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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Doctor of Philosophy in Military Geography

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
123503	Doctor of Philosophy in Military Geography
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch 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
Doctoral Degree	Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security		Safety in Society
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	360	Not Applicable	NQF Level 10	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0729/25	2025-02-04	2028-02-04
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-02-04		2032-02-04

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 primary purpose of the qualification is to enable suitable candidates working in the Military Geography sphere, to undertake advanced reflection and study development trends by means of a systematic survey of current thinking, practice, and research methods in an area of specialisation within the field of Military Geography. This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement, thorough observation, and intellectual independence and or collaboration, as well as the ability to relate knowledge to various contexts (local, meso and macro). In the realisation of this, learners should be highly professional and produce excellent academic outputs.

The qualification will equip learners with knowledge, skills and values which include the development of attributes to require future military leaders to apply critical thinking on military-related challenges and provide possible solutions during military operations, as well as operations other than war.

On successful completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:

Contribute to scholarly debates around theories of knowledge and processes of knowledge production in an area of study or practice (knowledge literacy).

Develop new methods, techniques, processes, systems or technologies in original, creative and innovative ways appropriate to specialised and complex contexts (method and procedure).

Apply specialist knowledge and theory in critically reflexive, creative and novel ways to address complex practical and theoretical problems (problem-solving).

Identify, address and manage emerging ethical issues, and advance processes of ethical decision-making, including monitoring and evaluation of the consequences of these decisions where appropriate (ethics and professional practice).

Make independent judgements about managing incomplete or inconsistent information or data in an iterative process of analysis and synthesis for the development of significant original insights into new complex and abstract ideas, information or issues (accessing, processing and managing information).

Produce substantial, independent, in-depth and publishable work which meets international standards, is new or innovative by peers, and makes a significant contribution to the discipline, field, or practice.

Develop a communication strategy to disseminate and defend research, strategic and policy initiatives and their implementation to specialist and non-specialist audiences using the full resources of academic and professional or occupational discourse (producing and communicating information).

Demonstrate an understanding of theoretical underpinnings in the management of complex systems to achieve systemic change; and an ability to independently design, sustain and manage change within a system or systems (context and systems).

Demonstrate intellectual independence, research leadership and management of research and research development in a discipline, field or practice (management of learning)

Operate independently and take full responsibility for his or her work, and where appropriate lead, oversee and be held ultimately accountable for the overall governance of processes and systems (accountability).

Throughout this qualification learners will be supported to develop the following graduate attributes:

An enquiring mind, whereby learners will be developing further skills in becoming critical and creative thinkers who are also, in the pursuit of in-depth knowledge in the field of military geography becoming lifelong learners.

An engaged citizen who can, through their in-depth knowledge and skills in military geography, act as effective military leaders and collaborators in diverse environments

A dynamic professional who is an innovative problem solver who can use sustainable military geography technology, such as GIS or relevant statistical software, effectively

Well-rounded individuals, enrolled learners will take the necessary responsibility for their own development (developing better research or academic writing skills) and can critically evaluate information and/or data to make informed and considered decisions.

Rationale:
There is an urgent need to investigate the physical, economic and social challenges of the world. Through the introduction of this qualification, geographers can share their findings as widely as possible. The qualification provides opportunities for graduate learners to gain practical experience through service as departmental teaching or research assistants. Graduate learners often present their research at professional conferences and publish their work in academic journals. These presentations and papers can be the product of independent research or research projects led by a faculty member.

The qualification focuses on investigating the environmental consequences of military actions/decisions, the social and economic implications of environmental change on the security of a nation(s), and providing academic output to institutions and the global academic audience, specifically military-related. It also emphasises ecosystems (biotic and abiotic components) and how military factors influence ecosystems. Central to the studies in Military Geography are theories, methods of investigation, and models of environmental, social and economic geography. Military Geography covers various subfields, for example, environmental science, economic, social and human geography, as well as soil science. All these subfields are closely interrelated and interdependent on one another. In understanding all these close relationships between living and non-living components, learners will acquire a comprehensive knowledge of Military Geography and how it can be applied.

There is a greater interest in Military Geography in gaining accurate knowledge about countries regarding their region's physical, social, and economic spaces. Geographical knowledge contributes to the preparation and intelligence estimate either for military activities or military support activities. Therefore, Military Geography is the foundation for the development of military strategies and or intelligence.

The qualification will make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of the discipline and Military Geography. Graduates will be able to demonstrate expertise and critical knowledge at the forefront of Military Geography conceptualise new research initiatives, create new knowledge or practice, and develop critical thinking skills on military-related challenges and possible solutions during military operations, as well as operations and other than war focusing on the environmental consequences of human decisions relating to military actions such as conflicts and peace missions.

