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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
101517  Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic 
ORIGINATOR
Durban University of Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Curative Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
This curriculum provides the learners with a thorough understanding and working knowledge of the structure and function of the human being in both health and disease and the fluctuations that lie between these poles. A well-rounded graduate should have a thorough understanding of:
  • The basic life processes:
    > Nutrition, digestion, metabolism (anabolism and catabolism), energy, excretion.
    > Mental growth, behaviour, the significance of developmental and acquired defects.
    > Physical growth and development, the significance of developmental and acquired defects, nervous control of the body and its functions.
    > The various pathologies that could present.
  • The process of assessment, diagnosis and prognosis of the presenting condition(s) and management of patient care.
  • The function of the graduate within the health care system of the country, community and the various subsections of the community that are served.
  • Lifelong learning and its impact on self-development and professional practice.

    The above Exit Level Outcomes address the requirements for entry into the Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic (professional board), the professional requirements of the profession (the Chiropractic Association of South Africa; the World Federation of Chiropractic), the minimum standards as set out by the World Health Organisation for chiropractic practice and includes input from the advisory board, standards generating process (previous curriculum process that included all local stakeholders).

    Further these outcomes address collective inputs from several reviews of the current programme by the University (Internal reviews), Council on Higher Education and the European Council on Chiropractic Education. This curriculum seeks to address the areas of concern as well as ensure a flow that is logical and coherent from the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic to the Masters qualification. Currently there is no overt possibility for an exit that allows for registration with the statutory regulator, as a Masters Degree is the minimum requirement for the qualification, for registration with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA). Conversely there is currently no possibility on the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) for direct entry into a Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic for learners.

    Rationale:
    There are numerous studies that support the development of the Chiropractic profession in terms of its ability to have its practitioners act in the capacity of:
  • Primary contact practitioners.
  • Specialist assessors of neuromusculoskeletal system.
  • Specialists in the field of spinal and extremity manipulation.
  • Wellness and holistic practitioners trained in the prevention of disease.

    According to the above roles that have been attributed to chiropractors it has been found that, with reference to various specific musculoskeletal conditions:
  • Chiropractic treatment was found to be the most "cost-effective and efficacious. There is "strong evidence for the effectiveness of manipulation, back schools and exercise therapy for chronic pain".

    This along with the high incidence and prevalence of various spinal and musculoskeletal conditions, indicates that there is a role for chiropractic in at least one of the major sphere of health care (musculoskeletal health care), without looking at other possibilities. The role of the chiropractor therefore in health care is an important one, if not only for the patient, but also to reduce the expenditure of the country on health care.

    In South Africa, the crisis of health care delivery system currently includes but is not limited to: a shortage of resources, and the high cost of health care, as well as a lack of inter-professional cooperation and the under-utilisation of more cost effective treatment.

    It is therefore evident that a resource base, in terms of the developing a Chiropractic student and ultimately a Chiropractor, would in part assist in the development of a more effective healthcare system and therefore allow for some attenuation of the current healthcare crisis.

    Chiropractic is a recognised profession where all Chiropractors are required to be registered with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA), which allows all Chiropractors to diagnose any ailment in humans, and treat in terms of the chiropractic scope of practice (Regulation 47; Allied Health Professions Act (Act 63 of 1982)). According to this act the minimum qualification for registration is a Master's Degree in Technology: Chiropractic or its nominated equivalent (as determined by the SAQA and AHPCSA and accepted/approved by the professional board). The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic is a professional Bachelor's Degree that represents a renewal of the existing National Diploma in Chiropractic and Bachelor of Technology in Chiropractic in light of the evident deficiencies of the existing qualification, the imperatives and guidelines of the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF), the needs of the profession and requirements of the AHPCSA, and the vision and mission of the University. The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic emphasises the acquisition and development of clinical skills and reasoning and which has an experiential and community-based component, and includes the preparation of the student for the Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic programme.

    The completion of the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic will not allow the graduate to practice as a professional Chiropractor; but will enable graduates to seek employment within allied medical fields/health care sector or have entry into other heath related undergraduate (horizontal articulation) or Postgraduate qualifications (vertical articulation).

    Learners achieving this qualification (Bachelor of Health Sciences in Chiropractic) will be eligible to access the Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic. This will enable the learner to complete the minimum requirement for registration as a Chiropractor, which is the Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    According to the South African Qualifications Authority and the applicable institutions recognition of prior learning policy.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Senior Certificate (SC) with endorsement and with appropriate subject combinations.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Bachelor's Degree studies with appropriate subject combinations. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8, totalling 516 Credits.

