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Advanced Degrees: South African PhDs: Structure and Function_Part 5
This episode follows on from previous discussions on Advanced Degrees (Parts 1 - 4, available on this channel) and highlights a complex and evolving landscape for Doctoral studies, particularly in South Africa. There is a push to expand access and meet national needs while simultaneously enhancing quality, and maintaining international standards. The introduction and standardisation of processes such as the viva voce oral examination, clearer frameworks for graduate attributes, and the need for ethical behaviour, all contribute to the goal of building robust doctoral programmes. The comparison with an international top-tier institution like Imperial College London provides insight into practices that could help to further enhance Doctoral education in South Africa. South Africa is making a clear effort to meet international benchmarks, but must overcome challenges such as resource allocation, funding, support, capacity building, and ensuring a diverse student cohort. It is also crucial to consider the purpose of the Doctorate in different contexts, ensuring that it is fit for purpose in both academic and non-academic environments.
Sources and links: https://www.che.ac.za/publications/research/brieflyspeaking-no-30-viva-voce-oral-examination-thesis-doctoral-degree; https://www.che.ac.za/publications/standard-reviews/release-doctoral-degrees-national-report-march-2022; PhD Study in South Africa – A Guide for 2025; Imperial-PGR-S&C-Programme-Handbook_2024-25.pdf; The Doctorate in South Africa_2016
Any thoughts, insights, and comments, feel free to post them in the comment section.
Thanks for tuning in. Follow for more. Instagram: sckvvv_drathome; YouTube: @DrSean-888.
Disclaimer
The information presented in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and relevance, the content is not exhaustive nor guaranteed to remain current beyond the date of recording. The perspectives shared reflect research and opinions as of the time of production.
Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own independent research and seek professional advice where necessary. The creator of this podcast assumes no liability for any actions taken based on the content presented.
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By Dr Sean Kassen, PhD DICThis episode follows on from previous discussions on Advanced Degrees (Parts 1 - 4, available on this channel) and highlights a complex and evolving landscape for Doctoral studies, particularly in South Africa. There is a push to expand access and meet national needs while simultaneously enhancing quality, and maintaining international standards. The introduction and standardisation of processes such as the viva voce oral examination, clearer frameworks for graduate attributes, and the need for ethical behaviour, all contribute to the goal of building robust doctoral programmes. The comparison with an international top-tier institution like Imperial College London provides insight into practices that could help to further enhance Doctoral education in South Africa. South Africa is making a clear effort to meet international benchmarks, but must overcome challenges such as resource allocation, funding, support, capacity building, and ensuring a diverse student cohort. It is also crucial to consider the purpose of the Doctorate in different contexts, ensuring that it is fit for purpose in both academic and non-academic environments.
Sources and links: https://www.che.ac.za/publications/research/brieflyspeaking-no-30-viva-voce-oral-examination-thesis-doctoral-degree; https://www.che.ac.za/publications/standard-reviews/release-doctoral-degrees-national-report-march-2022; PhD Study in South Africa – A Guide for 2025; Imperial-PGR-S&C-Programme-Handbook_2024-25.pdf; The Doctorate in South Africa_2016
Any thoughts, insights, and comments, feel free to post them in the comment section.
Thanks for tuning in. Follow for more. Instagram: sckvvv_drathome; YouTube: @DrSean-888.
Disclaimer
The information presented in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and relevance, the content is not exhaustive nor guaranteed to remain current beyond the date of recording. The perspectives shared reflect research and opinions as of the time of production.
Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own independent research and seek professional advice where necessary. The creator of this podcast assumes no liability for any actions taken based on the content presented.