Master of Science in Medical Microbiology

Purpose

The qualification will teach/train other health professionals at a lower level, including laboratory technologist and technicians who are currently in charge of laboratory services in the rural areas. The qualification will lead to the development of the research capacity in the field, especially in molecular tests. It will also contribute to improving the services for the people in the rural areas who do not have easy access to tertiary or even secondary health services.

Learners will apply pedagogical knowledge, skills, principles and methods to support research and service in the medical environment. Having the necessary knowledge, skills, professional thinking, behaviour and attitudes to pursue their profession as scientists and educators in the field of Medical Microbiology.

Upon successful completion of the Master of Science in Medical Microbiology, learners will be able to

• Display knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of Medical Microbiology.
• Perform molecular tests such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
• Have a sound knowledge of instrumentation and principles of laboratory techniques.
• Design and execute supervised research projects in the medical sciences.
• Be able to teach essential Medical Microbiology to other health professions, undergraduate learners.

Rationale

The Master of Science in Medical Microbiology aims to train specialised researchers with the capacity to conduct supervised state of the art research in the field applying sound scientific knowledge and ethical principles.

The qualification will allow the learners to improve their existing skills and knowledge. To develop new interests, to change the direction of their learning, as well as to enhance their prospects for employment.

Learning will be through theoretical and practical experience and exposure, with both formative and summative assessments conducted periodically to assess progress and quality of learning achieved in key areas as determined by the curriculum.

The MSc in Medical Microbiology will enable the qualifying learner to become a researcher employable by laboratory service institutions both in public and private sectors such as the National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) and the Private Medical Laboratories. They will also be employable by academic centres and by research institutions to provide training supervision and to conduct research in the biomedical field and public health (infection control) more precisely in Medical Microbiology and molecular biology. As researchers in the area with this level of qualification, they will also be able to generate new knowledge and innovation.

The qualification focuses on training scientists in the field of Medical Microbiology to alleviate a shortage of pathologists and to develop the potential for research in the field, particularly in the disadvantaged areas of the country.

The qualification will contribute to increasing the pool of academics and professionals with competence and critical intellectual abilities. To ensure the future development of Medical Microbiology and to make provision for the country's need for a skilled workforce of the highest calibre and to ensure that the country stays competitive in an era of growing global competition.

The employment of learners will contribute to boost the standard of primary health care delivery as well as to strengthen and develop the body of applied research and knowledge generated in the country.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL will be offered for the learner with previous exposure to Laboratory Management and Quality Control such as those articulating from qualifications in the field of Medical Technology.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is guided by the institutional policy and is aligned with the objectives of the NQF. Entry into the qualification is possible via RPL as well as indicating advanced standing, provided that it is aligned to the institutional policy and that the learner is evaluated by a qualified RPL assessor in a manner that is free from any form of discrimination. RPL practices also include standard Credit Accumulation and Transfer (CAT) practices of modules that may have been achieved in the course of the learner's studies.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Medical Microbiology, Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Microbiology, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Medical Virology, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Medical Laboratory Technology, Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Level 8.

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

• Discussions & Seminars, 60 Credits.
• Research Project, 120 Credits.

1. Have sound knowledge of Medical Microbiology, and the principles of laboratory management.
2. Complete a Mini Dissertation.
3. Apply basic Medical Microbiology knowledge in interpreting results of analytical techniques.

The following Associated Assessment will assess the Exit Level Outcomes in an integrated manner.

• Apply basic Medical Microbiology knowledge in interpreting the results of analytical techniques.
• Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
• Performs fundamental statistical analysis and presents the results.
• Communicates effectively using visual, and language skills in the modes of oral and written persuasion.
• Complete a Mini Dissertation approved by Higher Degree's Committee according to scientific norms.

Integrated Assessment

Formative assessment includes the regular assignments and seminars conducted as continuous assessment throughout the module which contributes towards 60% of the final mark with the following weighting:

• 20% from seminars and topic reviews.
• 20% from Lab work and teaching participation.
• 20% from test follow up and write-ups.

The summative assessment also includes an externalised end-of-module written the exam for the Advanced Lab Management and Quality Control Module which must be passed with at least 50%. It contributes 40% of the final mark for the module.

The computation of final marks consists of 60% continuous assessment and 40% from the written exam.

The integrated assessment of the Research component includes the formative component obtained from the seminar presentations of the research proposal (40%), seminar presentation of research outputs (40%) as well as regular Journal Clubs (20%).

Application of practical Medical Microbiology knowledge and related research skills will be assessed by the presentation of a mini-dissertation after completing the research project. The research proposal should be approved by the University Human Research and Ethics Committee. Upon completion, the project will be assessed by one internal and two external examiners with the relevant expertise.