Yearbooks

Programme: BA Law

Kindly take note of the disclaimer regarding qualifications and degree names.
Code Faculty Department
01130086 Faculty of Humanities Department: Humanities Dean's Office
Credits Duration NQF level
Minimum duration of study: 3 years Total credits: 395 NQF level:  07

Programme information

This programme provides graduates with specific knowledge of the law and law-related skills and schools them in selected language discipline(s) and selected social sciences. The skills acquired may be applied in either the private or public sectors. The programme serves as an alternative route for ultimately obtaining the LLB degree. The student is, however, enabled to continue with the LLB degree (which is career-specific) or a BAHons degree. The BA/LLB combination will take five to six years to complete.

Admission requirements

Please apply as soon as applications open on 1 March.

  • The closing date is an administrative admission guideline.
  • Once a non-selection programme is full and has reached the institutional targets, then that programme will be closed for further admissions, irrespective of the closing date. However, if the institutional targets have not been met by the closing date, then that programme will remain open for admissions until the institutional targets are met.
  • Life Orientation is excluded when calculating the APS.
  • Faculty Yearbooks: click here.

1. You will be considered for conditional admission, if space allows, and if you:

  • are a Grade 11 applicant, please submit your final Grade 11 examination results, and have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with university endorsement or an equivalent qualification; OR
  • are transferring from other recognised institutions to the University of Pretoria; OR
  • are a graduate or have graduate status from another recognised tertiary institution; OR
  • are a graduate of another Faculty at the University of Pretoria; AND
  • comply with the minimum subject requirements and achievement levels, as well as the APS requirements of specific programmes.
  • If you are an international applicant please apply for conditional admission based on your final results equivalent to Grade 11.
  • Final admission is based on the qualification equivalent to the NSC.

2. You will be considered for final admission to degree studies, if space allows, and if you:

  • have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification with admission to Bachelor’s degree studies; and comply with the minimum subject requirements as well as the APS requirements of their chosen programme; OR
  • are a student transferring from another recognised tertiary institution and comply with the programme requirements; OR
  • have graduate status from another recognised tertiary institution, or are a graduate of another Faculty at the University of Pretoria.
  • If you are an international student or are a student with other qualifications equivalent to the NSC (including school qualifications from other countries, eg Spain, New Zealand, etc), you must obtain a Complete Exemption Certificate or a Foreign Conditional Exemption Certificate based on your international (‘foreign’) qualifications. Certificates can only be obtained from Universities South Africa (USAf) at click here. In addition, these candidates must meet the relevant programme admission requirements.

Minimum requirements

Achievement level

English Home Language or English First Additional Language

 

APS

NSC/IEB

AS Level

 

5

 

C

 

30

To retain admission, you must obtain an APS of at least 28 in the NSC.

Other programme-specific information

Advisory note: BA (Law) students who intend to pursue an LLB degree must note that to obtain the LLB degree they will be required to obtain at least 12 credits from the following list of language modules: AFR 110, AFR 120, AFR 114, ENG 118, ENG 110, ENG 120. BA (Law) students who do not meet this requirement during their BA Law studies will be required to register for these module(s) when they enrol for the LLB.

Please note: Students whose aim it is to obtain the LLB degree after completion of the BA (Law) degree, are advised to register for additional modules. Please contact the Student Administration of the Faculty of Law for advice in this regard.

However, please note that

  • registration for additional modules will only be allowed as from the second year of registration for the BA (Law) degree and will be subject to academic performance;
  • students will be allowed to register for a maximum of seven modules per semester; and
  • are only allowed to take additional second-year modules that are prescribed for the third year of the BA (Law) degree programme.

Concurrent registration

  • Any student registering concurrently for the LLB and the BA(Law) must be in their final year of the BA(Law) degree, with a maximum of 4 modules outstanding. Any student who requires more than 4 modules will not be allowed to register concurrently.
  • Only BA(Law) students may be allowed concurrent registration if they are finalists and have a weighted average of at least 65% across their BA (Law) degree.
  • Any student registering concurrently cannot register for fewer than 4 LLB modules, and for not more than 6 LLB modules. None of these modules may be a LLB final year elective module.
  • Students must note that due to promotion criteria they MUST pass at least 4 of the LLB modules in the year of registration to advance to the next year in the LLB. Failing to do so will lead to exclusion from the LLB degree.

(BA (Law) students who wish to register for additional law modules do so in terms of the Faculty of Law yearbook of the academic year in which they registered for the first time.)

The BA (Law) degree must be completed within a maximum of five years. Failure to do so, may result in exclusion from the Faculty of Humanities.

NB Registration for additional modules will only be allowed if no timetable clashes are involved.

Minimum credits: 128

First-year electives: Select any three disciplines from the humanities at first year-level one, one must be a language subject ( to the value of 72 credits).

Fundamental modules

  • Module content:

    Find, evaluate, process, manage and present information resources for academic purposes using appropriate technology.

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  • Module content:

    Apply effective search strategies in different technological environments. Demonstrate the ethical and fair use of information resources. Integrate 21st-century communications into the management of academic information.

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  • Module content:

    *For LLB and BA/BCom specialising in law
    The module has both a theoretical and skills component. All elements described below will encompass conceptual knowledge combined with practical application.

    UNDERLYING JURISPRUDENTIAL ASPECTS OF LAW / THE LAW IN GENERAL

    1. A first-year definition of law / the Law
    2. The relationships between law and society, law and history, law and politics, law and language
    3. Being a law student or lawyer in South Africa
    4. Introduction to different perspectives on the law


    THE SOUTH AFRICAN LEGAL SYSTEM AND ITS HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT

    SOURCES OF SOUTH AFRICAN LAW AND THEIR HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT:

    1. Introduction to characteristics and components of the South African legal system
    2. Mixed legal systems
    3. The South African Constitution and its historical development
    4. Customary law and its historical development
    5. Common law and its historical development
    6. Primary and other sources of modern South African law
    7. Applying the sources of law to a set of facts and relying on the sources of law to answer a jurisprudential question.


    THE ABOVE CONTENT FORMS THE BASIS OF THE SKILLS COMPONENT (INCORPORATING ACADEMIC LITERACY SKILLS) WHICH CONSISTS OF:

    1. Conducting research in the library
    2. Finding, reading and applying the sources of law
    3. Reading, understanding and summarising texts on topics of law
    4. Analysing, criticising and improving (“edit”) a piece of writing on the law in a theoretical sense
    5. Writing a well-constructed essay or paragraph on legal problems and topics of law or legal history

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  • Module content:

    *For LLB and BA/BCom specialising in law
    BASIC PRINCIPLES OF THE:

    1. Law of obligations (contract and delict)
    2. Criminal law
    3. Law of civil procedure
    4. Law of criminal procedure
    5. Law of evidence


    ACCESS TO JUSTICE:

    1. Courts and alternative dispute resolution
    2. Legal profession
    3. Access to justice and its promotion in South Africa (the idea, problems, representation in criminal matters, role of different organisations, etc)


    THE ABOVE CONTENT FORMS THE BASIS OF THE SKILLS COMPONENT (INCORPORATING ACADEMIC LITERACY SKILLS) WHICH CONSISTS OF:

    1. Drafting a simple contract based upon a set of facts (law of contract)
    2. Reading, understanding, summarising a case on the law of delict and applying the principles of legal argument and logic to it
    3. Summarising, analysing, criticising and improving (“edit”) a piece of writing on the law of evidence
    4. Understanding and applying the principles of examination in chief, cross-examination and re-examination to a concrete set of facts with a view to participation in a “moot court” or debate.

