Master of Health Sciences in Cardiovascular Physiology

Purpose

The Master of Health Sciences in Cardiovascular Physiology qualification by research educates and trains researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of Cardiovascular Physiology at an advanced level. The institution trains the learners to reflect critically on theories and principles of Cardiovascular Physiology. Learners deal with complex issues within the field both systematically and creatively, design and critically appraise research. Sound judgement using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Rationale

This qualification is mainly to provide to the country's need for scientists in the field of Cardiovascular Physiology, especially hypertension; professionals in possession of relevant theoretical expertise, practical skills and professional attitudes and behaviours, enabling them to function as scientists and specialist researchers at a highly competitive level in the field of the health sciences. The Master of Health Sciences in Cardiovascular Physiology is one of its kind in South Africa and therefore is of great value in the training field of health sciences. In developing this qualification, consideration of national and regional needs occurred. The curriculum, although typically research in nature, considers career possibilities and workforce needs of our country. This qualification prepares learners for further post-graduate studies in Cardiovascular Physiology.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. The application of RPL is according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment (CHE 2016) and the institution's RPL policy.

• The Faculty of Health Sciences ensures the implementation of quality assurance processes in the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems). It also ensures that administrative and support systems, both before and after RPL assessment, are in place.
• Learners' assessment is against NQF Level 8 competencies.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Relevant Bachelor Honours qualification, NQF Level 8.
• Relevant Postgraduate Diploma NQF Level 8.

This qualification consists of a compulsory module at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

• Dissertation: Cardiovascular Physiology, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate specialist knowledge of the field of Cardiovascular Physiology and the ability to engage with and critique current research or practice in this field.
2. Identify a relevant research question within the field of Cardiovascular Physiology and to analyse, evaluate and then choose appropriate enquiry methods and processes for the study of this problem.
3. Demonstrate critical knowledge and understanding of the ethical and legal considerations applicable to research and the consequences of interventions on individual and group level.
4. Design and application of appropriate and creative quantitative and qualitative research methodology, techniques and procedures to investigate practical and theoretical problems in the field of Cardiovascular Physiology.
5. Interpret research findings in a scientifically correct manner and write a detailed research report to record the design and findings.
6. Develop and sustain independent learning, as well as academic and professional development.
7. Practice acceptable social sensitivity in their relationship with others and work effectively in a team by implementing the relevant theory and reflect on the implementation thereof.
8. Deliver high quality and cost-effective services as part of the Cardiovascular Physiology team.
9. Demonstrate critical oral and written communication skills to communicate effectively with employees and employers from the industry.
10. Be motivated to stay up to date with current research in the field of Cardiovascular Physiology and thereby commit to becoming a lifelong learner.
11. Explore different effective learning strategies to acquire the different capabilities of a scientist in the field of Cardiovascular Physiology.

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

• Generate and display specialised knowledge and high levels of theoretical understanding in a complex and specialised area within the field of Cardiovascular Physiology and across specialised or applied areas and make an original contribution to the knowledge society in Cardiovascular Physiology.
• Apply and develop intellectual independence and advanced research skills, sophisticated knowledge and research methodologies to the solution of complex, unfamiliar problems in the field of Cardiovascular Physiology.
• Apply and develop competence to integrate and apply theoretical knowledge and research findings within relevant local and global contexts as well as across disciplines in Cardiovascular Physiology.
• Generate, synthesise and evaluate information and concepts at highly abstract levels and make sound evaluations based on independently generated criteria.
• Show mastery of the literature by producing original insights into new and complex ideas, information and issues in a specific area of the Cardiovascular Physiology.
• Plan, resource, manage and optimise all aspects of research processes within complex and unpredictable contexts in Cardiovascular Physiology.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment occurs through research proposal defence and feedback from critical reviewers. Learners submit a dissertation on supervised discrete research for summative assessment.