Master of Science in Nursing

Purpose

The Master of Science in Nursing qualifications aim to prepare learners who will be able to demonstrate competence in the research process, understanding of the main approaches and paradigms - both qualitative and qualitative - in health sciences research. The qualification aims to facilitate the development of reflective practice, the utilisation of appropriate theoretical foundation for nursing practice, identify researchable nursing or midwifery problems and conduct research, the findings of which will contribute to the advancement of the nursing/midwifery practice. The basis of this qualification is on adult educational principles. The design of the coursework is to foster leadership, clinical, research and educational expertise and critical thinking, interpretive and motivational skills, and evidence-based practice.

Rationale

The rationale of the qualification is to prepare learners to be leaders in their field, capable of addressing National and African health priorities, building on their prior knowledge acquired in the underpinning nursing qualification.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

A learner not meeting the above requirements may apply for RPL if they meet the following

• A four-year Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery.
• A full portfolio of prior learning, a curriculum vitae and supporting letters of reference.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at Level 9 totalling 360 Credits.

The qualification comprises coursework (courses must total a 90-Credit weighting) plus a minor dissertation (90 Credits) of a maximum of 25 000 words. Taught core modules provide the learner with a base for critically examining nursing practice by achieving a sound understanding of the principles and methods of research and professional issues. These modules are in Research Methods.

Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice. Elective modules reflect the interests and areas of practice of individual learners.

Dissertation only qualification

The Master of Science in Nursing is by a full dissertation of 180 Credits. Learners register for a single module.

1. Conduct independent research in the field.
2. Communicate verbally and orally with professional audiences.
3. Apply disciplinary knowledge and research skills.
4. Analyse and critique communications of an academic and popular nature.
5. Appreciate the ethical issues associated with research and knowledge production in the discipline.
6. Challenge orthodoxies and redefine existing knowledge while demonstrating awareness of the nature of knowledge in the field.
7. Have mastered a body of knowledge within a specified area of the field.
8. Have mastered all relevant research techniques, both general and specific to the field of study.
9. Summarise clearly, accurately and comprehensively all relevant aspects of academic debate.
10. Relate or apply existing knowledge in novel contexts.

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

• Identify researchable problems, plan and conduct research.
• Promote the use of research findings and thus also to contribute to the body of nursing knowledge through practice-based research.
• Incorporate theories and advanced knowledge into nursing practice.
• Use leadership, management and teaching knowledge and competencies to influence nursing practice.
• Assume responsibility for contributing to the advancement of nursing practice.

Integrated Assessment

Coursework: Essays, project reports and reflective journals all count towards the assessment of taught modules. The assessment of each module is appropriate for the course content and objectives.

The examination of the minor dissertation (25 000 words) is external. Learners registered for the minor dissertation must obtain approval for their research study from the Faculty Human Research Ethics committee.

Assessment in the full dissertation research Master of Science in Nursing qualification is through a supervised dissertation not exceeding 50,000 words.

The dissertation must demonstrate competence in the following areas: adequate research problem formulation and development; familiarity with and integration of the relevant and specialised literature that informs the research question; application of relevant theoretical approaches and key research techniques at an advanced level; systematic and sustained discussion and argumentation and integration of findings; ability to address the normative issues that might attend the study; appreciation of the methodological of the study; use of the publication and style conventions of the discipline.

The University has a system of external peer review and evaluation of each course. One of the aspects of the system is an evaluation of the standards and assessment practices of the department. The academic staff of the University uses this in a manner which is consistent with the quality assurance system of the University.