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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
104599  Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Laboratory Science 
ORIGINATOR
Central University of Technology, Free State 
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
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to meet the needs of the South African community as identified by the National Department of Health and to ensure that it is compatible with international standards. Following this imperative from the National Department of Health, the Professional Board for Biomedical Technology at the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) promotes the development of new learning programmes in all health professions to align offered qualifications with the new Higher Education Qualifications Subframework (HEQSF). The acquisition of advanced competencies is required by the sector in order to meet the legislative and operational requirements of the HPCSA.

This qualification will enable the professional to competently apply an integration of theory, principles, proven techniques, practical experience and appropriate skills to the solution of well-defined and abstract problems in the selected field of Medical Laboratory Sciences. The qualified learner will operate as a reflective practitioner and a life-long learner in his or her profession, thereby contributing to the community and society. This qualification will provide learners with operational competencies as well as management skills, including supervision, mentoring and leadership placing them at the heart of technology education and innovation. Successful completion of this qualification will enable the graduate to register with the relevant Statutory Health Council. Registration will be assurance to the community and society that the professional will practice at all times within the relevant scope as determined by the Statutory Health Council. Unregistered Medical Laboratory Scientists may work in non-diagnostic laboratories. Minimum standards for education and training are determined by the Professional Board to ensure that the interest of the public are protected.

Forging partnerships with industry, community and research organizations within the healthcare environment is an essential component to ensure the success of this qualification. Moreover, a module in Molecular Biology is offered within this qualification which sets it apart from similar Degrees nationally.

Rationale:
Medical Laboratory Sciences (MLS) form an integral part of the healthcare system in the country. Diagnostic and analytical services provided by the MLS provide vital information regarding the patient's health and play a crucial role in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of various diseases. This qualification is designed with an intention to develop a professional practitioner career with a higher level of cognitive skills and competencies, as well as empathy for humanity. The aim of this qualification is to provide learners with operational and scientific research, knowledge, management skills as well as mentoring, leadership and supervision. This qualification has been structured to address the need for higher level competencies associated with a professional degree at Level 8.

The National Board Examination will be incorporated into the Bachelor of Health Sciences degree and learners must pass this examination in order to graduate. All learners registered at the institution must register in their first year as learners with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Upon successful completion of this qualification the graduate is required to register with the HPCSA in order to work in a diagnostic laboratory. A Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) must have an additional two years post-registration laboratory experience before full registration as a MLS with the HPCSA can be obtained. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Learners can be allowed access to this qualification on condition that he/she provided evidence that stated competence has been achieved through workplace and/or work integrated learning experience. It may be required from the learner to submit a portfolio of evidence in the prescribed format to be assessed. Academics and practitioners in medical technology will handle matters of articulation and RPL. RPL will be carried out in accordance with the Institution's policies and procedures in collaboration with assessment and graduation unit.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum requirements for admission into this Bachelor's Degree are:
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 granting admission to Bachelor studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules and elective modules offered at Level 5, 6, 7 and 8, totalling 513 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 69 Credits:
  • English Proficiency, 9 Credits.
  • Computer skills, 9 Credits.
  • Introduction to Medical Laboratory Sciences, 24 Credits.
    > Role of the MLS, 5 Credits.
    > Communication, 4 Credits.
    > Ethics and Medical law, 5 Credits.
    > Safety, 5 Credits.
  • Quality assurance, 5 Credits.
  • Integrative Medical Sciences, 27 Credits.
    > Biostatistics, 9 Credits.
    > Health Physics, 9 Credits.
    > Health Chemistry, 9 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 184 Credits:
  • Immunology I, 12 Credits.
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology and Disease I (Mod B), 20 Credits.
  • Cellular Biology I, 12 Credits.
  • Human Anatomy and Physiology and Disease I (Mod A), 20 Credits.
  • Clinical Chemistry II (Module A), 12 Credits.
  • Haematology II (Module A), 12 Credits.
  • Immunohaematology II, 12 Credits.
  • Medical Microbiology II (Module A), 12 Credits.
  • Cytology II, 12 Credits.
  • Clinical Chemistry II (Module B), 12 Credits.
  • Haematology II (Module B), 12 Credits.
  • Medical Microbiology II (Module B), 12 Credits.
  • Cytogenetics II, 12 Credits.
  • Histology II, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7, 126 Credits:
  • Clinical Chemistry III, 12 Credits.
  • Haematology III, 12 Credits.
  • Medical Microbiology III, 12 Credits.
  • Cytology III, 12 Credits.
  • Research Methods, 12 Credits.
  • Integrative Medical Laboratory Sciences III, 66 Credits.
    (Theory and practice)-WIL.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 46 Credits:
  • Laboratory Management, 10 Credits.
  • Research Project, 36 Credits.

