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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Psychology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
112897  Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Psychology 
ORIGINATOR
North West University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Preventive Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  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   2031-06-30  

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:
The primary purpose of the Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Psychology by coursework and mini-dissertation is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge in the field of Clinical Psychology at an advanced level. Students will be trained to reflect critically on the praxis of Clinical Counselling and be able to deal with complex issues within the field both systematically and creatively, design and critically appraise research, make a sound judgement using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Learners design and critically appraise research, make sound judgement using data and information at their disposal and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

This qualification equips learners with specialised and advanced knowledge to provide curative services, diagnose and prevent pathology, and promote bio-psychosocial health. They also promote primary, secondary and tertiary welfare in various settings; particularly with people facing serious life challenges and forms of psychopathology and psychological distress.

Furthermore, learners apply critical knowledge, skills, principles and methods to function independently as professional psychologists in a variety of contexts. This function happens in adherence and compliance with the professional guidelines laid down by the Professional Board of Psychology. The learner complies with the requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to register for an internship in Clinical Psychology.

Rationale:
This professional qualification is firstly a prerequisite for registration as an intern and eventually to a Clinical Psychologist at the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). It is, therefore, necessary to develop and offer this qualification to provide opportunities for honours learners in related qualifications to gain the necessary skills to register at the HPCSA and practice as Clinical Psychologists. Furthermore, there is a wide skills gap and a greater workforce needed in South Africa in the field of clinical psychology. This need has necessitated several career possibilities in the field of clinical psychology. In designing this qualification, the institution is cognisant of the skills gap in South Africa.

Moreover, the field of Clinical Psychology is growing and changing worldwide and particularly in South Africa. However, there is still very limited research in the field, and most learners in South Africa are registered professional clinical psychologist and not researchers. This qualification intends to educate and train researchers to contribute to the development of new knowledge in the field of clinical psychology as it provides an opportunity for the articulation to doctoral studies in the field. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Where learners do not meet the minimum admission requirements, RPL may be used to grant access to the qualification. The application of RPL is according to the Recognition of prior learning, credit accumulation and transfer, and assessment (CHE 2016) and the institution's RPL policy.
  • The Faculty of Health Sciences ensures the implementation of quality assurance processes in the RPL process (including applications, assessment, and reporting and management systems). It also ensures that administrative and support systems, both before and after RPL assessment, are in place.
  • Learners' assessment is against NQF Level 8 competencies.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor Honours Degree in Psychology, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Relevant Postgraduate Diploma, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 200 Credits:
  • Research Theory and Dissertation in Clinical Psychology, 100 Credits.
  • Child and Adolescent Pathology and Therapy, 20 Credits.
  • Theory of Psychological Interventions, 20 Credits.
  • Psychopharmacology, Neuropsychology and Advanced Psychopathology in Clinical Psychology, 20 Credits.
  • Applied Psychology and Community Interventions, 20 Credits.
  • Ethics, Psych Diagnostics and Practical Work, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate specialist knowledge of the field of Clinical Psychology and the ability to engage with and critique current research or practice in this field;
    2. Analyse, evaluate and then choose appropriate enquiry methods and processes for the study of relevant materials related to the field of Clinical Psychology;
    3. Demonstrate critical knowledge and understanding of the ethical and legal considerations applicable to research and the consequences of interventions on an individual, group and organisational level;
    4. Design, planning, conducting and evaluating, using appropriate and creative qualitative and quantitative research methods, appropriate intervention strategies to address relevant needs and problems within the field of Clinical Psychology;
    5. Interpret psychological dynamics and pathology required for specialised screening of individuals, groups and organisations;
    6. Demonstrate critical knowledge and true understanding of hierarchical relations and networks (equivalent professional peers within the primary health care system) within the relevant system and be able to use these to the advantage of individuals, groups and organisations;
    7. Undertake supervised research and to write a mini-dissertation in the field of study and to develop and sustain independent learning, academic and professional development;
    8. Practice of acceptable social sensitivity in their relationship with others and work effectively in a team by implementing the relevant theory and reflect on the implementation thereof;
    9. Utilise appropriate technology (computer, e-mail, fax, psychometric tests) effectively in the Clinical Psychology environment (technological and environmental literacy);
    10. Explore different effective learning strategies to acquire the different capabilities of a practitioner in the field of Clinical Psychology;
    11. Promote responsible citizenship through their approach towards the holistic application of Clinical Psychology-related skills. Assessing and diagnosing different needs and problems at the individual, group and community levels;
    12. Consult with individuals, groups and organisations to facilitate growth and development in the quest for the actualisation of human potential; and
    13. Manage private practice, thereby creating the possibility of self-employment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria apply across all Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Identify a research topic and conduct basic research using applicable qualitative, quantitative or a combination of both research methods and submit a research report in a mini-dissertation format.
  • Formulate primary and differential diagnoses relating to various forms of child and adolescent psychopathology and neuropathology. The diagnoses are according to the DSM-V and ICD-10 classification system.
  • Differentiate between a normal and abnormal child and adolescent development paying particular attention to the different causes of psychological and neuropsychological disorders in children and adolescents from various meta-theoretical models.
  • Communicate a professional impression, diagnosis and recommendations for interventions, rehabilitations or referrals either through a well-structured report or orally.
  • Develop a clear, concise and realistic plan to implement advanced and appropriate basic and in-depth developmental, counselling and psychological interventions and parental guidance programmes in dealing with normal problems of life concerning all stages and aspects of a child's and adolescents existence in order to > prevent psychopathology, promote optimal bio-psycho-social well-being and facilitate desirable adjustment, growth and maturity.
  • Ethically communicate professional impressions and conclusions to multi-disciplinary teams.
  • Arrange appropriate referrals and demonstrate competence in case management.
  • Design and apply psychological interventions programmes to people with psychiatric conditions and serious life challenges in diverse communities and manage and evaluate the programmes professionally.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative assessment occurs through projects, assignments, case studies and tests during the year in the modules. In some modules, formative assessment include portfolios, practical evaluations and a research proposal.

