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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
96630  Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology 
ORIGINATOR
University of Zululand 
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 07 - Human and Social Studies  General Social Science 
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-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:
The primary purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with specialist knowledge of the theory and methodology of Industrial Sociology and to enable them to develop an in-depth understanding of the current debates in this field. They will be able to apply that knowledge in a social context. Also, a learner will have advanced social science skills and will be able to demonstrate the analytical abilities to link research findings to the theory and to contribute to theory development.

A learner will demonstrate the following:
  • The ability to develop an original research proposal and report independently;
  • The ability to orally present and defend an argument that is supported by evidence;
  • The ability to engage with and critique the ideas of their peers constructively;
  • The ability to design, plan, and execute a research task based on the theoretical framework in a group context on an intermediate level, to reflect on their research and to report on research findings;
  • The ability to search for, access, organise and interpret information on an advanced level;
  • The ability to use various information and communication technologies in an authentic environment;
  • An ability to discuss the theory and methodology of Industrial Sociology and to contribute to current debates in Industrial Sociology on an advanced level.
  • The ability to critically and creatively describe, analyse and apply different sociological models and constructs to specific social problems in the contexts of the Southern African region on an advanced level.
  • Show advanced writing skills.

    Rationale:
    This qualification will allow learners to be able to discuss, analyse and apply the theory and methodologies of Industrial Sociology. The Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology will enable them to apply their knowledge to issues pertinent to the field in the following careers:

    Guidance counsellors, who use knowledge of the sociology of learning to help learners navigate the academic world. They also communicate with families to devise strategies to support learner achievement. Guidance counsellors use interview and counselling techniques to help learners make educational and career choices. Guidance counsellors with this qualification will use problem-solving skills to mediate conflicts and resolve social problems within schools. They will also be able to facilitate group sessions and instruct learners about social issues like bullying, substance abuse, and safe sex.

    Human Resources (HR) Representative will be able to use their analytical and decision-making skills to evaluate alternative structures for employee benefits.

    Market researchers often track preferences for specific consumer groups. The sociologist's knowledge of gender, youth, ageing, race, ethnicity, and social class help to inform these preferences. An understanding of group processes and advanced communication skills help sociology majors facilitate focus group interactions and conduct interviews with consumers.

    Policy analysts research issues that affect the public. They recommend legislation to address those problems. Knowledge of sociology helps analysts to assess the impact of legislation on social issues and various populations.

    Media planners assess the advertising needs of clients and design a media plan to enhance sales to various groups. Like sociology majors, they must be able to interpret research and analyse the preferences of their target population. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution will facilitate the Recognition of Prior Learning per the Policy and Procedures for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). RPL is one of the critical mechanisms for achieving redress and equity and accelerating access in the university.

    The institution will use policy and set of procedures in the admission of a learner to qualification through RPL. Learners need to apply to the Head of the Department for Recognition of Prior Learning. The RPL Committee will assess the competencies of these learners. The policy and set of procedures will be used in the admission of a learner to the qualification where the minimum requirements have not been met (excluding mature age exemption category of exemption for admission to undergraduate programmes), but the learners have evidence that the requirements can be met through RPL.

    All potential learners who are not in possession of a Master's Degree in Industrial Sociology need to provide proof of qualification. Those who claim that they have achieved relevant prior learning which should give them access to the qualification need to apply to the Head of the Department of Sociology for Recognition of Prior Learning.

    Potential learners who want to be credited for prior learning and/or experience for a particular module or modules, need to apply in writing to the Head of the Department of Sociology clearly stating the title(s) of the module or modules they want to be credited for, as well as the basis on which they believe the accreditation should be granted.

    The principles of RPL are subscribed to and will be implemented in a flexible manner. The principle of flexible and open access will, however, be offset against the provision that this should not be to the detriment of the potential learner and that his/her chances of success are reasonable.

