Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiological Sciences

The purpose of the Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiology is to introduce learners to the niche research areas of physiologists in the Department and preparing learners for future careers in biomedical research. Learners will learn research-oriented Physiology techniques, basic scientific literature evaluation skill through critical analysis of published articles that they present during journal club sessions, and scientific writing skills (via proposal and dissertation writing). Learners will learn how to plan, conduct, assess and report hypothesis-driven research. Because learners are at the formative years of research, learners are assigned supervisors based on the learner's interest and supervisor expertise. The supervisor assists the learner in selecting a research topic and, through intensive guidance (one-to-one setting as well as a classroom teaching and group discussions), learners will understand planning, proposal writing, implementation of the study protocol and writing of the research paper. After completion of the qualification, each learner will acquire the following skills:

• Application of Physiology theoretical knowledge towards solving life problems (as relevant to the research problem).
• Principles and practical knowledge of research-oriented physiology techniques in laboratory, human and animal research:

> Critical analysis of scientific literature.

> Scientific writing and presentation skills.

> Skills to develop and implement hypothesis-driven research.

> Ability to work independently and in a team.

> Ability to follow instructions.

> Understanding of the learner-supervisor relationship.

> Ability for time management by setting goals and keeping on track and address unplanned eventualities met in research.

Rationale

The reasoning that led to identifying the need for Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiological Sciences was to create a path that bridges a generic Medical Sciences qualification towards developing a specialised cadre in the disciple of Human Physiology. Such a path is paved through this Honours qualification.

The qualification allows for an improvement of the learners' skills and knowledge in the field of human Physiology while improving chances of employment in academia and industry or for further study in professional degrees (vet sciences, pharmacy, medicine, dentistry etc.) or further academic development (MSc to PhD). Human physiology is a basic sciences discipline that cuts across several health professions and research disciplines, thus on its own, is not governed by any professional bodies. However, aligned with the National Development Plan 2030, this qualification will contribute towards increasing the number of learners eligible to study towards science-based qualifications as well as create a path towards an increase in the percentage of PhD qualified staff in the higher education sector.

Most of the learners come from rural Eastern Cape, usually from poor backgrounds. Thus, the potential for skills development, career marketability and future economic stability that this qualification offers does not only benefit the individual learners but has ripple effects in benefiting the families, the community and the nation through poverty alleviation. Additionally, research projects that these learners are involved in relate to the community that the learners are living, drawing the learners' attention to the society around them and their potential contribution towards solving identified problems.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL can be used in accordance with the RPL policy to grant access and/or advanced standing, if applicable. The RPL will be based on the entry-level qualification of the applicant.

• Completed Bachelor of Medical Science (B Med) (NQF 7) in Physiology or other related medical sciences fields.
• Candidates who have obtained 60% and above in B Med or other related medical sciences fields.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Medical Sciences in Physiology (B Med), NQF Level 7.

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

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits.

• Research Project, 60 Credits.
• Readings in Physiology, 30 Credits.
• Research Methodology, 30 Credits.

• Understand basic physiology and systems physiology concepts for problem solving and understanding of the interaction of physiological systems for maintaining homeostasis.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the normal functioning of the human body through problem-solving of presented cases.
• Understand current laboratory and data handling methodologies in human (epidemiology) and animal research.
• Communicate theoretical knowledge and understanding of the principles of physiological research through critical assessment of a published paper in the discipline.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of current research methodologies in Physiological sciences. Plan, design, and execute a hypothesis-driven experimental/research project in Physiology.
• Demonstrate awareness of and application of principles relating to scientific integrity and ethical issues in research.
• Write a proposal and a research project with clear communication of results and discussion of results where the results must employ gained theoretical physiological knowledge and research methodologies.
• Give a conclusion, identify study limitations and give recommendations for future study.
• Write a well-structured written project to be presented for external assessment.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria will assess the Exit Level Outcomes in an integrated manner.

• Read, critique and oral presentation of currently published paper in physiology in health and disease. Laboratory-based exposure and hands-on participation in common research techniques used by staff in the Dept.
• Demonstrate an aptitude for practical and theoretical research methods through written and oral demonstration.
• Understand the research methodology.
• Plan, conduct and execute a research study in an appropriate physiological research context.
• Present a scientifically acceptable account of the problem, the findings, discussion and conclusions.

Integrated Assessment

Formative: An intensive theory-based module. Different lecturers cover systems- focused integrative teaching in major Physiology topics (neuro, cardio-respiratory, gastrointestinal, renal, endocrinology, reproduction). Class presentations, written assignments, oral tests are compiled from each lecturer to give the formative mark. There are also formative exercises (feedback) to assist learners in identifying gaps in knowledge to formulate intervention strategies.

Summative: Final examination covering the topics as outlined.

The final mark for the qualification is computed using the continuous assessment mark and the exam mark in 60:40 ratio (continuous assessment contributing (60%) and final examination contributing 40%.

Research Methodology

Marks from practical sessions, seminar and class presentations (including proposal presentation), and assignments are computed to give the final marks.

Research Project

Learners, under the guidance of a supervisor, design, and execute a research project (research paper). Learners must submit a research proposal to the Department for review of the science. If the science is deemed acceptable for this level of study, the proposal escalates to the Research Ethics Committee for ethical clearance (where required). Examination panel consists of (1) internal examiner and (1) external examiner.