The qualification reflects a critical element not only in preparing the Department of Defence (DoD) on how to deal with conflicts and peace missions, especially on the African continent but also in ploughing back into the teaching and preparation of under- and postgraduate learners. All military operations have distinct natural characteristics in terms of knowing the topography, climate, water, air, soil, and the prevailing economic and social environments. Hence, it is paramount to know and understand these phenomena and how to contextualise them. The importance and the dynamic emergence of Military Geography as a subfield of Geography stimulates the development of new tools and techniques of geographical inquiry (both human, economic, and physical) to be promoted in the quest for military objectives.

Learners are equipped with various military geography theories and techniques that place the Military Geography Department in a position to disseminate knowledge and transfer techniques to junior and senior officers. Exposure to the Military Geography of learners is a powerful tool to prepare learners for potential military operations and peacekeeping missions. The mastering of technology, particularly the development of detection methods (radars, satellites) and the use of computerised geographical information systems, map interpretation, climate and socio-economic diversity of places and, cultures as well as to link it with the subfields of Military Geography, will be an asset for learners.

The need for the qualification was identified by the Master of Military Science in Military Geography graduates who wanted to further their research and enhance their research skills in the military geography field due to increased international interest in which geographical knowledge contributes to military strategies. There is an urgent need worldwide for undergraduate officers (learners) to enhance their careers. The well-known West-Point Military Unit only offered a three-year qualification in Military Geography.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
RPL are done in accordance with the institution's Policy and regulation for the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT). Procedures for RPL considerations within the Faculty of Military Science are regulated by the Faculty of Military Science Procedure for the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT).

RPL for access:
A learner who has an honours qualification and has worked for the SANDF or similar military organisation in a military strategy department can provide at least evidence of 5 years of experience in a Military Geography field and will be considered for RPL for access.

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

Master of Military Science in Military Geography, NQF Level 9.
Or

Master of Military Science, NQF Level 9.
Or

Master of Military Science in Organisation and Resource Management, NQF Level 9.
Or

A related discipline, NQF Level 9 with a minimum final mark of 60%.
and

Employment within the South African Government in a military position.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 10, 360 Credits:

Military Geography Dissertation, 360 Credits.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Exit Level Outcomes
1. Communicate effectively using visual, verbal and non-verbal skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion.
2. Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards peers and subordinates within the military environment.
3. Manage time and resources efficiently in research study.
4. Demonstrate military professionalism and decision-making skills.
5. Apply basic knowledge and skills to efficiently manage study and research related to military aspects.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of the world (military domain) as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
7. Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of:

Reflect on and explore a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.

Participate as responsible citizens (and military members) in the life of local, national and global military and civilian communities.

Be culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.

Explore military promotional opportunities.

Develop military leadership opportunities.

Associated Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Interpret and write to produce common formats of written communication.

Listen to, interpret and produce common formats of oral communication.

Produce common formats of non-verbal communication.

Take personal responsibility for learning within a supervised environment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Conceptualise new research initiatives and create new knowledge or practice focusing on the environmental consequences of human decisions relating to military actions such as conflicts and peace missions.

Apply critical thinking to military-related challenges and provide possible solutions during military operations, as well as operations other than war.

Contribute to scholarly debates around theories of knowledge and processes of knowledge production in Military Geography practice.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Correctly plan the research activity and decide on the research topic.

Clarify key concepts.

Conduct independent scientific research, data analysis, and review and apply theory to the research problem.

Outline the organisation of time and resources.

Indicate control measures.

Correctly apply supervisor/learner interaction and skills.

Apply the basic management functions in a small research group activity.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Make decisions about and responsibility for actions.

Analyse and implement strategic geographic decisions on macro and micro level.

Develop and manage systems as well as perform effective decision-making regarding integrated training area management.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Evaluate and apply basic military principles and policies.

Assist in the organisation of military management functions.

Clearly state the premise and support with literature.

Show sensitivity to important implications and consequences.

Give an in-depth analysis of questions and problems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Demonstrate sensitivity to important military and security implications and consequences.

Internalise basic military concepts and principles.

Apply specialist knowledge and theory in military geography in critically reflexive, creative and novel ways to address complex practical and theoretical problems related to topics in military geography.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Evaluate their personal performance against given criteria

Take the initiative to address any shortcomings they find.

Identify realistic potential improvements to military aspects.

Contribute to relieving security-related issues.

