Program Overview

Bachelor of Arts

Qualification Stream

• Development Studies and Geography

Program Details

• Qualification Code: 99311 - DSG
• NQF Level: 7
• Total Credits: 360
• SAQA ID: 14352
• APS/AS: 20

Purpose Statement

The Bachelor of Arts degree is designed to:

• Familiarize learners with the content and basic theories of various disciplines within the humanities and social sciences at basic and intermediate levels.
• Provide deeper understanding in one or more of these disciplines at exit level (level 6).
• Equip learners with appropriate methods for problem resolution and promote critical questioning of theoretical assumptions and authorities.
• Enhance learners' scholarly and intellectual competencies, including oral and written communication.
• Prepare learners for postgraduate studies and foster a broad, well-rounded education across diverse fields, thereby enabling them to pursue a variety of professions.
• Cultivate the ability to think critically, creatively, and laterally, furthering the capacity for lifelong learning and critical citizenship.

This qualification will be presented using both online and distance learning modes.

Rules

• The qualification consists of 30 modules.
• Students are required to have access to a computer or laptop, printer, and the internet during their studies.

Who Can Register?

• New Applicants (including Unisa students applying for admission to a new qualification) must register only after receiving and accepting an offer of placement from Unisa.
• Re-registering Students may register for the 2026 academic year once the registration period opens.

Curriculum for this Qualification

While determining the modules for which you will register, it is recommended to list the module names and codes for reference during the registration process.

Compulsory Modules

• Group A:
  • DVA1501 - Introduction to Development Studies
  • DVA1502 - Development Problems and Institutions
• Group AA:
  • GGH1501 - Discover the World: Introduction to Geography
  • GGH1502 - World Issues: A Geographical Perspective
• Group B: (Fundamentals - Select 2 modules)
  • AFC1501 - Isandulelo kwizifundo ngezindlela zokucwaninga ulwazi lwaseThebes/ Afrika (offered to NGUNI speaking students only)
  • AFL1501 - Language Through an African Lens
  • ENG1503 - Academic Language and Literacy in English
• Group C: (Electives - Select 2 modules)
  • Various courses covering diverse subjects including languages, sciences, sociology, law, and art.

Additional Module Information

Second Level

• Compulsory Modules:
  • DVA2601 - Projects and Programmes as Instruments of Development
  • DVA2602 - Community Development and the Basic Needs Approach
  • DVA2603 - Urban Development

Third Level

• Compulsory Modules:
  • DVA3701 - Development Theories
  • DVA3703 - Development Policy and Strategies
  • DVA3704 - Development Planning
  • DVA3705 - Empowerment and Popular Initiatives
  • DVA3706 - Rural Development

Additional Required Modules

• Specific elective modules must be chosen based on prerequisites.

This structured approach to the curriculum ensures that students will gain comprehensive knowledge and skills relevant to both their field of study and broader societal needs.