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Honours Programme

The OIS Honours Programme is intended for students interested in basic theoretical debates on institutions. The programme focuses on foundational texts as well as the elements of how to do research and write an essay.

The Honours Programme is made up of one theory core course—Basic Concepts in Organisational and Institutional Studies, one 10.000 words Research Essay Course—as well as electives. All students must complete 122 credits, comprising of the course in Basic Concepts in Organisational and Institutional Studies (23 credits), the Research Essay (30 credit
points) and 3 electives for a total of 69 credits.

Admission Requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a 68% or higher course mark aggregate in a third year major.
  • Social Sciences background is an advantage.
  • NQF 7
Non-Wits Applicants require:
  • CV
  • Certified copies of your ACADEMIC RECORD / STATEMENT OF RESULTS
  • Certified copy of Certificate of Evaluation from the South African Qualifications Authority. Details of how to apply for the certificate are on their website: www.saqa.org.za (Only for International Students)
  • Letter of Motivation detailing why you are interested in the program
  • Sample of work e.g. essay, a chapter from previous research, etc.
  • In terms of the University rules, an applicant who has not used English in his/her academic education up to this point will be required to supply proof of proficiency in English at the time of application. A British Council test is recommended and they can be contacted at (011) 718 4300 or email IELTS@britishcouncil.org.za
  • Non-refundable Application Fee of R200.00
Wits Applicants require:
  • CV
  • Letter of Motivation detailing why you are interested in the program
  • Sample of work e.g. essay, a chapter from previous research, etc.

Honours Level Courses

Core:

SOSS4052A                 Basic Concepts in Organisational and Institutional Studies

Electives:

SOCL4014A                 Economic Sociology: Institutional, Capitalism and Markets

HIST4013A                  The Making of Urban South Africa

HIST4001A                  Capitalism and the South African countryside

INTR4044A                  The International Political Economy of Development

SOCL4016A                 Global Institutions and Economic Restructuring

POLS4033A                 The State in Africa: Democratisation and Crisis

POLS4042A                 Politics of Public Policy

ECON4052A                Economic Change and Comparative Development

ECON4053A                Trade and Finance in Economic Development

SOCL4040A/7043A   Sociology of Land and Agrarian Reform in Southern Africa

ARPL4024A                 Urban Politics and Governance

 

Plus:

SOSS4034A                 Research Essay