Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Medical Physics

The purpose of the qualification is to provide a high standard of education in Medical Physics, which will produce quality learners who have acquired key skills, both academic and translational, enabling them to contribute to the field of Medical Science. The qualification aims to produce scientists who have the knowledge, understanding and proficiencies required to contribute to the delivery and development of a quality, accredited Medical Physics service and relevant tests, i.e. the application of physics concepts, theories and methods to medicine or healthcare. 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 Medical Physics in patient care. This further aims to develop an understanding of the scientific principles underlying the main areas of medical physics research and radiation protection, specifically an awareness of the consequences of ionising radiation interactions and radiobiological effects. Learners should attain competencies in relation to foundational material, both in terms of concepts as well as problem-solving skills needed for continuing success as a professional medical Physicist as well as preparing the learner for further Postgraduate research.

Rationale

There is a strong demand for learners in Medical Physics from the pharmaceutical, chemical, and biotechnology industries. Learners are recruited with either Honours or higher qualifications (Master of Science, Doctor of Philosophy) in Medical Physics for employment including provincial and private hospitals, universities, medical companies and with specialist physicians. Medical Physics learners can precede to a higher qualification, usually a Masters or Doctorate, in a variety of academic departments and research institutes. Various other careers are possible, including research assistants in Radiotherapy, the iThemba Laboratory, National Accelerator Centre, Medical Research Council, Eskom and the Department of Health also employ medical physicists.

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 176 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 176 Credits.

• Medical Phys. for Diagnostic Radiology, 16 Credits.
• Quantum Mechanics, 16 Credits.
• Electronics, 16 Credits.
• Digital Image Processing, 16 Credits.
• Semiconductors, 16 Credits.
• Modalities for Radiotherapy, 16 Credits.
• Radiotherapy Planning, 16 Credits.
• Medical Phys. for Nuclear Medicine, 16 Credits.
• Radiation Physics, 16 Credits.
• Research in Medical Physics and Radiation Protection, 32 Credits.

The learner will be able to

1. Apply research methods and evaluate research results.
2. Solve a range of medical problems confronting Medical Scientists and the solutions developed for their recognition and investigation.
3. Do diagnostic testing and research under supervision.
4. Analyse, interpret and evaluate medical science information in the specific area.

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.

Integrated Assessment

The qualification provides for a Continuous and Summative 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, research report, assignments, diagnostic tests, formal written tests, exams and seminar presentation/oral will be utilised.