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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Philosophy in Sport for Development 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97820  Master of Philosophy in Sport for Development 
ORIGINATOR
University of the Western Cape 
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  People/Human-Centred Development 
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
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 qualification offers participants the opportunity to challenge and further develop their individual professional vision, to acquire more intimate knowledge about the use of sport as a tool for development, ranging from sport management to institutional and leadership issues and to get to know networks and key decision makers and key personalities from various backgrounds. Furthermore, the programme offers students and professionals in the field of sport, recreation, development building a unique opportunity to acquire an in depth training while retaining their current position.

The qualification with its strong developmental and cross-cultural emphasis, addresses most relevant issues in the field from a practice orientated perspective, and at the same time critically examines the potential role and use of sport as a local and global tool for youth and community development, conflict prevention and social transformation. The qualification aims at promoting an educational process which will generate greater awareness and understanding of the complexities of using sport as a vehicle for such developmental efforts.

Rationale:
Sports development at and through institution is a key component in giving effect to our mission and is embedded in the institution's strategic plan. The development of our learners, most of who come from significantly disadvantaged backgrounds, is related to development of the communities they come from. This postgraduate qualification would be promoting sport as a powerful tool for development, peace health, wellbeing and social change combining the areas of sports and health sciences and community development. The qualification would be promoting the application of sport science to advance the physical, social and economic development and wellbeing of South African and African communities.

The qualification would be contributing to the understanding and advancement of sport as a tool for development in South Africa and Africa through high quality research, teaching, community engagement and new technologies. Sport has significant health, psycho-social and socio-economic benefits. However, these benefits are not fully understood or utilised. This course will provide participants with the theoretical and practical knowledge to understand and utilise the benefits associated with sport in a constructive manner. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Access to the qualification can also be provided in terms of the institution`s RPL policy and its admission criteria stipulated by Senate. In the RPL process learners have to undergo a Portfolio Development Course (PDA) to support their admission. The PDC will focus on written submission explaining the reasons for the candidates' interest Sport Development as an adjunct to their existing professional competencies and indicating the nature of a possible research project. Alternatively, the RPL criteria in terms of rule A.2 will apply.

Entry Requirements:
Learners who apply should be in possession of one of the following:
  • Postgraduate Diploma.
    Or
  • Honours Degree or equivalent in Sport and Exercise Science or related fields. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises modules at NQF Level 9, totalling 180 Credits.

    Modules at NQF Level 9, 100 Credits:
  • Concepts and Trends in Sports for Development, 20 Credits.
  • Applied Research Methods, 20 Credits.
  • Mini-Thesis, 60 Credits.

    Electives Modules at NQF Level 9, 80 Credits:
    Learners must choose four modules:
  • Sport, Peace and Social Transformation, 20 Credits.
  • Socio-Economic Development, 20 Credits.
  • Sport and Community Development, 20 Credits.
  • Sport Ethics, 20 Credits.
  • Gender and Sport, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply a comprehensive and integrated knowledge of practices of sport and development.
    2. Demonstrate a coherent and critical understanding of the principles, scope and theories of global and local trends in the field.
    3. Demonstrate understanding of a range of research methodologies and methods/techniques including monitoring and evaluation techniques and an ability to select those appropriate for their own work in the field. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Skills and knowledge for the practices of sport and development in communities are displayed.
  • A specialised understanding of how to manage Sports and development resources and processes is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Independent evaluation of current Southern African and African sport development issues is undertaken.
  • Initiatives including projects around sport and sport development as a tool for social change are undertaken.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Specialised sports and development skills using appropriate research methodologies are identified and applied
  • Appropriate monitoring and evaluation techniques are identified for the management of sport and development.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Assessment of the Master of Philosophy qualification is done through formative and summative assessment methods per individual modules as part of the policy stipulation. These assessments include the following:

    Formative assessment:
  • The scheme of work includes assignments, tests and presentations based on the learning material and learners are given feedback. The process is continuous and focuses on smaller sections of the wok and limited number of outcomes.

