Master of Physiotherapy

Purpose

• Ensure mastery of the chosen specialisation area of the profession of Physiotherapy via high level analysis of new information, the ability to deal with complexity and to find workable solutions to problems and challenges.
• Enable students to do advanced and independent research in the field of Physiotherapy and to introduce them to the world of scholarly communication, inter alia by assisting them to start publishing on their own.
• Prepare students who aspire to move to the highest level of academic work in the field of Physiotherapy for doctoral study and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics.
• Contribute to the pool of academics and professionals in the field of Physiotherapy with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure the future health and advancement of the profession of Physiotherapy and to make provision for the country's needs in a skilled health science workforce of the highest calibre.

Rationale

This qualification is designed to provide advanced knowledge and research skills in Physiotherapy, to promote the achievement of evidence-based practice in Physiotherapy. This qualification is needed since there are only eight Physiotherapy departments at Higher Educational Institutions which offer research programs in South Africa.

Physiotherapy is a broad field and this qualification enables learners to conduct research in a specific field of Physiotherapy under supervision. This qualification is designed for Physiotherapists from South Africa, Africa and abroad who would like to acquire sound research skills.

Physiotherapy plays a major role in the management of the current health burden through services and consultations offered in health, disability and the educational sectors. This Physiotherapy qualification is designed to enable learners to pursue further personal and professional development of research skills which will facilitate life-long learning.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Not applicable. All prospective students should have a four-year Bachelor of Science Degree in Physiotherapy or other equivalent qualification (at NQF Level 8) that is approved by Senate.

Entry Requirements

The entry level for the Masters' Degree is a four-year Bachelor or Bachelor of Science (BSc) Degree in Physiotherapy or other equivalent qualification (at NQF Level 8) that is approved by Senate.

The programme can be completed in one year (full-time) or two years (part-time). Attendance of a research methodology course is compulsory. A continuous evaluation mark of 10% applies. Learners must conduct an independent research project under the guidance of a supervisor/co-supervisor, which contributes 90% of the final mark.

Compulsory Module

• 11963 Thesis (Physiotherapy) 872, 180 Credits, Level 9.

1. Demonstrate advanced application of concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in relation to a chosen focus area of physiotherapy and social development.
2. Apply in-depth disciplinary knowledge.
3. Apply specialised research skills.
4. Analyse and critique academic literature, debates, policies and documents.
5. Appreciate the ethical issues associated with research and knowledge production in physiotherapy.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• The thesis reflects a clear understanding of the context (including policy, legislation, local and global issues), appropriate concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes.
• The thesis displays critical analyses and intellectual independence.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Relevant, disciplinary-specific and related literature is assessed, evaluated, analysed and synthesised.
• Analyses of the research problem reflect a critical application of advanced theory and expertise in Physiotherapy.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• The research process is planned and conducted on the basis of a range of appropriate research designs, methods, approaches and techniques.
• The research theme, rationale, problem statement, and goal and objectives of the research is appropriately identified, formulated and demarcated.
• A comprehensive and critical review of relevant literature is executed.
• A scholarly empirical study is conducted, findings are comprehensively reported, and feasible recommendations are made.
• The research report displays proficiency in academic writing, and a coherent and technical sound exposition of an introduction to the research, literature study, research methodology, empirical study, findings, conclusions and recommendations, and relevant citations according to an acceptable reference style.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Motivations of own positions to specific debates are based on a sound integration of relevant theory, practice, research and independent, creative thinking.
• Discussions demonstrate an understanding of own positions, theoretical arguments and its feasibility in relation to major debates.
• Expositions clearly and cogently communicate explanations of own positions.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Discussions, descriptions, analyses and empirical work reflect the integration of Physiotherapy values with human rights principles and social justice in the chosen focus field.
• The thesis exhibit a critical understanding and application of the ethical principles guiding Physiotherapy, is characterised by methodological rigour, and comply with the guidelines of the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP), as well as relevant legislation, institutional, national and international ethics guidelines.

Integrated Assessment

Continuous assessment of the learner's progress is conducted during the duration of the research process. Integrated assessment is also accomplished by examining the thesis that reflects the Exit Level Outcomes. The thesis represents an integrated summation of the level of knowledge and skill gained by the successful student as well as of his/her academic and communicative abilities. The thesis is assessed by an internal and external examiner according to the prescribed requirements of the University. The internal examiner must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and have at least a Masters Degree in Physiotherapy. The external examiner must have an appropriate qualification and/or appropriate experience in the chosen focus area. An oral examination is compulsory and does not contribute to the performance mark.