    Elective Modules, Level 8, 88 Credits (select one WIL):
  • Clinical Pathology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Clinical Chemistry IV, 88 Credits.
  • Haematology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Immunohaematology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Immunology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Medical Microbiology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Virology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Cytology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Histology IV, 88 Credits.
  • Cytogenetics IV, 88 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform and integrate laboratory tests with pathophysiological conditions in a specific field of specialisation in accordance with statutory and operational requirements.
    2. Evaluate current and new trends in technology to improve practices and to solve problems in a variety of contexts.
    3. Conduct research in the field of medical laboratory sciences in compliance with legislated and ethical research principles.
    4. Apply management and entrepreneurship skills in the context of medical laboratory sciences. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Select, perform, interpret and integrate routine and specialised diagnostic techniques (including molecular biology techniques) in a specific field in accordance with statutory requirements and situational standard operating procedures.
  • Evaluate laboratory results through correlation of data in the context of the principles, techniques and instruments used.
  • Recognise factors that affect procedures and test results and take appropriate action to nullify these.
  • Interpret laboratory results through correlation of data with physiological and pathophysiological conditions.
  • Evaluate, interpret and integrate findings through application of an in-depth knowledge of disease processes.
  • Monitor equipment for efficient functioning and take appropriate action when necessary.
  • Describe and apply laboratory safety procedures, including infection control, throughout all operating procedures.
  • Describe and apply quality assurance procedures throughout all operating procedures."

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse, synthesise and evaluate constraints within a given laboratory relative to the services required of the facility.
  • Learn the use of new equipment in depth to obtain the maximum use thereof.
  • Recommend appropriate new techniques and methods on the basis of methodological scientific principles.
  • Analyse and recommend new techniques and methods which have been written up and/or presented formally with motivation and applied where applicable.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Identify, articulate and investigate research needs within the chosen specialisation in the field of medical laboratory sciences appropriately.
  • Apply appropriate research methods.
  • Review and document applicable literature according to accepted scientific practices.
  • Collect, analyse and interpret data accurately using appropriate qualitative and/or quantitative techniques.
  • Evaluate research findings and formulate conclusions and recommendations, based on sound theoretical principles.
  • Produce a research report in accordance with the required institutional research guidelines.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse and manage human, infrastructural, operational and financial resources efficiently and effectively.
  • Develop, approve and implement a business plan for a new medical laboratory service within a structured situation.
  • Explain principles of entrepreneurship skills in terms of the proposed business model.
  • Explain and apply current, relevant legislation where applicable, such as within the proposed business plan.
  • Align all clinical interactions and related activities with the provisions and rules of the relevant institution and the codes of ethics of the HPCSA and relevant professional associations.
  • All manner of communication, including appropriate use of electronic media and medical terminology, with patients, colleagues and other service providers, is clear, direct and accurate and delivered in terms of maintaining patient confidentially.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Diverse assessment methods help to increase assessment opportunities and encourage academic success of the learner. It provides the opportunity for all learners to excel in one or more methods of assessment creating a culture of success. Formative and summative assessments are implemented to ensure that exit level and critical cross-field outcomes are met. Assessment is purposefully used to generate data for grading, ranking, selecting and predicting learner performance. Integrated assessment will be conduction in accordance with the requirements of the HPCSA as well as the policies and procedures of the institution.