    Summative assessment:
  • Examinations or equivalent assessment such as a portfolio in order to determine a representative selection of the outcomes practised and assessed in the formative stage. Summative assessment also tests the learner`s ability to manage and integrate a large body of knowledge to achieve the stated outcomes of a module. Integrated summative assessment in the form of the dissertation will be completed to test the student's knowledge of the theoretical and general aspects in the respective field.

    Integrated assessment:
  • All assessments will integrate knowledge, skills and attitudes and applied competence. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Comparability studies were conducted on similar international qualifications to enhance quality and international standing of this qualification with regards to the field of sport. This was done against qualifications at the University of Bond in Australia; and the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

    The Master of Sports Management offered at Bond University - Australia explores the professional challenges and opportunities for managers in the complex international sporting landscape from a grassroots level to elite professional sport organisations and events. The qualification is designed to enhance the career opportunities of established professionals, as well as assist individuals aspiring to develop a career in this unique sector.

    Based on the latest research and in consultation with industry, the professional practice of sport management is addressed from elite sports performance through to business strategies, human resource management, finance, risk management, law and organisational leadership. The qualification will give you access to leading experts in sport, law, business and public relations who possess a wealth of industry experience, including working with elite athletes and consulting to national sporting organisations. Learners will have the opportunity to gain practical industry experience and to network through an optional internship component. Through this component, learners will gain valuable insight into the practice requirements and career opportunities of the global sport industry. Alternatively, you may undertake an Evidence-Based Research Project related to their field of interest or work.

    Work Experience and Internships:
    As part of the Master of Sports Management, learners may take the Sport Management Professional Preparation elective. This industry experience module is for academic credit and involves learners gaining on-the-job practical experience within a sport-based organisation relevant to their studies. Learners will be responsible for working through tasks and projects, and expected to engage in problem-solving and professional techniques relevant to the sport organisation with which you are working. This enables you to apply the knowledge and skills you have learnt during the advanced modules in sports management to real-world situations. The qualification can on full time or part time basis.

    Upon completion of the program, you will be well-positioned to seek employment in a range of settings in the multi-faceted sport industry at the local, national and international levels. The global context of the program will enable you to seek employment in Australia and abroad. You may find employment in the government, community, private and not-for-profit sectors including:
  • Professional sport teams, leagues and affiliated organisations.
  • Community service organisations.
  • Government sport and recreation services.
  • Local, state and national sport governing bodies.
  • Major event corporations.
  • Sport venue management.

    The Master of Philosophy in Sport Management offered by the University of Waikato in New Zealand is a research-based qualification. In this research degree learners are expected to make an original contribution to knowledge while extending their research skills. Academic supervision is provided. Researchers are involved in national and international collaborative projects and publish widely. Researchers are committed to making a difference to teaching and learning for learners and teachers. This qualification is mainly focused on Sport and Leisure Studies research area.

    The Master of Philosophy is for master degree graduates interested in completing a research-based qualification. Academic supervision is provided. Researchers are involved in national and international collaborative projects and publish widely. The qualification could be studied either on part time or on full time basis.

    Applicants must have completed bachelors with honours or a Master's Degree with at least second class honours (first division) or distinction is required. Entrance is at the discretion of the Postgraduate Studies Committee.

    In conclusion:
    It is clear from the comparison done that the Master of Philosophy in Sport for development is unique in its nature and that the cited qualification in the respective countries is the closest although not directly the same. Similarities were evident in the focus and also the duration. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates vertically and horizontally as follows:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Arts in Sport Science, at NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Sport Management, at NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Commerce in Sport and Recreation Management, at NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Commerce in Sport Management, at NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Literature and Philosophy in Sport Communication, at NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Literature and Philosophy in Sport Management, at 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 the Western Cape 


    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.