Postgraduate Matters

The Department of Science and Technology Education is dedicated to advancing research in:

• Science Education, (MEd NSE and PhD NSE)
• Technology Education, (PhD TED)
• Education for Sustainable Development, (MEd EE and PhD ENE)
• Information Communication Technologies in Education, and 
• Agriculture Education.

We offer expert supervision for postgraduate students at both Master’s and Doctoral levels, supporting research that addresses critical issues in these fields.

How to Apply

• Application Process: click here to access site
• Required Documents: The required compulsory supporting documents in most cases,  will be a copy of your ID/passport, complete academic records (if not Unisa qualifications), the ledger (grading scale) and SAQA certificate of evaluation (in the case of foreign qualifications), and the research outline.
  
  

Unisa’s 10 Catalytic Niche Areas

Unisa has identified 10 catalytic niche areas that provide a focus for innovative and impactful research. The Department of Science and Technology Education particularly focuses on the following:

1. Fourth Industrial Revolution and Digitalisation- Exploring how emerging technologies and digital innovations are transforming the education landscape, and how we can harness these changes to enhance teaching and learning.
2. Student Support and Co-Curricular Activities- Investigating effective strategies for supporting student success through co-curricular activities, mentorship, and other support systems that complement academic learning and foster holistic development.
   
   

Choosing a Supervisor

Selecting the right supervisor is crucial to your success in postgraduate studies. We strongly recommend that prospective students review the research areas of our academic staff and contact the potential supervisor or depatmenatal M&D coordinator before submitting an application. You can find detailed information on the research areas and contact details of our supervisors on the following pages:

Find contact details for supervisors specific to each discipline.

• Science
• Technology
• Education for Sustainabe Development
• Information Communication Technologies in Education

View staff profiles, their research areas, and contact information.

• Click here to access staff profiles 

In the event that you still need more assistance you are free to contact the departmental M&D coordinator for more information or clarifications. maziben@unisa.ac.za or esikhol@unisa.ac.za 

If your research aligns with these themes, we encourage you to explore potential supervisors within these areas. Please contact the potential supervisor to discuss how your research could contribute to these innovative and timely areas. 

NB: Students for ICTE should apply for either Natural Science Education or Technology Education

Template for Contacting Supervisors

Before applying, we encourage prospective students to contact potential supervisors with a brief summary of their research idea. This can help determine whether the department can provide appropriate supervision. Please use the following template to structure your email or communication:

Subject: Request for Postgraduate Supervision – [Research Topic]

[Student Name]

[Degree Program: Master’s/Ph.D.]

[Date]

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am interested in pursuing a [Master’s/Ph.D.] degree in the Department of Science and Technology Education. I am writing to inquire about the possibility of being supervised by you for my proposed research on [brief research topic].

Please find a summary of my proposed research below:

• Research Topic/Title: A concise title or summary of your research idea.
• Introduction and Background
• Provide a brief introduction to the research topic.
• Explain the broader context of your study.
• Include relevant background information that positions your research in relation to existing literature or current trends/issues.

Problem Statement

• Clearly define the specific problem your research aims to address.
• Identify the gap in existing knowledge or practical challenge your study will solve.

Research Questions

• Primary Question: State the central question your research aims to answer.
• Secondary Questions: Break down the primary question into smaller, more specific questions that guide your study.

Aim and Objectives

• Aim: State the broad goal of your research.
• Objectives: List specific, measurable steps that will help achieve the aim and answer the research questions.

Rationale

• Explain why the research is important.
• Discuss the contribution your study will make to the field.
• Mention the practical implications of the study, if any.
• Include how your research aligns with the department’s focus areas, if applicable.

References

• List key academic sources that support and inform your research.
• Include books, journal articles, and other relevant references.

I would be grateful if you could let me know whether you would be open to supervising my research and, if so, whether my proposed topic aligns with your research interests and expertise.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]
[Your Contact Information]
[Your Student number (if applicable)]

Stories from Previous Students

Gain insights from the experiences of past postgraduate students who completed their research with us. Their stories provide valuable perspectives on the research journey and the support provided by our department. Click here to access testimonials of past students.

Common Questions to Consider Before Applying

Before applying to our postgraduate program, we encourage you to consider the following questions to ensure that your research aligns with the department’s focus:

1. Is my research topic aligned with the expertise of the department or supervisor?
2. Do I have the necessary qualifications and background knowledge for this research?
3. What are the expectations and time commitment for postgraduate study?
4. Do I have a clear idea of how to structure and conduct the research?
5. Have I reviewed the department’s or university's postgraduate guidelines and policies?
6. What are the financial and logistical considerations for postgraduate study?