Master of Science in Biochemistry

Purpose

The main purpose of this qualification is to enhance specific research-related skills in Biochemistry to provide more specialist and focused training in a specific sub-discipline of Biochemistry. The qualification will provide learners with competences, skills and knowledge within the Biochemistry subject area, with an individually chosen specialisation centred on an independent, experimental research project.

Rationale

The qualification is a research-based qualification that is needed to improve the skills and qualifications of BSc (Hons) Biochemistry learners. In general, there is a dire need in the country for skills in this discipline, to increase the skill levels of the workforce in order to support and improve the economy of the region and the country.

Learners who complete this qualification will be able to be innovative and have problem-solving abilities. They would be able to think and act independently yet be part of a larger team to help solve some of the region's economic and socio-economic problems. The major objective is to produce learners who would be employable in the food, water and beverage industries, in the biotechnology laboratory and related medical industries and the animal and agricultural sectors.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

A panel discussion amongst academic and research staff administer RPL assessment and only appropriately trained, and qualified learners with the necessary skills to succeed are selected. Specific Biochemistry-based outcomes and skills that are essential for the success of the intended project and are discussed to evaluate whether the learner would have a reasonable chance of completing the intended Degree.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry, NQF 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory and elective modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 9 totalling 180 Credits.

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Conduct relevant research in the Biochemistry discipline.
2. Write a research report in the form of a formal dissertation.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1

• Provide a suitable motivation for the need for the research.
• Plan, design and develop a suitable research strategy with a reasonable chance of success.
• Develop and write-up of a defensible research proposal.
• Conduct well-formulated research experiments under laboratory settings (wet lab work).
• Collect, collate and assess experimental data.
• Implement the research plan.
• Interpret the data and come up with conclusions based on the analysis.
• Defend the results/conclusions that were obtained.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2

• Produce a type-written dissertation of the project (indicating results, interpretations of the data and discussions of the findings).

Integrated Assessment

Assessment is ongoing throughout the research project. It takes the form of defence of a written research proposal and oral conference presentations once or twice a year. Assessment may also include presentation/s of research results at national and international conferences. At such presentations, graduates are expected to defend their research results, findings and conclusions that they may have derived during their study. Furthermore, the written research dissertation is subjected to national and international examination by a minimum of two (2) Science Faculty approved examiners.