Master of Veterinary Medicine in Surgery

The first purpose of this qualification is to gain a level of knowledge and experience to provide an exceptional standard of surgical care and service in the field of Veterinary Surgery and related subjects.

To meet all the requirements for competence as to permit registration as a specialist veterinary surgeon with the South African Veterinary Council as well as to qualify for admission to internationally recognised specialist organisations.

To foster an attitude of ongoing excellence and lifelong learning in the graduate, especially in the field of Veterinary surgery.

To provide the skills, knowledge and practical experience to teach the art and science of Veterinary surgery to pre-graduate veterinary students and nurses and Postgraduate Honours and masters students. An attitude of lifelong learning will be fostered, ensuring continued self-development in the discipline. Dissemination of knowledge to the public sector by way of continuing education programmes.

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

To provide an understanding of research methodology and practical research experience through the completion of a dissertation and peer-reviewed articles. With this knowledge, a contribution to the advancement of scientific knowledge can be made through active research pertaining to Veterinary surgery and the support of research projects by the provision of Veterinary surgical service and advice on the suitability of Veterinary surgery research protocols.

To provide a basis with which to contemplate further studies, i.e. Doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), in the field of equine Veterinary surgery or any other related discipline.

To add to the body of Veterinary surgery specialists to meet the need for this service in South Africa.

To aid in ensuring the welfare of animals.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Access may be gained to the qualification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Entry Requirements

Bachelor of veterinary Science (Honours), Level 8.

Registration with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) to practice as a Veterinarian is a minimum requirement as this degree leads to specialist registration with the SAVC. Any Degree, which the SAVC recognises to practice veterinary science, will be considered as minimum entry requirement.

1. Acquire an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of pathophysiology, signalment, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of surgical conditions in animals.
2. Acquire a broad base of knowledge and skills in the related disciplines of veterinary medicine, diagnostic imaging and anatomy.
3. Acquire extensive and detailed surgical skills permitting the planning and successful completion of a wide range of surgical procedures and aftercare at a specialist level.
4. Develop the skills to critically evaluate relevant scientific articles as well as to write scientific research, review and case report articles for accredited, peer reviewed journals.
5. Add to world scientific knowledge in veterinary surgery through publication and through the ability to plan and conduct 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 surgery.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• 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.
• Demonstrate in depth knowledge in veterinary surgery 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 subjects under the supervision of qualified internal and external examiners.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

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

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Attend and participate in journal clubs.
• Submit manuscripts for critical evaluation by experienced faculty authors.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Attend and pass relevant courses in research methodology.
• Study relevant treatise or 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 students to teach clinic skills.
• Involvement in formal lecturing of undergraduate students in the discipline of veterinary 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.
• At least one research journal article accepted to a peer reviewed scientific journal.
• At least one case report article accepted to a peer reviewed scientific journal.
• Studies.

Formative Assessment

Continual assessment and monitoring of the candidate during clinical work and studies while under the supervision of a registered specialist equine surgeon and senior clinical personnel. Feedback is given to the candidate 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.