Duration
Completed in a minimum of one year full-time or two years part-time. Available for both full-time and part-time study.
NQF 8 · 120 Credits · Honours Degree
BA Honours in Community Development
Deepen the theory and practice of community development with a strong foundation in community-focused research. One year full-time, two years part-time — offered in both Contact (on-campus) and Distance (online) modes.
- Accredited by the CHE
- Registered with DHET
- Ref: H/PRO96/E018CAN
Aim of the Programme
Deepen your practice. Transform communities.
The BAHons in Community Development offers students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of both the theory and practice of community development, with a strong foundation in community-focused research.
Students critically analyse and apply core concepts of community development, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to facilitate collective action and drive positive change within communities.
- Analyse and critique significant philosophical approaches and theories of community development across contexts
- Apply sound social science research methodology to community development related situations
- Examine governance, social policy, and the legislative framework shaping practice
- Identify, assess and apply integrated programme management principles for sustainable, people-centred development
- Examine in-depth two focus areas of interest in community development
- Conduct in-depth research, analysis and interpretation in a community-based context
Watch the programme overview
Time Commitment & Mode
How you can study.
Delivery Mode
Offered in both Contact (on-campus) and Distance (online) modes — study in the format that works for you.
Intakes
Two intakes per year — January and July. Apply early to secure your place.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum provides students with foundational knowledge of community development theory and practice while allowing them to pursue specific areas of interest within community development studies. This is achieved by assisting students to comprehend, analyse and apply community development theory, policy and governance, programme management theory, and social research methodology.
Admission Requirements
Who this is for.
- 01 A candidate must have complied with all the requirements of an undergraduate degree, or equivalent, before the beginning of the academic year.
- 02 Third-year key modules in social sciences must have passed with a minimum of 60%.
- 03 As per the RPL Policy, no more than 10% of applicants without the necessary 60% grade may be admitted if they have work or life experience qualifying them for postgraduate admission.
- 04 Applicants must provide evidence of computer literacy. Candidates may be required to take a computer course to improve their skills.
- 05 All successful applicants must complete a pre-programme assignment to determine the level of academic support required.
Programme Coordinator
Leo Mapira
Acting HoD · Sociology & Community Development
Leo Mapira is a Development Sociologist with a passion for engaged scholarship. His research interests span industrial development, micro-community development, trade unionism and labour relations. He holds a Master's Degree in Industrial Sociology from the University of Cape Town, lectures and serves as Acting Head of the Department of Sociology and Community Development at Cornerstone Institute, and is completing doctoral studies in Industrial Sociology at UCT.
Meet the Sociology staff
Enrolment Policy
Registration guidelines.
If the required number of enrolments is not reached by the end of the registration period, the programme will only receive new students in the next registration period. New students already registered will be advised on the options available, and paid fees will be refunded where applicable. Students who have already completed one or more semesters will not be affected.
Resources
Everything you need, in one place.
Ready to make an impact?
Applications are open for the January and July intakes.