    Modules at Level 5: 84 Credits:
  • Physiology I, 16 Credits.
  • Chemistry, 16 Credits.
  • Physics, 16 Credits.
  • Biology, 16 Credits.
  • isiZulu, 8 Credits.
  • General Education and Training module, 12 Credits.

    Modules at Level 6: 172 Credits:
  • Diagnostic Imaging I, 8 Credits.
  • Gross Anatomy I, 16 Credits.
  • Histology, 12 Credits.
  • Chiropractic principles and practice I, 8 Credits.
  • Philosophy and History of Medicine and Chiropractic I, 8 Credits.
  • Diagnostic Imaging II, 8 Credits.
  • Gross Anatomy II, 16 Credits.
  • Physiology II, 24 Credits.
  • Biochemistry, 8 Credits.
  • Medical Microbiology, 8 Credits.
  • Immunology, Parasitology and Communicable diseases, 8 Credits.
  • General Pathology, 8 Credits.
  • Chiropractic Principles and Practice II, 32 Credits.
  • Sociology, 8 Credits.

    Modules at Level 7: 140 Credits:
  • Diagnostics I, 24 Credits.
  • Systemic Pathology, 24 Credits.
  • Psychopathology, 8 Credits.
  • Clinical Chiropractic and Biomechanics I, 16 Credits.
  • Diagnostic Imaging III, 12 Credits.
  • Chiropractic Principles and Practice III, 32 Credits.
  • Myofascial and Adjunctive Therapies I, 12 Credits.
  • Pharmacology, 12 Credits.

