Master of Philosophy in Cardiology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to provide qualifiers with the necessary knowledge, specific skills and applied competence such that they will meet the requirements for subspecialisation in cardiology of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa. This includes a minimum period of supervised experiential learning and success in the College of Medicine examination for the Certificate in cardiology. It further provides graduates with the necessary foundation to conduct and present an independent research project and to provide South Africa with sufficient numbers of well-trained and competent cardiologists to serve the community.

Rationale

The Master of Philosophy in Cardiology qualification will form part of the credentialing process for registration as subspecialists in cardiology by the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements are

• Proof that he/she, prior to commencing with education and training in the relevant subspecialty, has complied with all the requirements for registration as a specialist in the primary or one of the primary specialities listed against the relevant subspecialty.
• Has been registered as a specialist in that field,

And

• Has been appointed against an Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)'s -approved training number.

This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory modules

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Cardiology Part 1 (MDN7017W), 120 Credits.
• MPhil in Cardiology Part 2 (MDN7038W), 60 Credits.

1. Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Use science and technology appropriately.
3. Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
4. Work as a team member.
5. Demonstrate sensitivity to the individual and community.
6. Organise and manage one's activities responsibly and effectively.
7. Collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
8. Identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
9. Conduct and present independent research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

• Demonstrate ability to assess and diagnose cardiology problems.
• Demonstrate ability to manage cardiology problems.
• Demonstrate knowledge regarding physiology and pathogenesis of adult disease.
• Demonstrate knowledge of investigations relevant to adult cardiological diseases.
• Demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and minimum clinical requirements to register as a subspecialist.
• Demonstrate ability to conduct and present independent research.

Formative and Summative Assessment

Candidates undergo full-time clinical training for three years by the University while being employed as senior registrars by the provincial health department on the HPCSA approved University training platform.

In the course of their training, and at the end, candidates undergo examinations set by the relevant College of Medicine. The curriculum is delivered via recommended reading, development of a detailed portfolio of cases, bedside teaching, teaching rounds, presentations at meetings and journal clubs and practical experience in clinics and wards. The assessment strategy is aimed at assessing whether candidates have mastered the basic sciences and/or other foundational knowledge required for their clinical work, and whether they have met the minimum clinical requirements to register as subspecialists. These requirements are set by the Colleges of Medicine and are usually assessed in the form of a clinical logbook, an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), objective structured practical examinations (OSPE) and written paper/s.

The examination consists of two parts. The examination in Part I consists of one or more written paper(s) and/or such practical and/or oral examinations as the examiners may require. The examination in Part 2 (for those candidates who wish to obtain the degree) consists of a dissertation.

In order to register as subspecialists, the candidate is not required but may opt to complete a dissertation for which external examination is arranged by the University. Subspecialist trainees who opt not to complete the dissertation may register as subspecialists after passing College exams and meeting minimum clinical training time on successful completion of College examinations. They receive the relevant College of Medicine certification. Those candidates who also produce a dissertation receive a University Degree.