Master's & Doctoral Degrees

The University of South Africa (Unisa) offers a range of master's and doctoral degrees across various colleges, including the College of Accounting Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, College of Economic and Management Sciences, College of Education, College of Human Sciences, College of Law, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, and the College of Graduate Studies.

Doctor of Philosophy in Education

The Doctor of Philosophy in Education (DEd) is a full research qualification that consists of a thesis, an oral defence, and two manuscripts submitted for publication to a recognized accredited journal. The primary purpose of the DEd qualification is to attain highly advanced knowledge, professional skills, and applied competence in the field of Education, Training, and Development.

Rules

• The curriculum consists of a thesis that incorporates a research proposal, an oral defence, and two manuscripts based on the candidate's research, submitted for publication to a recognized accredited journal.
• Proof of the submission of the manuscripts is a compulsory condition for the degree to be conferred.

Purpose Statement

The DEd qualification aims to provide graduates with highly advanced knowledge, professional skills, and applied competence in the field of Education, Training, and Development. Graduates will experience continued personal growth in terms of high-level intellectual development and research capacity, opportunities for gainful employment as highly advanced and specialized educationists, and the ability to contribute creatively to educational research and development in society.

Registration

• Applicants may only register once they have received confirmation from Unisa that their application for admission has been accepted.
• Re-registering students and students who officially deferred their studies must register online during the approved registration period.
• Should you wish to start a new qualification, please apply for admission during the next application period and check whether the qualification for which you intend to apply is on the list of qualifications that you can apply for.

Time Limits for this Degree

• All master's and doctoral qualifications are structured over a defined period.
• Coursework master's degree: A maximum of three years with an option to apply for one additional year.
• Research master's degree: A maximum of three years with an option to apply for one additional year.
• Doctoral degree: A maximum of six years with an option to apply for one additional year.

Catalytic Niche Areas (CNAs)

Unisa has identified 10 Catalytic Niche Areas to be operationalized within the colleges:

• Marine studies
• Aviation and aeronautical studies
• Automotive
• Energy
• Space study and square kilometer array
• Fourth IR and digitalization
• Natural sciences (biotechnological studies)
• Health studies/medicine
• Feminist, womanist, and Bosadi theorizations
• Student support and co-curricular activities

PhD by Publication

A doctoral student may elect to complete their doctoral degree by publication. A PhD by Publication refers to a doctoral degree that comprises several peer-reviewed publications written as an introduction, discussion, and conclusion that has been put together as separate chapters, contributing to a unified research theme within a specific field.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Doctor of Philosophy in Education includes:

• TFODL01 - PhD - Education (Open Distance Learning)

University of South Africa

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Overview:

The University of South Africa (Unisa) is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa and the longest-standing dedicated distance education university in the world. It is a public university with a global reach, enrolling nearly one-third of South African students.

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Services Offered:

Unisa offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Online learning platform:

Unisa provides a comprehensive online learning platform, myUnisa, which allows students to access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with lecturers, and participate in online discussions.

Student support services:

Unisa offers various support services to students, such as academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and disability support.

Library resources:

Unisa has a vast library collection, accessible both online and through physical branches, providing students with access to a wide range of books, journals, and other research materials.

Regional centers:

Unisa has regional centers across South Africa, offering students access to physical learning spaces, support services, and opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

As a distance learning institution, Unisa's campus experience is primarily online. Students can expect to engage with their studies through online platforms, participate in virtual discussions, and connect with fellow students through online forums. While there are limited opportunities for face-to-face interaction, Unisa offers regional centers and occasional events that provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers and faculty.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Accessibility:

Unisa offers flexible and accessible learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds and locations.

Global reach:

Unisa's online platform allows students from around the world to access its programs and resources.

Wide range of qualifications:

Unisa offers a diverse range of qualifications, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, covering various disciplines.

Affordable education:

Unisa strives to provide affordable education options for students, with various financial aid programs available.

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Academic Programs:

Unisa offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Accounting Sciences

Agriculture & Environmental Sciences

Economic & Management Sciences

Education

College of Graduate Studies

Human Sciences

Law

Science, Engineering & Technology

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Other:

Unisa is committed to research and innovation, with a focus on addressing societal challenges and contributing to the development of Africa. The university has several research institutes and chairs, and its researchers are actively involved in various national and international collaborations. Unisa also has a strong focus on community engagement and outreach, working to make a positive impact on the communities it serves.