REGULATIONS FOR BACHELOR OF SCIENCE HONOURS DEGREE IN PEACE AND SECURITY STUDIES (HPSS)

Duration                              4 years

Actual Credit Load               516

Minimum Credit Load          480

Maximum Credit Load          540

Total MBKs Credit Load      408

ZNQF Level                         8

1.0 PURPOSE OF THE PROGRAMME

The programme is designed to develop students with a sound comprehension and appreciation of peace, security and development areas of study. The programme aims at developing sound conceptual, analytical and critical skills that are required in peace, security and development contexts. Students are also expected to identify and analyse the causes of conflicts and come up with scenarios and solutions that foster a more desirable human condition. The programme also aims to guide students through cutting-edge research methods in peace and security studies and ethical procedures guiding the discipline.

2.0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Normal Entry

At least five (5) ‘O’ levels/ National Foundation Certificates including English Language with a Grade C or better and at least two (2) Advanced level passes in Arts, Humanities or Commercials OR Relevant National Certificate.

Special Entry

A candidate who does not meet normal entry requirements may be admitted into a programme provided the candidate has a qualification in line with the Zimbabwe National Qualification Framework (ZNQF).

Mature Entry

Mature entry shall be obtained by applicants who have five (5) ‘O’ levels including English Language and have demonstrable work experience during the last five years before the academic year in which admission is sought, and are aged 25 years and above.

3.0 PROGRAMME CHARACTERISTICS

Area of Study          The Peace and Security Honours degree focuses on three areas:

1.       Peace and Development

The programme focuses on the nexus between development security and peace in contemporary societies. It explores world conflicts that generally originate from power dynamics, gender inequalities and climate change.

2.       Theoretical Constructs

Peace, Security and Development studies focus on the development of peace, security and development aspects from the historical to contemporary times and equip students with analytical skills that help in comprehending the current conflict dynamics.

3.       Research Methods

The programme focuses on different methodological philosophies and approaches that uncover the conflict dynamics within the social, political and economic context and structures within which people are situated

 Specialist Focus      Peace, Gender, Development and Security

Orientation             Research and innovation-oriented. Teaching and learning focus on equipping students with theoretical concepts and methodological approaches to assist students analyse their social world.

Distinctive Features The programme builds the research-technology-innovation continuum and focuses on knowledge development and application using a student-centred approach.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AND FURTHER OPPORTUNITIES

Employability         Graduates have career opportunities in both the public and private sectors where they can work as Public Administrators in Central Government Ministries and Local Authorities (Rural and Urban), International and Regional Peace Officers, Community Development Officers and Project Managers in Civil Society Organisations and Non-Governmental Organisations and Lectureship

Further Studies       Masters and Doctoral studies in Peace, Security and Development, Global Peace

PROGRAMME DELIVERY

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures, tutorials, seminars, group work, presentations, public lectures, practicals, guest lecturers, dissertations, lecture notes, assisted private studies and field trips.

Assessment Methods

Written and oral examinations, tests, work-related learning, seminar presentations, mini-research dissertations, final year dissertations, continuous assessment, work-related learning reports, work-related learning supervision and assessment

15.0 PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

Module name                                                                      Credits

Level 1 Semester 1

HPSS 111 Introduction to Peace and Security                         12

HPSS 112 Human Security   and Development                   12  

HPSS 113 Peace, Leadership and Governance                12

HPSS 114 Peace, Economics and Democracy                         12

HCS115 Introduction to Information Technology                   12   

CS101 Communication Skills                                                12

Level 1 Semester 2

HPSS 115 Youth, Conflict and Development                          12

HPSS 116 Conflict Transformation                                          12

HPSS 117 Conflict Resolution Processes                                 12

HPSS 118 Disaster Management                                           12

HPSS 119 Peace and Reconciliation                                      12

 

Level 2 Semester 1

HPSS 212 Peace, Conflict and Security in Africa                    12

HPSS 213 Peace, Education and Development                   12

HPSS 214 Human Rights Law and Transitional Justice           12

HPSS 215 Research Methods                                                12

GSSS201Gender Studies for Social Sciences                          12

ENT205Entrepreneurship 1                                                   12

Level 2 Semester 2

HPSS 216 Religion, Peace and Conflict                                 12

HPSS 217 Civil Society and Peace Building                           12

HPSS 218 Globalisation, Conflict and Development               12

HPSS 219 Gender, Peace and Security                                   12

HPSS 220 Project Management                                             12

HPSS 221 Conflict and Human Displacement                        12

Level 3 Semester 1

HPSS 330 Work -Related Learning Placement Report            40

Level 3 Semester 2

HPSS 341 Work- Related Learning Report                             30

HPSS 342 Academic Supervisor’s Assessment                       20

HPSS 343 Work Supervisor’s Assessment                             30

 