    Formative Assessment may include:
  • Tests (theory and practical).
  • Written and practical assignments.
  • Literature reviews.
  • Presentations (oral and visual).
  • Peer reviews.
  • Case studies.
  • Seminars.

    Simulations in structured learning environments:
  • Portfolios.
  • Posters.
  • Journals.
  • Research proposals and reports.

    Summative Assessment may include:
  • Examinations (oral or written).
  • Practical examinations.
  • Supervisor reports.
  • Log-books.
  • Portfolios.
  • Assignments.
  • Research proposals and reports.
  • Presentations (oral and visual). 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    To evaluate the degree to which this qualification compares with those offered by other countries, an analysis of the MLS qualification as offered in Australia, Zimbabwe and Namibia was conducted (National task team). Liaising with the Pathology Industry, Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and associated professional societies highlighted the need for highly skilled and suitably qualified medical laboratory scientists and therefore the need for a Professional Degree. Therefore, this qualification has been structured to meet that need through the development of higher level competencies associated with this professional Degree at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 8. The structuring of the submitted qualification was a national collaboration between all the Higher Education Institutions currently offering the National Diploma (ND): Biomedical Technology and Bachelor of Technology (BTech) Biomedical Technology, Industry, the HPCSA and the Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists of South Africa (SMLTSA).

    Namibia:
  • Namibia offers a similar Degree at the Polytechnic of Namibia. This qualification is called the Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences Degree and is worth 500 Credits at NQF Level 8.
  • In terms of the Credits, the Namibian qualification equates to 50 Credits at NQF Level 5, 75 Credits at NQF Level 6, 235 Credits at Level 7 and 140 Credits at Level 8. The total number of Credits is 500.

    Zimbabwe:
    The University of Zimbabwe offers an internationally recognised Degree namely, Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Sciences (Honours Degree). The competencies required are equivalent to those of the proposed South African Qualification. The theory component of the course is covered in the first, second and fourth years of study (900 hours per year) while the third year is dedicated to working in accredited clinical laboratories. Within the first year 70% of the time is dedicated to lectures and tutorials, 15% to practicals and 15% to student-based learning i.e., assignments, projects, and self-study. For the second and fourth year the distribution is 75%:15%: 10% and 70%: 10%: 20%, respectively. The design of the Zimbabwe programme differs from the South African Qualification in terms of the intended practical work-based learning. The extra semester spent on developing practical competence in the South African Qualification is considered to give strength to the graduate as a potential practitioner.

    Australia, the University of Technology:
    Sydney (UTS) offers a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science as a three year full-time, or six-year part-time Degree. Alternately, learners can complete a four-year full-time Degree, with the successful completion of a Diploma in Scientific Practice or 4 years full-time with Honours. This represents a fourth year and is required for full recognition to practice. Graduates with this qualification have professional recognition in overseas countries. The UTS qualification is not in an outcome-based format which makes it difficult to compare credit allocation.

    However, components of the course are similar to those of the South African Qualification and consist of Physiology, Pathophysiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology and clinical subjects such as Haematology and Microbiology. The overall Credits for this qualification are 144 Credits of which 24 Credits consist of electives that may be taken as a sub-major. This is a four-year full-time study programme recognised by the Australian Institute of Medical Scientists (AIMS). The competencies developed by this qualification compare favourably with the competencies outlined in the South African Professional Degree. In addition, the South African Professional Degree emphasises competencies such as laboratory management, quality assurance and ethical conduct, which are not explicitly stated in the competencies outlined in the Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Science as offered by UTS. 
    		•

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

    Horizontally Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology, Level 7.

    Vertically Articulation:
  • Master of Health Sciences in Biomedical Technology, 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. Central University of Technology, Free State 


    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.