University of the Free State

Bachelor of Medical Science

Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health

Purpose and Rationale

To work as a professional scientist in the field of medical science, a strong foundation in educational knowledge, skills, principles, and methods is essential. As a scientist in this area, one must possess:

  1. Advanced Education: A degree in a relevant field such as biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, or a related discipline is typically required. Continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in the field is crucial for professional growth.

  2. Laboratory Skills: Proficiency in laboratory techniques such as cell culture, molecular biology, microscopy, and data analysis is necessary for conducting experiments and analyzing results in a medical science setting.

  3. Research Methods: Knowledge of research design, implementation, and data interpretation is essential for conducting valid scientific experiments and contributing new knowledge to the field.

  4. Critical Thinking: The ability to analyze data critically, problem-solve, and think creatively is vital for troubleshooting experiments, formulating hypotheses, and drawing meaningful conclusions.

  5. Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills are necessary for presenting research findings, writing scientific papers, collaborating with colleagues, and effectively communicating complex scientific concepts to non-scientific audiences.

  6. Ethical Principles: Understanding and adhering to ethical guidelines in research involving human subjects, animals, and data is essential for maintaining the integrity of scientific work in medical science.

  7. Collaboration: Working effectively in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with other scientists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals is important for advancing research and translating scientific discoveries into clinical applications.

  8. Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify research gaps, formulate research questions, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems is crucial for making meaningful contributions to the field of medical science.

By applying their knowledge, skills, principles, and methods to work as a professional scientist in medical science, individuals can pursue fulfilling career opportunities, contribute to advancements in healthcare, and make valuable contributions to society. Continued personal growth, gainful economic activity, and rewarding societal contributions are key outcomes of utilizing educational expertise in this specialized field.

Outcomes

  1. The demonstrated ability/skill to achieve the major Skills/Applied Competency of the qualification. Foundational Competency:
  2. The demonstrated understanding, by the Learner, of the embedded knowledge that underpins the end result/outcome. Reflective Competency:
  3. The demonstrated ability/skill to integrate or connect our performances and to reflect on, evaluate and adopt the above competencies. THE LEARNER WILL BE CAPABLE OF: Knowledge and understanding of basic medical sciences### Knowledge and understanding of research methods and the ability to evaluate### Knowledge and understanding of the range of medical problems confronting medical scientists and the solutions developed for their recognition and investigation### The skills required to do diagnostic testing and research under supervision### The skill to analyse, interpret and evaluate medical science information in the specific area. THE LEARNER WILL BE ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE: Knowledge and understanding of basic medical sciences### Knowledge and understanding of research methods and the ability to evaluate### Knowledge and understanding of the range of medical problems confronting medical scientists and the solutions developed for their recognition and investigation### The skills required to do diagnostic testing and research under supervision### The skill to analyse, interpret and evaluate medical science information in the specific area.

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Methods:

  • Feedback: Providing feedback to learners on their performance, progress, and areas for improvement.
  • Assignments: Assigning tasks and projects for learners to complete independently.
  • Group Projects: Collaborating with peers on projects to demonstrate teamwork and communication skills.
  • Theoretical Skills: Assessing knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts through tests and examinations.
  • Practical Tests: Evaluating practical skills through hands-on assessments.
  • Oral Tests: Assessing verbal communication skills through oral examinations.
  • Examinations: Testing overall knowledge and understanding according to university and professional board standards.

Integrated Assessment:

  • Continuous Assessment: Assessing competence through ongoing evaluation of outcomes achieved.
  • Module Course Mark: Assigning marks based on performance in specific course modules.
  • Workplace Assessment: Evaluating practical skills in a real-world work environment.
  • Student Teaching: Assessing teaching abilities through practical teaching experiences.
  • Assignments: Completing tasks to demonstrate understanding and application of knowledge.
  • Oral and Group Work: Evaluating communication and teamwork skills through oral presentations and group projects.
  • Formal and Informal Evaluations: Assessing progress through formal evaluations and informal feedback.

Moderation and Verification:

  • Moderation of Documents: Ensuring assessment documents align with qualification requirements.
  • Critical Outcome Assessment: Assessing learners based on critical outcomes achieved during activities.
  • Embedded Knowledge Confirmation: Verifying the integration of foundational knowledge into competency achievement.
  • Internal Verifiers: Checking assessment results for validity, credibility, and fairness.

Final Assessment:

  • Module Credit System: Assigning credits for completed modules.
  • Final Exam: Conducting exams for modules where credit was not obtained to ensure comprehensive understanding and knowledge application.

Qualification Details

Type
National First Degree
NQF Level
07
Min. Credits
360
SAQA Source
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University of the Free State
Description
The University of the Free State (UFS) is a public research university located in Bloemfontein, South Africa. It was established in 1904 and is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the country. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, natural and agricultural sciences, law, health sciences, education, and economic and management sciences. UFS is known for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and it strives to provide quality education and promote social justice. The university has a strong research focus and collaborates with national and international partners to address societal challenges and contribute to knowledge creation. UFS also has a vibrant campus life with numerous student organizations, sports facilities, and cultural activities.

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.