Master of Pharmacy

Pharmaceutical science is a major field of study dealing with the discovery, formulation, design and testing of drug products to improve the health status of society. The aim of the programme is to train highly skilled researchers in the pharmaceutical sciences.

Candidates will be competent to apply research methodology and techniques at this level in the pharmaceutical sciences.

Motivation for programme

Candidates who have completed this programme have the education and training to contribute to national and international endeavours to improve the health status of society, to raise the status of Rhodes University and South Africa as centres of excellence in applied research.

Candidates should be in possession of a B Pharm, or a B Sc Honours in an appropriate discipline in order to qualify for admission to the research programme. Preference is given to those candidates with outstanding academic records during their undergraduate programme.

Recognition for prior learning

Some recognition of prior learning and work experience is given in the selection procedure but the formal programme does not make provision for outcomes gained in fields other than those related to research in the pharmaceutical sciences and cognate disciplines.

The candidate will be capable of

1. Generating and interpreting data of high integrity in the specialised field in the pharmaceutical sciences
2. Reporting and disseminating the findings of the research programme orally and in writing to appropriate audiences

On completion of the research programme the candidate will be able to demonstrate the ability to

1. Accurately assess and critically evaluate literature and original contributions related to the field of study
2. Provide independent analysis, synthesis and evaluation of information in the field of study
3. Identify, define and provide solutions to research problems
4. Apply highly specialised knowledge of the field of study to the development of the pharmaceutical sciences
5. Confidently deploy well-developed research skills and methods, implementing the newest technology in the field of study
6. Train scientists in research methodology in the specialized field of the pharmaceutical sciences.

1. Mastery of the appropriate methods and techniques of research
2. Familiarity with current, relevant literature
3. A clear understanding of the nature of the problem or topic
4. An appreciation of the significance of the findings
5. An ability to present the results using an appropriate literary style and presentation free from errors.

Integrated assessment appropriately incorporated to ensure that the purpose of the qualification is achieved

The candidate should provide evidence of a specialised and high level of competence, knowledge and integrity. Formative assessment is provided on written and oral research reports. Summative assessment is provided on the basis of a thesis. The thesis will be presented for examination at least 18 months after registration and preparation, in consultation with the supervisor.

The following quality assurance procedures form part of the overall evaluation and accreditation system

1. At least one internal supervisor/examiner
2. At least two external examiners
3. Requirements and guidelines of the higher education quality assurance bodies (SAQA requirements)
4. Requirements and guidelines of Rhodes University as contained in the Higher Degrees Guide.