concepts, theories, methodologies, approaches and research in the field of specialisation.
3. Evaluate the knowledge production processes and research paradigms that are used in the humanities and social sciences and select an appropriate paradigm and process to use for a research project.
4. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the boundaries, inter-connections, value and knowledge creation systems, including Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), of the chosen discipline/s and an ability to critically evaluate these.
5. Select, apply and modify where necessary research methods to address a particular research question.
6. Use the acquired knowledge and understanding of the discipline as a basis for the original and critical development and application of ideas to contribute to knowledge production in the area of specialisation.
7. Act reflectively, ethically and with integrity and be accountable for their work, their actions, and their decisions.
8. Manage, collate, critically evaluate, and synthesise information from a range of sources as relevant to the field of specialisation to generate sustained written and verbal arguments.
9. Communicate fluently, effectively, and efficiently with both professional and lay audiences using appropriate language, academic discourse, and technology. Defend new ideas using logical argumentation that is supported by information.
10. Have responsible and effective personal organisation skills, work independently and respond productively, critically, and appropriately to questions and feedback.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Identify and justify the project question and scope.

Evaluate the literature review drawn from multiple sources and materials carefully.

Consider a range of methods, including statistical methods and choose the appropriate ones.

Identify ethical issues and seek approval t if necessary.

Collect, collate and analyse information.

Interpret and discuss data in the context of the available information gathered in the literature review.

Formulate recommendations.

Prepare the thesis according to the prescribed format, is written in appropriate academic language, and includes no plagiarism.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Ensure that the thesis includes a full engagement with the current literature in the field of specialisation and incorporate its results into the existing knowledge base.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Ensure that the thesis demonstrates an appreciation of different research paradigms and includes a detailed justification of the research paradigm used.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Demonstrate an understanding of the nature, strengths and limitations of research paradigms, including IKS.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Use the research methods appropriately to ensure that they address the research question, clearly justified and correctly applied.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Integrate acquired and new knowledge generated through research with the existing canon of knowledge to contribute to the area of specialisation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Ethical concerns, or the lack thereof, will be made explicit in the thesis. Reference to Ethical Approval Number will be provided. Where ethical issues exist, the thesis will clearly indicate how they have been dealt with.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

The Introduction and Discussion chapters of the thesis will include a full and critical analysis of the existing knowledge in the field of study, with this knowledge being drawn from a range of sources.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

Ensure that the thesis adheres to the norms for style, format, academic language and referencing. Tables and Figures are professional in appearance and fully illustrate the results.

Use a language and technology that is appropriate for the audience during oral presentations and defend ideas with logical argumentation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

Consider and incorporate critical feedback from supervisors and peers in the production process of the thesis.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The international comparability focused specifically at Master of Arts by research, some of which include one or two coursework modules, and others no coursework modules. This qualification compares with the following international qualifications in terms of the range of competencies in the learning content offered.

Country: United Kingdom
Institution: Leeds University
Qualification Title: Master of Arts(MA) by research
Duration: one year full time and two years part-time
Purpose:
The Masters by Research qualification is offered over one-year full time and two years part-time, allowing learners to undertake extended independent research at the Masters level. The topic of the research is chosen by the learner who receives expert guidance from a single supervisor or two co-supervisors. The output is a thesis of around 30,000 words. The qualification does not include any taught content and learners work closely with the supervisor to agree on the content and structure of the research project, as well as the process and schedule.

Assessment:
Assessment is based on both the strength of the thesis and an oral examination. Thesis should be no longer than 30,000 words.

The University of Nottingham in England offers a Master of Arts by research (MRes) that is completed in one-year full time and two years part-time. It includes a research project producing a dissertation (or equivalent) of approximately 30,000 words and usually, some taught modules connected to the research area. The research area is chosen by the learner under the guidance of a supervisor from the university.

The University of Edinburgh in Scotland offers a Masters by Research (MAR) which provides particularly strong preparation for PhD study. The MAR emphasizes research skills and around two-thirds of the course content consists of research project work. The MAR is designed to develop research skills and, as a result, provides good preparation for postdoctoral study. The qualification can be taken full time over one year or part-time over two years.

The Master of Arts by research offered by the Manchester Metropolitan University in England allows the learner to explore aspects of knowledge at the forefront of an academic or professional discipline. In all examples, admission requires an adequate level of performance (at least 60%) in the preceding qualification which may be an Honours degree or a 4-year Bachelor's degree, and linguistic competence necessary to prepare a thesis.

Similarities:

Both qualifications are offered over one year period full time and two years part-time.

