Durban University of Technology

Advanced diploma in Somatology

Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification Title: Advanced Diploma in Somatic Therapy

Purpose:

This qualification aims to equip qualified Somatologists with specialized competencies in Somatic therapy modalities, leadership, and business skills. Graduates will be able to function as multi-skilled, adaptable, and socially responsible Somatologists and managers in the field both locally and internationally. They will have the knowledge and skills to work under supervision or alongside dermatologists and general practitioners in Aesthetic Medicine, providing pre and post-specialized facial and body treatments ethically within their scope of practice. Additionally, they will be trained to apply complementary modalities and new less invasive therapies, techniques, and technologies, offering auxiliary support to other healthcare professionals to relieve pressure on the national healthcare system. The qualification also encourages critical reflection and the ability to determine and perform the most suitable specialized treatment for clients in various contexts, from terminally ill patients to professional athletes. It prepares learners for entry into postgraduate qualifications.

Rationale:

  • The qualification is designed to specialize in the discipline of Somatology and promote entrepreneurship and management opportunities within the field.
  • With a focus on professionalism and specialization, it aims to enhance professional relationships with other healthcare professionals, contribute to primary healthcare and wellness needs, and establish Somatologists as integral members of the healthcare community.
  • The shift in the healthcare sector towards preventative approaches has created a demand for different therapies to complement each other for optimal client health.
  • There is a growing acknowledgment of the value of complementary, alternative, and adjunct therapies by traditional Western medicine.
  • The evolving field of Somatic therapies now emphasizes a multi-skilled health and wellness approach over a traditional aesthetic focus, with advancements in technologies and techniques.
  • The qualification incorporates specializations in complementary and palliative care, including deep tissue, lymphatic, and sports massage techniques, to provide support to healthcare professionals.
  • A focus on non-invasive medical aesthetic procedures will enable graduates to perform ethically and professionally in the field.
  • The specialization instills confidence in potential employers in the medical aesthetics industry, reducing the need for additional training of graduates.
  • The qualification emphasizes entrepreneurship to empower graduates to become self-employed and contribute to the economy.
  • Industry consultation has indicated a need for specialization in certain modalities, which this Advanced Diploma addresses.

Outcomes

  1. Critically and holistically evaluate the current state of the body in order to identify, recommend and perform the appropriate specialised remedial, rehabilitative, curative, preventative, palliative treatments safely and /or referrals according to ethical standards of the profession.
  2. Demonstrate and apply ethical entrepreneurial and comprehensive business management skills for the establishment and operation of a Somatology related setting or health care practice.
  3. Design and apply meaningful research protocols for the advancement and development of the Somatology/Wellness discipline.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

  • Discuss different body systems in terms of anatomy and physiology, related disorders, pathologies, and nutrition.
  • Use knowledge of the structure and function of the body systems to identify pathologies disorders and design appropriate treatments.
  • Apply scientific principles to critically assess the current state of the health of the client taking into account the individual's unique requirements and available facilities, whilst demonstrating responsibility to the practice and environment as a whole.
  • Manage, perform, and integrate non-invasive specialized treatments safely and ethically within a Somatologists scope of practice.
  • Articulate a complete understanding of case studies findings, demonstrating reflection on appropriateness, practicalities, and professionalism of application of specialized treatments.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

  • Discuss ethical, safety, and legal standards and ensure adherence to them.
  • Evaluate professional codes of conduct for statutory and non-statutory bodies relevant to the practice of Somatology.
  • Demonstrate responsible care of equipment and physical resources.
  • Investigate promotion and retail opportunities within communities.
  • Identify appropriate advertising opportunities using basic research principles within communities.
  • Conduct promotion of services and the retail of products.
  • Demonstrate management of human, financial, physical, and information resources.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

  • Demonstrate reflective learning and critical thinking skills for the evaluation and examination of research strategies and design.
  • Apply and present research methodology and protocols in a research proposal.
  • Formulate and develop a research project within the Somatology/Wellness discipline.
  • Discuss ethical practices and legal standards.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify and address ethical issues within research.
  • Demonstrate an ability to critically review information gathering, analysis, and interpretation of data.

Integrated Assessment:

As the qualification is discipline specialized in nature, the approach allows for a variety of both formative and summative assessments including but not limited to case studies, simulations, group work, theoretical tests, and reflective practices to be utilized to maximize learning experiences.

Qualification Details

Type
Advanced Diploma
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
More Information

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Durban University of Technology
Description
Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a public university located in Durban, South Africa. It was established in 2002 through the merger of Technikon Natal and ML Sultan Technikon. DUT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines including engineering, business, health sciences, arts and design, and applied sciences. The university is known for its focus on practical and career-oriented education, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen fields. DUT also has strong industry partnerships and collaborations, ensuring that its graduates are well-prepared for the job market.

This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.