Duration:                                            4 years

Minimum Credit Load:                    384

Maximum Credit Load:                   540

Total MBKS Credit Load                 384

ZNQF Level:                                         8

1. PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME

The programme aims to develop knowledge, skills and competences in the broad areas of politics and government studies relevant to various employment capabilities and careers in the world of work and societal development. These will be achieved through:

• The provision of opportunities to study both aspects of politics and government studies and related international and governmental phenomena.
• A balanced curriculum that enables the acquisition of a range of practical, computational, research and problem-solving skills as well as the development of factual and conceptual knowledge of politics and governmental issues.
• The provision of related and relevant communication and presentation capabilities that enhance the students’ effectiveness in a wide range of career opportunities.

2. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

For all entry pathways candidates must have at least five Ordinary Level subjects/ National Foundation Certificates including English Language with grade C or better.

Normal Entry: 5 ‘O’ level passes including English language and any two relevant ‘A’ level passes.

Special Entry: Candidates who have attained Level 5 and 6 of the Zimbabwe National Qualifications Framework (ZNQF), awarded by a recognised university, college or institute.

Mature Entry: 5 ‘O’ level passes including English language and at least three years’ experience in Non -Governmental Organisations, International organisations and Government or related disciplines.

3. PROGRAMME CHARACTERISTICS

Areas of Study:          Political Science, Diplomacy, International Relations, International Law, Electoral Processes, and Governmental Studies

Specialist Focus:        Politics and Government Studies with special emphasis on application of political theories, processes and systems geared towards national governance and development.

Orientation:               Research, creativity and innovation oriented. Teaching and learning are professionally oriented and focused on empirical aspects.

Distinctive Features: The programme seeks to produce creative, innovative, pro-active, highly

competent development oriented professionals, problem solvers and decision makers who are able to operate in complex and dynamic modern environments. The programme also focuses on building the research-innovation-management gamut that is hinged on knowledge production and development using a student-centred approach.

4. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER EDUCATION

Employability:           Careers: Graduates have career opportunities in the public sector, private sector, international agencies and the non-governmental organisations.  The graduates will serve as political consultants, political analysts, career diplomats, political officers and researchers.

Further Studies:        Masters and Doctoral studies in International Relations, Politics, Political Science, global studies, International Law, Strategic and Security Studies.

5. PROGRAMME DELIVERY

Teaching and Learning Methods: Lectures, tutorials, seminars, group work, work related Learning, dissertation, individual independent study.

 On-line teaching:    The department employs the google classroom strategy where lecturers administer zoom like video lectures-google meet or record video and audio lectures and send to students.

Assessment Methods: Written and oral examinations, in-class tests, written assignments,  

  seminar presentations, work related learning reports, dissertation, and continuous assessment.

6. LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the programme a graduate will be able to:

• Use critical skills that are transferable to a wide range of careers, written and oral communication, critical thinking, information analysis, interpretation and application and ability to solve politics related problems in the dynamic and complex world of work and societal development.
• Apply a range of practical, computational, research and problem-solving skills as well as the development of factual and conceptual knowledge of politics and governmental issues.
• Carryout research and field based political and governmental activities ethically and following best practices of integrity.
• Work with peers, subordinates and superiors in line with values and rules of professional conduct for political scientists.
• Participate and work effectively individually and collaboratively in political discourses as well as in multidisciplinary environments.

7. GENERAL PROVISIONS

Refer to the University’s General Regulations.

8. PROGRAMME ASSESSMENT

• Continuous Assessment work: Constitutes 40% of the final mark and it consists of written assignments, write-ups, group and individual presentations, in-class tests and any other relevant assessments.
• Written Examinations: End of semester examinations constitute 60% of the final mark. 
• Other:  -Dissertation is assessed on the basis of a research project (75%) and

an oral presentation (25%).

  –Work Related Learning is assessed based on a student’s industrial placement report (30%), assessment by work place supervisor (40%) and assessment by academic supervisor (30%).

9. PROVISION FOR PROGRESSION

Refer to section 6 of the Faculty Regulations.

10. FAILURE TO SATISFY EXAMINERS

Refer to section 9 of the University’s General Regulations.

11. GRADING AND DEGREE CLASSIFICATION

Refer to section 10 of the Faculty Regulations.