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Core modules

  • Module content:

    *For LLB and BA/BCom specialising in Law
    The legal rules in respect of the coming into existence, private law status and termination of a natural person or legal subject

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  • Module content:

    *For LLB and BA/BCom specialising in law
    General introduction to Roman law and European law as foundations of South African private law
    INTRODUCTION TO THE ROMAN LAW OF THINGS

    1. Things, real rights, possession
    2. Ownership, limitations, acquisition, protection
    3. Limited real rights, servitudes, real security

    INTRODUCTION TO THE ROMAN LAW OF CONTRACT

    1. General principles of the law of contract
    2. Specific contracts
    3. Quasi contracts

    INTRODUCTION TO THE ROMAN LAW OF DELICT

    1. General principles of the law of delict
    2. Specific delicts
    3. Quasi delicts

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Elective modules

  • Module content:

    Taalkundekomponent: Inleiding tot die Afrikaanse taalkunde met klem op lees-en skryfvaardigheid. Letterkundekomponent: Inleiding tot die Afrikaanse en Nederlandse letterkunde aan die hand van kortverhale en gedigte.

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  • Module content:

    Taalkundekomponent: Inleiding tot die Afrikaanse sintaksis, fonetiek en taalgeskiedenis. Letterkundekomponent:Inleiding tot die Romankuns Inleiding tot die Drama

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the literature of isiNdebele/isiZulu/Sepedi/Setswana such as an introduction to literary concepts such as literary text(s), topic, characters, events, time and place; the analysis of selected short stories.

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  • Module content:

    An introduction to the ancient world I: the ancient Near East
    Various facets of the ancient Mesopotamian, Syria-Palestinian and Egyptian cultures are dealt with in broad outline. Examples that are dealt with can include the following, namely geography, worldviews, history, literature, daily life, customs, values, religion and mythology. Examples of ancient cultures whose characteristics can be investigated range from the Sumerians, the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Persians, the Canaanites, the Israelites and the Egyptians from their origin Before the Common Era to the beginning of the Common Era.

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  • Module content:

    An introduction to the ancient world II: the Greek and Roman worlds
    Various facets of the ancient Greek and Roman cultures are dealt with in broad outline. Examples that are dealt with can include the following, namely geography, worldview, history, literature, daily life, customs, values, religion and mythology. These classical societies are investigated from their origin Before the Common Era into the Common Era.

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  • Module content:

    This introduction to social anthropology introduces basic themes of the discipline including ritual, religion, marriage and sex. It combines classic studies with recent scholarship, and asks the ‘big question’ about human society and human cultures that offer challenging perspectives on the world we live in.

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  • Module content:

    This module builds on the ethnographic and theoretical themes introduced in APL 110, asking particular questions about how we may think about the relationship between the local and the global; indigenous and universal; public and private; the real and the possible.The module continues in the vein of APL 110, in that it explicitly encourages students to understand the society in which they live through a series of critical anthropological perspectives.

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  • Module content:

    Ancient world in context
    A broad historical overview of ancient Mediterranean societies and a study of Greek and Hebrew expressions in the context of ancient Mediterranean views of man, society and the world.

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  • Module content:

    *No previous knowledge of or experience in German required for admission. Students who passed grade 12 German are not allowed to register for this module
    An intensive introductory study of the German language focusing on the acquisition of basic communication skills, namely listening, reading, speaking and writing. It also offers a brief introduction to the culture of German-speaking countries.  This module complies with the requirements for level A2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Comprehensive review of German grammar; development of reading, writing, speaking and understanding skills; analysis and interpretation of tests.

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  • Module content:

    Continuation of comprehensive review of German; further development of reading, writing, speaking and understanding skills; analysis and interpretation of texts.

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  • Module content:

    *Alternative evening classes - 2 discussion classes per week Introduction to Literature in English (1)

    This module introduces the study of literature by examining a number of texts representing different genres (poetry, prose, drama). The texts studied here will be mainly from the pre-twentieth century era and may include texts written in English from both Africa and other parts of the world. The aim of this module is to equip students with the critical and analytical skills required for a perceptive reading of poetry, novels and plays.

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  • Module content:

    *Alternative evening classes: 2 discussion classes per week
    Introduction to Literature in English (2)
    This module introduces the study of post-nineteenth century literature by examining a number of texts representing different genres (poetry, drama, prose). Texts will be from both Africa and other parts of the world. By the end of this module students should have the background and analytical skills to perceptively read modern and contemporary poetry, novels and plays.

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  • Module content:

    Introduction to Philosophy

    The two semester modules at first-year level introduce students to four main subfields of philosophy, namely metaphysics, epistemology, ontology and ethics. This module introduces students to two of these subfields, namely epistemology and metaphysics with reference to the work of a range of scholars from the Global South and the West. Students will become acquainted with the nature of philosophical reflection by exploring a number of classical philosophical themes in each subfield. Throughout the module there is an emphasis on developing those critical thinking, reading and writing skills that are required in Philosophy, while students become acquainted with the power of critique as critical judgment and discernment.

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  • Module content:

    Introduction to Philosophy

    The two semester modules at first-year level introduce students to four main subfields of philosophy, namely metaphysics, epistemology, ontology and ethics. This module introduces students to two of these subfields, namely ontology and ethics and the emphasis is on texts by African and Western scholars. Students will become acquainted with the nature of philosophical reflection by exploring a number of classical philosophical themes in each subfield. Throughout the module there is an emphasis on developing those critical thinking, reading and writing skills that are required in Philosophy, while students become acquainted with the power of critique as critical judgment and discernment.

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  • Module content:

    *No previous knowledge of or experience in French required for admission. Students who passed grade 12 French are not allowed to register for this module.
    An intensive introductory study of the French language focusing on the acquisition of basic communication skills, namely listening, reading, speaking and writing. It also offers a brief introduction to the culture of French-speaking countries. This module complies with the requirements for level A2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Comprehensive review of French grammar; development of reading, writing, speaking and understanding skills; analysis and interpretation of texts.

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  • Module content:

    Comprehensive review of French grammar; further development of reading, writing, speaking and understanding skills; analysis and interpretation of texts.

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  • Module content:

    The making of the Modern World: a survey
    A selection of themes on Asia, Africa, the Americas and Europe and their contribution to the making of the Modern World.

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  • Module content:

    Africa and South Africa: a survey
    An overview focusing on the making of African and South African societies from the earliest times to the present with emphasis on the most significant historical forces, factors and events.

