Master of Veterinary Medicine in Reproduction

Gain knowledge and skills in veterinary reproduction that lead to registration as a specialist veterinarian in animal reproduction with the SA Veterinary Council. Such specialist will be able to render top class clinical services and care to animals suffering from reproductive failure or requiring assistance in order to reproduce at an optimal rate.

The Degree also provides the basis for a career in teaching veterinary and paraveterinary learners (at Pre-and Postgraduate level) in the field of animal reproduction.

The Degree also provides fundamental training in research methodology through the completion of a dissertation. The specialist will be equipped with sufficient knowledge of the principles involved in research in reproductive biology and disease to conduct such research independently and to intelligently read and interpret the reports on similar research conducted by others.

The Degree provides a basis for further studies leading to a Doctoral qualification.

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. Competently assess the reproductive status and health of domestic animals.
2. Apply facilitative breeding techniques.
3. Assist animals that have difficulty in giving birth.
4. Devise programmes designed to maintain reproductive health and efficiency in breeding herds.
5. Conduct research in the field of animal reproduction.
6. Develop an attitude of and skills for continuous learning.
7. Render a professional referral service.
8. Educate animal breeders.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Perform breeding soundness examinations (B S Es) on male and female animals.
• Interpret the findings of such B S Es in order to declare the animal healthy for breeding purposes or, alternatively, diagnose the cause of reproductive disease.
• Formulate a breeding prognosis and/or a plan on how to restore reproductive function in- or sub fertile animals.
• Evaluate the quality of fresh and preserved semen.
• Assist breeders in the selection of breeding animals that are of superior fertility.
• Write a professional report or veterinary certificate of breeding soundness/unsoundness.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Be able to rationally select and competently apply facilitative breeding techniques such as semen preservation, artificial insemination, embryo transfer.
• Select and apply methods of controlling the oestrous cycle of animals in order to better mange their reproductive activities.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Apply rationally selected obstetric techniques to correct the cause of any dystocia or select and apply alternative techniques of delivering the unborn offspring.
• Resuscitate neonates that have been compromised during the birth process in order to optimise their chances of survival.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Demonstrate thorough knowledge and draw up appropriate plans for the prevention of reproductive diseases in breeding populations of animals.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Design research projects by writing comprehensive research protocols.
• Execute research by following the instructions as detailed in protocols.
• Evaluate research findings using appropriate scientific methods.
• Write a dissertation.
• Write research papers for publication in peer reviewed, scientific journals.
• Prepare research results for oral and/or poster presentation to peer audiences, breeders and farmers.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6

• Collect information from available library resources by manual and electronic means.
• Compile literature reviews.
• Communicate scientifically with peers by attending relevant meetings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7

• Accept, examine and treat animals referred by other veterinarians for reproductive problems.
• Communicate (orally and in writing) with referring colleagues in a professional manner.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8

• Disseminate current knowledge and the application thereof to breeders of animals in order to optimise breeding and reproduction of animals.
• Train animal breeders to successfully apply relevant, modern breeding and management techniques aimed at optimising reproduction in their animals.

Integrated assessment

Portfolios.

Simulations.

Work-place assessments.

Written examinations.

Oral examinations.