Program Overview

Programme Overview

The MEd programme is a postgraduate degree offered by the Faculty of Education at the University of Pretoria. The programme is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in education, with a focus on research and academic excellence.

Programme Information

Students can choose one of the following focus areas:

• Humanities Education
• Early Childhood Education
• Education Management and Policy Studies
• Computer Integrated Education
• Life Sciences Education
• Mathematics Education
• Physical Sciences Education
• Technology Education

Admission Requirements

Selection is based on:

• Meeting the minimum academic requirements required for admission
• Previous academic performance
• Applicable academic and/or teaching background
• Availability of supervision for the required research project
• Proven academic potential, which may include academic communication and computer application skills
• Additionally, an interview may be requested
• The requirements of professional registration bodies
• The discretion of the relevant head of department

Programme Structure

The programme consists of a research component, which includes the development of a research proposal and the completion of a dissertation. The programme also includes core modules, such as:

• NMQ 801: Research Proposal
• MCE 890: Dissertation: Mathematics Education

Research Requirements

All master's students must submit a dissertation or a mini-dissertation and pass Research Proposal (NMQ 801). For the MEd research degree programmes, a dissertation on a topic approved by the Dean on the recommendation of the relevant head of department must be submitted, following the approval of a complete research proposal. A literature study is not acceptable.

Additional Requirements

• One publishable article based on the research that the student conducted for the dissertation or the mini-dissertation and approved by the supervisor, must be submitted.
• Each successful student must submit a bound paper copy as well as two electronic copies of the approved mini-dissertation/dissertation to the Head: Student Administration.
• Students have to submit a research proposal during the first year of registration and defend it successfully before a panel of examiners appointed by the Dean.
• Students have to apply for ethical clearance to the relevant head of department and Ethics Committee and only commence with field work once the application for ethical clearance has been approved by the Ethics Committee.
• Students have to present a progress report on the research to the supervisor annually. Continued reregistration depends on satisfactory annual progress.
• All students have to attend the research capacity building sessions on quantitative and qualitative research at master's level.

Pass with Distinction

The MEd degree is conferred with distinction on a student who obtains at least 75% in the dissertation.

Programme Duration and Credits

The minimum duration of study is 2 years, and the total credits required for the programme is 180. The programme is offered at NQF level 9.