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  • Module content:

    Greek grammar (1)
    The basic characteristics of Hellenistic Greek: the writing system and pronunciation, the Greek verb and noun systems, conjugation and declension, basic syntax and vocabulary. Passages from the Greek New Testament are adapted as exercises in order to facilitate linguistic proficiency. Continuous evaluation includes class tests and homework assignments.
    Greek grammar (2)
    Further study of the verb and noun systems of Hellenistic Greek, expansion of the basic vocabulary, and analysis of compound sentences. Adapted passages from the New Testament form the core of practical academic literacy exercises.

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  • Module content:

    Greek grammar (3)
    Further study of the verb and noun systems of Hellenistic Greek: middle and passive forms, the third declension, and analysis of compound sentences. Adapted passages from the New Testament form the core of practical academic literacy exercises.
    Greek texts: Read and comprehend
    Read selected texts from the NT and/or Apostolic Fathers, with emphasis on word analysis, basic translation, use of basic aids (dictionary, translations). Evaluation includes translation of unseen passages from the corpuses concerned.

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  • Module content:

    Hebrew grammar (1)
    Basic principles of the grammar of classical Hebrew: signs of writing and pronunciation, Hebrew morphology, the nominal and verbal system, basic syntax and vocabulary. Exercise basic competence by means of the analysis and translation of selected passages from the Hebrew Old Testament.
    Hebrew grammar (2)
    More advanced principles of the grammar of classical Hebrew: the function of nouns, verbs and particles, the derived formations of the verb. Passages from the Hebrew Old Testament from the basis for exercising academic literacy.

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  • Module content:

    Hebrew grammar (3)
    Continued study of the Hebrew verbal system: the irregular and weak verbs. Passages from the Hebrew Old Testament from the basis for students’ exercise in academic literacy.
    Hebrew texts: Read and comprehend
    Read selected texts from the OT, with emphasis on word analysis, basic translation, use of basic aids (dictionary, translations). Evaluation includes translation of unseen passages.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Fundamental criminology
    A general introduction to criminology is provided. An overview of factors that contribute to crime, forensic criminology and forensic criminalistics are investigated.
    Part 2: Violent crime
    Various types of violent crimes receive attention in this section.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Penology
    Attention is given to the roleplayers in the criminal justice system, namely the police, judiciary and corrections.
    Part 2: Crime prevention and control
    The nature and extent of crime, theories to explain criminal behaviour and crime prevention and control are investigated.

    The two sections will not necessarily be presented in chronological order.

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  • Module content:

    *Not for students who passed Latin in Gr 12
    Latin grammar and reading (1) and (2)
    Basic characteristics and use of classical Latin: the verb and noun in Latin (conjugation and declension), basic syntax, as well as vocabulary; exercises in grammar and reading; relevant social, political and historical background.
    Continued study of accidence and syntax; further basic vocabulary. More adapted Latin passages to facilitate academic literacy.

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  • Module content:

    *Not for students who passed Latin in Gr 12
    Latin grammar and reading (3) and (4)
    Continued study of accidence and syntax: further basic vocabulary. More adapted Latin passages to facilitate academic literacy.
    The student’s knowledge and understanding of Latin accidence, syntax and vocabulary is extended further. The emphasis is now more on reading passages and analysing them grammatically and syntactically.

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  • Module content:

    For speakers of isiNdebele as home language or first or second additional language.
    Aspects of the grammar of isiNdebele such as an introduction to the word categories; an introduction to the structure, meaning and use of the noun, the adjective, the relative, the possessive; the verb; writing and spelling rules; dictionaries and dictionary use; grammatical analysis.

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  • Module content:

    This module offers an intensive study of the Portuguese language focusing on the acquisition of basic communication skills: listening. reading, speaking and writing. It also offers a brief introduction to Lusophone culture. This module complies with the requirements for level A set by the "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages".

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  • Module content:

    This module involves a comprehensive review of Portuguese grammar, the development of reading, writing, speaking and understanding skills and the analysis and interpretation of texts.

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  • Module content:

    This module involves the continuation of the comprehensive review of Portuguese grammar begun in PTG 113 and further development of reading, writing, speaking and understanding skills as well as the analysis and interpretation of texts. This module offers an introduction to Portuguese literature from Portugal, Africa and Latin America.

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  • Module content:

    An introduction to the study of organised political society at national and international levels with specific reference to political concepts, approaches and methods. The emphasis is on state and governance as frameworks for analysis in light of the salient changes brought about at national and international levels by globalisation. Attention is paid to the corresponding dynamics of regime development, performance and change at national and international levels considering increasing challenges to national sovereignty from within and without states in a context of a growing global agenda dealing with transnational issues and challenges, such as the environment, human rights, development and humanitarian intervention.

     

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  • Module content:

    *For absolute beginners only.
    The acquisition of basic Sepedi communicative skills with emphasis on everyday expressions and suitable high frequency vocabulary, within specific social situations.

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  • Module content:

    *For speakers of Sepedi as home language or first or second additional language.
    Aspects of the grammar of Sepedi such as an introduction to the word categories; an introduction to the structure, meaning and use of the noun, the adjective, the relative, the possessive; the verb; writing and spelling rules; dictionaries and dictionary use; grammatical analysis.

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  • Module content:

    Sepedi - communication and grammar
    The acquisition of more advanced communication skills in further social situations. More extensive vocabulary and more advanced language structures are acquired and used. Further awareness of the nature and function of language structures. Writing and spelling rules. Dictionaries and dictionary use. Reading and comprehension of basic texts.

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  • Module content:

    This module is a general orientation to Psychology. An introduction is given to various theoretical approaches in Psychology, and the development of Psychology as a science is discussed. Selected themes from everyday life are explored and integrated with psychological principles. This module focuses on major personality theories. An introduction is given to various paradigmatic approaches in Psychology.

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  • Module content:

    This module introduces the student to a basic knowledge and understanding of the biological basis of human behaviour. The module addresses the key concepts and terminology related to the biological subsystem, the rules and principles guiding biological psychology, and identification of the interrelatedness of different biological systems and subsystems. In this module various cognitive processes are studied, including perception, memory, thinking, intelligence and creativity. Illustrations are given of various thinking processes, such as problem solving, critical, analytic and integrative thinking.

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  • Module content:

    Invitation to Sociology
    How do we understand ourselves as individuals in relation to society? How are our individual life courses and large-scale processes of social and historical change related to each other? How have our societies come to be what they are today? And how can we think of our private troubles as public issues? These questions are at the very heart of sociology as a distinctive way of thinking about and understanding the social worlds that we inhabit. This module invites students to become familiar with sociological ways of thinking about current issues and personal experiences (particularly in the southern African context), and to develop the analytical skills that are necessary in order to ask and answer critical questions about the communities, society, and world that they live in. The module will include a specific emphasis on academic reading skills.

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  • Module content:

    Thinking sociologically
    Drawing from the idea of Sociology as a discipline that focuses on critical thinking, the module will introduce students to ways of questioning the obvious and the taken-for-granted. In particular, power and inequality will be problematised, with a focus on how power operates to structure racial, class and gender inequalities across institutions, ideologies and identities. The module will introduce students to the operations of power as manifested in the production of institutions, the proliferation of identities and heightened contestations among ideologies. The module will include a specific emphasis on writing skills.