Identify potential impacts of research and plans to deliver them in the SANDF, nationally and globally.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Country: Germany
Institution: University of Munster, Graduate School for Geoinformatics
Qualification Title: Doctor rerum naturalium (Dr rer nat (PhD)) - Doctor of Natural Sciences
Duration: Three years full-time
Entry Requirements:

Applicants for doctoral positions may have educational or professional backgrounds in such fields as geoinformatics, computer science, geography, ecology, mathematics, or information systems.

Purpose:
The Graduate School for Geoinformatics offers a structured doctoral programme encompassing a variety of allied disciplines. Structured doctoral degree programmes encourage the social integration of doctoral candidates whilst encouraging them to explore their field in depth. They are provided with transparent support on many levels, can make the most of professional development programmes and opportunities to exchange knowledge and can benefit from well-thought-out time and project planning.

The qualification for the following aims:

To create an international centre of excellence for geoinformatics research

To foster innovation through a highly interdisciplinary research environment with strong industry connections.

To produce outstanding doctoral graduates who will be well-positioned to compete internationally for strategic and leadership positions in industry, government, and academia.

The research programme of the Institute for Geoinformatics has strengths in semantic interoperability, spatio-temporal modelling, geosimulation modelling, spatial intelligence, and situated computing.

Similarities:

The University of Munster (UoM) and the South African (SA) qualifications take three years of full-time study.

Both qualifications require applicants who have a background in Geography.

Both qualifications culminate into a Full PhD Thesis.

Difference:

The UoM offers a structured doctoral education which follows a forward-looking approach, assisting doctoral candidates in various aspects of their doctoral research whereas the SA qualification offers an individual doctoral degree.

Country: Hong Kong
Institutions: Hong Kong University.
Qualification Title: PhD (Military Geography), Joint PhD

The PhD degree is a highly recognised advanced research postgraduate programme and is available in all faculties and schools/departments. The PhD programme is intellectually demanding, requiring strong analytical skills, critical thinking ability, and language proficiency for undertaking independent research to produce original ideas with significant impact.

The University offers 3-year and 4-year PhD programmes. Applicants who have a good Bachelor's degree with honours and/or a taught Master's degree will be considered for admission to the 4-year PhD programme, whereas those who already hold a research Master's degree (e.g. MPhil) can be considered for admission to the 3-year PhD programme.

Similarities:

The Hong Kong University (HKU) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over three years of full-time study.

The HKU and SA qualifications require applicants who hold a research Master's degree in a cognate field.

The purpose of both qualifications is to cultivate competent researchers who would like to develop their careers in research, academia, and other professional areas.

Difference:

The HKU provides an option of three years and four years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification is only limited to three years of full-time study.

Country: Namibia
Institution: International University of Management (IUM)
Institution: Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Science
NQF Level: Level 10
Duration: 3 years full time
Entry requirements

An appropriate MSc degree in science-related fields at NQF Level 9 or equivalent at NQF Level 9.

Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to enable future scientists to share their scientific interests and engage them on different platforms that will help them find solutions to complex issues in the natural environment. This qualification will prepare learners for independent research work in the field of natural science that will make original contributions to the body of knowledge and scientific community. In addition, this qualification will empower learners with analytical skills, theoretical discourse and data analysis using advanced methods and techniques. This will further contribute to the realization of National Development Plans (NDPs), Vision 2030 and other national socio-economic goals.

Outcomes of Learning:

Demonstrate the highest level of skills for critical enquiry, theoretical and discourse analysis and apply in-depth mastery of advanced research methods and techniques for data collection and analysis in Water Resources Management

Develop skills appropriate to academic writing, paraphrase effectively; and cite sources accurately using a recognized and accepted system.

Identify instances of plagiarism and explain why it is a serious offence in academic writing.

Demonstrate a capacity to conduct independent research and make original contributions to the pool of knowledge in the field of Water Resources Management.

Similarities:

The International University of Management (IUM) and the South African (SA) qualifications are registered at NQF Level 10.

Both qualifications are offered over three years of full-time study.

The IUM and SA qualifications require applicants who completed the Master's degree in science-related fields at NQF Level 9 or equivalent at NQF Level 9.

Both qualifications culminate into a Full PhD Thesis.

Conclusion:
The above qualifications were selected because, after a vigorous internet search on international PhD programmes in Military Geography, only a few were available of which these two are comparable to the SA qualification in this application. These qualifications are research-intensive and promote independent research on military geography-related matters. However, the SA qualification differs in that military matters would primarily focus on the SANDF and military aspects on the African continent.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification allows possibilities for horizontal articulation.

Horizontal Articulation:

Doctor of Philosophy in Military Science, NQF Level 10.

Doctor of Philosophy in Geography, NQF Level 10.

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.	Stellenbosch University