Program Overview

Bachelor of Arts

Qualification Stream:

• Development Studies and Public Administration

Qualification Code:

• 99311 - DPA

NQF Level:

• 7

Total Credits:

• 360

SAQA ID:

• 14352

APS/AS:

• 20

Rules:

• This qualification consists of 30 modules. Students should note that during the course of their studies, they are required to have access to a computer or laptop, a printer, and the internet.

Purpose Statement:

The Bachelor of Arts degree aims to:

• Familiarize learners with content and basic theories across various humanities and social sciences disciplines at both basic and intermediate levels.
• Provide a deeper grasp of one or more selected disciplines at the exit level (level 6).
• Enable learners to contextualize new knowledge and employ appropriate methods to resolve problems.
• Equip learners with various scholarly and intellectual competencies, including the ability to critically question established theories and authorities.
• Develop an understanding of basic research methods utilized within specific disciplines.
• Prepare learners for further studies and foster a comprehensive educational foundation across multiple disciplines, preparing them for diverse professions critical to societal welfare.
• Promote lateral, critical, and creative thinking while encouraging lifelong learning and an understanding of critical citizenship principles.

Delivery Mode:

• This qualification will be presented through both online and distance learning modalities.

Who Can Register?

• New Applicants: New applicants and Unisa students seeking admission to a new qualification may register only after receiving an offer of placement from Unisa and accepting the offer online. Unisa reserves the right to refuse or cancel registrations if an applicant is found to have been incorrectly admitted.
• Re-registering Students: Returning students may register for the 2026 academic year once the registration period begins. Those wishing to start a new qualification must apply online for the alternative qualification within the designated application period.

How to Choose Your Modules:

• Each Unisa qualification is structured to ensure that a specific number of NQF level credits are completed within a designated timeframe for graduation.

Module Registration Notes:

• Co-requisite: If Module A is co-requisite for Module B, registration for both must occur simultaneously unless Module B is also canceled.
• Pre-requisite: If Module A is a pre-requisite for Module B, Module A must be passed before registration for Module B.
• Students may not register for more than the indicated maximum number of credits/modules per academic year (120 credits) or semester (60 credits).
• The maximum number of credits does not include supplementary or aegrotat examinations from previous semesters.

Availability of Time:

Students should consider the following estimated time commitments for academic performance:

• Approximately 6 to 8 hours per week for semester modules.
• Approximately 4 to 6 hours per week for year modules.

Curriculum for the Qualification:

While selecting modules for registration, students should note down module names and codes for reference during the registration process.

First Level Modules:

• Group A: Compulsory Modules
  • DVA1501 - Introduction to Development Studies
  • DVA1502 - Development Problems and Institutions
• Group AA: Compulsory Module
  • PUB1501 - The Nature, Content and Scope of Public Administration
  • PUB1601 - The Structuring and Functioning of Public Services (Co-requisite: PUB1501)
• 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)
  • AFK1501 - Voetspore: Op reis deur die Afrikaanse Letterkunde
  • AFK1502 - Inleiding tot teksontwerp in Afrikaans
  • AFK1503 - Afrikaans Vandag: Taalkunde en skriftelike kommunikasie
  • AFL1502 - African Language and Culture in Practice
  • AGE1501 - Introduction to Archaeology
  • AGE1502 - The Archaeology of Southern Africa
  • AHS1511 - Ancient Mythology in Context
  • ... [Additional elective modules available]

Further Levels:

• Detailed information on modules and pre-requisites for the second and third levels is structured similarly, ensuring learners progress through their qualification systematically with appropriate foundational knowledge.

Electives and Specialization:

• A diverse array of electives is offered across various subjects, enabling students to tailor their studies according to interests and career aspirations, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience that aligns with contemporary societal needs.

This qualification encapsulates a comprehensive educational approach designed for the cultivation of critical thought, effective communication, and practical application across the fields of Development Studies and Public Administration, preparing students for meaningful contributions to society.