The learner can: / Does the learner:

1. Propose, plan, execute and complete a comprehensive research project independently

2. Produce a thesis on a selected topic in development studies.

3. Demonstrate the meaning of terms, concepts, definitions, classifications and theories inherent to the development field, and show their strengths and weaknesses.

4. Demonstrate the ability to identify problems in the development field through the analysis of development issues and structure solutions to development problems around these analyses.

5. Demonstrate effective teamship, problem analysis and reflection in situations of teamwork.

6. Understand the relevance of the philosophy of science and technology as manifested in development.

7. Demonstrate the use and application of methods, techniques and methodological approaches in a development situation.

8. Demonstrate competence in facilitating and/or evaluating the implementation of development interventions.

9. Demonstrate self-reliance, honesty, responsibility, hard work and sensitivity to differences through the delivery of high quality academic work.

10. Show the ability to identify multiple ways of acquiring knowledge through the delivery of high quality defendable academic work.

11. Demonstrate employment -seeking skills by producing high quality academic work that is relevant to society in its time and place.

12. Demonstrate communication skills by being able to express him/herself in a team situation and in front of an audience.

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT.
Continuous assessment practices form an integral part of the design of this qualification. Learning outcomes are made explicit to learners and there is a coherent assessment strategy in place, with a fair balance between formative and summative strategies.

Formative assessment practices that will be implemented:
Learners are continuously assessed via a proposal for study, discussions with promoters as to the progress of the research, and three compulsory seminars and presentation.

Summative assessment practices that will be implemented:
Learners are required to complete a doctoral thesis, an article ready for publication at the end of the programme, and an oral examination in which the theoretical and comparative dimensions as well as the major findings of the research are presented and defend.