Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Pathology

Purpose

The purpose of the qualification is to train and familiarise certified Anatomical and Forensic Pathologists in the concepts and diagnostic criteria for:

• The examination and reporting of abortuses and placentas.
• The performance, interpretation and reporting of fetal, neonatal and childhood autopsies including stillbirths.
• The handling and understanding of the medical and surgical biopsies and tissue resections about childhood anomalies and disease.

Rationale

This qualification trains anatomical pathologists to become specialists in paediatric pathology.

Entry Requirements

A learner shall not be admitted to the qualification unless he/she has trained and has received a certificate as an anatomical pathologist.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

• MPhil n Paediatric Pathology Part 1, 120 Credits.
• Perinatal and placental pathology, including normal and abnormal fetal growth and development.
• Paediatric autopsies and laboratory investigations.
• Pathological aspects of childhood neoplasia and post-natal growth disturbances, including malnutrition.
• General systemic and surgical pathology applicable to children.
• MPhil in Paediatric Pathology Part 2, 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 empathy and sensitivity to parents and community, acknowledging cultural and religious differences.
6. Organise and manage one's activities responsively and effectively.
7. Collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
8. Enhance the spectrum of professional competence in paediatric and perinatal pathology.

• Demonstrate knowledge of the macroscopic and microscopic diagnostic criteria and ancillary investigations necessary for the diagnosis in placental pathology and fetal, neonatal, paediatric autopsies and paediatric surgical specimens.
• Use and interpret special investigations appropriately.
• Demonstrate knowledge and experience of clinical relevance and legal and ethical issues related to this discipline.
• Understanding of current standards, techniques, criteria and classifications of paediatric and perinatal pathology that conform to current international expectations.
• Formulate research problem and integration of the literature.
• Design and execution of research.
• Use proper methods of data collection and analysis.
• Integrate findings.
• Show appreciation of the limits of the study.
• Use the publication and style conventions of the discipline.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment: Part 1 comprises a year-mark made up as follows: essays (four assignments), a written paper, a practical examination including an autopsy, and an oral examination. Part 2 comprises a short dissertation.

Research that involves human participants or animal use for research or teaching must undergo ethics review, according to faculty-specific guidelines. Review generally entails prior approval of a research proposal by a Research Ethics or Animal Ethics Committee. In cases where prior consent is not appropriate, the research proposal will undergo proper deliberative procedures, according to faculty-specific guidelines. Research papers or dissertations that involve human participants or animal use may not be submitted for examination if they have not undergone any ethics review process.