Master of Philosophy in Pulmonology

Purpose

The Master of Philosophy in Pulmonology aims to train subspecialists in the field of Pulmonology, who acquired specialist knowledge and competencies through participative learning. This qualification enables learners to make informed autonomous ethical decisions in addressing challenges by accounting for scientific and social dimensions in the medical field. It intends to deliver graduates that will demonstrate a systematic understanding of theory, of in-depth knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and new insights at the forefront of Pulmonology and its related area of professional practice. This is reflected by the mastering of advanced skills and techniques applicable to the field; originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline. Learners acquire a conceptual understanding of the field of study that enables them to critically evaluate methodologies, current research and advanced scholarship in the field of Pulmonology.

Rationale

The General Master of Philosophy in Pulmonology provides Postgraduate education to train subspecialists in Pulmonology. Health care providers in South Africa and elsewhere in Africa experience a dire need for capacity and expertise to support the quality of health care provision. Expertise in this specialised field of Medicine therefore speaks to the vital need for improved health care.

This qualification intends to train registered, practicing specialists as subspecialists (or "post- or super-specialists") in Pulmonology. This field of study is acknowledged by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as an expert, and much needed sub-specialisation. This emphasises the value of the investment in and necessity for building specialised capacity and advanced competency in the field of Medicine, in particular Pulmonology.

The qualification is proficiently developed by experts, within the ambit of international comparability, occupational demands and requirements, and community needs. It is also aligned with the national priorities in the Health Sector and complies with the criteria, norms and standards set by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). The Faculty of Health Sciences developed and approved the Master of Philosophy Degree and thus confirmed its academic and administrative capacity and competency to offer the qualification. Academic staff responsible for the Degree, are suitably qualified and have sufficient relevant knowledge, experience and teaching competence, and their research profiles are adequate to facilitate the applicable research (in the field of this subspecialty) on the academic level the Degree requires.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Possible exemption, fully or partially, on the basis of comparable training and experience gained at another institution could be granted by the institution. Based on the Recognition of Prior Learning, candidates may be granted exemption from applicable components of the programme. Candidates may apply for exemption from certain modules on grounds of prior qualification of study concerned. The process will be implemented in strict adherence to the relevant University RPL Policy. The faculty's RPL committee assesses the candidate's portfolio thoroughly against the relevant learning outcomes.

Entry Requirements

Candidates may register for the Degree Master of Philosophy in Pulmonology if

• In possession of a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) Degree or Master of Medicine (M Med) or equivalent qualification.
• Registered as specialist physicians with the Health Professions Council of South Africa or equivalent for the country of origin.

This qualification comprises 3 compulsory modules, each contributing a number of credits towards the attainment of the 300 Credits at NQF Level 9.

Modules

• Phase 1: Pulmonology, 120 Credits.
• Phase 2: Pulmonology, 120 Credits.
• Phase 3: Research project, 60 Credits.

1. Apply original knowledge and competencies obtained via research in order to demonstrate how latest research trends impact on the practice of Pulmonology.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of in-depth knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and new trends informed by research within the ambit of professional practice.
3. Use resources and insights from academic and professional discourses in order to defend and communicate substantial ideas.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• A wide range of specialised skills are applied in identifying, conceptualising, designing and implementing methods of enquiry to address complex and challenging problems within the area of Pulmonology.
• High quality of medical care, including the selection and performance of appropriate tests and investigations is provided.
• A good understanding of the rationale for each test conducted their clinical application within a diagnostic algorithm and the development of reference values is demonstrated.
• Pulmonary radiological techniques and evaluation of pulmonary ventilation and blood flow is conducted.
• Clinical and laboratory competence for diagnosing and treating allergic disease of the upper and lower respiratory tract is applied.
• The ability of candidates to act sensitively and to practice high ethical standards in the handling of difficult patient problems for example in the respiratory ICU and terminal illness is practiced.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Principles of critical care as related to Pulmonology are practiced and witnessed by a registered pulmonologist or critical care specialist.
• Occupational and environmental health which includes detection and treatment, evaluation, preventative measures and legal and legislative principles are applied.
• The ability to communicate effectively with and educate patients and colleagues is demonstrated.
• Autonomous ethical decisions that affect professional issues are made.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Research project in Pulmonology or critical care is conducted.
• Independent learning and academic or professional development are employed within the professional group as a means of enhancing learning.
• Current research, as well as critiques of current methodologies in the field is critically evaluated in order to propose new hypotheses.

Integrated Assessment

The Master of Philosophy in Pulmonology endorses excellence and academic integrity of postgraduate research and assessments are accordingly arranged by means of clearly stipulated assessment procedures and criteria. Different kinds of evidence of learning are therefore collected to monitor learner progress. Constructive feedback on the learning process and/or learning progress is provided to individual learners and/or groups of learners in oral and/or written format and clearly explained and justified.

For the purposes of this programme, candidates are subjected to 2 examination sessions, focusing not only on theoretical knowledge, but also on the integration of knowledge and competencies during practical examination sessions. Apart from written and practical examinations, candidates are required to engage in a research project and to submit an extended research report.