Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology
Health Sciences and Social Services - Promotive Health and Developmental Services
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology is designed to incorporate the latest advancements in science and technology across major modules, including research methods, medical laboratory management skills, and genetics studies. Upon completion of this qualification, learners will be equipped to effectively coordinate operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields, adhering to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) principles with a focus on quality, ethics, and safety. Graduates will demonstrate proficiency in applying business and management skills, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities, and honing marketing and training abilities within the Biomedical Sciences sector. Moreover, the program will cover essential theoretical knowledge of genetics, which is not covered in the Diploma in Biomedical Technology but is critical for contemporary scientific developments. Learners will also deepen their understanding of integrating laboratory test results with pathophysiological conditions and gain theoretical insights into research methods necessary for conducting advanced research projects.
Aligned with the National Health Act (No. 61 of 2003) and the White Paper on the National Health Insurance for South Africa, this qualification abides by standards for quality control in pathology services to ensure patient safety and emphasizes the importance of increased accessibility to laboratory services. Graduates completing the Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology will be well-prepared to meet the demands of the industry and community, equipped to make significant contributions to healthcare and related fields.
Rationale:
Medical Laboratory Scientists are specialized healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in delivering essential health information for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of diseases. With a shortage of suitably qualified and highly skilled professionals in South Africa, there is a growing demand for qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists who possess in-depth scientific knowledge, strong analytical skills, and empathy toward patients. The Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology at NQF Level 7 has been carefully formulated to address this need by developing competencies vital to this role.
This unique qualification within the technological institution setting focuses on niche areas in Biomedical Technology, incorporating cutting-edge scientific and technological advancements, research methodologies, medical laboratory management skills, and genetics studies. Comparative analysis with national and international higher education institutions demonstrates the qualification's alignment with international standards. Collaboration with advisory committees, boards, and industry stakeholders ensures that the program meets the evolving needs of the Biomedical Technology field.
In summary, the Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology aims to produce well-rounded graduates equipped to excel in clinical diagnostic laboratories, uphold GLP principles, demonstrate sound business acumen, and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector and community at large.
Outcomes
- Identify and analyse the problem, then execute critical problem-solving skills as encouraged in medical laboratory management and all the laboratory based electives.
- Apply principles learnt in genetics, research methodology, laboratory management and all the electives in order to systematically diagnose, interpret and solve well defined medical laboratory problems.
- Perform procedural design of biomedical components, systems, works, products or processes to meet desired needs normally within applicable standards, codes of practice and legislation.
- Define and conduct investigations and experiments of broadly defined problems within human genetics, laboratory management and specific fields of specialisation.
- Apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern medical laboratory diagnostic tools including management to bring about solution of well-defined medical laboratory problems.
- Communicate medical laboratory related information effectively, both orally and in writing within the Biomedical (Medical laboratory) context and the health fraternity in general.
- Demonstrate integrated knowledge, understanding and application of acquired principles as a member or a leader in a diverse team.
- Engage in independent and life-long learning through well-developed learning skills.
- Comprehend and apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics, responsibilities and norms of practice within own limits of competence.
Assessment Criteria
Integrated Assessment Overview:
The following assessment will evaluate the Exit Level Outcomes in an integrated manner:
-
Manage a medical laboratory: By integrating advanced knowledge and specific skills to identify, analyze, plan, and implement creative solutions.
-
Utilize integrated knowledge: Principles and practice to systematically diagnose, interpret, and solve well-defined medical laboratory problems through appropriate application.
-
Execute procedural design: According to standards, codes of practice, and legislation relevant to biomedical components, systems, works, products, or processes.
-
Engage with broadly defined problems: Within specific fields of specialization (e.g., human genetics, laboratory management) through advanced level investigation and experimentation.
-
Effectively communicate information: Both verbally and in writing within the Biomedical laboratory and health network context.
-
Incorporate leadership and managerial skills: To function within or lead a diverse team.
-
Utilize learning skills: To engage in independent and life-long learning.
-
Demonstrate understanding and capability: To apply professional ethics, responsibilities, and norms of practice within the health network.
Integrated Assessment Methods:
-
Formative Assessments:
- Informal: Discussions, quizzes, feedback sessions, peer assessments.
- Formal: Class tests, class presentations, assignments.
-
Summative Assessments:
- Semester tests (three per semester, 100 marks each).
- Final examination at the end of the semester (three hours, 180 marks).
Assessment Policy:
- Assessment of modules in the Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology will align with the institution's assessment policy.
- Learning guides will outline module outcomes and assessment criteria for passing.
- Lecturers will use summative and formative assessment strategies to enhance learners' competence.
- Emphasis will be on the application of knowledge at this level.
Assessment Methods Quality:
- A range of assessment methods will be utilized to ensure educational soundness.
- All assessments will be at the appropriate NQF Level 7.
- Criteria of validity, reliability, authenticity, and feasibility will be met to ensure assessment effectiveness.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Advanced Diploma
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
Education Cost Calculator
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.