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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Social Science: African Studies 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
90592  Master of Social Science: African Studies 
ORIGINATOR
University of Fort Hare 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 07 - Human and Social Studies  Traditions, History and Legacies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  240  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
This qualification seeks to provide an interdisciplinary platform for the analysis and understanding of Africa as a geographical area that is worthy of exploring as a particular focus of academic enquiry. The qualification is interdisciplinary in nature, but allows for specialisations in the field of cultural studies, gender studies, urban studies and historical studies (which are all well-established fields of academic enquiry in their own right).

The qualification falls within the field of Area Studies which is a well-established and internationally recognised field of interdisciplinary study and research at Postgraduate level around the world. The main purpose of this qualification is to provide an interdisciplinary academic environment for the study of the Continent's cultural, gender, urban and historical dynamics.

The qualification aims to equip professionals and learners from a variety of disciplines with a sophisticated understanding and appreciation of the Continent. As continental integration proceeds rapidly, it is necessary for learners and professionals to develop critical, well-informed regional perspectives on issues of social, cultural and economic change. This qualification will provide such perspectives and enable learners to operate in an inter-disciplinary framework.

The qualification is strongly research focused and is designed to cater to a wide range of learners and professionals working in the private, public and development spheres.

Rationale:
There is widespread ignorance in South Africa about developments elsewhere on the African continent. This qualification will help to address this problem as well as train learners for more active and engaged interaction with the rest of Africa at various levels. Finding new and novel ways of achieving social and economic integration and encouraging critical and comparative analysis of the African context and continent is a fundamental challenge for the future. This qualification will provide a foundation for learners to rise to this challenge by preparing them to become advanced critical thinkers and innovative researchers in the African context. African Studies is a vital and necessary field of academic development in South Africa (just as American Studies remains one of the strongest and most competitive programmes at Universities in the US).

For the University of Fort Hare, the qualification is of special relevance because there are currently few interdisciplinary programmes in the Social Sciences and Humanities (outside of Development Studies) which allow learners the opportunity to come together around common themes or issues from different perspectives. This qualification will open up a wide range of viable and stimulating interdisciplinary options for understanding Africa, outside of the established development studies paradigms and perspectives, at the University. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The learner will have achieved all the competencies at NQF Level 8 in the field of Social Sciences, should be familiar with current theories and research methodologies in the Social Sciences and should have completed a research project in their preceding qualification at NQF Level 8.

Recognition of Prior Learning:
Applicants who have not completed research methodology in their Honours/Postgraduate studies, but who have acquired relevant research competencies through related practical experience will be assessed against the appropriate outcomes to determine compliance with access requirements. Learners must, at the time of application for Recognition of Prior Learning, provide proof in the form of an academic record or other documentation to substantiate required level of knowledge and expertise. Such proof may help gain access to this qualification, or advanced placement therein.

Access to the Qualification:
Learners must have completed a relevant qualification at NQF Level 8, which included Research Methodology and the completion of a research project. 

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
Y 

QUALIFICATION RULES 
The total number of credits for this qualification is 240, at NQF Level 9. The qualifying learner must successfully complete four courses and the mini-dissertation.

Compulsory:
  • Research Methodology Course, 30 Credits.
  • Mini-dissertation, 120 Credits.

    Elective Courses - Choose three:
  • African Culture Course, 30 Credits.
  • African Historical Core Course, 30 Credits.
  • African Urban Core Course, 30 Credits.
  • African Politics and Development, 30 Credits.
  • Social Sciences Course, 30 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate advanced application of concepts, ethics, theories and analytical processes in relation to the chosen focus of African Studies.
    2. Access, analyse, organise and critically evaluate existing knowledge.
    3. Engage in independent research and produce findings in the form of a research report from a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies in African Studies.
    4. Demonstrate specialist forefront knowledge and expertise in the chosen field and the competency to apply these creatively within the chosen field.
    5. Critically analyse and evaluate the outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies or processes in the chosen field.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
    The Master's learner is able to:
  • Identify, analyse, formulate and solve highly complex problems creatively, autonomously and responsibly.
  • Effectively lead a team, group, organisation and/or, community and provide leadership.
  • Manage and organise the activities of others effectively.
  • Collect, analyse organise and critically evaluate information at an advanced and specialised level.
  • Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in a sustained discourse.
  • Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment, health and safety of others.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that the problem-solving context does not exist in isolation, but is interrelated through multi-, trans- and inter-disciplines. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    1.1 Discussions reflect a clear understanding of the context (including policy, legislation and global issues), appropriate concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in African Studies.
    1.2 Presentations reflect the appropriate application of the relevant concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in the chosen field.
    1.3 Written work on the chosen field displays critical analyses and a degree of intellectual independence.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    2.1 Current literature and research are accessed, analysed, organised and evaluated systematically in the chosen focus area.
    2.2 Evaluations demonstrate clear evidence of effective application of the principles of research practice in the chosen focus area.
    2.3 Conclusions and recommendations are justified by the use of appropriate evidence and arguments.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    3.1 The research inquiry is planned and conducted on the basis of a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies for the specific research problem.
    3.2 Research themes are appropriately identified and demarcated.
    3.3 Analyses of the research themes include a comprehensive and critical review of current literature and investigations.
    3.4 Selected research methods, techniques and technologies show evidence of a clear understanding of relevant research theory and practice.
    3.5 Research reports critically and coherently describe theoretical arguments, the research process, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations.
    3.6 Research reports display skill in extrapolating key findings, justifiable conclusions and making feasible recommendations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    4.1 Analyses of the problems and issues reflect a purposeful and critical application of advanced theory, current knowledge and expertise in the chosen focus area.
    4.2 Interventions and/or recommendations reflect purposeful and creative plans to seek solutions based on theory and proven methods in the chosen field.
    4.3 Discussions and/or interventions reflect advanced application of appropriate skills, strategies and techniques in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions in the chosen field.
    4.4 Research and/or interventions include the appropriate and creative use of tools and/or data relevant to the chosen field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    5.1 Evaluations comprehensively describe outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies or processes in relation to the stated goals and in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions.
    5.2 Evaluations critically analyse outcomes in accordance with the identified needs and issues within the chosen focus area.
    5.3 Evaluations are purposefully used as the basis for planning, implementing and making recommendations.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment of competence is done through a combination of formative and summative assessment methodologies, tools and procedures, which will not discriminate against learners in an unjust or invalid way. Assessment practices are fair, transparent, valid and reliable.

