Master of Veterinary Medicine in Pathology

The main purpose is to gain knowledge, experience and competence in diagnostic anatomical pathology in a wide variety of species, which would lead to registration as a specialist veterinary pathologist with the South African Veterinary Council. Thus, a specialist pathologist would be able to provide an accurate diagnostic service, which would in turn benefit a wide variety of both companion and production animals, with direct benefits to society.

This qualification will also aid in the understanding of research methodology. The completion of a dissertation, which forms an integral part of this qualification, will contribute to gaining of practical experience in this field. This background knowledge will make a considerable contribution to the advancement of scientific knowledge, which could then be applied in active research and as a support service to research projects in numerous fields.

This qualification would provide to the knowledge and background experience necessary to effectively teach pathology to undergraduate learners and to train learners in Postgraduate qualificationssuch as Honours and Masters in pathology.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science Honours, NQF Level 9.

Or

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science, NQF Level 9.

1. Accurately diagnose diseases in a wide variety of species.
2. Add scientific knowledge to the field of study and demonstrate an ability to initiate, undertake and complete research.
3. Obtain in-depth knowledge and insight in the field of Veterinary Pathology
4. Act professionally.
5. Demonstrate continued interest in new developments and research in veterinary pathology.

One

1. After assessment of signalment, abnormalities make a definitive diagnosis or compile an appropriate list of differential diagnoses.
2. Take the necessary samples, for additional laboratory investigations, to narrow the differential diagnoses down to a definitive diagnosis.

Two

1. A dissertation based on original research that is acceptable to peer review as well as external assessors.
2. Publication of the research undertaken in an acceptable scientific journal.

Three

1. Pass appropriate ancillary subjects, under the supervision of internal and external assessors.
2. Demonstrate knowledge in veterinary pathology by passing written and practical examinations under the supervision of internal and external assessors.

Four

1. Take responsibility and deal with cases within accepted professional norms.
2. Respect client veterinarian confidentiality.

Five

1. Demonstrate the ability to keep up to date with current developments.
2. Be able to apply and debate techniques reported in current and relevant literature.

Integrated Assessment

Portfolios.

Simulations.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.

Other

Portfolio

A dissertation acceptable to peer and external review.

Formative assessment

Continued and informal assessment and monitoring of the learner during practical work, while under the supervision of a specialist pathologist with continuous feedback.

Summative assessment

1. Dissertation that has been completed and assessed.
2. Written and practical examination which covers both theoretical knowledge, practical interpretation of lesions and acquired experience occur at pre-determined intervals and at the end of the period of study.