Master of Health Sciences in Environmental Health

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Health Sciences (MHSc) in Environmental Health qualification is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in Environmental Health at an advanced level. Further, this qualification aims to promote the career advancement of learners in the field of Environmental Health by enabling them to conduct independent research. Qualified learners will be required to engage with complex problems, both systematically and creatively and demonstrate independence and originality in problem-solving by designing and implementing research in Environmental Health.

Rationale

This qualification will provide learners with an opportunity to conduct independent research through scientific discourse and independent investigation contributing to the development of the field of Environmental Health. Primary Health is the cornerstone to preventative health in South Africa, and Environmental Health is considered to be the profession most suitable to be a significant role-player in the new health system. This qualification will develop cognitive, technological and scientific enquiry capability and promote the research, innovation and management skills necessary for development of the Environmental Health profession. This qualification also aims to develop an understanding of the multi-disciplinary approach to effective, efficient health care, with emphasis on equity in health care, social upliftment and reduction of the burden of disease. It is aimed to develop fundamental knowledge of the principles of environmental health and the ability to apply this knowledge to investigate related problems through rigorous research.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The qualification may be achieved in part through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) according to the institution's RPL policy. As part of this policy, the learner is required to provide a portfolio of evidence to prove that the necessary competencies of the qualification have been achieved through experience that complies with the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement for admission into this qualification is

• Bachelor of Health Sciences in Environmental Health, NQF Level 8.

This qualification comprises a compulsory dissertation at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules Level 9, 180 Credits

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Integrate knowledge of Environmental Health with the principles of research.
2. Design and implement a research study addressing a valid hypothesis.
3. Implement assigned research or work tasks including, data collection and management, evaluation, and data analysis.
4. Disseminate research effectively by using both written and oral communication strategies.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Understand and critically evaluate research findings in the field of Environmental Health.
• Conceptualise, identify and investigate problems.
• Demonstrate intellectual independence, research scholarship and management of research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Acquire a thorough understanding of the scientific method and its purpose.
• Understand and practise the ethical principles of research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Identify and investigate a problem and provide its rationale.
• Investigate the problem using appropriate research methodology.
• Manage, analyse and interpret data.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Defend findings orally in a national or international conference.
• Produce a dissertation that conforms to national and international standards.

Integrated Assessment

The learner will submit a dissertation for assessment in compliance with the institution's requirements. Through the dissertation, the learner is expected to present mixed research findings, interpreted and linked to the existing literature but with critical self-reflection, across the entire area of investigation.