MEd
The MEd can be obtained in one of two ways at Rhodes University:
Option 1: Full research
By writing a substantial thesis on an approved topic.
Admission requirements
Admission to this option is normally restricted to candidates who hold a post-graduate BEd(Hons) degree or equivalent, as the research entailed and the subsequent writing of the thesis generally require a sound understanding of educational theory. This degree may be undertaken in any approved field of educational research, depending on the availability of supervisory staff.
Duration of degree
The degree runs over a two-year cycle. However, some courses allow candidates to complete all requirements for the award of the degree within one year of full-time study.
Research design course requirements
All candidates for the degree are required to attend a course in research design aimed at preparing them to conduct a research progreamme and analyse and report the results. Exemptions may be considered if candidates have previously completed a similar course.
Publication expectations
It is expected that a paper from the thesis will be prepared for publication.
Option 2: Coursework and research
Through a combination of course work, examinations and a short thesis or coursework, examinations and research projects.
Admission requirements
Admission to this option is normally restricted to candidates who hold a post-graduate BEd (Hons) degree or equivalent, but an application may be made (with the potential supervisor's support) for an applicant to be considered for an Ad Eundem Gradum (AEG) degree for those who do not hold the usual prerequisite qualifications. (Refer to the Rhodes University Calendar for details).
Duration of degree
The degree runs over a two-year cycle. However, some courses allow candidates to complete all requirements for the award of the degree within one year of full-time study. The normal pattern, however, is for candidates to study part-time, completing the coursework in the first year of the two-year cycle and the thesis or research projects in the second year. Although each MEd specialisiation differs slightly, most have at least six contact sessions per year for part-time students lasting between 4-8 days each. (Please note that students are responsible for arranging their own accommodation during these periods.)
Research design and course requirements
All candidates for the degree are required to attend a course in research design aimed at preparing them to conduct a research programme and analyse and report the results. Exemptions may be considered if candidates have previously completed a similar course.
Publication expectations
It is also expected that a paper will be prepared from the half-thesis or research reports for publication.
The above types of MEd study are normally undertaken on a part-time basis over two years, but can also be followed through full-time study in one year. The course work route is followed through attendance in Grahamstown and for some years in Namibia over a series of one-week contact sessions spread over either the first year or both academic years. These sessions are arranged to accommodate as far as possible students from all over Southern Africa. Intake into each of the course work programmes normally occurs every second year, whereas one can start the MEd by thesis (Option 1) at any time.
Other options
Other coursework/thesis options for the Master's degree which the Department of Education has offered and can offer from time to time, depending on demand and the availability of staff, are in the following subject areas: Afrikaans Education; Biology Education; Geography Education; Guidance and Counselling: English First Language Education; History Education.
The closing date for application forms is for the 2009 intake is 30 September 2008.
For further information please contact:
Hennie Van Der Mescht
MEd Coordinator
Education Department
Rhodes University
Grahamstown, 6140
South Africa
Tel: (046) 603-8384
Fax: (046) 622-8028
E-mail: h.vandermescht@ru.ac.za
Application Forms are available from:
The Registrar
Rhodes University
Grahamstown, 6140
Tel: (046) 603-8276
Fax: (046) 603-7350
E-mail: Registrar@ru.ac.za
Website: http://www.ru.ac.za/applying