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  • Module content:

    *No previous knowledge of Spanish is required. Please note: Students with an advanced knowledge of Spanish (e.g. levels B1, B2 or higher) are not allowed to register for this module.

    An introductory study of the Spanish language focusing on the acquisition of basic communication skills, namely listening, reading, speaking and writing. It also offers a brief introduction to the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. This module complies with the requirements for level A set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

    The module is presented in English at the beginning, but it gradually shifts into Spanish.

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  • Module content:

    Please note: Students with an advanced knowledge of Spanish (e.g. levels B1, B2 or higher) are not allowed to register for this module.

    An intensive introductory study of the Spanish language focusing on the acquisition of basic communication skills, namely listening, reading, speaking and writing. It also offers a brief introduction to the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. This module complies with the requirements for level A2 set by the "Common European Framework for Reference for Languages."

    The module is presented in English at the beginning, but it gradually shifts into Spanish.

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  • Module content:

    * For absolute beginners only.

    The acquisition of basic Setswana communicative skills with emphasis on everyday expressions and suitable high frequency vocabulary within specific social situations.
     

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  • Module content:

    *For speakers of Setswana as home language or first or second additional language. Aspects of the grammar of Setswana such as an introduction to the word categories; an introduction to the structure, meaning and use of the noun, the adjective, the relative, the possessive; the verb; writing and spelling rules; dictionaries and dictionary use; grammatical analysis.

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  • Module content:

    Setswana – communication and grammar
    The acquisition of more advanced communication skills in further social situations. More extensive vocabulary and more advanced language structures are acquired and used. Further awareness of the nature and function of language structures. Writing and spelling rules. Dictionaries and dictionary use. Reading and comprehension of basic texts.

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  • Module content:

    *For absolute beginners only
    The acquisition of basic isiZulu communicative skills with emphasis on everyday expressions and suitable high frequency vocabulary, within specific situations.

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  • Module content:

    *For speakers of isiZulu as home language or first or second additional language.
    Aspects of the grammar of isiZulu such as an introduction to the word categories; an introduction to the structure, meaning and use of the noun, the adjective, the relative, the possessive; the verb; writing and spelling rules; dictionaries and dictionary use; grammatical analysis.

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  • Module content:

    isiZulu - communication and grammar
    The acquisition of more advanced communication skills in further social situations. More extensive vocabulary and more advanced language structures are acquired and used. Further awareness of the nature and function of language structures. Writing and spelling rules. Dictionaries and dictionary use. Reading and comprehension of basic texts

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Minimum credits: 135

Second-year electives: Select any two disciplines from the humanities which were completed at first-year level, one of which must be a language subject, and do two semester modules of each discipline (to the value of 80 credits).

Sociology

First semester: Select either SOC210 OR SOC211

Second semester: Select either SOC220 OR SOC221 

Core modules

  • Module content:

    *For LLB and BA/BCom specialising in law

    1. Introduction to family law
    2. General principles regarding the coming into existence of a marriage
    3. Void, voidable and putative marriages
    4. The invariable consequences of the marriage
    5. Basic principles regarding the legal relationship between child and parent
    6. The variable consequences of a marriage
    7. Principles regarding the dissolution of a marriage
    8. The consequences of the dissolution of a marriage

    Law of Parent and Child;

    1. Variable consequences of marriage
    2. Dissolution of marriage
    3. Consequences of the dissolution of marriage
    4. Customary marriages
    5. Domestic partnerships and religious marriages

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  • Module content:

    1. Introduction to constitutional law and theory 
    2. Basic principles regarding constitutional law, the law in general, the State and the individual 
    3. Important constitutional principles and concepts 
    4. The historical development of modern constitutional law 
    5. Overview of the recent constitutional developments in South Africa since 1652 
    6. The different elements of State 
    7. Sources of South African constitutional law 
    8. The founding provisions, the legal order and symbols of the South African State 
    9. Basic principles of co-operative governance in South Africa 
    10. The South African President and the National Executive Authority 
    11. The National Legislative Authority 
    12. Provincial Government 

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  • Module content:

    1. Situating constitutional rights within the statist-liberal and multicommunal approaches to constitutionalism 
    2. Conceptualisation: human rights; fundamental rights and constitutional rights; universality versus cultural specificity 
    3. Structure and outline of the Bill of Rights 
    4. Standing 
    5. Interpretation with specific reference to transformationism 
    6. Application: the rights bearers and duty-bearers of constitutional rights 
    7. The structure of a dispute involving constitutional rights and limitation 
    8. Capita selecta of specific rights in liberal, communitarian and transformationist contexts, including: 
    • Equality and non-discrimination 
    • Freedom of religion, belief and opinion 
    • Expression and other selected individual freedoms 
    • Socio-Economic Rights 
    1. Enforcement 
    • Communal consent 
    • Judicial enforcement; South African courts and their jurisdictions; Capita selecta of judicial remedies 
    1. Chapter IX-institutions 
    2. Critical notes 

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  • Module content:

    *For LLB and BA specialising in law

    1. Indigenous culture groups, their culture, and the definition of legal pluralism
    2. Law of persons and family law of indigenous culture groups
    3. Indigenous law of delict
    4. Indigenous law of succession
    5. Indigenous law of contract
    6. Legal conflict and court structure
    7. Legal systems based on religion in South Africa

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  • Module content:

    *For LLB, BAdmin, BA specialising in law and BCom Taxation
    Statute law:

    1. General introduction: relationship between text and context
    2. What is legislation: categories and types of legislation
    3. The structure and format of legislation (enacted law texts)
    4. Commencement, amendment and demise of legislation

    Principles of interpretation:

    1. How to interpret legislation: various theories and methods of interpretation and the influence of the supreme Constitution on statutory interpretation
    2. Internal and external aids to determine the legislative purpose
    3. So-called peremptory and directory provisions
    4. Statutory interpretation and judicial lawmaking
    5. Basic principles of constitutional interpretation

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Elective modules

  • Module content:

    Taalkundekomponent: Morfologie, sintaksis, leksikologie en semantiek. Letterkundekomponent: Afrikaanse poësie

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  • Module content:

    Afrikaanse prosa
    Literatuurteorie en -kritiek

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the literature of isiNdebele/isiZulu/Sepedi/Setswana such as the continuation of the study of concepts such as text, topic, characters, events, time and place; the study of plot and style; the critical analysis of a novel/novelette.

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  • Module content:

    Interpretation of written remains
    A selection of ancient Near Eastern (namely Mesopotamian, Syria-Palestinian and Egyptian) and ancient Greek and Roman myths and typical mythological themes are studied against their proper cultural and historical background. Some of the different methods of interpretation for myths that will be dealt with include ancient and current approaches. This is done in order to indicate ancient myths’ influence on contemporary society.

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  • Module content:

    Interpretation of material remains
    The physical remains of the ancient Near East (namely Mesopotamia, Syria-Palestine and Egypt) and the ancient Greek and Roman worlds, namely artefacts and architecture, are examined within their socio-historical context to interpret the physical representations of their worldviews. Contemporary society’s interaction with material remains of the ancient world will also be examined.

