Master of Science in Physiotherapy

Purpose

The qualification prepares learners for further Postgraduate studies in Physiotherapy. Learners will demonstrate knowledge, skills and applied competence in the field of study and conduct research that will provide opportunities for continued personal growth, gainful economic activity and rewarding contributions to society and the community.

Rationale

The qualification prepares learners for the demands of the physiotherapy profession within the context of the South African community. The relevant research conducted will contribute to the extension of Physiotherapy as a science.

The rationale is to apply educational knowledge, skills, principles and methods to render a specialised service in physiotherapy and conduct research under supervision which respond to the needs of the community, to business and industry need, to the need for life-long learning and to the appreciation of the value of education and society.

Recognise Previous Learning

Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. RPL will be applied according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment policy. This will relate to both access to the qualification as well as for credit recognition or exemption towards achieving the qualification.

The institution will ensure that quality assurance processes that address the specificities of the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems) are implemented; and that administrative and support systems, both prior and subsequent to RPL assessment, are in place.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiotherapy, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 and 9 totalling 240 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 96 Credits

• Physiology (Physiotherapy), 32 Credits.
• Medical Physics (Physiotherapy), 32 Credits.
• Anatomy (Physiotherapy), 32 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 144 Credits

• Research Methodology, 20 Credits.
• Mini-dissertation and concept article, 124 Credits.

1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the science of physiotherapy in a chosen field of study.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the relationship between research, the science of physiotherapy and professional physiotherapy practice.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of current debates, concepts and issues in a chosen area of physiotherapy.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of relevant ethical and concept frameworks.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the necessary methodological grounding and processes entailed in carrying out a research enquiry.
6. Demonstrate the ability to define and integrate key terms, concepts and theories in the science of physiotherapy and in research.
7. Critically evaluate relevant research and evidence-based practice.
8. Critically reflect on an area of research and field of study.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes

• Critically interpret, assess and deploy research methodologies and evidence in the science of physiotherapy applicable to own research.
• Demonstrate the capacity to read academic publications pertaining to a research topic and field of study proficiently.
• Produce and present written text in a suitable writing style and cites source materials correctly.
• Demonstrate the ability to define and integrate key terms, concepts and theories in research and the science of physiotherapy.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment in this qualification is based on an integrated, summative and continuing evaluation approach. A leaner should provide evidence of learning competency (knowledge, skills and attitude) by means of the following:

1. Informal continuing evaluations example feedback, presentations and assignments.
2. Formal continuing evaluation example theoretical tests (written).
3. Summative end evaluation example theoretical (written) examinations at the end of the first study year and a research report and article at the end of the second study year.