Postgraduate Diploma in Veterinary Community Health

The first purpose of this qualification is to gain knowledge and experience in the field of Veterinary Community Health to a level of competence above that of the first Degree (Bachelor of Veterinary Science). Whilst not leading to registration as a specialist in the field, the incumbent should be able to develop practical qualifications to advise on food safety, occupational hazards and the establishment of diagnostic, surveillance, information and risk assessment systems to control zoonoses.

The second purpose is to provide additional knowledge and practical experience to teach Veterinary Public Health to underqualified learners and veterinary nurses. An attitude of lifelong learning will be fostered, ensuring continued self-development in the discipline.

The third purpose of this diploma is to provide a basis with which to contemplate further Postgraduate studies in the discipline or any other related discipline.

The institution conducts RPL in terms of the policy and guidelines of the institution to recognise other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. In cases where learners do not comply with the formal admission requirements, the institution applies its RPL policy.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing, NQF Level 7.

Or

• Cognate Bachelor's Degree, NQF Level 7.

Or

• Cognate Advanced Diploma, NQF Level 7.

1. Implement Veterinary Public Health activities in food security and safety.
2. Implement Veterinary Public Health activities in community environmental health.
3. Implement a programme for Disaster preparedness and relief operations.

• Understand systems to control the handling of food of animal origin throughout the entire food chain.
• Understand systems to control the handling of food of animal origin in new food industries.
• Understand systems to control animal by products processing.
• Understand qualifications to control zoonoses of environmental origin.
• Evaluate environmental pollution.
• Evaluate the preservation of the urban and rural environment.
• Participate in education qualifications for the safe collection and disposal of animal wastes.
• Participate in education qualifications in zoo-hygiene and the protection of drinking water sources.
• Explain preventive measures in disease outbreaks and natural and man-made disasters.

Integrated assessment

• Portfolios.
• Work-place assessments.
• Written examinations.
• Oral examinations.

Other

• Portfolios.
• Seminars based on current research, literature or relevant topics.

Formative assessment

• Continual assessment and monitoring of the learner during studies whilst under the supervision of a registered specialist in the field and other senior personnel.

Summative assessment

• Portfolio work that has been completed and assessed by assessors and moderators.
• Written, oral and practical assessment occurs at predetermined intervals and at the end of the study period and covering theoretical knowledge, practical skills and acquired experience.