SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Medicine in Ophthalmology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
122886  Master of Medicine in Ophthalmology 
ORIGINATOR
Walter Sisulu 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  Curative 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
Registered  EXCO 0527/24  2024-10-03  2027-10-03 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-10-03   2031-10-03  

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 purpose of the Master of Medicine in Ophthalmology qualification is to produce learners and professionals who are progressive and rooted in our "Afro-centric" ways, who will promulgate professional thinking and behaviours and have the required set of skills and depth of knowledge while exhibiting humane attributes of honesty, sound ethics, compassion, empathy, and social accountability.

Learners will in essence be able to sustain and improve the important areas of Ophthalmic learning and training, including research, academic knowledge, skills development, and community involvement, and will be adaptable to promulgate and enhance the profession at a local, national, and international level.
The graduate of the qualification will learn through the programme, the skills, knowledge and affective models or attributes that are related to the exit level outcomes in as much as achieving an obtainable and sort after qualification which by their learning and training enables them to be able to adapt and improvise in a wide area of their chosen career, be it research, academics or clinical.

The expected exit level outcome will ensure that the learner has an appreciation of the technological and as well as Afro-centric attributes. The agreement between the university and the Eastern Cape Department of Health (ECDoH) has allowed learners to be appointed at the hospital as registrars in Ophthalmology and this allows learners to gain experience in applying theory in practice. This also assists the registrar's knowledge to be relevant to the needs of the profession.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Complete tasks and duties and explain meaningfully and with clinical correlation all the clinical skills required for the practice of/ in Clinical Ophthalmology (history taking; clinical examination; appropriate investigations, and Ophthalmic interventions).
  • Describe and explain in the form of formal communication to patients with empathy and sensitivity about their clinical ophthalmic condition.
  • Judge, criticise and appraise in terms of diagnosis, investigation(s) and management of all clinical Ophthalmic conditions.
  • Facilitate the learning of subordinates, including medical officers, medical interns and undergraduate medical learners.
  • Cultivate and maintain high ethical standards in the practice and field of Ophthalmology.
  • Learn scientific research methodology, implement a research project and write a mini dissertation.

    Rationale:
    Because of the scarcity of Ophthalmologists in the country and the continent and indeed worldwide, there is a scarcity of Ophthalmologists in our region (District, Municipality, Province, Country and Continent), especially in the rural settings.
    It is unfortunately also these rural settings that are inhabited by the poorest of the poor in our communities while the Metropolitan areas have a relative abundance of these specialists. As a result, more than 50% of the Ophthalmologists in the country reside and work in the urban Metropolitan areas and are distributed between Gauteng, Western Cape, Kwazulu-Natal and the Free State Province, this leaves very few Ophthalmologists to carry the load of teaching and learning and academic and research output for the more "disadvantaged" and "outlying" areas of our country.

    It is therefore envisaged that the learners that undergo the qualification and eventually attain the qualification will be graduates that are well rounded and adapted, relevant, with the required in-depth knowledge and skills to cater for all levels of society.

    This qualification allows for structured training in the field of Ophthalmology and full registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an independent specialist Ophthalmologist.
    The qualification further aims to be an impactful and technology-infused or guided programme that is situated in Africa. It responds to our society's needs in equipping and producing highly ethical, scholarly and futuristic leaders.
    As such the programme and qualification will allow the graduates to function effectively and with impact within the field of Ophthalmology and to allow the graduates to be adaptable, adjustable and innovative in the research, academic and technological field of Ophthalmology.
    The graduates will excel in their careers and will be pillars and examples of academic, technical, psychosocial and technological excellence in our community, region, continent and internationally. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify.

    RPL for access:
  • Because of the specificity of the programme to Ophthalmology training and learning, recognition of prior learning may be recognized if the candidate was in a similar training programme without finishing the duration of the training time in that programme.
    For example, in the case that a candidate was enrolled in a similar programme of another university in the country and did not complete the four years of training and has the required evidence in writing, then that candidate may be credited for those modules that they had already passed and completed, this may be done for up to 12 months of the current training programme.