    Modules at Level 8: 120 Credits:
  • Diagnostics II, 24 Credits.
  • Public and Community Health, 8 Credits.
  • Chiropractic Principles and Practice IV, 24 Credits.
  • Myofascial and Adjunctive Therapies II, 12 Credits.
  • Clinical Nutrition, 8 Credits.
  • Research Methods and Bioethics, 12 Credits.
  • Clinical Chiropractic and Biomechanics II, 24 Credits.
  • Diagnostic Imaging IV, 8 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply an advanced theoretical knowledge of the sciences relevant to chiropractic.
    2. Apply advanced practical knowledge of the sciences in order to clinically.
    3. Demonstrate appropriate communication and administrative skills for personal and professional development within a chiropractic context.
    4. Apply knowledge of the humanities and the psychosocial sciences relevant to chiropractic and community health.
    5. Demonstrate an advanced theoretical knowledge of the sciences relevant to chiropractic.
    6. Apply the advanced practical knowledge of the sciences related to chiropractic in order to clinically assess the patient in terms of normal and abnormal findings.
    7. Design and plan research within the chiropractic context.
    8. Demonstrate knowledge of the philosophical sciences relevant to chiropractic and community health. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Define and critically analyse the impulse theories and non-impulse based of chiropractic theories and describe, analyse and explain theoretically their relationships to common disorders.
  • Theoretically describe the effect of the adjustment/manipulation in terms of the all the impulse and non-impulse based theories.
  • Theoretically derive lay explanations from the impulse and non-impulse based hypotheses, so as to enable explanation in simple written terms.
  • Theoretically describe and relate the relevant physics, chemistry and biochemistry pertaining to the function of these structures to the impulse and non-impulse based chiropractic theories.
  • Theoretically explain the normal and abnormal biomechanics relevant to the function, assessment and management of the spine, rib cage and pelvis and perineum (torso/trunk).
  • Describe the normal and abnormal posture relevant to the function, assessment and management of the spine, rib cage and pelvis and perineum (torso/trunk).
  • Describe in detail the elements of postural assessment, such as history, observation and examination.
  • Explain and compare the factors, which affect and control posture.
  • Analyse the common spinal deformities such as scoliosis, lordosis and kyphosis and the factors related to these deformities.
  • Explain the role of specific muscles and joints with reference to both normal and abnormal posture.
  • Describe and explain the general principles associated with myofascial pain and dysfunction (respect trigger points).
  • Describe the principles associated with the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain and dysfunction syndromes of certain muscles.
  • Describe the management of myofascial pain syndromes.
  • Described and analyse the general concepts of pathology are theoretically.
  • Components of the case history are theoretically.
  • Identify, describe and analyse the general features of disease - signs and symptoms - are theoretically described and explained.
  • Describe and analyse the aetiology, clinical features, complications, differential diagnosis, investigations, management protocols and prognoses of diseases related to the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastro-intestinal, genito-urinary, endocrine systems and genetic disorders.
  • Analyse and evaluate the case histories related to the body systems of the human body are to arrive at the appropriate differential diagnosis.
  • Discuss and describe the relevant patho - physiology, anatomy and histology is with reference to the clinical features of the diseases of the body systems.
  • Describe and analyse the special investigations and results thereof pertinent to the condition relevant to the body system.
  • Critically analyse an x-ray report.
  • Write in the correct reporting format the analysis of an x-ray.
  • Identify spot diagnoses of common that can be substantiated theoretically, based on the condition.
  • Compile a radiological differential diagnosis, based on the x-rays being analysed (read).
  • Describe the theory behind the application of the adjustment.
  • Explain in lay terms the stretches, exercises and postural advice.
  • Describe in lay terms the rehabilitation techniques.
  • Explain the use of orthotics for torso conditions both verbally and in writing (prescription pad).
  • Describe theoritical strapping and support techniques.
  • Choose braces and supports appropriately and theoretically explain their use in rationally in lay terms.
  • Describe patient education principles.
  • Identify the indications and contra-indications for the various therapies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse normal and abnormal biomechanics relevant to the function, assessment and management of the spine, rib cage and pelvis and perineum (torso/trunk) whilst practically assessing a peer or on a models.
  • Practically assess normal and abnormal posture relevant to the function, assessment and management of the spine, rib cage and pelvis and perineum (torso) in terms of a peer or on a model.
  • Demonstrate practically the elements of postural assessment, such as history, observation and examination on a peer or model.
  • Identify common spinal deformities such as scoliosis, lordosis and kyphosis on pictorial or slide presentations and practically on patients where possible.
  • Explain the role of specific muscles and joints with reference to both normal and abnormal posture on a peer or model.
  • Demonstrate Gan understanding of the general principles associated with myofascial pain and dysfunction are demonstrated and elicited practically (on peers or models).
  • Identify principles associated with the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain and dysfunction syndromes of certain muscles on peers, models, charts, pictorially and/or on slides.
  • Apply the management of myofascial pain syndromes practically in a clinical setting.
  • Investigate the general principles of pathology practically.
  • Undertake and compile a case history and identify, describe and analyse with relevant positive findings.
  • Identify general features of disease - signs and symptoms - are practically identified clinically.
  • Identify, analyse and report on the aetiology, clinical features, complications, differential diagnosis, investigations, management protocols and prognoses of diseases related to the cardiovascular, respiratory, gastro-intestinal, genito-urinary, endocrine systems and genetic disorders in the clinical context.
  • Analyse and evaluate the case histories related to the body systems and relevant examination to arrive at the appropriate differential diagnoses.
  • Identify the clinical features and the signs and symptoms of the diseases of the body systems pictorially, on slides and on a peer / model / patient where appropriate.
  • Interpret and report on special investigations and results thereof pertinent to the conditions.
  • Critically analyse an x-ray report.
  • Verbally report on the analysis (reading) of an x-ray in the correct reporting format.
  • Make and justify spot diagnoses practically.
  • Compile and defend verbally a radiological differential diagnosis based on the x-rays being analysed (read) practically.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive physical examination of the relevant systems on fellow students and on at least three patients and describe practically in terms of normal and abnormal findings in.
