Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Pharmaceutical science is a major field of study dealing with the discovery, formulation, design, testing and use of drug products to improve the health status of society. The number of persons active in this field in South Africa is far below the international norms resulting in gross insufficiencies in the pharmaceutical industry, academia and services. The aim of this qualification is to train highly skilled researchers in the pharmaceutical sciences (i.e. pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology or pharmacy practice).

Learners who have completed this qualification will be competent to apply research methodology and techniques at this level in the pharmaceutical sciences. They will have the education and training to contribute to national and international endeavours to improve the health status of society, and raise the status of the University of the Western Cape and South Africa as centres of excellence in applied research. The new qualification is specifically instituted to meet the needs of non-pharmacy learners to continue further study in the pharmaceutical sciences.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science Honours, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Pharmacy Honours, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Hospital Pharmacy Management, NQF Level 8.

• Generate and interpret data of high integrity in the specialised field in the pharmaceutical sciences;
• Report and disseminate the findings of the research project orally and in writing to appropriate audiences;
• Accurately assess and critically evaluate literature and original contributions in the pharmaceutical sciences;
• Provide independent analysis, synthesis and evaluation of information in the selected specialised field of study;
• Identify, define and provide solutions to research problems;
• Apply highly specialised knowledge of the field of study to the development of the pharmaceutical sciences;
• Confidently deploy well-developed research skills and methods, implementing the newest technology in the field of study;
• Train scientists in research methodology in the selected field of the pharmaceutical sciences.

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

• Master the appropriate methods and techniques of research;
• Be familiar with the relevant literature;
• Understand the nature of the problem or topic;
• Appreciate the significance of the findings;
• Present the results using and appropriate literary style and presentation free from errors;
• Obtain a clear understanding of the material or techniques covered;
• Meet all the objectives of the course module.

Integrated assessment

A variety of integrated assessment methods are used, both formative and summative. These are designed to test practical skills and competencies as well as theoretical and descriptive knowledge. The assessment methods include tests and examinations, as well as a range of academic and practical assignments (tests, essays, practical research reports, presentations and thesis) designed to develop the full potential of each learner and to realise the multiple learning outcomes of the qualification.