Master of Veterinary Medicine in Poultry Diseases

The first purpose of this qualification is to gain knowledge and experience in the field of Poultry Health and Production to a level of competence that leads to registration as a specialist in the field with the South African Veterinary Council. As a specialist in Poultry Health and Production, the incumbent should be able to develop an overall Health Plan to assist production units to optimise their production potential. In developing the Health Plan, the incumbent should be able to evaluate all poultry production systems, perform a health risk analysis, develop specific health monitoring and corrective strategies.

The second purpose is to provide the skills, knowledge, resources and practical experience to teach Poultry Health and Production to undergraduate learners and Postgraduate Honours and Master's learners. An attitude of lifelong learning will be fostered, ensuring continued self-development in the discipline.

The third purpose of this qualification is to provide an understanding of research methodology and gain practical research experience through the completion of a dissertation. The knowledge thus gained will contribute to the advancement of the scientific knowledge in the field and assist with advising on the suitability of protocol topics in the field.

The fourth purpose of this qualification is to provide a basis with which to contemplate further Doctoral studies in the discipline or any other related discipline.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science Honours, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Bachelor of Veterinary Science, NQF Level 8.

1. Obtain in-depth scientific knowledge and practical expertise in the field of Poultry Health and Production.

2 Apply Poultry Health and Production expertise to assist commercial poultry producers in optimising Flock Health and Production

1. Apply Poultry Health and Production expertise to assist Developing and resource-poor producers.
2. Diagnose, treat and develop preventative, control and eradication strategies for all economically important diseases affecting Poultry.
3. Add scientific knowledge to the field of Poultry Health and Production and demonstrate the ability to initiate, undertake and complete research.

One

1. Pass appropriate ancillary subjects.
2. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge in Poultry Health and Production by passing written practical and oral examinations under the supervision of internal and external assessors.
3. Critically evaluate literature in light of current understanding.

Two

1. Evaluate Poultry Production systems.
2. Develop a Production Improvement Plan.
3. Implement the Production Improvement Plan.

Three

1. Evaluate Poultry Production systems.
2. Develop a Production Improvement Plan.
3. Implement the Production Improvement Plan.

Four

1. Demonstrate in-depth knowledge regarding the combative agent, epidemiology, symptoms, pathology, diagnostic technique and control programs.
2. Demonstrate practical skills in performing post mortem examinations.
3. Demonstrate sufficient knowledge regarding Laboratory procedures employed in Poultry Health.

Five

1. A written dissertation that is acceptable to peer review and internal assessors.
2. Publication of research undertaken in a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

Integrated Assessment

Portfolios.

Simulations.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.

Other

Practical and clinical assessment.

Computer-assisted assessment.

Portfolio.

A dissertation acceptable to peer review.

Journal article/s accepted to a peer-reviewed scientific journal.

Seminars based on current research, literature or relevant topics.

Formative Assessment

Continual assessment and monitoring of the learner during studies while under the supervision of a registered specialist in the field and other senior personnel. Feedback is provided on an on-going basis during contact time.

Summative Assessment

Portfolio work that has been completed and assessed by assessors and moderators

Written, oral and practical assessment at the end of the study period and covering theoretical knowledge, practical skills and acquired experience.