  • Apply adjustment/manipulation and mobilisation techniques.
  • Demonstrate stretches, exercises and postural advice for conditions of the torso.
  • Demonstrate rehabilitation techniques on peers/patients where appropriate.
  • Demonstrate the use of orthotics for torso conditions is practically demonstrated.
  • Implement strapping and support techniques.
  • Articulate patient education principles during the practical sessions with the peer or patient.
  • Recognise and articulate indications and contra-indications for the various therapies to the peer/patient.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Review philosophical terminology in the chiropractic context.
  • Evaluate the scientific method for its application in chiropractic.
  • Compare and contrast inductive and deductive reasoning.
  • Identify and present the constituents of a literature review as an integrated discussion of a topic with relevance to chiropractic.
  • Review, compare, categorise and contrast different types of research broadly.
  • Apply referencing techniques consistently and accurately.
  • Evaluate, discuss and apply time management strategies.
  • Investigate conflict management strategies.
  • Explore the implications of cultural diversity.
  • Demonstrate effective teamwork.
  • Explore and implement the implications of productivity.
  • Demonstrate appropriate verbal and non-verbal skills.
  • Uphold and monitor regulations and guidelines as they apply to the clinical environment.
  • Maintain clinical records accurately.
  • Utilise and maintain all relevant equipment appropriately.
  • Demonstrate the ability to contain a situation using the appropriate skills (behavioural limit setting, gentleness, explanations, breaking bad news).
  • Apply and demonstrate the ability to initiate dialogue and network with colleagues and the community.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the ethical and legal requirements of the medical code and the Chiropractic profession is demonstrated.
  • Demonstrate effective therapeutic stress management skills for self/patient professional burnout are demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Describe and debate an overview of mental health.
  • Describe patterns of normal and abnormal behaviour.
  • Describe common disorders in terms of the DSM IV (or updated version) are described.
  • Apply DSM IV (or updated version) principles to paper patients
  • Compare and contrast paediatric and geriatric problems.
  • Describe and simulate patient / practitioner relationships.
  • Describe and apply assessment and approaches to treatment to case studies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Describe and compare the various interventions for low back pain theoretically in terms of their procedure and cost.
  • Describe factors relating to the duration of work-loss due to low back pain theoretically.
  • Describe the epidemiology, economics and risk factors for low back pain theoretically.
  • Describe the various diagnostic and therapeutic techniques associated with mechanical low back pain theoretically in detail in terms of their application and results.
  • Describe the epidemiology, economics and risk factors for low back pain a theoretically.
  • Explain the pathology and pathogenesis of mechanical low back pain theoretically.
  • Identify and compare the 3 phases of the spectrum of degenerative disease related to lower back pain theoretically.
  • Determine the nature and site of the lesion theoretically in terms of the written diagnosis and associated with the presentation of low back pain, in a paper case (theoretically).
  • Discuss the prevention of low back pain theoretically.
  • Outline the differential diagnoses for mechanical low back pain theoretically.
  • Formulate and defend a comprehensive plan for the treatment of low back pain theoretically.
  • Discuss elements of manipulation theoretically with reference to the treatment of low back pain.
  • Discuss the contribution of spinal and leg deformities theoretically in relation to the development of mechanical low back pain.
  • Compare the effect of chiropractic management theoretically to medical, homoeopathic, surgical and other routine management protocols.
  • Describe the receptor theory of drug action and the mechanisms of drug action are theoretically.
  • Load dose - response curves are theoretically drawn and interpreted.
  • Routes of administration, absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs theoretically described.
  • Compare the different types of adverse drug reactions theoretically.
  • Compare, contrast and discuss the effects, mechanisms and adverse effects of drugs theoretically.
  • Investigate a comprehensive knowledge of normal and abnormal biomechanics relevant to the function, assessment and management of the head, neck, upper limb, lower limb theoretically.
  • Compare and contrast normal and abnormal postures relevant to the function, assessment and management of the head, neck, upper limb and lower limb theoretically.
  • Describe elements of postural assessment, such as history, observation and examination theoretically.
  • Analyse, describe and interpret the entire gait cycle theoretically.
  • Identify, describe and compare normal parameters and patterns and abnormal gait cycles theoretically.
  • Identify, define, compare and contrast elements of the normal and abnormal running gait theoretically.
  • Describe and explain all principles associated with myofascial pain and dysfunction (respective trigger points) theoretically.
  • Describe principles associated with the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain and dysfunction syndromes of certain muscles theoretically.
  • Describe, compare and contrast the management of myofascial pain syndromes theoretically.
  • Identify, describe and analyse components of the case history theoretically .
  • Describe and analyse the aetiology, clinical features, complications, differential diagnoses, investigations, management protocols and prognoses of diseases theoretically.
  • Analyse and evaluate case histories related to the body systems theoretically to arrive at the appropriate differential diagnoses.
  • Discuss and describe relevant patho - physiology, anatomy and histology theoretically with reference to the clinical features of the diseases of the body systems.
  • Describe and analyse special investigations and results thereof pertinent to the condition relevant to the body systems theoretically.
  • Critically analyse an x-ray report theoretically.
  • Write the analysis of an x-ray theoretically in the correct reporting format.
  • Substantiate spot diagnoses of common theoretically, based on the condition identified.
  • Compile a radiological differential diagnosis theoretically based on the x-rays being analysed (read).
  • Describe the theory behind the application of the adjustment theoretically.
  • Explain stretches, exercises and postural advice theoretically in layman's terms.
  • Describe rehabilitation techniques theoretically to the patient.
  • Describe and verbally explain the choice and use of orthotics theoretically.
  • Identify strapping and support techniques theoretically.
  • Describe patient education principles theoretically.
  • Identify indications and contra-indications for the various therapies theoretically.
  • Compare and contrast dietary and nutrient guides for wellness and disease prevention (e.g. RDA and the application thereof) theoretically.