12. DEGREE WEIGHTING

Refer to section 11 of the Faculty Regulations.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Level 1 Semester 1 

HPSG 101 Introduction to Political Science                                                               12

HPSG 102 Introduction to Public Management                                                          12

        HPSG 103 Introduction to Political Theory                                                                12

Level 1 Semester 2 

HPSG 104 Theories of International Relations                                                           12

HPSG 105 Political Economy of Zimbabwe                                                               12

HPSG 106 Constitutional Law                                                                              12

HPSG 107 Electoral Politics and Processes                                                            12

HPSG 108 Comparative Politics                                                                12

Level 2 Semester 1

HPSG 201 International Relations                                                                         12

HPSG 202 African Political Ideas                                                                          12

HPSG 203 Politics and Governance in Zimbabwe                                                      12

Level 2 Semester 2 

HPSG 204 Principles of International Law                                                                 12

HPSG 205 Foreign Policy                                                                                     12

HPSG 206 International Organisations                                                                       12

HPSG 207 Democracy and Human Rights                                                                  12

HPSG 208 Research Methods                                                                               12

Level 3 Semester 1

HPSG 300 Work Integrated Placement Report                                                           40

 

Level 3 Semester 2             

 HPSG 301 Work Integrated Learning Report                                                         30

 HPSG 302 Work Integrated Learning Academic Supervisor Assessment                     20

 HPSG 303 Work Integrated Learning Work Supervisor’s Assessment                     30

 

 

Level 4 Semester 1 

HPSG 401 Modern Political Theory                                                                          12

HPSG 402 International Politics                                                                            12

HPSG 403 Intelligence Strategy                                                                            12

HPSG 404 Diplomacy                                                                                          12

HPSG 405 Regional Integration                                                                                12

Level 4 Semester 2 

HPSG 406 Peace and Security Studies                                                                       12

HPSG 407 Fundamentals of Geopolitics                                                                    12

HPSG 408 Political Consultancy                                                                               12

HPSG 409 Dissertation                                                                                         24

        

 

MODULE SYNOPSES

HPSG101 Introduction to Political Science

The module explores the discipline of Political Science as a “science” in Social Studies with a focus on the study of processes, principles and structures of governments and political institutions. The module includes a discussion and comparison of political ideas, processes, theories, systems and policies. It also focuses on the analysis of political problems on a national and global level, as well as a definition of central concepts.

HPSG102 Introduction to Public Management

Basic theories and concepts of public management will be examined including issues of public and private goods and their implication on the general populace. The applicability of theories of management will also be explored, for example, the scientific theory, and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. The module will also explore the old and new paradigms in public management. More emphasis will be on the new public management approach and its practical application.

 HPSG 103 Introduction to Political Theory

The module examines the main theoretical perspectives and ancient political thoughts that inform political processes and how countries have reacted to the internal social, economic and political realities of the times as well as to the external variables such as imperialism and globalisation. Political theory also focuses on empirical research into the way political institutions function in practice.

 HPSG 104 Theories of International Relations

The module addresses the theories of international relations and how they have informed the conduct of international relations between and among nation-states. It will also address how relations across the globe are addressed in areas of political, economic and cultural cooperation with emphasis on North-South and South-South relations.

 HPSG 105 Political Economy of Zimbabwe

The module will explore the colonial history of the country and its correlation with the economic, social and political circumstances currently facing the country. Issues to do with politics of imperialism, corruption, political instability, inclusive development, debt trap, agrarian reforms and economic empowerment, structural and political reforms, globalisation and regional integration will be analysed to foster ways of overcoming the country’s economic challenges.

HPSG106 Constitutional Law

The objective of the module is to enable students to acquire a thorough knowledge of constitutional law and constitution-making processes and how constitutional law regulates relations between government and citizens. Emphasis will be placed on the Supreme law of the land and how it informs peace, tranquillity and development between the government and the general populace.

HPSG107 Electoral Politics and Processes

The module is hinged on examining the politics that surround the electoral processes. The thrust of the module is to equip students with the skills and knowledge of the political processes that surround elections. Comparisons of the different electoral systems and processes across the globe will be made.

HPSG 108 Comparative Politics

The module involves the comparison of domestic politics. Different political systems, actors, processes and models will be examined. Students are introduced to concepts, approaches and themes of enquiry and these are related to empirical evidence.

HPSG201 International Relations

The module addresses the theories of international relations and how they have informed the conduct of international relations between and among nation-states. It will also address how relations across the globe are addressed in areas of political, economic and cultural cooperation with emphasis on North-South and South-South relations.

 HPSG 202 African Political Ideas

Political Thought is an essential ingredient of all politics. This module explores African political ideas and philosophies with the thrust to equip students with the skills and knowledge to analyse political systems and processes. In this module, the principal themes of African Political ideas are studied and analysed in the light of their social, economic and political contexts as well as their intellectual origin.

HPSG 203 Politics and Governance in Zimbabwe

The module seeks to examine how public decisions are made and implemented. Special emphasis will be on issues such as elections, governance and political systems in Zimbabwe from independence to the present.

