Prof Wilbert Kadye
The School of Biology and Environmental Sciences offers Master of Science (MSc) degrees. The MSc degree is awarded following satisfactory completion of a dissertation based on original research. The MSc degrees are offered in the following disciplines:
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Ecology,
- Entomology,
- Environmental science,
- Geography
- Geology
- Microbiology
- Nature Conservation
The MSc degree is expected to demonstrate substantial knowledge in the chosen discipline. Whilst there is no examinable coursework for these degrees, candidates may be required to complete work that may be deemed appropriate to support their academic learning as prescribed by the School.
Programme Description
Students registered for the Master of Science will undertake independent research and report on this to reflect independent thinking, originality, critical analysis, ability to defend findings, and advanced insight into the chosen field of research. The field of research must be in a discipline within the Life Sciences (CESM category 13).
The Master of Science is by research under supervision which will be provided through direct contact between the student and supervisor. All of the time will be spent on self-directed, but supervised, research. As such, Master of Science students will not attend lectures or tutorials, nor will they work in syndicate groups. Although the work will be independent, it will not include independent study of standard texts and references, nor will it include independent study of specially prepared materials.
The learning activities are all those that are associated with self-directed, independent, but supervised research. These include but are not limited to:
- The development of a research question;
- Preparation of a literature review in support of the research question and project proposal;
- Preparation of a project proposal with time frames;
- Selection of appropriate methodology for data collection and statistical analysis;
- Field/laboratory work and data collection;
- Collation, synthesis and analysis of data;
- Integration of results with the canon of knowledge in the area;
- Dissertation preparation;
- Communication in writing and the spoken word;
- Where necessary, and on a student-by-student basis, Master of Science students will attend one or more of a range of workshops to address needs identified by the student and supervisor.
Admission Requirements
Candidates wishing to enrol for the MSc degree must hold a four-year BSc, BSc Honours, or an equivalent qualification at NQF Level 8, as approved by the University, with a minimum pass mark of 60%.
Application Requirements
All applications must be accompanied by the following certified documents:
- Full academic transcripts from undergraduate to current level of study;
- Copy of South African ID or passport;
- A research concept note (maximum 500 words), clearly outlining:
- The proposed research field;
- A specific research topic;
- The broad scope and focus of the proposed study.
Additional Requirements for Applicants with International Qualifications
Applicants holding international qualifications must also submit the following:
- A South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) evaluation of the completed qualification or a comprehensive Foreign Qualification Report;
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Important Admission Information
- All postgraduate applications are subject to School and University admission processes.
- Admission is based on academic performance in the prior qualification, the content and relevance of previous studies, bridging requirements (where applicable), academic merit, and relevant work experience.
- Admission is subject to supervisory capacity and/or availability of research projects within the field of specialisation. The University reserves the right to limit student intake annually.
- Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission.
- Proposed Master’s research studies must align with the research focus areas of the School.
Duration
Minimum of one year uninterrupted full-time, but 18 months of full-time study from registration to dissertation submission is the norm.
A maximum of three years.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT)
The University accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. It is acknowledged that all learning has value and the University accepts the challenge to assess prior learning that is aligned to programmes and award credit (through CAT) to promote lifelong learning. The purpose of the University of Mpumalanga’s RPL and CAT policy, is to recognize prior learning in order to provide for admission to programmes, grant advanced placement in programmes and grant credits for modules using the principles and processes that serve as basis for RPL practices.
Articulation
Graduates of the Master of Science degree can continue into doctoral studies (PhD) in a similar programme.
Enquiries
Prof Wilbert Kadye
Programme Coordinator: Master of Science Degree and Doctoral Degree programmes
Wilbert.Kadye@ump.ac.za