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  • Module content:

    Cultural constructions of sex and sexuality are the primary building blocks of social organisation. Anthropological discussions of sexuality tend to revolve around the various aspects of social organisation, such as the lifecycle, gendered identities, and personhood. These discussions are informed by the cultural meanings we impute to differences in biological sex and reproduction, and the ways in which these meanings influence social organisation, personhood, and power. In this module, we will consider cultural constructions of sex and sexuality as these inform certain aspects of social organisation such as kinship and marriage. We will attempt to develop an anthropological perspective on the interplay between sex, culture and society. To this end, we will examine the physiology of sexuality, and then consider different theoretical perspectives on human sexuality as reflected in cross-cultural ethnographic case studies.

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  • Module content:

    Power and wealth
    This module explores anthropological perspectives on politics, power and wealth in colonial and postcolonial contexts.  Key concepts that are discussed include anthropological approaches to citizenship, cosmopolitanism, hegemony, human rights, neoliberalism, sovereignty, civil society, gender, race and class.

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  • Module content:

    This module focuses on the further development of communication skills with special emphasis on the receptive activities of the language, namely listening and reading. Careful attention is given to critical aspects of German grammar. Short fictional and non-fictional texts are used for comprehension as well as for demonstrating cultural aspects of the German-speaking countries.  This module complies with the requirements for level B1.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    This module continues with the development of communicative skills of the language. Special attention is given to the comprehension of non-fictional and literary written texts, spoken and audio-visual inputs, as well as the application of knowledge of German grammar in oral and written production. This module complies with the requirements for level B1.2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    *Alternative evening classes - 3 discussion classes per week
    Modern English literature and English language studies
    This module focuses on post-nineteenth century literature in English as well as on historical and theoretical aspects of the English language.

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  • Module content:

    *Alternative evening classes - 3 discussion classes per week
    Twentieth-century, postcolonial and contemporary literature
    This module focuses on post-nineteenth century literature in English. Various genres are covered and particular attention is given to postcolonial writing.

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  • Module content:

    This module engages the historical emergence of modern African philosophy in relation to the Western canon. The first module traces the history of modern western philosophy as the history of different conceptions of First Philosophy – from the claim that it is epistemology (Aristotle through eg. Kant and Hegel), to ontology (eg Heidegger), to the ethical (eg. Levinas) to the claim that it is the political (eg Grosfoguel, Mignolo). The second module traces the historical process through which the modern African subject is constituted in a struggle for recognition with reference to the work of theorists such as Hegel, Du Bois, Fanon and others.

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  • Module content:

    In this module contextually relevant aspects of human reality are reflected on through philosophy considered as practical activity. Students will engage issues of socio-political relevance in contemporary (South) Africa, the Global South and beyond. The focus is on key themes and texts in debates of contemporary relevance and may include issues from any of the sub-disciplines of philosophy such as political philosophy, moral philosophy and philosophy of science. 

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  • Module content:

    This module focuses on the further development of communication skills with special emphasis on the receptive activities of the language, namely listening and reading. Careful attention is given to critical aspects of French grammar. Short fictional and non-fictional texts are used for comprehension as well as for demonstrating cultural aspects of the French-speaking countries.  This module complies with the requirements for level B1.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    This module continues with the development of communicative skills of the language. Special attention is given to the comprehension of non-fictional and literary written texts, spoken and audio-visual inputs, as well as the application of knowledge of French grammar in oral and written production. This module complies with the requirements for level B1.2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    A selection of themes on the history of Africa and its people in the recent past that shaped the African historical experience.

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  • Module content:

    The development of South Africa through segregation and apartheid to democracy.

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  • Module content:

    Greek texts – syntax
    Basic syntactical theory and application to selected Greek texts
    Greek prose – text analysis
    Basic theory of comprehensive text analysis and application of selected NT prose texts.

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  • Module content:

    Greek poetry – text analysis
    Basic theory of poetic text analysis and application of selected NT and related poetry texts.
    Greek texts – holistic analysis
    Students are guided towards reading and analysing independently chosen Greek texts by application of all knowledge and skills acquired in GRK modules on year level 1 as well as in GRK 210 and 220.

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  • Module content:

    Hebrew texts – syntax
    Basic syntactical theory and application to selected Hebrew texts.
    Hebrew prose – text analysis
    Basic theory of comprehensive text analysis and application to selected OT prose texts.

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  • Module content:

    Hebrew poetry – text analysis
    Basic theory of poetic text analysis and application to selected OT poetic texts. Hebrew texts – holistic analysis
    Students are guided towards reading and analysing independently chosen Hebrew texts by application of all knowledge and skills acquired in HEB modules on year level 1 as well as in HEB 210 and 220.

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  • Module content:

    International theory and organisation
    What causes war and peace? Can international order and justice be reconciled? Does the international structure matter? The answers depend on the theoretical lenses through which world politics are viewed. An overview is provided of competing theoretical perspectives of international relations. It includes mainstream and alternative perspectives, as well as the underlying ideas, theories and variants of each. These theories also propose different approaches to global peace, amongst others peace through international organisation. A comprehensive analysis is made of selected international organisations with a universal or regional scope, such as the United Nations, the African Union and the Southern African Development Community, and of international law that underpins these organisations and their activities.

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  • Module content:

    Foreign policy and diplomacy
    A short introduction to the study of foreign policy is followed by an explanation of the use of the comparative method and a framework for foreign policy analysis and evaluation. This allows for a comparative study of the foreign policies of selected states from the major regions of the world, amongst others of South African foreign policy. In each case study the policy environment, the formulation and implementation processes, as well as the substance of the particular state’s foreign policy are covered. Thereafter the focus narrows to diplomacy: the oldest, most versatile and universally used instrument of foreign policy. The nature, history, modes of diplomacy and legal framework of the institution are explored. Examples are drawn from global practice, with specific consideration of the evolution of diplomatic practice within the African and South African context.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Forensic criminalistics
    The integrated nature of systematic criminal investigation is explored by demarcating the study field into the criminal tactic and technique.
    Part 2: Youth misbehaviour
    The nature, extent, theoretical explanations as well as prevention and control of youth misbehaviour are investigated.

    The two sections will not necessarily be presented in chronological order.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Victimology
    Contemporary issues in victimology are explored and special attention is given to aspects such as victim-based legislation and restorative justice. 
    Part 2: Political offences
    Political offences such as corruption, assassination and human rights violations are investigated in this section.

    The two sections will not necessarily be presented in chronological order.

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  • Module content:

    Latin literature, grammar and history (1) and (2)
    Selected passages from Latin literature, including legal and patristic texts; Latin grammar.
    An introduction to Roman history
    Selected passages of prose and poetry. Latin grammar. Roman history and constitution.

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  • Module content:

    Latin literature, grammar and history (3) and (4)
    Selected passages of prose and poetry. Latin grammar. Roman history and constitution. History of Latin literature.

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the grammar of isiNdebele such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; the structure, meaning and use of the pronoun and the enumerative; an introduction to isiNdebele speech sounds/phonetics.

