Master of Philosophy in Rheumatology

Purpose

1. To provide qualifiers with the necessary knowledge, specific skills and applied competence such that they will meet the requirements for subspecialisation in rheumatology of the College 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 Rheumatology. Further to provide qualifiers with the necessary foundation to conduct and present an independent research project.
2. To provide South Africa with sufficient numbers of well-trained and competent rheumatologists to serve the community and a smaller number who have begun to contribute to scholarly activity in the field.

Rationale

This qualification forms part of the credentialing process for registration as sub-specialists in rheumatology registered as such by the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Entry Requirements

A candidate shall not be admitted to the programme, unless he/she (a) submits 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; (b) has been registered as a specialist in that field; and (c) has been appointed against an Professions Council of South Africa-approved training number.

This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Level 9.

Modules

• Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Rheumatology Part 1 (MDN7018W), 120 Credits.
• MPhil in Rheumatology Part 2 (MDN7039W), 60 Credits.

1. Be able to identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Be able to use science and technology appropriately.
3. Be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
4. Be able to work as a team member.
5. Be able to demonstrate sensitivity to the individual and community.
6. Be able to organise and manage one's activities responsibly and effectively.
7. Be able to collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
8. Be able to identify and solve problems using critical and creative thinking.
9. Be able to use science and technology appropriately.
10. Be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
11. Be able to work as a team member.
12. Be able to demonstrate sensitivity to the individual and community.
13. Be able to organise and manage one's activities responsibly and effectively.
14. Be able to collect, analyse and critically evaluate information.
15. Demonstrate ability to assess and diagnose rheumatology problems.
16. Demonstrate ability to manage rheumatology problems.
17. Demonstrate knowledge regarding physiology and pathogenesis of adult rheumatological disease.
18. Demonstrate knowledge of investigations relevant to adult rheumatological diseases.
19. Demonstrate knowledge of the management of adult rheumatological diseases (This is assessed by the College of Medicine Certificate in Rheumatology examination).
20. Be able to assess, diagnose, investigate and manage rheumatological problems.
21. Be able to conduct and present independent research.

Entry Requirements

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.