Master of Philosophy in Developmental Paediatrics

Purpose

The qualification is designed to provide advanced training in the theory and practice of developmental paediatrics to specialist paediatricians.

The purpose of the training is to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage all aspects of developmental paediatrics. In addition to diagnosing and co-ordinating management of developmental disabilities, the graduate would be expected to be able to:

• Research complex cases and coordinate multidisciplinary management.
• Audit results and review management protocols.
• Plan and manage developmental services (at different levels of healthcare).
• Educate nursing and medical staff.

Rationale

The Master of Philosophy in Developmental Paediatrics aims to allow certification (according to the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa) as a registered subspecialist in developmental paediatrics.

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

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

Compulsory modules

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Developmental Paediatrics Part 1 (PED7029W), 120 Credits.
• MPhil in Developmental Paediatrics Part 2 (PED7030W), 60 Credits.

1. Build a sound knowledge base via reading, supervised clinical case management, tutorials, inter-sectorial meetings and journal club activities.
2. Develop a solid clinical grounding in developmental paediatrics through practical experience.
3. Master the requisite skills, including certified competence in relevant diagnostic assessment tools.
4. Develop a highly effective communication skill set and a thorough understanding of ethics as it applies to developmental paediatrics.
5. Develop an understanding of the theory and practice of evidence based medicine.
6. Demonstrate integration of the above principles by passing the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa subspecialty certificate in developmental paediatrics and completing a minor-dissertation reporting a relevant research project to acceptable standard at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 9.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

• Demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and minimum clinical requirements to register as a subspecialist.

Integrated Assessment

Candidates undergo full-time clinical training by the University while being employed as senior registrars by the provincial health department on the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)'s 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, two written papers and a clinical exam.

In order to register as a subspecialist, 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.

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.