Bachelor of Medical Science in Anatomy

Purpose

The purpose of the B. Med Science in Anatomy program is to provide a well-rounded, broad education that equips graduates with the knowledge base and theory to assist in clinical application and lab work. It enables students to demonstrate initiative and responsibility in an academic or professional context. It requires students to undertake research in a manner that is appropriate to Anatomy and related fields in order to prepare them for postgraduate study. By emphasising general principles and theory it prepares for entry into general employment or for a postgraduate programme. The students are provided with the ability to understand, critically analyse and interpret scientific and biomedical data. It highlights how to undertake and apply biomedical research and be able to read scientific publications. Additionally, the programme trains graduates in professional writing skills to convey scientific and biomedical science information in a meaningful way.

Rationale

Anatomy is a basic science that can be integrated to allows student to articulate with modules across the School and College such as ethics, law, comparative anatomy, cytology, virology and haematology creating a holistic approach to teaching and learning. Training in the scientific method emphasises the underlying basis for congenital abnormalities, the differences and commonalities in populations and their exposure to health conditions, the prevalence of variations that predispose to abnormal development and the particularities of exposure to disease states prevalent in this part of the world.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which is applicable with equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL may be applied for access, credits from modules and credits for or towards the qualification.

RPL for access

• Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
• To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.

RPL for exemption of modules

• Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted for modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

RPL for credit

• Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
• Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with English(HL/FAL), Life Orientation, Life Sciences, Mathematics and Physical Science at Level 4. A minimum of 30 points excluding Life Orientation will be considered.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 7 totalling 384 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 96 Credits.

• General Principles of Chemistry, 16 Credits.
• Smaller side of life, 16 Credits.
• Intro Physics for Life Sciences & Agriculture, 16 Credits.
• Mathematics and Statistics for Natural Sciences, 16 Credits.
• Chemical Reactivity, 16 Credits.
• Ethics and Law for Anatomical Sciences, 16 Credits.

Elective Modules, 16 Credits (Select one module)

• Life on Earth, 16 Credits.
• Human Body form and function, 16 Credits.
• Basic isiZulu languages Studies A, 16 Credits. (Select one module)
• Academic Writing, 16 Credits.
• Introduction to Biomolecules, 16 Credits.
• Introduction to Anatomy, 16 Credits.
• Neuroanatomy, 16 Credits.
• Anatomy of the Head, Neck & Back, 16 Credits.
• Cytology and Introduction to Histology, 16 Credits.

Elective Modules, 32 Credits.

• Elective module(s) at level 2 chosen by student subject to approval by School board. Modules can be chosen from HPHS, MICR, BIOL. BIOC or CHEM Level 2 modules.
• Anatomy of the Trunk, 16 Credits
• Embryology, 16 Credits
• Comparative Skeletal Anatomy and Laboratory Techniques, 16 Credits
• Anatomy of the Upper & Lower Limbs, 16 Credits
• Research Project, 16 Credits

Elective Modules, 32 Credits.

• Elective module(s) at level 3 chosen by student subject to approval by School board. Modules can be chosen from HPHS, MICR, BIOL, BIOC or CHEM Level 3 modules, 32 Credits.

1. Demonstrate foundational anatomy knowledge
2. Demonstrate research skills and be critical thinkers
3. Impact to society
4. Demonstrate practical skills and knowledge

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Have knowledge and understanding of Ethics and Law for anatomical sciences; gross anatomy; comparative skeletal anatomy and laboratory techniques.
• Have developed practical skills which enable them to conduct problem or enquiry driven research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Be able to source, understand and be appropriately critical of scientific literature.
• Be able to assess core scientific knowledge to develop new strategies to research biological and medical problems.
• Have an understanding of medical research, how it is carried out, its purpose and limitations.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Be aware of the role that Medical Science plays in South Africa and the global society.
• Have a detailed knowledge of the current state of knowledge in at least one significant field of Medical Science.
• Value integrity and the importance of ethics in addressing medical problems.
• Articulate a conscious understanding of their own values and demonstrate respect for the values of others and the ability to view ethical dilemmas from multiple view points.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Have a detailed understanding and knowledge of the anatomy of the limbs and their related anatomical structures.
• Be able to read, analyze, explain and critically evaluate prescribed anatomical readings.
• Acquire interpersonal and collaborative skills during groupwork in practicals and projects.
• Acquire basic dissecting and research skills by completing research project module.

Integrated Assessment

Formative

Assignments, tests, group work, projects will be conducted during the year.

• Evaluation includes both theory and practical assessments in an integrated manner.
• Seminar presentations provide the opportunity for formative integrative assessment of knowledge, skills (cognitive and interpersonal) and attitudes including integration of knowledge and skills.

Summative

• A maximum of four assessments for each 16 credits module with one theory and one spotter examination.