Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Physics

Purpose

The qualification is inter-disciplinary in nature and serve to strengthen and deepen the leaner's knowledge in Medical Physics. It enables working professionals to undertake advanced reflection and development by means of a systematic survey of current thinking and practice in Medical Physics.

This qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, as well as the ability to relate knowledge to a range of contexts in order to undertake professional or highly skilled work. A sustained research project is not included.

The qualification develops a practical basis for the professional practical and technical training required for registration as a Medical Physicist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). In addition, it develops and assesses an adequate level of practical and educational knowledge, skills, principles and methods in line with international norms for the profession.

Rationale

Medical Physics is concerned with the application and development of the principles and techniques of physics to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of human disease. The diverse range of work carried out within this field, and the evolution of identifiable sub-disciplines within it, require that there is a formal approach to the training of new entrants to the profession. This ensures a proper vocational foundation to their careers. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, as well as the ability to relate knowledge to a range of contexts in order to undertake professional or highly skilled work and provide an opportunity for the training obtained during Internship which is required for registration with the HPCSA as a Medical Physicist.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. RPL will be applied according to the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and Assessment policy. This will relate to both access to the qualification as well as for credit recognition or exemption towards achieving the qualification.

The institution will ensure that quality assurance processes that address the specificities of the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems) are implemented; and that administrative and support systems, both prior and subsequent to RPL assessment, are in place.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Medical Science in Medical Physics, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 7.

This qualification consists of the following compulsory elective modules at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8 totalling 256 Credits:

• Medical. Physics: Diagnostic Radiology, 64 Credits.
• Medical Physics: Nuclear Medicine, 64 Credits.
• Medical Physics: Radiotherapy Planning, 64 Credits.
• Medical Physics: Radiotherapy, 64 Credits.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of relevant medical sciences.
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of and evaluate research methods.
3. Apply knowledge and understanding of the range of medical problems confronting medical scientists and the solutions developed for their recognition and investigation.
4. Apply the skills required to do diagnostic testing and research under supervision.
5. Analyse, interpret and evaluate medical science information in a specific area.

• Describe the role of Medical Physics in the patient pathway.
• Describe and explain the principles of Radiation Protection.
• Describe and explain appropriate national and international legislation and policies.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the factors affecting the design of radiation facilities.
• Describe and explain the principles of image formation, acquisition and manipulation including image registration, image storage and sharing.
• Describe and explain the principles of operation.
• Describe and explain the role of each modality in the patient pathway including the main clinical applications.
• Describe and explain the quality assurance framework for each modality.
• Critically evaluate the risks and benefits of each modality.

Integrated Assessment

It complies with the institutional teaching and learning model. Learners will demonstrate their knowledge and skills through: Feedback, assignments and group projects; Theoretical skills, practical and oral tests and examinations according to standards set by the University and the Professional Board. Competence is achieved, through continuous assessment by demonstrating the ability to achieve the outcomes of the Qualification Module course mark, assignments, oral and group work and examinations.