Master of Science in Microbiology

The qualification aims to educate and train researchers to contribute to the development of advanced-level knowledge in the field of microbiology.

The qualification aims to equip learners with advanced, integrated and specialist knowledge and a practical understanding of microbiology. These learners then function as effective and critical researchers who can identify, investigate and answer relevant research questions and generate new knowledge in the chosen field of study. In this way, they contribute to an improved understanding of microbiology. Successful completion of this qualification also provides learners with the possibility of further study at the doctoral level.

Rationale

The qualification responds to the need to provide learners with knowledge, skills and applied competence in the field of microbiology. The learner with expert knowledge in microbiology may enter the labour market and is equipped to make rewarding contributions to society through research activities. The qualification also produces experts in the field of microbiology to ensure that the national and international leadership base of innovative and knowledge-based scholarly activity widened. This includes the requirement of high-level theoretical engagement, intellectual independence and research. Successful learners are capable of undertaking all aspects of research, both individually and as part of a team, and may be able to continue with further postgraduate studies. Qualifying learners are employable internationally in various organisations. They work as teachers, lecturers, researchers at universities and other higher education institutions, and are ready to commence with doctoral studies.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where applicants do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. Application of RPL is according to the Recognition of prior learning, credit accumulation and transfer, and assessment (CHE 2016) and the RPL policy. Management of the process is through the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.

• The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences ensures the implementation of quality assurance processes in the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems); and that administrative and support systems, both before and after RPL assessment, are in place.
• Learner s' assessment is against NQF level 8 competencies.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

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

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Modules,120 Credits

• Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Demonstrate specialist knowledge by engaging in current research and practices within the field of Microbiology; to critically evaluate these and to contribute to disciplined thinking about relevant matters related to their specific project.
2. Apply and develop intellectual independence and advanced research skills, sophisticated knowledge and research methodologies to the solution of complex, unfamiliar problems in the field of microbiology.
3. Design, select and apply appropriate methods, techniques, procedures or technologies to complex practical and theoretical problems within microbiology, with specific reference to their specialisation area.
4. Analyse complex research questions in the field of microbiology and apply specialised problem-solving skills in identifying, conceptualising, designing and implementing problem-solving methods of inquiry within their specialisation area.
5. Design and implement a strategy for the processing and management of information to conduct a comprehensive review of leading and current research in an area of specialisation to produce significant insights.
6. Engage and initiate in academic and scientific discourse to report and defend substantial ideas that are the results of research in microbiology.
7. Make recommendations regarding the findings of their research and how this relates to or can influence future research in their area of specialisation.
8. Demonstrate high levels of responsibility, self-reflexivity and adaptability in own management of learning and analyses and evaluate ethical implications of research which affect knowledge production in microbiology. Critically contribute to the development of ethical standards in microbiology research.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome

The following associated assessment criteria apply across all Exit Level Outcomes

• Identification and formulation of a problem statement.
• Investigation existing knowledge as reflected in the appropriate scientific literature.
• Research to solve the problem.
• Evaluation of results in the context of the problem statement.
• Communicate the results in the form of mini-dissertation, research report or dissertation.
• Apply natural science knowledge and methods (with emphasis on those of the specific discipline) to problems.
• Apply scientific methods and to evaluate the results delivered.
• Use computer software for calculations, modelling, simulation and handling of information.
• Identify and solve open business and community problems.
• Identify and utilise applications.
• Work with common fundamental expertise across the boundaries of disciplines.
• Plan and perform investigations and experiments by utilising scientific modelling techniques.
• Analyse, interpret and derive information from data.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing with scientists (with emphasis on the specific discipline) and the community.
• Use the appropriate structure, style and graphics and electronic support.
• Apply methods of information communication for use by others, especially in the world of Natural and Agricultural Sciences (with emphasis on those of microbiology).
• Demonstrate a critical awareness of the necessity to act and to assume responsibility within his/her limitations and skills, while he/she can make judgements according to knowledge and experience.

Integrated Assessment

The evaluation of the learner's ability to use and apply specific methodological skills is through his/her critical review of current literature in the subject area and the formulation and execution of a research project. The learner is to report on it and generate an integrated dissertation of research findings. The supervisor assesses continuously throughout the writing of the dissertation. Examination of the dissertation then finally occurs.