Level 4 Semester 1

HPSS 411 Electoral Processes in Africa                                 12

HPSS 412 International Law                                              12

HPSS 413 International Institutions and Conflict Resolution   12

HPSS 414 Media and Conflict                                               12

HPSS 415 Economics of Peace and Security                          12

Level 4 Semester 2

HPSS 416 Civil-Military Relations                                        12

HPSS 417 Diplomacy                                                           12

HPSS 418 Terrorism and Security                                         12

HPSS 419 Dissertation                                                          24

16.0 MODULE SYNOPSIS

HPSS 111 Introduction to Peace and Security

The module focuses on important theories that inform conflict and peacebuilding processes and their relationship to development. It also introduces students to key issues and debates in peace and conflict studies. The module traces the history of peace and conflict studies as a new sub-discipline and highlights global developments that continue to make it dynamic and relevant.

HPSS 112 Human Security and Development    

The module focuses on concepts that broaden the scope of security analysis and policy from territorial security to the security of individuals. It deals with the protection of an individual’s safety and freedom from direct and indirect threats that are physical or psychological. The module examines threats to human security that include environmental destruction, overpopulation, the spread of infectious diseases, poverty, and human rights abuses among others

HPSS 113 Peace, Leadership and Governance

The module introduces students to both the traditional and modern models of leadership. It also focuses on leadership ethics and different forms of governance that either promote or disrupt peace.

HPSS 114 Peace, Economics and Democracy 

The module introduces students to the state’s institutional and structural arrangements, decision-making processes, and policy formation and implementation.  It acknowledges the link between an inclusive democratic government to a peaceful and economically stable society.

HCS 115 Introduction to Information Systems

Refer to the Department of Information Systems

CS101 Basic Communication Skills

Refer to the Department of Communication skills

Level 1 Semester 2

HPSS 115 Youth, Conflict and Development  

The module focuses on the role that the youth play in conflict and peace processes. Their involvement in violent conflict, and peace-building processes as well as their potential contribution to the socio-economic and political development of Africa is examined.

HPSS 116 Conflict Transformation Processes

This module examines the key theories, issues, debates and challenges in conflict transformation. The module with the use of various and diverse case studies also from different societies examines multiple practical aspects of conflict transformation.

HPSS 117 Conflict Resolution Processes

This module introduces students to contemporary Conflict Resolution theory and practice. The focus, however, is on practical application, while sufficient attention will be given to theory. The module is consciously focused on the African context though references to conflicts in other parts of the world may also be drawn. An exploration of conflict resolution models and theories will be made, though the major focus will be on their applicability. The module explores conflict resolution as a field of inquiry and research; perspectives, theories, and assumptions underlying conflict analysis and conflict resolution; and contending approaches to conflict resolution training and practice.

HPSS 118 Disaster Management

This module explores issues of disaster, conflict governance and global policy perspectives for disaster risk reduction. It focuses on the adaptation and transformation of societies that are affected by man-made and natural disasters. The theory also critically analyses participatory disaster governance, the role of decentralisation of disaster resources and responsibilities, and best practice principles in preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery. 

HPSS 119 Peace and Reconciliation

The module examines the concepts of peace and peace processes that are aimed at repairing and restoring human dignity, especially after war conflicts.

LEVEL 2 Semester 1

HPSS 212 Peace, Conflict and Security in Africa

The module focuses on the causes, challenges and opportunities of peace and security in Africa. It also examines the diversity and complexity of conflicts and cases of successful conflict management and resolution.

HPSS 213 Peace Education and Development

The module examines crucial interrelationships that can be fostered through peace education. It focuses on methods that can be implemented by society through equipping citizens with peace-building. Peace education is considered important to institutions such as education, media and military institutions.

HPSS 214 Human Rights Law and Transitional Justice

The module enables students to achieve knowledge of human rights law and to develop their insights in a unique branch of law dealing with contemporary humanitarian problems. Through the module, students are equipped with a critical explanation and evaluation of the nature of, and theories behind, human rights law. Mechanisms of enforcement of human rights law are also covered, as well as transitional justice theory and practice for sustainable peace

HPSS 215 Research Methods

The module introduces students to qualitative and quantitative research methods. It focuses on developing the students’ understanding of research designs on which the area of social science is premised. The module equips students with skills that assist them to gather, analyse, and interpret data, problem-solving and decision-making.