  • Discuss factors affecting food choices theoretically.
  • Analyse factors influencing the nutrient composition of foods theoretically.
  • Investigate nutrient supplementation theoretically.
  • Investigate and analyse the pros and cons of food fortification theoretically .
  • Research the use of functional foods (nutriceuticals) theoretically.
  • Compare nutrition during the various stages of the life cycles theoretically.
  • Assess diseases of lifestyle theoretically.
  • Discuss vegetarianism theoretically.
  • Analyse the effect of nutrition on immune status (e.g. malnutrition - infection and AIDS) theoretically.
  • Research economical food purchases theoretically.
  • Assess nutritional status theoretically.
  • Discuss the nutritional anemia's theoretically.
  • Analyse drug - nutrient interactions theoretically.
  • Apply nutritional knowledge theoretically to a case study.
  • Utilise nutrition software in clinical nutrition theoretical investigations.
  • Discuss and compare nutrient requirements in relation to exercise and various types of sport theoretically.
  • Investigate effectivity (efficacy) and safety of ergogenic aids theoretically.
  • Compare relationships between musculo-skeletal diseases and nutrition (e.g. osteoporosis, gout, arthritis) theoretically.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Analyse knowledge of normal and abnormal biomechanics relevant to the function, assessment and management of the head, neck, upper limb and lower limb, with respect to the practical assessment of the peer/patient.
  • Compare and contrast normal and abnormal postures relevant to the function, assessment and management of the head, neck, upper limb and lower limb , whilst assessing a peer or on a model practically.
  • Demonstrate elements of postural assessment, such as history, observation and examination practically.
  • Analyse, measure and interpret the entire gait cycle practically.
  • Identify abnormal gait cycles and demonstrate practically.
  • Identify, compare and contrast elements of the running (normal and abnormal) gait practically.
  • Demonstrate and elicit general principles associated with myofascial pain and dysfunction practically on patients.
  • Identify principles associated with the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain dysfunction syndromes of certain muscles practically on peers/models/on charts/pictures and/or slides.
  • Apply the management of myofascial pain syndromes clinically.
  • Undertake and compile a case history practically.
  • Identify and report on the aetiology, clinical features, complications, differential diagnoses, investigations, management protocols and prognoses of diseases practically in a clinical context (where appropriate).
  • Analyse and evaluate case histories related to the body systems and the relevant physical examinations practically to arrive at the appropriate differential diagnoses.
  • Identify the clinical features of the diseases of the body systems practically on slides, pictures, models, peers/patients.
  • Interpret and report on special investigations and results thereof pertinent to the conditions relevant to the body systems, practically on in a chiropractic context.
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive physical examination of these areas practically on fellow students and on at least three patients and describe in terms of normal and abnormal findings in English.
  • Critically analyse an x-ray report practically in terms of the correlation to the findings on the x-ray.
  • Write the analysis of an x-ray practically in the correct reporting format.
  • Substantiate spot diagnoses of common practically, based on the condition identified.
  • Compile a radiological differential diagnosis, based on the x-rays being analysed (read) practically.
  • Apply adjustment/manipulation and mobilisation techniques practically.
  • Demonstrate stretches, exercises and postural advice practically for conditions of the torso.
  • Demonstrate rehabilitation techniques practically on peers/patients where appropriate.
  • Demonstrate the use of orthotics for torso conditions practically.
  • Implement strapping and support techniques practically.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Investigate the differences of worldviews in respect of social phenomena.
  • Assess the philosophies underpinning the qualitative and quantitative research processes and identify their respective strengths and weaknesses identified.
  • Describe the use, value and limitations of qualitative and quantitative research .
  • Critically assess and use the components of the validity framework a to critically assess validity of the research proposal.
  • Review the components of the experimental procedures with emphasis on the methodological issues related to clinical trials.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of developing a research proposal.
  • Describe parametric and non-parametric, continuous and discrete, ordinal and nominal data.
  • Code research data and process data set using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) programme in order to run relevant statistical tests on such data.
  • Apply appropriate statistical tests to a given set of raw data using the SPSS programme.
  • Critique/assess research articles utilising the validity framework.
  • Critically evaluate the research articles above with reference to a given topic.
  • Debate the conceptualization as a key issue for the successful development of a research proposal.
  • Compile a comprehensive literature review.
  • Identify the aims and objectives of the proposed research.
  • Give and motivate the rationale for the proposed study.
  • Motivate and correctly structure the choice of methodology.
  • Compile references accurately and use a particular referencing technique consistently.
  • Draw up a projected budget with relevant quotes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Describe in detail the ethics pertaining to the doctor - patient relationship.
  • Analyse the ramifications to the practitioner violating the ethical code in terms of the doctor - patient relationship.
  • Discuss the responsibilities of the practitioner in terms of the ethical code.
  • Normative ethics, nalethics, moral problems, the hallmarks of and ethical foundations of a profession, are described and related to chiropractic.
  • Describe eastern and Western philosophy, knowledge systems and belief systems, the nature of metaphysics, reductionism and holism and the philosophy of natural science, and discuss their relevance to chiropractic.
  • Compare and evaluate theories and strategies used to address the social and emotional needs within the life space of the patient.
  • Crtically analyse and reflect professional transparency and the student's own practice accountably in order to adapt to changing circumstances.
  • Respond toemotional and social needs of the patient(s) in terms of patient issues, with critical research and reflection.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative Assessment:
  • Practical (application of theory, spotter (identification with application of theory), psychomotor (ability), simulations, role play, observation and experiential learning).
  • Theory tests with feedback.
  • Self-assessment.
  • Peer assessment.
  • Projects/assignments.
  • Re-assessment after feedback (e.g. practicals).
  • Research project.
  • Objective, structured clinical evaluations.
  • Clinical competencies - continuous assessment.
  • Supervised experiential learning in the 4th and 5th years.