    The Committee will determine the skills of these learners to decide whether or not they are eligible.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Master of Arts: Industrial Sociology, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 10 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, 360 Credits:
  • Thesis in Industrial Sociology, 360 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Develop responsibility towards other members of society.
    2. Accept responsibility for own learning in terms of time management and quality of the work at an advanced level, and to work independently.
    3. Develop employment- seeking skills within the field of Industrial Sociology.
    4. Work in a group and reflect on their participation in groups.
    5. Engage with and critique in a constructive manner the ideas of their peers and others.
    6. Critically and creatively describe and apply different theoretical models and constructs in Industrial Sociology to specific social problems in local, national and global contexts at a specialist level, and be able to reflect on their problem-solving process.
    7. Search for and access appropriate resources employing a range of learning strategies and technologies within the field of Industrial Sociology at an advanced level.
    8. Use science and technology effectively and critically based on a theoretical framework at and advanced level; showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others and reflect on this process.
    9. Design, plan, and execute a research task based on a theoretical framework within local, national, and global context, be able to reflect on their research, to report on research findings, and to do this at a specialist level by making a contribution to the state of knowledge in the field.
    10. Display cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to people from different cultures based on theoretical knowledge and reflect on this process.
    11. Provide innovative solutions to specific social problems in a local, national and global context, at a specialist level taking race, gender, ethnicity, political issues and multiculturalism into account. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Show responsibility towards other members of the community.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Take responsibility for his/her learning through time management, and as well as ensuring that the quality of his/her work is of an acceptable standard at a specialist level is demonstrable.
  • Work independently.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Display employment-seeking skills within the field of Industrial Sociology.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Ensure various groups interaction is working effectively in the execution of research tasks.
  • Reflect on the work in class and or seminars discussions.
  • Present at seminars and reflection on own participation in the group.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Interact with peers and others, critique research proposal and handle argument put forward by a peer logically and coherently.
  • Use the appropriate register and display cultural sensitivity in critiquing an argument put forward by someone else.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Provide in-depth discussion and critique of theoretical models in the field of Industrial Sociology.
  • Apply theoretical constructs and models in local, national and global contexts at a specialist level.
  • Reflect on the problem-solving process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Explore and reflect on learning skills and strategies appropriate to the context of Industrial Sociology at a specialist level.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Make and support decisions with relevant theory and experience.
  • Put together a bibliography is put together in the appropriate style.
  • Source materials using a range of technologies.
  • Use appropriate media when doing presentations.
  • Consider the environment and the health of others into account in the process.
  • Critically reflect on the argument put forward by authors.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Formulate a research question within local, national and global contexts.
  • Methodological approaches to social research are differentiated.
  • A methodology appropriate to a specific research question is selected.
  • Select and use proper data collection techniques.
  • Interpret research data.
  • Discuss the importance of upholding high ethical standards in conducting research.
  • Address the limitation of research design are recognised and the validity and reliability of the study.
  • Report research findings.
  • Write the research report in an appropriate register.
  • Structure and reflect on the research report is structured to make a logical, coherent argument.
  • Present the research results to an academic audience by contributing to the state of knowledge in the field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Display the cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to people from different cultures.
  • Reflect on theoretical knowledge of the process is applied while doing this and on this process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Provide solutions to the challenges and problems facing local, national and global contexts.
  • Draw on own experiences and race, gender, political issues and take ethnicity and multi-culturalism into account in the process.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative assessment practices that will be implemented which takes the form of feedback on Doctoral seminars, one-on-one support by supervisors.

    Summative assessment is conducted through a Doctoral thesis which is externally evaluated by three examiners.

    A Doctoral thesis is not awarded a mark.
  • Examiners of theses shall not have any insight into the assessments of other examiners prior to completing and submitting their reports.
  • Theses examiners are expected to complete an assessment form and in addition, submit a separate assessment report.
  • Examiners are expected specifically to indicate whether:
    > The Degree be awarded unconditionally (without corrections).
    > The thesis be provisionally accepted pending minor corrections of a technical nature (e.g. spelling, typing, the numbering of pages/sections, references) which will normally be required to be made to the satisfaction of the supervisor.
    > The thesis be provisionally accepted pending more substantial corrections, which will normally be required to be made to the satisfaction of the examiner or a specified person or body other than the supervisor.
    > The thesis be not accepted in its current form and that it must be referred back to the candidate for revision, comprehensive restructuring and/or expansion after which it should be resubmitted for examination.
    > The thesis be not accepted, and the Degree be not awarded. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
  • Country: New Zealand
  • Institution: University of Auckland.
  • Qualification Title: Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology.

    The Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology is similar to this qualification in terms of the following:
  • The Doctor of Philosophy in Industrial Sociology is a globally recognised Postgraduate research Degree as the highest level of Degree.
  • PhD learners are trained as critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least three years.
  • The original supervised research gives learners opportunities to expand and develop personal and professional skills which are skills developed in the qualification.
  • Doctoral learners present their work at local and international conferences and are encouraged to network and collaborate with a wide range of experts in the Industrial Sociology/Sociology field.
  • Their entry criteria is also a Masters-level qualification, which is the same as this qualification.
  • Country: Las Vegas.
  • Institution: University of Nevada.
  • Qualification title: Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology/Industrial Sociology.

    The Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology/Industrial Sociology is similar to this qualification in terms of the following:
  • The Doctor of Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology/Industrial Sociology prepares the learners for academic research and teaching positions.
  • Careers in industrial, applied and community sociology.
  • Educational outcomes include the development of expertise, in both classical and contemporary sociological theories and mastery of both quantitative and qualitative research methods and data analysis.

    Development of specialised expert knowledge in at least two substantive areas, professional socialisation, participation in professional organisations, oral presentation skills, familiarity with the process of academic publication of original research, and cultivation of analytical research and writing skills that culminate in the ability to author an original Doctoral dissertation of substantial depth and quality.

    These qualifying learner attributes are also similar to qualifying learner's attributes of this qualification. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • A Cognate Doctor, 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.
     
    1. University of Zululand 


    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.