Master of Nursing

Purpose

The major purpose of the Master in Nursing is to

This qualification provides a career path for Professional Nurses who want to progress in Nursing Education, Administration, Community Health and Clinical Context, and would add to their depth of knowledge and skill. Persons learning towards this qualification become expert in an area. The sector needs qualified specialists both to improve practice, and to train other Nurses. Achievement of this qualification will provide the learner with direct access to a Masters' Degree. In addition, it will prepare Scholars with expertise in selected substantive areas who will contribute nursing theory and practice through systematic enquiry and evidence based health care. Expand research base of Nursing theory and practice. Serve at the International, the nation, and health care issues in a scholarly manner.

Rationale

The decline of learners entering the nursing profession has been a matter of great concern to the South African Nursing Council and to the Ministry of Health. The problem is discussed in the Human Resources Plan for Health, which the Minister of Health launched in April 2006 and emphasis is given to recruitment of more learners into Professional Nursing. The Masters' in Nursing Degree is seen as important in providing an extended learning pathway, and promoting the uptake of graduate and Postgraduate qualifications.

The National Plan for Higher Education indicates that research plays a key role in the production, advancement and dissemination of knowledge and the development of high-level human resources. Master in Nursing will also contribute to the promotion of Nursing Practice, Education and Research in this field. The qualification therefore fits very well in the vision and mission of the university.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The university policy on Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is applied. The RPL Policy takes into account the relevant knowledge and skills gained in practice that meets the minimum requirements of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

• Honours in Nursing Science or an undergraduate 4 years' professional Degree in Nursing and shall have passed with 60% overall.

Advanced Diploma in Nursing field/discipline candidate shall not be admitted for the Degree except on the recommendation of the Head of the Department and the Dean.

Masters' by dissertation.

1. Demonstrate ability to plan and write a research proposal.
2. Demonstrate ability to communicate effective using oral, written and electronic medium.
3. Ability to access, critically review and apply relevant scientific information.
4. Demonstrate ability to develop, design and implement a research project.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Write a research proposal for implementation.
• Describe the different research approach and designs as they apply to nursing practice.
• Review appropriate literature on nursing related topics.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Ability to present a scientific review article with current issues on nursing practice using oral, written and or poster communication skills.
• Apply research skills during data collection.
• Prepare and present papers in national and international conferences.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Critical analysis of nursing research results related to quality patient care.
• Write a scientific article for publication in an accredited journal.
• Ability to retrieve information using different search engines.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Implement a research project by collecting data.
• Analyse data collected.
• Write a research dissertation.

Integrated Assessment

• Continuous interaction between the student and the supervisors will determine the quality of dissertation that will be submitted for examination purpose.
• The Degree is assessed based on the scientifically produced thesis of �120 pages.
• Two internal examiners and 2 external examiners shall mark the dissertation.