Master of Health Sciences In Environmental Health

The qualification was conceptualised in order to create progression for learners in the Bachelor of Science Environmental Health (National Qualifications Framework (NQF), Level 8) qualification, related Environmental Health qualifications including learners from related scientific fields and related health professions. The qualification will contribute to knowledge generation, social and technological innovations in science, health and related disciplines. It is envisaged that this qualification will address the demands of appropriately qualified researchers and educators in various scientific and health related disciplines. The qualifying learner will be able to conduct research independently with minimal guidance in the selected field, contribute to creation of knowledge and qualify to register for a Doctoral Degree in Environmental Health. The qualification will equip the learners with skills that can be used to advance disciplinary knowledge, collaborative research and specialised employment in various scientific fields, higher education and Environmental Health. The qualification is offered on full-time or part-time basis.

Rationale

The qualification is intended for those who seek progression from a Baccalaureus Technologiae Degree, Honours Degree or a relevant Postgraduate Diploma within Environmental Health or related scientific disciplines. The qualification contributes to the existing body of knowledge within the disciplines of Environmental Health and related scientific disciplines. The qualification will equip the learners with skills that can be used to advance disciplinary knowledge, collaborative research and specialised employment in various scientific fields, higher education and Environmental Health.

The research problem, rationale, methodology and conclusions are reported in dissertation format which complies with the commonly accepted norms for research at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 9. The learner is expected to demonstrate acquisition of specialist knowledge that facilitates engagement and critique of existing research or practices within the discipline and related fields in order to contribute to the existing body of knowledge in sciences. The learner is also expected to be well vested in disciplinary literacies by demonstrating the ability to evaluate existing processes of knowledge production and select appropriate methodologies for the area of study.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

• The institutional RPL policy applied to widen access for potential learners with work experience within the sphere of Environmental Health and related disciplines.

Entry Requirements.

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours, Level 8.
• Postgraduate Diploma in a cognate field, Level 8.
• Bachelor in Health Sciences, Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, 180 Credits

• Dissertation: 180 Credits.

Evaluate existing processes of knowledge production; integrate new and existing knowledge; select appropriate methodologies for the area of study and present research outcomes to disciplinary audiences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• A comprehensive literature base is critically analysed and evaluated to establish recent trends in technologies, techniques, models and theories in the chosen field.
• Models, principles, theories, techniques and methodologies in the chosen field are analysed, explained, and used correctly in oral presentations and the dissertation.
• The research problem is clearly identified, defined and detailed in the research proposal where the stated hypothesis directs the investigation.
• The appropriate methods and techniques are selected and applied in the collection of qualitative and quantitative data where appropriate.
• Experimental research is responsibly and ethically conducted.
• Logical interpretation of data reflects clear understanding of the relationship between facts in the study and the ability to evaluate contradictory information.
• The inferences, interpretation and conclusions based on critical review of evidence from measurements and statistical analyses are valid.
• Information sources are used correctly and appropriately.
• Information technology is applied effectively in the production of the dissertation/research report.
• Language and numeracy skills are applied effectively and correctly in clearly communicating the research problem, methodology used, findings, and recommendations.

Integrated Assessment.

Summative assessment

• Dissertation assessed by internal and external assessors.