Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Human Molecular Biology

The purpose of the qualification is to provide a high standard of education in Human Molecular Biology, which will produce quality learners who have acquired key skills, in human molecular biology, genetics and/or molecular biology who are interested in pursuing further Postgraduate studies in Human Molecular Biology. The qualification aims to produce Scientists who have the knowledge, understanding and proficiencies required to contribute to the field of Human Molecular Biology. The qualification also aims to produce learners who, can independently perform scientific research and have the key skills for understanding research, at both professional and Postgraduate level, to enhance the role of Human Molecular Biology in patient care.

Rationale

There is currently a shortage of Scientists trained in Molecular Biology in South Africa. There is a need to provide basic Postgraduate training in the use of molecular biology in humans for further Postgraduate research or the application of human molecular diagnostics. There is great interest in the application of molecular biology in human research and diagnostics in learners that are not interested in pursuing a qualification in medicine but who are interested in working in a molecular laboratory doing research and diagnostics on humans. The potential stakeholders are commercial pathology laboratories, private research laboratories, drug companies involved in research and development, academic research institutions performing molecular biology based research in humans as well as companies that supply reagents and equipment targeted to human molecular biology.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

In exceptional cases where applicants do not meet the minimum admission requirements a learner will be considered for access in compliance with the institutional RPL Policy. This includes approval of the faculty committee, on the recommendation of the academic head of department, on the strength of a standard of proficiency determined by means of recognition of prior learning (RPL) that is sufficient for the purposes of Postgraduate study, with notification to the Executive Committee of Senate.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Medical Science, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.
• Bachelor of Science, NQF Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 72 Credits.

• Research: Literature study, 24 Credits.
• Research Project, 32 Credits.
• Research Techniques, 16 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level 8, 48 Credits (Choose THREE Modules)

• Capita Selecta, 16 Credits.
• Applications of Molecular Biology in Hemostasis, 16 Credits.
• Applications of Molecular Biology in Immunology, 16 Credits.
• Diagnostic Molecular Biology, 16 Credits.
• Capita Selecta, 16 Credits.

The learner will be able to show evidence of

1. A consolidated and deepened expertise in human molecular biology.
2. A research capacity in the methodology and techniques of human molecular biology.
3. An achieved competency on a high-level of theoretical engagement in human outcomes molecular biology.
4. An intellectual independence evident in his/her ability to think and reason on the theoretical aspects of human molecular biology.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across the Exit Level Outcomes

• Conduct research under supervision.
• Write a research report.
• Develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of the discipline.
• Integrate the knowledge and skills acquired and to be a professional research scientist in Human Molecular Biology who will function effectively in any Human Molecular Biology laboratory.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification provides for a Continuous Assessment approach. The latter is based on the principles of integrated assessment since the assessment activities are focused on the different dimensions of the purpose of the qualification. In order to determine whether the stated outcomes of the respective modules have been achieved in accordance with set standards and level of cognitive complexity required by the Level Descriptors, practical work, assignments with written reports, oral seminar presentations and written and oral tests and examinations including research report will be used as assessment methods.