Both qualifications have similar entry requirements, purpose, structure, assessment and articulation.

Differences:

The qualification consists of both research project and coursework, wherea the South African qualification consists of the dissertation only. A research degree allows learners to develop new high-level skills, enhance the professional development and build new networks.

Country: Australia
Institution: University of Sydney
Qualification Title: Master of Arts (Research)
Duration full time: 1 to 2 years full time equivalent for Domestic and International learners
Duration part time: 2 to 4 years part time

Qualification structure:
Purpose/Rationale:
The qualification enable learners develop advanced skills including critical thinking, data interpretation and analysis, project management, as well as communication and problem-solving. Learners complete a substantial independent research project with one-on-one supervision from leading academics in the field. Research may be in any area offered by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will develop the following attributes:

To possess expert, world-standard knowledge in an area of specialisation, a mastery of relevant research methods and the capability to contribute to scholarship and knowledge discovery.

To display high levels of cultural competence and embody best practice with regard to cultural competence in research.

To work effectively in interdisciplinary settings to develop a broader perspective, innovative vision and the capacity to work effectively within national and international research and innovation systems.

To be professionally and socially responsible and make a positive contribution to society, and to recognise and promote the implications of own research in a broader societal context.
Qualification structure:
The qualification comprises a combination of a thesis and coursework, including:

A thesis of 20,000 to 40,000 words; and

A minimum of one postgraduate unit of study (six credit points).

Silimarities:

Both qualifications are offered over one year period full time and two years part-time.

Four-year honours degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component, equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study. Applicants should have achieved a minimum weighted average of 70% in the final year subjects, or (University of Melbourne) equivalent, with a minimum result of 75% for the research component;
Or

a Masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component, equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study. Applicants should have achieved a minimum weighted average of 70% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent with a minimum result of 75% for the research component; or a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent; and a research proposal;

Referee reports (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years);

The endorsement of a prospective supervisor.

Purpose:
The Master of Arts (Thesis Only) provides learners with an advanced understanding of the major issues experienced in thechosen field.

Usually undertaken over 18 months (full-time) or three years (part-time), successful completion of the Master of Arts (Thesis Only) can act as a pathway to a Doctor of Philosophy - Arts degree.

On successful completion of the masters, learners should:

Have produced a 30,000-word thesis on a research project;

Demonstrate an ability to present, argue and demonstrate a coherent hypothesis on an issue in the specialisation, supported by research and analysis; and

Demonstrate aptitude for original research at a higher degree level in the future.

Qualification structure:
Learners are required to complete 30,000 word thesis. Learners are required to enrol into the Minor Thesis subject (as per their specialisation) for three semesters full time (or part time equivalent).

Similarities:

Both qualifications are offered by disseratation only and no course work.

Both qualifications have similar duration, purpose, structure, assessment and articulation.

Country: Canada
Institution: The University of Lethbridge
Qualification structure: Master of Arts
Qualification structure:
The qualification comprises a research component with written a thesis and a limited number of courses. The thesis route expresses the fundamental tradition of academic scholarship, and the creation of a thesis in any discipline calls for a range of skills that are central to the liberal education tradition, including analysis and synthesis of ideas, empirical investigations, the construction and articulation of arguments, and writing skills.

Learners may complete their qualification in either a full- or part-time capacity. Full-time learners complete a 24-month qualification while part-time learners complete a 48-month qualification.

The Master of Arts offered by the University of Manitoba in Canada includes a combination of coursework and a research component. The area of study is determined by expertise within the University and includes areas such as anthropology and languages. The duration is two years full time.

Silimarities:

Both qualifications are offered over one year period full time and two years part-time.

Both qualifications have similar duration, purpose, structure, assessment and articulation.

Differences:
The qualification consists of both research project and coursework, whereas the South African qualification consists of the dissertation only. A research degree allows learners to develop new high-level skills, enhance the professional development and build new networks.

Conclusion:
The qualification was compared with similar qualifications worldwide which may have one of a number of different forms, based principally on the amount of coursework and research. The majority of Masters qualifications include some course work and some qualifications include more than 50% coursework. These differences are associated with differing aims for the qualifications which range from preparing learners for a professional career, providing an opportunity for learners to engage at a deeper level with an area of specialisation, and preparing learners for further independent research.

The South African qualification is comparable to the above international qualifications in terms of content, purpose, rationale, duration, entry requirements, articulation and learning outcomes.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Master of Arts in Ethics, NQF Level 9.

Vertical Articulation:

Doctor of Philosophy, NQF Level 10.

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.

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