Master of Science in Veterinary Science

The M Sc degree in Veterinary Science is a research degree. Graduates will have well-developed skills to initiate research and be capable of writing a research protocol in the field of Veterinary Science. The qualification aims for a candidate to be able to generate or obtain grants and to do research under supervision. Graduates will successfully complete a dissertation on the relevant research and should maintain lifelong learning skills ensuring continuing self-development and development in the field of interest.

Matriculation certificate

First degree: B V Sc, B V M CH, B Sc, B Sc (Agric)

Honours degree: B Sc (Hons), B Sc Agric (Hons)

Other

Candidates who have been admitted to study for the MSc degree by virtue of the B V Sc (Hons), B V Sc or B V S CH degree must successfully complete or have completed an acceptable course in Research Methodology. Supplementary prescribed work and attendance of certain courses, with a pass mark in a test or examination in these courses may be required of all candidates who apply for admission. A student may also be required to pass a proficiency test in English, at an acceptable level.

M Sc in Veterinary Science

Learning outcomes

1. Know, understand and apply relevant in-depth scientific knowledge by studying appropriate and applicable ancillary subjects or modules
2. Perform a literature study in the field of interest
3. Initiate and write a research proposal
4. Demonstrate the ability to generate funds
5. Perform and manage relevant research
6. Develop practical laboratory skills
7. Complete the research project

Critical cross-field outcomes

• Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions, using both critical and creative thinking, have been made
• Collecting, organising, analysing and critically evaluating information
• Work effectively with other researchers
• Communicate effectively using visual and/or language skills in oral and/or written presentations

One

Demonstrate relevant in-depth knowledge of ancillary subjects

Two

Literature study is relevant to the research topic and the information is appropriately analysed and synthesised

Three

1. The research proposal is relevant and applicable
2. The research field is adequately understood
3. The proposed research involves the application of appropriate theory and practice
4. The proposal is feasible

Four

The successful submission of a grant request to funding agencies

Five

1. Observations made are consistently and accurately recorded
2. Evaluation of performance and suggestions proffered forward for improvement
3. The research process is successfully managed

Six

Latest techniques and technology are assimilated into appropriate practice

Seven

1. Learning facilitated through oral and poster presentations and/or in-house seminars
2. Research results published in an accredited journal
3. Completion of a dissertation according to scientific norms.

Integrated assessment

Portfolios

Work-place assessments

Written examinations

Oral examinations

Other

Portfolio

• Oral presentations and or posters are presented at local and international conferences.
• Ancillary subjects are evaluated by means of tests and examinations, under the supervision of external assessors or moderators.
• Research results are published in refereed scientific journals
• A dissertation is completed and evaluated by external assessors or moderators

Formative Assessment

• Candidates give feed-back to supervisors on research results and present seminars or literature reviews in their applied research field. Feedback is given to the candidate on a continual basis
• The progress of a candidate is monitored by a guidance committee allocated to the student by the Postgraduate Curriculum committee of the Faculty of Veterinary Science.

Summative Assessment

• Portfolio work has been completed and assessed

Written and oral examinations at the end of the study