University of the Free State

Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Haematology

Health Sciences and Social Services - Curative Health

Purpose and Rationale

To conduct professional research in a haematology, molecular biology, or immunology laboratory, it is essential to apply educational knowledge, skills, principles, and methods gained through academic training. Here is how one can effectively apply these in a laboratory setting:

  1. Educational Knowledge: A solid educational foundation in subjects such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, and immunology is crucial. Understanding the theories and scientific principles behind haematology, molecular biology, and immunology is fundamental for conducting research in these areas.

  2. Skills: Proficiency in laboratory techniques is essential. This includes skills in handling laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results. Skills such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, ELISA, cell culture, flow cytometry, and microscopy are commonly used in these research areas.

  3. Principles: Understanding the underlying principles of haematology, molecular biology, and immunology is key. This includes knowledge of cell structure and function, genetics, immunological response mechanisms, and biochemical pathways involved in these fields.

  4. Methods: Knowledge of research methods specific to haematology, molecular biology, and immunology is necessary. This includes techniques for blood cell analysis, DNA/RNA isolation and manipulation, protein analysis, cell signaling studies, and immune response assays.

  5. Professional Research: Conducting professional research involves designing experiments, collecting data, analyzing results, and drawing conclusions. Critical thinking skills are essential to troubleshoot experiments, interpret complex data, and make informed decisions during the research process.

  6. Diagnostic Testing: In addition to research, professionals should be able to participate in routine diagnostic testing in a laboratory setting. This includes performing tests, interpreting and validating results, ensuring quality control, and adhering to laboratory regulations and safety protocols.

By applying educational knowledge, skills, principles, and methods effectively, individuals can contribute to advancements in haematology, molecular biology, and immunology research while also fulfilling responsibilities related to diagnostic testing in a laboratory setting.

Outcomes

Assessment Criteria

Learners will demonstrate their knowledge and skills in accordance with standards laid down by the University and Professional Board through:

  • Tutorials, feedback, practicals, assignments
  • Theoretical tests (written), skills and oral examinations
  • Theoretical (written) and practical examinations at the end of each semester
  • Skills/practical examinations, oral examinations

INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT:

  • Competence is achieved through continuous assessment by demonstrating the ability to achieve the outcomes of the Qualification
  • Activity-based evaluation
  • Formative evaluation
  • Evaluation based on learning contexts that offer opportunities for cooperation (group work) and individual learning
  • Theory and practice integrated
  • Formal end evaluations
  • Continuing, formal evaluations
  • Continuing, informal evaluations

Assessment documents are moderated to ensure that:

  • They conform to the scope and context of the competency as stipulated in the qualification
  • They are constructed in such a way that the Assessor assesses the critical outcomes applied during the Learners' activity performances towards achieving an outcome
  • Assessments are:
    • To include confirmation of the Embedded Knowledge component to ensure that the Foundational Competency is achieved
    • To be verified by Internal Verifiers to ensure valid, credible, true, and fair results.

Qualification Details

Type
Honours Degree
NQF Level
08
Min. Credits
240
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.