Stadio Introduces Bridging Programme for Doctorates
STADIO Higher Education has launched a unique bridging programme to equip and support master’s students who would like to enrol for its two doctorate degrees.
The National Development Plan 2030 envisages better throughput and outputs from the higher education sector, and specifically refers to a target of “more than 100 doctoral graduates per million per year by 2030”.
STADIO is committed to the national directive and took up the challenge. Consequently, it received accreditation for its Doctor of Management and Doctor of Policing last year.
As a registered higher education institution, STADIO has the core vision of widening access to higher education and making a contribution to academic empowerment in southern Africa.
STADIO enrolled its first doctorate students in 2021 after a thorough selection process. Through this sifting process, it became clear that there are many students with the potential to complete their doctorate, but who do not have the required skills and methodological knowledge for a full research dissertation.
The six-month Bridging Programme in Thesis Success was approved to meet this need. The first online offering starts in May 2021, under the auspices of the Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research.
Students with a master’s degree, who have not been admitted to a doctorate, will gain admission if they pass this programme, subject to normal terms and conditions.
The programme’s main target group is students who have completed a master’s degree but who have either been turned down after applying for a doctorate or feel that they are not ready to write a full doctoral thesis.
The programme offers more than the standard postgraduate methodology training. Full tutorial support is provided online. After completing the course students will:
- Have clarity on the topic, and the importance and broad methodological approach of their envisaged doctoral thesis.
- Understand how to position their thesis within a broad professional and scientific context.
- Be able to structure a thesis logically and be cognisant of the methodological and ethical requirements of scientific research.
- Be empowered on how to build and manage a functional relationship with their supervisor and receive advanced guidance on academic writing.
The course is presented by the vastly experienced academic, supervisor and author, Prof J C Pauw. Prof Pauw has decades of experience in the higher education sector and has designed a unique course which differentiates itself from standard methodology courses.
Eminent academics are involved at crucial stages of the course, including Prof Johann Mouton, whose textbook, How to succeed in your Master’s & Doctoral Studies – A South African Guide and Resource Book, is prescribed.
- Admission requirements: A qualification at SAQA Level 9 (master’s degree)
- Certification: Students who successfully complete the course receive a Certificate of Competence
- Fee: Refer to the qualification page directly
- Mode of delivery: On-line
Administrative enquiries: Pamela Makoanyane; phone: 0 11 662 1444 | email: [email protected]
Academic enquiries: Prof CH van Heerden; phone: 083 415 3541 | email: [email protected]