Yearbooks

Programme: BAHons Political Science

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Code Faculty
01240412 Faculty of Humanities
Credits Duration
Minimum duration of study: 1 year Total credits: 120
Contact:
Mr RD Henwood
[email protected]
+27 (0)124202687

Admission requirements

  • A relevant bachelor’s degree with Political Science or a directly related field of study as a major/field of specialisation.
  • An average of 70% is required in the major/field of specialisation.

Additional requirements

In certain cases additional modules may be required.

Other programme-specific information

In collaboration with the programme manager and with the approval of the head of department, students can select one elective module from another discipline.

Only certain modules are presented annually. Please consult the department in this regard.

Minimum credits: 120

Elective modules*

Select 3 modules of which 2 must be STL modules **

Note:

*In collaboration with the programme manager and with the approval of the head of department, students can select one elective module from another discipline.

**Only certain modules are presented annually. Please consult the department in this regard.

 

Core modules

  • Module content:

    An in-depth study and evaluation of the metatheoretical and theoretical foundations of modern politics. The emphasis is on the ideas and theories shaping politics in the contemporary world, as well as on the issues and changes in society that challenge established political theories.

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  • Module content:

    A limited research report of 8 000-10 000 words, based on independent research done by the student in a specialised field of political science, is written under the guidance of a supervisor. This is preceded by an introduction to advanced political research in the discipline with the inclusion of appropriate research methodology, research ethics, and the planning and documentation of research.

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Elective modules

  • Module content:

    The module focuses on African political systems, the position and role of Africa in the international system and aspects of regionalism and regionalisation. An analysis and evaluation is made of the major issues, challenges, trends and transformations concerning the domestic politics and the regional and international relations of African states, including pan-Africanism.

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  • Module content:

    The theory and practice of peace missions and political conflict with specific reference to the classification, causes, development, conduct, management and outcomes of political conflict. Particular emphasis is placed on the different facets of peace missions and political conflict management such as conflict avoidance, prevention, settlement and resolution, as well as the process of bargaining, negotiation and (third party) mediation. An analysis will be made of selected case studies with specific reference to mediation in violent conflicts in Africa.

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  • Module content:

    This module offers an overview of the European Union and the main directions of change in Europe are explored from a political-economic perspective. The main elements of study are theoretical aspects of political and economic integration; the development of the "Idea of Europe" with emphasis on the role of seminal thinkers and the main historical forces; the evolution of European integration; a structural-functional analysis of the main institutions of the EU; the main issues confronting the EU; and the EU's development and aid policy towards the ACP countries with special emphasis on the Cotonou Agreement and the TDCA with South Africa.

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  • Module content:

    An advanced study of policy analysis. Policy analysis is an approach to public policy that aims to integrate and contextualise models and research. Special attention is given to meta-analysis (methods and approaches), meso-analysis and decision-making analysis.

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  • Module content:

    The study of South African politics with reference to political institutions, the political process, political issues and policy. The emphasis is on recent events and developments in the national and international political environment. Emphasis is placed on political parties, organisations and institutions, the political system, the development of the political system, system adaptation, transformation and legitimacy, influences on the political environment, elections, political leadership, policy and the development of policy.

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  • Module content:

    Emphasis is placed on the development of comparative politics; problems in the comparative study of political objects and in the evaluation of approaches and principles underlying comparative analysis; as well as the identification and evaluation of new approaches. This knowledge is applied to specific case studies.

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The information published here is subject to change and may be amended after the publication of this information. The General Regulations (G Regulations) apply to all faculties of the University of Pretoria. It is expected of students to familiarise themselves well with these regulations as well as with the information contained in the General Rules section. Ignorance concerning these regulations and rules will not be accepted as an excuse for any transgression.

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