Master of Science in Reproductive Biology

To promote research in obstetrics, physiology of pregnancy, new ultrasound techniques in obstetrics, reproductive biology, endocrinology of pregnancy and infertility, and fetal assessment.

The qualification is research-based and aims

• To equip students with more advanced knowledge and a deeper insight into and understanding of the chosen field of study.
• To ensure mastery of the chosen subject or profession via high level analysis of new information, the ability to deal with complexity and to find workable solutions to problems and challenges.
• To enable students to do advanced and independent research through rigorous training in research methods and to introduce them to the world of scholarly communication, by assisting them to participate actively in scientific meetings and to start publishing on their own.
• To prepare students who aspire to move to a higher level of academic research work for Doctoral study and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics.
• To contribute to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure the future health and advancement of the chosen field or profession and to make provision for the country's needs in a skilled scientific workforce of the highest calibre.
• To prepare students who can apply their skills to the task of answering some of the questions and meeting some of the needs of the country.
• The graduate will be competent to perform the professional function of research into speech, language, voice and fluency disorders.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

• Access may be gained to the qualification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Entry Requirements

• Bachelor of Science Honours in Reproductive Biology, Level 8.

1. Do independent research in reproductive biology.
2. Instruct students to do research in the field of reproductive biology.
3. Identify important future research areas in reproductive biology.
4. demonstrate:

• Mastery of the theoretical subject matter, with a comprehensive knowledge of the field.
• Mastery of advanced theory and its application to the specialised research topic.
• Capacity for independent study via the successful completion of a research project and written thesis (which should meet criteria for publication with expert assistance).
• The ability to understand risk assessment and take calculated risks, as well as self-reflexivity and adaptability.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all the Exit Level Outcomes

• Perform independent analysis of new data and problems using a wide range of methods and techniques appropriately.
• Critically evaluate relevant literature.
• Extrapolate implications beyond given data.
• Use higher order principles to relate data to new, broader issues.
• Transform abstract data and concepts for a given purpose.
• Review evidence supporting conclusions critically.
• Identify and define complex problems.
• Apply appropriate knowledge and skills for their solution.
• Use well-developed research skills confidently.
• Challenge orthodox theory and suggest new approaches.
• Handle contradictions and make value judgments.
• Interact and engage in debate with a learning or professional group; produce detailed and coherent reports.
• Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, in a way appropriate to the field and the profession.

Integrated Assessment

• The student must pass with a minimum of 50%, earned by way of the project leader's report and an acceptable written thesis and oral scientific presentation followed by questioning, as evaluated by a panel of internal and external examiners.
• The supervisor evaluates the student on the basis of his work as part of a research team and the completion of an independent research project. Satisfactory evaluation of a written dissertation and an oral examination by internal and external evaluators.