    RPL for credit:
  • In the case of learners that join the training programme having already obtained their Primary exam of the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), these learners may also be credited against the modules that they have completed and passed, and the time also may be credited to a maximum of 12 months.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, NQF Level 8.
    And
  • Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
  • Be in year three post-qualification for MBChB and equivalent and must have completed the medical internship qualification and community service posting. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 9 totalling 480 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 9, totalling 480 Credits.
  • Anatomy of the eye and adnexa; Neuroanatomy; Head and neck; Histology; Embryology, 25 Credits.
  • Ocular Physiology; General Physiology; Genetics; Molecular and Cell biology, 25 Credits.
  • Pharmacology, 23 Credits.
  • Community Ophthalmology, 23 Credits.
  • Quality Assurance, 24 Credits.
  • Pathology, General principles; Microbiology; Immunology, 40 Credits.
  • Optics and Refraction, 40 Credits.
  • Basic Principles of Ophthalmic Surgery, 40 Credits.
  • External diseases and Cornea, 20 Credits.
  • Orbit, Eyelids and Lachrymal System, 20 Credits.
  • Lens and cataract, 20 Credits.
  • Glaucoma, 20 Credits.
  • Intraocular inflammations and Uveitis, 20 Credits.
  • General Medicine, 20 Credits.
  • Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, 10 Credits.
  • Retina and Vitreous, 15 Credits.
  • Neuro-Ophthalmology, 15 Credits.
  • Ophthalmic surgery, 20 Credits.
  • Research Project, 60 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Critically explain and apply clinical correlation of all the clinical skills required for the practice of Clinical Ophthalmology (history taking; clinical examination; appropriate investigations, and Ophthalmic interventions).
    2. Describe and explain in the form of formal communication to patients with empathy and sensitivity about their clinical ophthalmic condition.
    3. Apply judgment, critique, and appraisal in terms of diagnosis, investigation(s) and management of all clinical Ophthalmic conditions.
    4. Facilitate the learning of subordinates, including medical officers, medical interns and undergraduate medical learners.
    5. Cultivate and maintain high ethical standards in the practice and field of Ophthalmology.
    6. Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific research methodology and write a mini dissertation research project.
    7. Identify and take part in self-directed learning, and creativity in solving problems.
    8. Apply formal communication to communicate professionally.
    9. Demonstrate an ability to develop cultural sensitivity across a range of social contexts, in your own practice of Ophthalmology.
    10. Prioritize reflection and learn from your own experiences in the practice of Ophthalmology. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria are assessed in an integrated manner across all the Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Illustrate competence in all the clinical skills required for the practice of and in Clinical Ophthalmology (history taking; clinical examination; appropriate investigations, and Ophthalmic interventions).
  • Communicate with patients empathetically and sensitively about their clinical condition.
  • Facilitate the learning of subordinates, including medical officers, medical interns and undergraduate medical learners.
  • Cultivate and maintain high ethical standards in the practice and field of Ophthalmology.
  • Implement a research project, learn scientific research methodology and write a mini dissertation.
  • Collect, analyse, organize, and critically evaluate information to generate answers to clinical and administrative challenges.
  • Practice cultural sensitivity across a range of social contexts and reflect on your own experiences. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: UCL-London Global University
    Qualification title: Master in Ophthalmology
    Duration: One year

    Entry requirements:
  • UK medical degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard (2:1).
    Or
    A scientific degree in an appropriate allied discipline (such as optometry) or overseas equivalent standard (2:1 or above).

    Purpose/Rationale
    The Ophthalmology MSc provides an in-depth engagement with the study of Ophthalmology in a contemporary clinical and research-focused context. It is intended to provide a comprehensive grounding in the principles, approaches and methodologies that inform current practice in the specific clinical sub-specialities in this rapidly advancing area.
    The flagship Ophthalmology MSc is ideal for medics, doctors, GPs and optometrists who have a particular interest in specialist ophthalmological practice and research.

    Research in practice seminars allows for investigative, analytical, synthesis and data interrogation skills to be developed, prior to being put into practice in the dissertation module.

    Course structure
    Modules:
  • Introduction to Ophthalmology
  • Oculoplastics, Lacrimal and Orbital Disease
  • Cornea, cataract, external diseases and refractive surgery
  • Glaucoma
  • Neuro-ophthalmology, strabismus and paediatric Ophthalmology
  • Medical Retina, Vitreoretinal, Systemic Diseases, Uveitis and Ocular Oncology, comparable to Retina and Vitreous
  • Ophthalmology Dissertation

    Similarities:
  • The London Global University (LGU) and the South African (SA) qualifications accept learners who have completed a medical degree.
  • The SA qualification will enable learners to be able to sustain and improve the important areas of Ophthalmic learning and training, including research, academic knowledge, skills development, and community involvement, and will be adaptable to promulgate and enhance the profession at a local, national, and international level.
  • The LGU qualification provides an in-depth engagement with the study of Ophthalmology in a contemporary clinical and research-focused context. It is intended to provide a comprehensive grounding in the principles, approaches and methodologies that inform current practice in the specific clinical sub-specialities in this rapidly advancing area.
  • Both qualifications share a similar module, Medical Retina, Vitreoretinal, Systemic Diseases, Uveitis and Ocular Oncology, comparable to Retina and Vitreous.

    Differences:
  • The LGU is offered over one year, whereas the SA qualification is offered over four years.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: University of Alberta
    Qualification title: Master of Science (Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences)
    Duration: One year

    Entry requirements:
  • Applicants for admission must have obtained a University of Alberta baccalaureate degree.
    Or an equivalent qualification from another recognized academic institution.

    Purpose/Rationale
    The Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences offers the MSc and PhD in Medical Sciences (Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences) degrees (see Medical Sciences) either as part of a postgraduate training program for post-MD applicants or as an independent degree program for those proceeding from a BSc. Research may be carried out in a variety of ophthalmology-related disciplines for which staff in the Department have active research programs. Major research initiatives are in the areas of electrophysiology of vision, models of retinal degeneration and therapies, ocular anatomy and ocular genetics. Inquiries should be directed to the Graduate Program Administrator in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences.

    Modules:
  • Cell Biology of Disease
  • Systems Biology
  • Selected Topics in Medical Genetics
  • Seminar in Ophthalmology
  • Ocular Genetics
  • Systems Neuroscience
  • Molecular and Cellular Physiology
  • Cellular Neuroscience
  • Thesis

    Similarities:
  • The University of Alberta (UA) and the South African (SA) qualifications are both offered to learners who have completed a bachelor's degree in the cognate field.
  • The SA learners will be able to sustain and improve the important areas of Ophthalmic learning and training, including research, academic knowledge, skills development, and community involvement.
  • The UA qualification learners will be encouraged to explore new avenues in multi-disciplinary research to improve patient-centred eye care.
  • The SA qualification conducts a Research Project, similar to this, the UA qualification also conducts research that takes place within a highly collaborative environment for both fundamental and translational research.
  • Both qualifications vertically articulate into a doctorate.

    Differences:
  • The UA qualification is offered over one year, and the SA qualification is offered over four years. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Philosophy, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Optometry, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Medical Science, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Science in Epidemiology, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Medicine, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Optometry, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    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. Walter Sisulu 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.