GSSS 201 Gender Studies for Social Sciences

This Gender Studies for Social Sciences 201 (GSSS201) module is an introductory module focused on giving students a broad understanding of the discipline of Gender Studies, its subject matter, key issues and concepts. It is designed to help students develop a critical understanding of basic gender issues as well as prepare them to be agents of change, particularly in Southern Africa and Zimbabwe. In so doing GSSS201 adopts an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach that takes as its subject matter all aspects of the human experience in a gendered world, viewing gender as a field of study, analytical tool and a social phenomenon structuring the social world itself. 

ENT 205 Entrepreneurship 1

Refer to the Department of Entrepreneurship

Level 2.2

HPSS 216 Religion, Peace and Conflict

The module examines the role played by religion in integrating and disintegrating societies. It emphasizes the central role that religion plays in comprehending peace and conflict. The module examines the impact of religion on peace and conflict across the world.

HPSS 217 Civil Society and Peacebuilding

This module explores and analyses the emergence of civil society organisations that focus on social service delivery, development, advocacy and democratisation processes of peace. The focus on human security through civil society organisations in communities is emphasised.

HPSS 218 Globalisation, Conflict and Development

This module provides students with theoretical perspectives to critically analyse (a) the continuing relevance of the state and (b) the positive and negative consequences of globalisation processes for various dimensions of security, such as military, political, economic, cultural and psychological.

HPSS 219 Gender, Peace and Security

This module examines the theoretical approaches to gender peace and security, development theory, and feminist critiques. It examines gendered expectations and power relations in conflict and peace processes. The varied roles played by men and women in peacebuilding processes are also explored.

HPSS 220 Project Management

The module is primarily about the rationale, context, and methods of planning, appraising and evaluating development projects and programmes. The module primarily focuses on appraising the financial and economic efficiency of peace-related projects. The module covers planning and management techniques for the project cycle; including project identification and logical framework analysis. Conflict-sensitive approaches to programming are key for this module.

HPSS 221 Conflicts and Human Displacement      

Human displacement, dislocation and dispossession are some of the major consequences of violent conflict. This module considers the causes, dynamics and consequences of human displacement. It highlights the tensions that arise between host populations and immigrants. It also considers policies and strategies for rehabilitating both externally and internally displaced persons.

HPSS330 Work- Related Placement Report

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

HPSS341 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.

 HPSS342 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.

HPSS343 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.

Level 4 Semester 1

HPSS 411 Electoral Processes in Africa

The module focuses on the design, mechanisms and effects of different electoral systems at local, national, regional and supranational levels. The module explores the different electoral processes and their contribution to different governance systems.

HPSS 412 International Law

The module provides students with an understanding of the nature, sources and institutions of international law. The area of international law is largely concerned with the rights and obligations of states. The question of the sovereign government system vis-a-vis collective governance systems of peace will be explored.

HPSS 413 International Institutions and Conflict Resolution

This module identifies the contributions of international institutions to peacebuilding processes. The module aims to equip students with knowledge about international actors and how the law is applied and implemented in international politics, with a focus on international peace and security.

HPSS 414 Media and Conflict

The module focuses on the role media plays in conflict situations. It explains the positive and negative roles that can be potentially played by the media through representation techniques. This module also considers the many, and often conflicting roles of the media in conflict and peacebuilding processes. It raises questions of ‘who’ controls the media institutions and with ‘what’ effect when it comes to issues of peace and conflict.

HPSS 415 Economics of Peace and Security

This module explores the interface between the economy, peace and governance systems. It provides a contextual, theoretical and practical understanding of the economic and financial aspects of the security-development nexus. Some economic models, their evolution and their place in governance and the cost conflicts particularly war are also examined.

HPSS 416 Civil-Military Relations

The module interrogates various areas that concern civil-military relationships such as how political leaders, societies and military organisations interact. It also explores the attitudes and values of military and civilian populations within a society.

HPSS 417 Diplomacy

The module introduces the student to diplomatic skills that are used in ending conflict. It introduces them to both Western and African indigenous ways of diplomacy. Emphasis will be placed on the modern pioneering influence of diplomacy through the Treaty of Westphalia, Congress of Vienna and Paris Peace Conference to contemporary diplomatic practice.

HPSS 418 Terrorism and Security

The module explores the development of terrorism and political violence in various historical, political and geographical contexts, and through a variety of theoretical lenses. This module provides an introduction to the study of terrorism, political violence and their threat to global security. It aims to deepen students’ existing knowledge of the threat of terrorism to world peace. The module focuses in greater detail on various forms of terrorism and political violence: dissident/non-state terrorism; counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency; state terrorism; ‘new terrorism’; and torture.

HPSS 419 Dissertation

Students shall research a topic of their choice concerning pertinent issues in peace, conflict, reconciliation and related issues. The maximum length of the dissertation should be 20 000 words.