    Learning and assessment should be integrated. In this regard, continuous assessment using formative assessment methods should be used to ensure that learners have the opportunity to give feedback on progress made in the achievement of the learning outcomes.

    Summative assessment is assessment of competencies in terms of the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification.

    Both assessment methods should be integrated to assess the learner's ability to integrate the body of knowledge, skills and expertise displayed with the purpose of the qualification. Learners completing learning and demonstrating competence successfully through assessment are credited with such learning. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This is comparable to a Masters Degree at international level, as established during the curriculation process with the participation of colleagues from Oxford University, United Kingdom (UK). It was also compared to other qualifications from Switzerland and the United States of America (USA).

    UK: Oxford University- Master of Science in African Studies:
    The Master of Science in African Studies at Oxford University is the premier interdisciplinary area of Postgraduate studies focusing on Africa in the UK. It is a course designed both as a stand-alone interdisciplinary introduction to current debates about Africa and as a preparation for Doctoral research on Africa.

    This Advanced Degree programme provides an excellent foundation for those who wish to expand their knowledge of African Studies prior to working for NGOs, the civil service, international organisations and the media, or in other professional capacities.

    The Master of Science has two core courses. The course, 'Methodology, Ethics and Research Strategies' runs for one term and examines research methodologies and strategies, including the politics of researching and writing on Africa. The course, 'Themes in African History and the Social Sciences' runs over two terms and covers key questions and debates in the study of issues such as the African state, conflict and violence, Diaspora and development.

    Students also select one optional course from around ten that are offered each year. Examples of optional courses include:
  • South Africa: African Politics and the Transition.
  • Violence and Historical Memory in Eastern Africa.
  • Political Economy of Health and Medicine in Africa.
  • Culture and Society of West Africa.
  • Democratisation and Multi-Party Politics in Africa.

    The final component of the MSc is a 15,000 word dissertation for which Master of Science students work closely with their dissertation supervisor throughout the programme. The dissertation includes discussion of the methodology, historiography, or theory relevant to the research topic and is often based on original research conducted in Africa.

    Switzerland: University of Basel (UNIBAS) - Master of Arts in African Studies:
    The Centre for African Studies joins these capacities by offering a specialised interdisciplinary Master's study course in African Studies. For the first time in Switzerland, Africa has become the subject of a course of its own.

    In the interdisciplinary Master of Arts course African Studies students acquire a broad, interdisciplinary knowledge about Africa. They are taught methods that allow them to analyse and understand the complex relationships between natural, social, cultural, political and historical factors, as well as the skills to communicate these findings.

    Typical features of African Studies in Basel are the interdisciplinary teaching modules drawn from numerous disciplines and brought together from these subject areas, the trans-disciplinary character of the course and the practical work.

    USA: Yale College: Master of Arts in African Studies:
    The Master of Arts in African Studies is a two-year interdisciplinary humanities and social sciences qualification designed to provide a broad understanding of African affairs. It is designed for students wishing to go on to a Doctorate, as well as for those students seeking a terminal Master of Arts Degree before entering the business world, the media, government service or a professional school.

    The Master's qualification generally welcomes 4-6 students each year. Since students differ in prior academic preparation and experience, each student plans an integrated programme with the Director of Graduate Studies that conforms to her or his needs and interests.

    African Studies considers the arts, history, cultures, languages, literatures, politics, religions and societies of Africa, as well as issues concerning development, health and the environment. The qualification offers considerable flexibility and choice. Enrolment in the Master of Arts Degree in African Studies provides students with the opportunity to register for the many African studies courses offered in the various departments of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and the professional schools. In addition, the Degree in African Studies offers two interdisciplinary seminars to create dialogue and to integrate approaches across disciplines.

    Conclusion:
    The Master of Social Science in African Studies compares favourably with the qualifications internationally in terms of the focus area and the fact that research is the most important part of the qualifications. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with the Master of Arts: African Studies at NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with a Doctor of Philosophy: African Studies at NQF Level 10. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • All courses are externally moderated and externally examined. It is the duty of the external moderator to assess the course work and the research components of the Degree in each specialised area.
  • External moderation of coursework assessment is conducted by external examiners appointed according to the University of Fort Hare policy and process for appointment of external examiners; whilst the examination of the mini-dissertation takes place according to the policy for Postgraduate studies, which includes examination by three external examiners.
  • At least three external examiners shall be appointed; at least two of these examiners shall be from non-South African universities or institutions of higher education and may not have been a promoter or co-promoter of the candidate. Examiners are appointed by Senate and must meet specific criteria as determined by Senate, inter alia, an approved research and supervision record, qualifications (at least a Doctor's Degree) and an appropriate academic profile. After the examining of a thesis, an examiner is required to submit a written report, according to guidelines laid down by the Senate. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor for this Qualification, the applicant should:
  • Hold a relevant Doctorate at NQF Level 10.
  • Have a proven research record in the relevant field of study.
  • Be recognised by the research community as an expert in his or her field of study.
  • Be declared competent in all the outcomes of the Qualification. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    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. University of Fort Hare 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.