    Summative Assessment:
  • Year-end examinations.
  • Objective Structured Clinical Examinations.
  • Research project.

    Assessment practices will be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, so that an integrated approach to assessment is incorporated into the qualification.

    Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably interwoven. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the qualification will be integrated.

    During integrated assessments, the assessor will make use of a range of formative and summative assessment tools methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Continuous assessment will be provided through:
  • Portfolios.
  • Simulations.
  • Workplace assessments and practical workbooks.
  • Written assignments.
  • Written tests.
  • Case studies and case presentations.
  • Peer group evaluation.
  • Competency evaluations of clinical skills.
  • Face to face contact with learners. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Bachelor of Health Sciences (BHSc) qualification was based on and compiled through a process of internal and external input and validation process. This process resulted from consultation with stakeholders from the Chiropractic Association of South Africa, the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa as well as international representation (sister Chiropractic Associations and member of staff at various international chiropractic colleges) - and resulted in a South African national minimum qualification that was internationally comparable as well as a national audit criteria document which were both approved in 2005 through the Council of Higher Education.

    The international comparability included the internationally recognised minimum outcomes as outlined by the Council on Chiropractic Education International (CCEI) and its agency the European Council of Chiropractic Education (ECCE). Based on the feedback from the above representation and interrogation of the international norms, the BHSc and Master of Health Science (MHSc) collectively meet the required international minimum criteria for fitness to practice. As a result, the BHSc meets the requirements for entry of the student into the master's degree qualification and preparation for fitness to practice.

    The current pre-registration (registration as a chiropractor) programmes offered by the institution: National Diploma (N.Dip) Chiropractic; Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) Chiropractic and Master of Technology (M.Tech) Chiropractic are accredited by the European Council on Chiropractic Education (ECCE).

    Thus in the context of the required registration requirements in South Africa, the underpinning BHSc was found to be comprehensive in covering all aspects of a chiropractic curriculum and it was unanimously agreed that the programme was sound and internationally comparable in all respects, namely, qualification type (the combination of the BHSc and MHSc required for registration is unique to South Africa), curriculum structure (Anglo European College of Chiropractic, University of Southern Wales - United Kingdom; Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College - Canada and National University - United States of America), modules (Murdoch Univeristy, Australia, Anglo European College of Chiropractic, University of Southern Wales - United Kingdom; Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College - Canada and National University - United States of America), proportional weighting of credits and outcomes (Council on Chiropractic Education International and its agency the European Council of Chiropractic Education).

    In terms of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, there are no comparable education and training qualifications although chiropractors are legally recognised and therefore eligible for registration in the SADC region. The qualification compiled has thus kept the current national health care priorities in mind, such that the educational outcomes are contextualised within the health care/disease care profile of the country. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy, Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences in Emergency Medical Care, Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic, Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Durban University of Technology 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.