    Learners write a summative and integrated exam and submit a supervised mini-dissertation on discrete research for summative assessment. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Arab Emirates.
    Institution: United Arab Emirates University College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
    Qualification Title: Master of Science in Clinical Psychology.

    This qualification is comparable to the Master of Science in Clinical Psychology qualification offered by the above country in terms of the following:
  • Both qualifications are offered in a course duration of two years full-time and target a similar audience. They are both designed to meet the need of their respective society for qualified clinicians and mental health professionals to serve the community. They both target clinical settings like hospitals, schools, public agencies and private practice. Moreover, both qualifications share similar curriculum, which is both structured to enable learners to pursue a plan of study to assured increased professional competence and breadth of knowledge in the field of clinical psychology. At the same time, both qualifications provide a foundation for learners interested in pursuing advanced doctoral studies. That is, both have coursework and research.
  • In terms of admission requirements, although both qualifications require 'psychology' as the core knowledge needs for admissions, the Master of Science in clinical psychology only requires a Bachelor's qualification for admissions while the master of health sciences in clinical psychology requires a bachelor honours qualification. Both qualifications share similar modules and themes. However, the Master of Science in clinical psychology qualification has electives options while the master of health sciences in clinical psychology is made up of only compulsory modules.

    Country: Holland.
    Institution: Utrecht University.
    Qualification Title: Master of Clinical Psychology.

    This qualification is comparable to the qualification offered by the above country in terms of the following:
  • Both qualifications share similar objectives. They bring together the professional practice and the academic professional (researcher) aspects of the discipline in the respective qualifications. They both have coursework and research.
  • Both curricula have the internship component. However, for the Master of Health Sciences in Clinical Psychology, the internship is outside the core curriculum and is intended for compliance with registration with the professional body. While for the Master of Clinical Psychology, the internship integrates into the core curriculum.
  • Both qualifications share similar modules, themes, articulation and lead to registrations with professional bodies (Dutch Association of Psychologist (NIP) and Health Profession Council of South Africa (HPCSA). 
    		•

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Health Sciences in Counselling Psychology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Education in Education Psychology, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Health Science, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, NQF Level 10. 
    		•

    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. North West University 


    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.