Stellenbosch University

Bachelor of Science Honours in Anatomy

Health Sciences and Social Services - Promotive Health and Developmental Services

Purpose and Rationale

Qualification:

Bachelor of Science Honours: Human Anatomy (BSc Hons: Human Anatomy)

Purpose:

This qualification aims to provide graduates with specialized knowledge and skills in human anatomy, enabling them to work in various areas such as clinical investigation, research, surgery, orthotics and prosthetics design, forensics, and anthropology. The field of human anatomy offers diverse research opportunities, including physical anthropology, anatomical variation, comparative anatomy, surgical anatomy, and radiological anatomy. Successful completion of this program opens doors to further research and specialization in medical and allied sciences.

Rationale:

The advancement of technology has increased the demand for well-trained scientists in academia, public sector, private sector, and industry. The BSc Hons: Human Anatomy program prepares graduates for further studies in medical sciences. There is a growing interest among students to pursue Human Anatomy at a postgraduate level, leading to the development of this qualification. Globally, there is a shortage of qualified Anatomists, making this program highly relevant. The University of Stellenbosch has established partnerships with international surgical equipment manufacturers to provide cadaver workshops for specialists in various medical fields, highlighting the importance of strong anatomical knowledge for practicing surgeons. This qualification caters to a wide range of graduates interested in anatomical sciences and its applications in research within health and allied sciences.

Outcomes

  1. Explain the theoretical aspects of the core and relevant elective subject matter.
  2. Apply the relevant theoretical and practical skills in completing a chosen research project. Range of possible research areas: Applied Anatomy### Immuno-histochemistry### Morphometry, Laser Microdissection and Microphotography### Flow Cytometry, Physical Anthropology.
  3. Critically evaluate and utilise a wide range of information to solve problems effectively using appropriate methods that are relevant to the morphological health sciences and communicate knowledge and findings to other people.
  4. Apply technical skills and scientific methods using relevant instruments and equipment to conduct sound research that conforms to the legal, safety and bioethical requirements pertinent to good laboratory practice in the health sciences.
  5. Produce a research project in a scientific format within the context of the morphological health sciences, with results and conclusions that are presented to a group. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes: Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are integrated into the various teaching and learning components of the modules and will ensure that graduates are able to: Identify complex problems and solve problems through critical and innovative thinking, responsible and independent decision-making and application of basic and advanced scientific methods. Apply basic and advanced scientific methods and technology efficiently and responsibly. Efficiently manage the collection, organisation, analysis, evaluation, integration and application of information from various sources. Organise and manage self competently and efficiently to ensure independence. Develop self with emphasis on insight, responsibility, accountability, continued learning, self-criticism, acceptance of criticism from others and the ability to work independently. Be able to work as part of a team and to add value to the larger group through constructive collaboration, cooperation and self-initiated new actions. Communicate effectively through presentation of information and data by means of oral, audiovisual and written skills and by demonstrating appropriate linguistic and computer proficiency. Demonstrate a holistic approach to problem solving within the context of respect and sensitivity for other people, the community, and the environment. Show understanding of the importance and the potential applications of health sciences in general and anatomical and histological sciences in particular to the community through the communication of knowledge and results and the transfer of relevant technology. Apply or utilise the opportunities, challenges, requirements and ethical principles that apply to research and good practice in the health science professions.

Assessment Criteria

Associated Assessment Criteria:

  1. Knowledge and insight regarding the theoretical and practical aspects of relevant subject matter is shown in written texts and essays.
  2. Dissection demonstrating a lack of bilateral symmetry in a selected region of the human body is successfully completed.
  3. Presentations on the legal and ethical aspects of the use of human material are made during the weekly journal club meetings.
  4. Portfolio compilation and oral presentation on a practical assignment involving harvesting of human tissue, fixation, processing, cutting on a microtome, mounting on a slide, differentially staining of the tissue, and morphometric assessment.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Monthly individual discussions between lecturer and learner on:
    • Learning objectives for the period under review.
    • Planned activities, including the research project.
    • Major learning outcomes.
    • Learner's self-assessment of the learning experience.
    • Assessment of the learning experience by the Head of Department or Discipline.
    • Learner's learning plan for the next month.
    • Matters to carry forward and new activities planned.
  • Progress reports generated from these discussions.
  • Completion and submission of a research report related to the research project.
  • Final written and practical moderation and assessment overseen by an external examiner approved by the Senate of the institution.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
120
SAQA Source
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Stellenbosch University
Description
Stellenbosch University is a public research university located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. It is one of the oldest universities in the country, established in 1918. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and social sciences, science, engineering, health sciences, and business. Stellenbosch University is known for its high academic standards and research output, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability. It is also recognized for its multicultural and inclusive campus environment, attracting students from diverse backgrounds both locally and internationally.

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