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  • Module content:

    This module further develops communicative skills with special emphasis on receptive activities, namely listening and reading. Careful attention will be given to critical aspects of Portuguese grammar. Short fictional and non-fictional texts are used for comprehension as well as for demonstrating cultural aspects of the Lusophone countries. This module complies with the requirements for level B1 set by the "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages".

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  • Module content:

    This module continues with the development of communicative skills in Portuguese. Special attention is given to the comprehension of written texts, spoken and audio-visual inputs. This module complies with the requirements for level B1.2 set by the "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages".

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  • Module content:

    Sepedi - communication and grammar
    The acquisition of advanced communication skills in further social, occupational and educational situations. More extensive vocabulary and advanced language structures are acquired and used. Heightened awareness of the nature and function of language structures.
    Sepedi - reading and writing
    Writing of coherent, idiomatic and grammatically correct texts in order to impart ideas and information for a selected range of communicative purposes. Writing entails creative writing as well as reduplication. Reading and comprehension of texts which contain reasonably extensive vocabularies and a relatively large variation of language structures. Commence with the reading of fairly simple literary works. Students are also further trained in the use of the dictionary.

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the grammar of Sepedi such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; the structure, meaning and use of the pronoun and the enumerative; an introduction to Sepedi speech sounds/phonetics.

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  • Module content:

    Sepedi  -  communication, grammar, reading and writing
    The further acquisition of advanced communication skills in further social, occupational and educational situations. More extensive vocabulary and advanced language structures are acquired and used. Heightened awareness of the nature and function of language structures. Continuation of the writing of coherent, idiomatic and grammatically correct texts in order to impart ideas and information for a range of communicative purposes. An introduction to Sepedi speech sounds / phonetics.  Reading and comprehension of texts which contain more extensive vocabularies and a larger variation of language structures. Reading of further literary works.

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  • Module content:

    In this module human development from conception through adolescence to adulthood is discussed with reference to various psychological theories. Incorporated are the developmental changes related to cognitive, physical, emotional and social functioning of the individual and the context of work in adulthood. Traditional and contemporary theories of human development explaining and describing these stages are studied in order to address the key issues related to both childhood and adulthood.

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  • Module content:

    This module is a social-psychological perspective on interpersonal and group processes. Themes that are covered include communication, pro-social behaviour, social influence and persuasion, political transformation, violence, and group behaviour.

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  • Module content:

    Industrial sociology
    This module addresses sociological approaches to the workplace. Its focus is on theories of work and the current themes and debates within the sociology of work with an emphasis on exploring these issues from a southern perspective. Some of the themes that will be covered include the theorisation and conceptualisation of work, work in industrialising societies, workplace restructuring and reorganisation, flexibility in the labour market, changing technologies and the implications for work and employment, and new forms of work (including atypical work, service work, emotional labour, professional work).

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  • Module content:

    Urban sociology and social movements
    This module considers the relationship between the rural and urban, against the backdrop of the emergence and development of both capitalism in its various guises and globalisation within the twentieth and twenty-first centuries in the global North and South. Questions on the nature of social interaction in communities, changing ways of relating, inequality and livelihoods, collective action, local cultures and modernities are considered. With migration to the city spurred by the communication revolution, the city has become a source of aspirations and illusions. A key issue in place-space configurations is the dialectic between citizenship and cosmopolitanism (aligned to individualism and multiple identities), on the one hand, and the experience of community (aligned to a collectivity) on the other hand. The debate on who belongs to the city highlights both symbolic and material issues and a politics around access to rights and resources, and therefore a possibility of mobilisation. Contemporary themes such as informality, different forms of local participation and consumption are considered.

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  • Module content:

    Culture and religion in the construction of identities: Gender, sexuality and race
    The global proliferation of identities is explored through the lens of social categories of difference. The convergence of ideologies and institutions in the construction of identities at the intersections of gender, sexuality and race is examined with a particular emphasis on modern African identities, drawing on the sub-disciplines of the sociology of religion and cultural sociology.

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  • Module content:

    Demography, health and society
    This module will use intersectional and critical lenses to provide students with a broad understanding of how demographic and social factors affect population health and medical care across a range of contexts. The main theoretical underpinnings and debates, as well as basic measures of each construct will be covered to operationalise the constructs for the purposes of practical application in sociological research and understanding. The focus will be comparative, both across time and between developed and less developed societies in general and South African societies in particular.

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  • Module content:

    This module focuses on the further development of communicative skills with special emphasis on the receptive activities of the language, namely listening and reading. Careful attention is given to critical aspects of Spanish grammar. Short fictional and non-fictional texts are used for comprehension as well as for demonstrating cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking countries.  This module complies with the requirements for level B1.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

    The module is mostly presented in Spanish.

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  • Module content:

    This module continues with the development of communicative skills of the language. Special attention is given to the comprehension of written texts, spoken and audio-visual inputs. This module complies with the requirements for level B1.2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

    The module is mostly presented in Spanish.

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  • Module content:

    Political dynamics (Micro)
    The study of the theory and practice of behavioural phenomena in politics. With reference to appropriate examples, the emphasis is on the study of political culture, leadership, communication, interests groups, parties and party systems; on elections, electoral systems, voting behaviour; and on public opinion and direct popular control techniques.

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  • Module content:

    Political dynamics (Macro)
    A theoretical basis and framework is provided for the description, analysis and classification of political and policy problems. The emphasis is on the nature of the state, governance and conflict in Africa. Amongst others a study is made of the issues of colonialism and post-colonialism, democratisation, authoritarianism and the development of the state in Africa, in the context of a globalising world.

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  • Module content:

    Setswana – communication and grammar
    The acquisition of advanced communication skills in further social, occupational and educational situations. More extensive vocabulary and advanced language structures are acquired and used. Heightened awareness of the nature and function of language structures.
    Setswana – reading and writing
    Writing of coherent, idiomatic and grammatically correct texts in order to impart ideas and
    information for a selected range of communicative purposes. Writing entails creative writing as well as reduplication. Reading and comprehension of texts which contain reasonably extensive vocabularies and a relatively large variation of language structures. Commence with the reading of fairly simple literary works. Students are also further trained in the use of the dictionary.

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the grammar of Setswana such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; the structure, meaning and use of the pronoun and the enumerative; an introduction to Setswana speech sounds/phonetics.

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  • Module content:

    Setswana – communication, grammar, reading and writing
    The further acquisition of advanced communication skills in further social, occupational and educational situations. More extensive vocabulary and advanced language structures are acquired and used. Heightened awareness of the nature and function of language structures. Continuation of the writing of coherent, idiomatic and grammatically correct texts in order to
    impart ideas and information for a range of communicative purposes. An introduction to Setswana speech sounds/phonetics. Reading and comprehension of texts which contain more extensive vocabularies and a larger variation of language structures. Reading of further literary works.

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  • Module content:

    isiZulu - communication and grammar
    The acquisition of advanced communication skills in further social, occupational and educational situations. More extensive vocabulary and advanced language structures are acquired and used. Heightened awareness of the nature and function of language structures.
    isiZulu -  reading and writing
    Writing of coherent, idiomatic and grammatically correct texts in order to impart ideas and information for a selected range of communicative purposes. Writing entails creative writing as well as reduplication. Reading and comprehension of texts which contain reasonably extensive vocabularies and a relatively large variation of language structures. Commence with the reading of fairly simple literary works. Students are also further trained in the use of the dictionary.