HPSG204 Principles of International Law

The module seeks to expose students to the dynamics of international law, Principles of international law, as well as their application in specific cases. International law determines the rights and obligations of states. In addition, issues of state succession, state sovereignty, diplomatic law, and the role of international tribunals will be examined.

HPSG205 Foreign Policy

The module unpacks the strategies used by different governments in dealing with other nations. The module examines a variety of alternative theoretical models of how states formulate, implement and evaluate their foreign policies.

 HPSG 206 International Organisations

The module examines the role and activities of leading international organisations (political and economic) in the development of nations of the world for example the United Nations, and World Bank, among others. The module further investigates the implications of economic and political regional blocs on relations between developed nations of the North and poor countries of the South for example South-South cooperation among others.

HPSG207 Democracy and Human Rights

The module explores the concepts of democracy and human rights which are distinct but interrelated. The values of freedom, respect for human rights and the principle of holding periodic and credible, democratic elections which express the will of the people will be analysed in the context of general elections held in developed and developing countries. Human rights laws and how they promote development will also be explored.

HPSG208 Research Methods

The module is designed to assist students in developing a deep understanding of methodological approaches which are relevant when conducting social science research. The module will examine these tools with an emphasis on their practical and potential contribution to the development of social science research projects. Emphasis will be on establishing clear, high standards for qualitative and quantitative research.

HPSG300 Work-Related Placement Report

The students will submit a comprehensive work placement report which shows their understanding of the organisation placed.

HPSGG301 Work-Related Learning Report

As part of the examination, the students will be required to submit a comprehensive academic report of their work-related learning experience to the department and it will be marked and awarded a mark that will be ratified by the departmental examinations board.

 HPSG302 Work-Related Academic Supervisor’s Report

As part of the examination, the students will be assessed and awarded a mark by the academic supervisor and this will be presented to the departmental examinations board for processing of final marks.

HPSG303 Work-Related Learning Supervisor’s Report

The employer will assess the student and award a mark which will be presented to the departmental

examinations board for processing of final marks.

HPSG401 Modern Political Theory

The objective of the module is to familiarise students with the emergence of political thought since the medieval ages and the views of the different political theorists: Western, African and Islamic and to link the teachings with the political systems prevalent today. The module will analyse the contemporary political ideas of the African, European, Asian and American political theorists.

HPSG402 International Politics

The module will explore theories of international politics, how state and non-state actors cooperate and compete on political issues for example human rights, trade, peace and security, and environmental protection. It will also explore transnational issues and global problems. A comparative perspective of how countries approach the issues above within the context of their political systems will be examined.

HPSG403 Intelligence Strategy

The module explores the dynamics surrounding the collection of information of military or political value. Students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills on the collection, processing, analysis, and dissemination of intelligence that is required for forming policy and military plans at the national and international levels.

HPSG404 Diplomacy

The module explores bilateral, regional and multilateral diplomacy and its practical application in the international system. Aspects covered include the legal framework of diplomacy, methods of conducting diplomacy, diplomatic privileges and immunities, diplomatic negotiation and mediation, trade diplomacy, environmental diplomacy, diplomatic communication and international agreements.

HPSG405 Regional Integration

The module studies regional integration initiatives in Africa, Europe and elsewhere and their practical implications on nation-states. The module will examine the effects of national policies and international collaboration of regional players in promoting sustainable development in those regional blocs.

HPSG406 Peace and Security Studies

The module seeks to broaden the student’s understanding of the conceptual underpinnings of ‘peace’ and ’security’ as well as to deal with the security to peace and security at nation-state, regional and international levels. It also seeks to analyse the extent to which states, as major actors in the international system have attempted to promote and safeguard international peace and security.

HPSG407 Fundamentals of Geopolitics

The module provides a comprehensive overview of the major issues, ideas, institutions and interests that make up global politics. The module specifically dwells on explaining and predicting the international political behaviour of actors in international politics primarily in terms of geographical variables.

HPSG408 Political Consultancy

The module offers theoretical and practical insight into consultancy work, activities and strategies on political and government studies-related issues and processes. The module will also examine political risk analysis, public decision-making, political communication, political and public media strategy and political campaigning, public policy development, legislative and regulatory changes, and the interpretation and analysis of public phenomena.

HPSG409 Dissertation  

This module provides an opportunity for students to identify political science and public management problems and conduct research to address them. It provides students with an opportunity to apply research methodology concepts and statistical skills previously taught in other modules. Students will research a topic of their choice concerning pertinent issues in politics and public management. The length of the dissertation should be 20 000 words.