Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours in Physiology
Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose:
The primary purpose of the Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours in Physiology is to prepare learners for research-based postgraduate study. It serves to deepen learners' expertise in the field of physiology and to develop research capacity in the methodology and techniques of the field of physiology. The qualification demands a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence. Qualifying learners prepare for specific occupational possibilities by obtaining physiological health-oriented knowledge and skills, as well as research abilities to examine and solve certain health problems of cardiovascular nature in the South African population. This qualification prepares learners for research-based Postgraduate studies at Level 9.
Rationale:
The qualification is a niche area in the current developing world of cardiovascular health and disease, in which there is a need for relevant research in this area. The demand for this qualification from learners is evident from the many enquiries received from learners and employers, locally and nationally. The qualification broadens the scope and capacity of current Health Sciences offerings to meet the needs and deficits in the field and also strengthen the intellectual and operational capacities of learners in this field of expertise. The qualification is designed to deepen the subject matter competence developed by the learner at the undergraduate level and to develop the learner's research competence and capacity to work independently as a researcher in the field of Physiology. Learners with such competence are in short supply nationally.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate in-depth interrelated knowledge of the field of Physiology and the ability to analyse research theories, methodologies, and techniques or practice applied to Physiological processes.
- Critically review information gathering, evaluation and management processes in the Physiological context to develop creative responses to health problems and issues.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and uncertainties of selecting, applying or transferring appropriate standard procedures, processes or techniques to identify Physiological problems in humans.
- Identify and address, on an individual as well as group level, ethical issues based on critical reflection on the suitability of different ethical value systems or treatment methods within the field of Physiology.
- Practice the attitudes necessary for the achievement of high standards of ethical behaviour, both concerning conduct and commitment in the workplace and own personal development.
- Demonstrate rigorous interpretations and creative insights through effective communication to lay as well as scholarly audiences employing academic, professional and occupational ideas and solutions for Physiological problems.
- Apply learning strategies in a self-critical manner to effectively assess his or her and others, ongoing professional and learning needs.
Assessment Criteria
Exit Level Outcomes Assessment Criteria:
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Knowledge and Understanding:
- Interrogate mechanisms and integrated control of cardiovascular systems.
- Analyse cardiovascular system functioning in normal and diseased states.
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Cellular Elements:
- Analyse cellular and sub-cellular elements in cardiovascular physiology.
- Evaluate their roles in physiological and pathophysiological responses.
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Pathological Conditions:
- Integrate pathological conditions and environmental influences.
- Evaluate ageing and its influence on the cardiovascular system.
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Arterial Rigidity:
- Evaluate physiological, environmental, and disease factors on arterial rigidity.
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Heart Failure and Neurohumoral Responses:
- Present components of heart failure and neurohumoral responses in contact sessions.
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Ischaemic Events:
- Analyse ischaemic events critically in discussions.
- Identify ischaemic events from an ECG.
Integrated Assessment:
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Formative Assessment:
- Projects, assignments, case studies, tests.
- Portfolios, practical evaluations, research proposal in some modules.
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Summative Assessment:
- Integrated exam (written and practical).
- Research report on discrete research.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Honours Degree
- NQF Level
- 08
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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