Master of Veterinary Medicine in Ophthalmology

To provide such broad-based theoretical and experiential training in veterinary ophthalmology and related subjects to allow the learner to practice at a nationally and internationally high standard and provide a specialist service in all aspects of veterinary ophthalmology.

To meet all the requirements for competence as to permit registration as a specialist veterinary ophthalmologist with the South African Veterinary Council, the proposed South African Veterinary Specialist College and to qualify for admission to internationally recognised specialist organisations.

To foster an attitude of ongoing excellence and life-long learning in the learner, especially in the field of veterinary ophthalmology.

To provide the learner with a broad-based platform of skills and knowledge from which doctoral studies, research and publications of an internationally accepted standard can be undertaken.

To equip the learner with the knowledge and skills to provide a high standard of training to others in the field of veterinary ophthalmology, either in tertiary education facilities, or to the public sector by way of continuing education qualifications.

To provide skills and knowledge to allow the learner to enter related fields and positions in the job market.

To add to the currently insufficient body of veterinary ophthalmology specialists so as to meet the growing need for this service in South Africa.

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. Acquire an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of pathophysiology, signalmen, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmological conditions in companion animals, production animals and exotic animals.
2. Acquire a broad base of knowledge and skills in the related disciplines of ocular physiology, ocular pathology, geometric optics and anatomy of the head.
3. Acquire extensive and detailed clinical examination skills permitting the clinical examination of the eye and its adnexa using all the relevant diagnostic equipment.
4. Acquire extensive and detailed surgical skills permitting the planning and successful completion of a wide range of ophthalmological procedures and aftercare at a specialist level.
5. Add to the scientific knowledge in veterinary ophthalmology and to demonstrate an ability to initiate, undertake and complete research.
6. Develop teaching skills as well as the skills to transmit scientific theory and practice.
7. Act professionally and ethically and develop communication skills.
8. Demonstrate continued interest in new developments and research in the discipline of veterinary ophthalmology.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Study of relevant, current ophthalmological texts and journals.
• Conduct literature studies for recent relevant information.
• Present and attend seminars, lectures, tutorials and courses on the subject.
• Demonstrate in depth knowledge in veterinary ophthalmology by passing written and oral tests and examinations supervised by appropriately qualified internal and external examiners.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Study of relevant, up-to-date surgical texts and articles.
• Conduct literature studies for recent relevant information.
• Present and attend seminars, lectures, tutorials and courses on the subject.
• Successfully pass the written, oral and practical tests and examinations of the mentioned ancillary subject under the supervision of qualified internal and external examiners.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Participate in the clinical examination of companion animals, production animals and exotic animals.
• Successfully pass practical and written examinations supervised by appropriately qualified internal and external examiners.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Participate as assistant and primary surgeon in a wide range of surgical procedures of ophthalmological nature.
• Maintain verified case logbook.
• Participate in planning session and post-operative critical evaluation sessions on surgical cases of ophthalmological nature.
• Successfully pass surgical competence tests and examinations under supervision of appropriately qualified internal and external examiners.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Attend and pass relevant courses in research methodology.
• Study relevant treatise on research ethics.
• Research and prepare detailed research protocols under supervision.
• Defend protocols at open scientific meetings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Direct and regular interaction with advanced undergraduate learners to teach clinical skills.
• Involvement in formal lecturing of undergraduate learners in the discipline of veterinary ophthalmology.
• Regular attendance at and contribution to scientific congresses, seminars and continuing education courses.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Take responsibility and treat clinical cases within accepted professional norms.
• Communicate and co-operate with fellow staff members with regards to the welfare of the patient.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Demonstrate the ability to debate and perform techniques reported in the relevant, appropriate and current literature.

Integrated Assessment

Portfolios.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.

Other

Portfolio

• A dissertation acceptable to peer review.
• Two journal articles accepted to a peer reviewed scientific journal.
• Three additional articles submitted for publication.
• Seminars based on current research, literature or relevant topics.

Formative assessment

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

Summative assessment

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