Master of Veterinary Medicine in Equine Medicine

The first purpose of this degree is to gain knowledge and experience in Equine Medicine to a level of competence that leads to registration as a specialist veterinary physician with the South African Veterinary Council. As a specialist, the learner should be able to diagnose, treat and manage simple and complicated medical conditions of equines.

The second purpose of this degree is to provide the skills, knowledge and practical experience to teach pre-graduate and post-graduate learners in the art and science of Equine Medicine. An attitude of lifelong learning will be fostered and encouraged so that there is continued self-development and ongoing contribution to the discipline.

The third purpose of this degree is to provide an understanding of research methodology and gain practical research experience through the completion of a dissertation. This entails planning, execution, and reporting of a research project. With this knowledge, a contribution to the advancement of scientific knowledge can be made through active research and the support of research projects by the provision of Equine Medicine service and advice on the suitability of diagnostic and/or therapeutic protocols.

The fourth purpose of this Degree is to provide a basis with which to contemplate further Doctorate studies in the field of Equine Medicine or other related disciplines.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science Honours, , NQF Level 8.

1. Diagnose equine patients with medical conditions.
2. Manage equine patients with medical conditions.
3. Add scientific knowledge to the field of Equine Medicine and demonstrate an ability to initiate, undertake and complete research.
4. Obtain in-depth knowledge in the field of Equine Medicine.
5. Act professionally and ethically.
6. Demonstrate continued interest in developments and research in the field of Equine Medicine.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Recognise and work-up of equine patients.
• Establish indications for, perform, and interpret basic diagnostic procedures.
• Establish indications for, perform and interpret additional and more advanced diagnostic procedures.
• Establish indications for and apply the results of imaging procedures.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Be able to manage, perform therapeutic measures, and provide ongoing care for both basic and complicated medical problems in equine patients.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Complete a literature study that is up-to-date, appropriate, and relevant to the research topic.
• Publication of research undertaken in a peer reviewed scientific journal.
• Presentation of research findings at a scientific congress.
• Complete a written dissertation that is acceptable to peer review and internal assessors.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Pass appropriate ancillary subjects under the supervision of internal and external assessors.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge in Equine Medicine by passing written and oral examinations under the supervision of internal and external assessors.
• Critically evaluate literature in light of current understanding.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Take full responsibility in the diagnosis and management of equine medicine cases within accepted professional norms.
• Communicate and co-operate with fellow staff members and professionals with regards to welfare of patients.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Demonstrate the ability to keep abreast with new diagnoses, techniques and therapeutic modalities reported in the relevant, appropriate and current literature.
• Publish regularly in peer-reviewed journals new diagnoses, techniques and therapeutic modalities in Equine Medicine.

Integrated Assessment

Portfolios.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.

Other

- Portfolio

> A dissertation acceptable to peer review.

> Two journal articles accepted to peer reviewed scientific journals.

> Maintenance of case, activity, presentation, and procedures logs.

Formative assessment

Continual assessment and monitoring of the learner during clinical work and studies while under the supervision of a registered specialist veterinary physician. Feedback is given to the learner on a continual basis.

Summative assessment

• Portfolio work has been completed and assessed by assessors and moderators.
• Written and oral examinations at the end of the study period. These examinations are set to cover theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and acquired experience.