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the grammar of isiZulu such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; the structure, meaning and use of the pronoun and the enumerative; an introduction to isiZulu speech sounds/phonetics.

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  • Module content:

    isiZulu - communication, grammar, reading and writing
    The further acquisition of advanced communication skills in further social, occupational and educational situations. More extensive vocabulary and advanced language structures are acquired and used. Heightened awareness of the nature and function of language structures. Continuation of the writing of coherent, idiomatic and grammatically correct texts in order to impart ideas and information for a range of communicative purposes. An introduction to isiZulu speech sounds/phonetics.  Reading and comprehension of texts which contain more extensive vocabularies and a larger variation of language structures. Reading of further literary works.

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Minimum credits: 130

Final year electives: Select any one discipline that was completed at second- year level, and do two semester modules (to the value of 60 credits).

Core modules

Elective modules

  • Module content:

    Taalkundekomponent
    Capita selecta uit die Afrikaanse taalkunde
    Letterkundekomponent
    Afrikaanse prosa

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  • Module content:

    Afrikaanse poësie
    'n Keuse uit eietydse Nederlandstalige literatuur; analitiese teksondersoeke met aandag aan agtergrond- en resepsieaangeleenthede.
    Die Afrikaanse drama word binne die breër konteks van die Afrikaanse letterkunde geplaas.

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the literature of isiNdebele/isiZulu/Sepedi/Setswana such as the critical analysis of a dramatic work and poetry (selected poems).

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  • Module content:

    Social aspects of the ancient Near Eastern and the ancient Greek and Roman worlds
    A selection of ancient Near Eastern (namely Mesopotamian, Syria-Palestinian and Egyptian) and ancient Greek and Roman sources are studied within their socio-historical context to illustrate and interpret these cultures and social practises and how they influenced contemporary institutions and social structures.

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  • Module content:

    Verbal and visual expression in the ancient world: looking for answers
    This module entails an overview of the research process in ancient culture studies, especially the identification of a research problem, formulating a research question, proposing a suitable hypothesis and applying suitable research strategies through the discussion of relevant themes on the ancient world. Students are then guided towards independent research on themes of their choice relating to departmental research interests by applying the knowledge and skills gained throughout the entire course of ancient culture studies.

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  • Module content:

    This module considers the colonial histories of anthropology in Africa and their impact on traditions of knowledge production in the discipline to propose a decolonised anthropology. It does so by critically reflecting on old and contemporary ethnographies from and about the African continent and pays particular attention to ethnographic methods, politics of representation, reflexivity, power and identity as pertinent questions to establish a decolonised anthropology. Students in this module are encouraged to imagine a decolonised anthropology in and for Africa. 

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  • Module content:

    Fieldwork, ethnography and theory
    This module reviews themes such as conducting fieldwork, writing ethnography and developing theory in anthropology.  The module allows the opportunity to gain experience with ethnographic field methods in order to develop insight into the implications of methodological choices and their relationship to research questions and settings.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1:Texts in context
    OT texts are read in their Ancient Near Eastern context with special reference to intra-, inter- and extratextual relations. NT and/or Patristic texts are read in their Jewish and Hellenistic context with special reference to intra-, inter- and extra-textual relations.
    Part 2: Between the Testaments
    Reading and interpreting of Hebrew and Greek inter-testamental literature, including Qumran literature, Ben Sira and Greek apocryphal books like Judit or Tobit.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Critical textual competence
    Students are exposed to diverging translations and interpretations of selected OT and NT texts. Through their own knowledge of and competence in intra-, inter-  and extratextual analysis they are guided towards critical assessment of diverging points of view and independent decision making in the reading, analysis and understanding of ancient literary texts.
    Part 2: Integration of analytical skills
    Students are guided towards independent reading and analysis of chosen Greek and Hebrew texts by integrated application of all knowledge and skills acquired in GRK and HEB modules on year levels 1 and 2, as well as in BYT 251, 310 and 320.

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  • Module content:

    Introduction to German linguistics. This module complies with the requirements for level B2.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Analysis, interpretation and appropriation of relevant texts from different disciplines. This module complies with the requirements for level B2.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Principles of textual grammar of the German language.  This module complies with the requirements for level B2.2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Analysis, interpretation and appropriation of literary texts in cultural-historical perspective.  This module complies with the requirements for level B2.2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Reading Medieval and Early Modern literature
    In this module students study the works of  writers such as Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton and Pope. The general characteristics and techniques of these authors are discussed in relation to developments in aesthetic theory, generic conventions and socio-historical change.

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  • Module content:

    Reading the Nineteenth Century
    In this module students read a  selection of 19th-century texts in English. The general characteristics and techniques of these texts are discussed in relation to developments in aesthetic theory, generic conventions and socio-historical change.

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  • Module content:

    In this module the focus is on understanding humankind and its relation to reality and knowledge. The focus of the module as a whole is philosophical anthropology or contemporary metaphysics, and it trraces the development of the conceptions of ‘self’ and ‘subjectivity’ in any given philosophical tradition in Africa, the West or more generally the Global South by focussing on questions such as the relation between consciousness, self-consciousness and the human unconscious; the meaning of life; the nature of personal identity and the issue of free will. 

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  • Module content:

    In this module students will philosophically engage issues of socio-political relevance in contemporary (South) Africa, the Global South and beyond. A range of themes may be investigated, such as structure and agency, social imaginaries, new social formations, institutional cultures, gender and sexuality, subject constitution, and others. These issues will be be framed in a spectrum of approaches that may include Critical Theory, Theory of Ideology, Contractarianism, Social Action Theory, and Critical Race Theory. 

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  • Module content:

    Principles of textual grammar of the French language. This module complies with the requirements for level B2.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Analysis, interpretation and appropriation of relevant audio-visual material and texts from non-fictional and fictional sources.
    This module complies with the requirements for level B2.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Principles of grammar of the French language. Introduction to professional translation and interpreting for the purpose of learning French as a foreign language.

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  • Module content:

    Analysis, interpretation and appropriation of literary texts in cultural-historical perspective.

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  • Module content:

    Historical trends in the modern world
    A selection of political, economic and social themes.

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  • Module content:

    Interpreting the process of global change. Explaining the debates and the origin and nature of globalisation and its significance.

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  • Module content:

    International political economy
    The nature and functioning of the international contemporary political-economic order are analysed against the background of the process of globalisation. The focus is on the interaction of political and economic trends and issues such as the economic importance and political impact of regional trade blocs; the debt burden of states; international aid; the role and influence of multinational corporations; and the transfer of technology to less-developed countries; the rise of new economic powers in the Global South; and global economic governance.

