Bachelor of Medical Science in Physiology

Purpose

The qualification involves an in depth study of Human Physiology and the mechanisms by which the human organism survives, reproduces and interacts within the environment in both health and disease states from a molecular, cellular and systemic perspective. Furthermore, the qualification imparts the following to the leaner:

• A well-rounded, broad education and a knowledge base, theory and methodology related to physiology, anatomy, biochemistry and environmental influences.
• Initiative and responsibility in an academic or professional context.
• Research skills in order as preparation for postgraduate study.
• The ability to seamlessly integrate into the work environment. It emphasises general principles and theory as preparation for entry into general employment or for a postgraduate qualification.

Human Physiology (as a part of Medical Science) is an ever-expanding corpus of knowledge with well-established foundations, terminology, principles, theoretical frameworks, research methodologies and investigative techniques. Knowledge of Physiology has long been mandatory for all health professions, and in recent years, major progress has been made in increasing societal awareness of the advantages and empowering effect of an individual understanding his /her own body and its functions. Apart from Physiology, the qualification comprehensively addresses all aspects relating to the human body including Pathology.

Rationale

The qualification aims to train scientists and technicians to research, assimilate, apply and propagate knowledge in this field for the betterment of society and the environment. It prepares the learner for a career in Health Sciences and/or Research and inculcates in the learner core scientific principles, which enables engagement in critical thinking, problem-solving and intellectual independence. This qualification addresses an increasing need in medical science by comprehensively addressing Human Biology Physiology and allied fields, and equips the graduate with a knowledge base and expertise, which can translate to various sectors in the Pharmaceutical and Health Industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts the principle underlying outcomes-based, source-based and life-long learning, in which considerations of articulation and mobility play a significant role, and subscribes to the view that Recognition of Prior Learning, whether acquired by formal education curricula at this or another institution or informally (by experience) is an indispensable element in deciding on admission to and awarding credits in an explicitly selected teaching-learning qualification of the institution.

A leaner who does not meet the minimum entry requirements but who can demonstrate (through the production of substantial and satisfactory evidence) experiential or work-based learning or a non-formal qualification (or a combination), may be considered for admission and/or for the Recognition of Prior Learning for the achievement of the qualification in part or in full. A leaner who after such assessment, is deemed to have sufficient potential, but is in need of further academic development, must be directed to other suitable learning qualifications prior to admission or to parallel qualifications after admission.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• National Senior Certificate, Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's Degree study with English, Life Orientation, Life Sciences, Mathematics and Physical Science.

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

Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 288 Credits

• Chemical Reactivity, 16 Credits.
• General Principles of Chemistry, 16 Credits.
• Med 1A 2 Human Body: Form/Function, 16 Credits.
• Mathematics for Natural Sciences, 16 Credits.
• Intro Physics for Life Sciences & Agriculture, 16 Credits.
• The Smaller side of Life, 16 Credits.
• Bioenergetics and Integrated Metabolism, 16 Credits.
• Cardiorespiratory and Renal Physiology, 32 Credits.
• Introduction to Biomolecules, 16 Credits.
• Foundations of Physiology, 32 Credits.
• Neuroendocrine Physiology, 32 Credits.
• Human Genetics Applied Physiology, 32 Credits.
• Metabolic Diseases, 16 Credits.
• Haematology, 16 Credits.

Elective Modules, Level, 96 Credits (Choose Six)

• Academic Writing, 16 Credits.
• Introductory Biochemistry and Microbiology, 16 Credits.
• Basic IsiZulu Language Studies A. 16 Credits.
• Life on Earth, 16 Credits.
• Introduction to Fungi and Viruses, 16 Credits.
• Cytology and Introduction to Histology, 16 Credits.
• Neuroanatomy, 16 Credits.
• Introduction to Anatomy, 16 Credits.
• Anatomy of the Head, Neck and Back, 16 Credits.
• Molecular Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Technology, 16 Credits.
• Bacteriology, 16 Credits.
• Advanced Applications of Fungi and Viruses, 16 Credits.
• Anatomy of the Upper & Lower Limbs, 32 Credits.
• Research Project, 16 Credits.
• Comparative skeletal Anatomy and Laboratory Technician, 16 Credits.
• Embryology, 16 Credits.
• Anatomy of the Trunk, 16 Credits.
• Microbial Processing, 16 Credits.
• Environmental Microbial Biotechnology, 16 Credits.
• Advanced Bacteriology, 16 Credits.

1. Understand the Human Biology and Physiology both from an organismal level (systemic) perspective, and the molecular level.
2. Demonstrate e knowledge of the molecular and cellular basis of mechanisms which drive the survival and environmental interactions of the human organism.
3. Interrelate the different organ system functions and how the human organism performs as an integrated unit in the face of environmental stresses and pathogenic invasion.
4. Read, analyse, explain and critically evaluate prescribed readings.
5. Demonstrate laboratory skills that enable to the setting up, investigation, observation e, analysis e and reporting on various practical exercises pertaining to body function using human, animal and computer models.
6. Complete a research project using basic research skills and knowledge of research methodology.
7. Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively.
8. Exercise sound judgement in the use of data and information.

Integrated Assessment

Formative (in the form of theory and practical tests, assignments, and group projects). The learning outcomes primarily encompass equipping graduates with a knowledge base of both theory and practical aspects relating to Human Physiology and its applications. The testing is appropriate and tests knowledge and research capacity. Testing practical and theoretical competence is integrated using group assignments and mini-projects. Mini projects are research based projects which promotes sharing and teamwork and at the same time inculcating skills such as critical thinking and assimilation of knowledge.