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  • Module content:

    Security and strategic studies
    A study of traditional and contemporary approaches to security and strategy. Attention is paid to new theories on war, security and strategy; military and non-military security issues and threats; the national security of developing states; as well as the relationship between policy, strategy and tactics. The latter includes an introductory overview of the nature, levels, patterns, forms and instruments of strategy, and the laws of war. The national, regional and continental security situation in Africa and modes of multilateral security cooperation in particular are analysed, also in relation to extra-continental trends. Regarding the aforesaid, emphasis is placed on the legal and institutional framework, national security policy and strategic posture of South Africa.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Theories of crime
    Theories focusing on understanding and explaining crime and criminality are investigated in this section.
    Part 2: Psychocriminology
    Explaining the relation between abnormal behaviour and criminality receives attention in this section.

    The two sections will not necessarily be presented in chronological order.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Female crime
    The historical exclusion of women in Criminology theory development and research is interrogated through an epistemological lens. Gender and racial disparity in the criminal justice system are placed firmly on the agenda.
    Part 2: Contemporary criminology issues
    In this section contemporary crime manifestations are examined.

    The two sections will not necessarily be presented in chronological order.

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  • Module content:

    Latin literature, Roman history and mythology/religion
    Selected passages of prose and poetry; legal and patristic texts may also be included. Latin grammar. Roman history. Greco-Roman mythology and religion.

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  • Module content:

    Latin literature and antiquities
    Selected passages of prose and poetry; legal and patristic texts may also be included. Roman history.
    Selected passages of prose and poetry; legal and patristic texts may also be included. Roman history. Selected topics from Roman antiquities and daily life.

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  • Module content:

    Aspects of the grammar of isiNdebele such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; more intensive study of the structure, meaning and use of the noun (specifically derived nouns) and verb (specifically moods and verbal extensions); an introduction to the sound changes/phonology of isiNdebele.

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  • Module content:

    Sepedi grammar - Capita selecta
    Aspects of the grammar of Sepedi such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; more intensive study of the structure, meaning and use of the noun (specifically derived nouns) and verb (specifically moods and verbal extensions); an introduction to the sound changes / phonology of Sepedi.
    The acquisition and inculcation of advanced communicative skills within a larger number of social, occupational and educational situations. Awareness of the nature and function of language structures is heightened further. Attention is also paid to cultural phenomena.

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  • Module content:

    Identification of abnormal behaviour in children based on knowledge of normal childhood development; introduction to the study of various models pertaining to abnormal behaviour; understanding and application of basic concepts in child psychopathology. This module also provides an introduction to psychopathology and symptomatology of adult abnormal behaviour. Terminology, definitions of abnormal behaviour, problems in diagnosis, labelling, and myths regarding abnormal behaviour are discussed. Neurosis as a specific mental disorder is studied critically from a multidimensional perspective, including intrapsychic, interpersonal and social-cultural explanations.

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  • Module content:

    This module deals with a community psychological perspective on human behaviour and psychological interventions and also critically explores the contribution of various perspectives in psychology. The module focuses on themes such as definitions of key concepts, principles and aims of community psychology, and the role of the community psychologist as well as the impact of earlier thought frameworks on contemporary perspectives. The implications of these ideas for practical initiatives focussed on mental health in communities, are discussed. The module further focuses on critical psychology. Critical psychology is an orientation towards psychology that is critical towards the assumptions and practices of psychology as it is practiced in the mainstream. It attempts to address power issues as they manifest in the practice of mainstream psychology. The focus is on examining how the practice and theories of mainstream psychology contribute to these power issues impacting on marginalised groups.

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  • Module content:

    Structure, agency and power in social theory
    How do we theorise the interrelationships between structure, agency, and power in society? This is the central question in this module, which provides students with an intensive introduction to critical social theories. Engaging with current affairs and debates in society, the module will enable students to learn how to develop theoretical knowledge about the ways in which power is structured and exercised in society – both from above and below, as well as across fields (the economic, the political, the cultural) and scales (the body, private and public spheres, communities and nation-states, and the world-system).

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  • Module content:

    Thinking methodologically
    This module sets out to introduce students to ‘doing research’. In this respect the assumptions and processes underpinning methodological choices in sociological research are considered in order to think about foundations of research, about how knowledge claims are made, how science is conceptualised, what role theory plays, as well as how values and ethics shape the politics of research. In addition to these foundational questions, a broad introduction to methods used in social research is provided by considering both the theoretical dimensions and practical application of various research tools. The purpose of the module is to equip students with the necessary competence to, describe ontological and epistemological debates and different approaches to research in the social sciences, delineate a research problem, identify units of analysis, make sampling decisions and formulate questions and hypothesis as well as understand the principles of quantitative (elementary statistical decision-making) and qualitative data analysis.

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  • Module content:

    A comprehensive review of Spanish grammar is presented in order to increase language proficiency with special emphasis on the productive activities of the language, namely speaking and writing. It also offers an introductory approach to Hispanic history. This module complies with the requirements for level B2.1 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    This module continues with the presentation of a comprehensive review of Spanish grammar in order to increase language proficiency with special emphasis on the interactive activities of the language, namely spoken and written interaction. It also offers an introductory approach to Hispanic literature. This module complies with the requirements for level B2.2 set by the “Common European Framework of Reference for Languages”.

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  • Module content:

    Political theory
    A theoretical and normative study of political ideas. This includes the study of key political thinkers such as Plato, Thomas Hobbes and John Rawls as well as the contemporary manifestations of ideologies such as liberalism, socialism, conservatism and nationalism. This normative assessment of politics concludes with a critical evaluation of the development, nature and practical value of prominent democratic theories including participatory, legal, and deliberative democracy.

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  • Module content:

    Part 1: Democratic studies
    A high level critical analysis of democratic theory and practice. The analysis of democratic theory will include themes such as classical, radical, deliberative and feminist perspectives. The analysis of democratic practice will include aspects such as democratisation, democratic consolidation, democratic citizenship and society, the role and importance of civil society, the institutions and procedures for democracy and “good governance”.
    Part 2: Political analysis
    The methods and practice of political analysis is the focus of study. The principles and problems underpinning different approaches and methods of political analysis are described and explained. This includes the nature, methods and use of comparative analysis, forecasting, risk analysis, performance evaluation and the political audit. These analytical methods are positioned in a political and policy context, with emphasis on practical application. Applicable examples and case studies are used throughout.

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  • Module content:

    Setswana grammar - Capita selecta
    Aspects of the grammar of Setswana such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; more intensive study of the structure, meaning and use of the noun (specifically derived nouns) and verb (specifically moods and verbal extensions); an introduction to the sound changes / phonology of Setswana.
    The acquisition and inculcation of advanced communicative skills within a larger number of social, occupational and educational situations. Awareness of the nature and function of language structures is heightened further. Attention is also paid to cultural phenomena.

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  • Module content:

    isiZulu grammar -  Capita selecta
    Aspects of the grammar of isiZulu such as a continuation of the study of the word categories; grammatical analysis; more intensive study of the structure, meaning and use of the noun (specifically derived nouns) and verb (specifically moods and verbal extensions); an introduction to the sound changes/phonology of isiZulu.  The acquisition and inculcation of advanced communicative skills within a larger number of social, occupational and educational situations. Awareness of the nature and function of language structures is heightened further. Attention is also paid to cultural phenomena.

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