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: 

Bachelor of Science: Medical Sciences Honours: Underwater Medicine 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
73558  Bachelor of Science: Medical Sciences Honours: Underwater Medicine 
ORIGINATOR
Stellenbosch 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
Honours Degree  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Curative Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 7  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   2031-06-30  

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:

To equip candidates with advanced knowledge and a deeper insight into and understanding of Underwater Medicine.

To ensure a high level of knowledge in the field of Underwater Medicine via a high level of analysis of new information, the ability to deal with complexity and to find workable solutions to problems and challenges.

To enable students to do basic research through the introduction to basic research methodology.

To prepare students who aspire to move to a higher level of academic research work for Master Studies and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics.

To contribute to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure future health and advancement in the field of Underwater Medicine and to make provision for the country's needs in a skilled scientific workforce of the highest calibre.

To prepare students who can apply their skills to the task of answering some of the questions and meeting some of the needs of the country.

Rationale:

South Africa has in excess of 250 000 certified recreational SCUBA divers, 1500 commercial divers, 700 active military and citizen force divers and 200 submariners (The submariner component will expand substantially with the arrival of the South African Defence Force's newly acquired submarines). More than 55 incidents of decompression illness are reported and treated annually in South Africa.

All divers seek diving medical advice at some time:
  • For routine dive medical fitness examinations.
  • For diving related ill health or injury.
  • assessment of the impact of underlying medical and surgical conditions might have on their safety and ability to dive.

    Numerous research opportunities exist in the practice of underwater medicine. Western Cape based tertiary institutions have a distinct advantage in exploring these opportunities being located close to the SA Navy diving centre situated in Simonstown. Being situated at sea level further enhances these research opportunities as decompression tables are historically developed for use at sea level. This programme (focusing specifically on the underwater environment) will be the first university based academic programme of its kind in Africa.

    Commercial diving takes place all around the African continent. As the first of its kind, this programme will also benefit medical practitioners working for major commercial diving companies in Africa.

    Note:
  • "Underwater Medicine" is the field of medicine that deals with the physics, physiology, pathology of the underwater environment. The two major sub-fields in Underwater Medicine are Diving Medicine and Submarine Medicine. This programme also includes other aspects related to the field of Underwater Medicine (e.g. legislative aspects, psychological issues, marine animal toxicology, etc.). 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    The University of Stellenbosch has a comprehensive policy for the Recognition of Prior Learning (attached).

    Access to the Qualification:
  • MBChB or equivalent qualification acceptable for registration as a medical practitioner with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
  • Completion of internship year(s).
  • Must have (or be able to obtain) a valid diving medical fitness certificate to partake in practical hyperbaric chamber work. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Exit Level of programme;7.
    Duration (years); 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time.
    Total Credits; 120.

    Learning Component; Credit; NQF Level:
  • Core; 120 Credits; NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Exit Level Outcome 1 (General):

    The BScMedScHons (Underwater Medicine) graduate will have:

    1.1 Confident, systematic and deep knowledge of the theoretical aspects of underwater medicine and an awareness of a variety of contexts in which it may apply.
    1.2 An understanding of the principles and concepts underpinning the field of underwater medicine and of its boundaries and limitations.
    1.3 An overview of recent, relevant and cutting-edge research in the field of underwater medicine.
    1.4 An understanding of the use of scientific method in the acquisition of scientific knowledge.
    1.5 Knowledge of the working and application of a range of applicable scientific equipment, advanced investigative techniques/procedures and experimental approaches.
    1.6 The ability to apply all this knowledge to identify and address new theoretical and practical problems.
    1.7 The ability to communicate scientific knowledge clearly in written and verbal form.
    1.8 A familiarity with the opportunities, challenges, demands and code of conduct of the profession(s) associated with the field of underwater medicine.

    Exit Level Outcome 2 (Generic):

    The BScMedScHons (Underwater Medicine) graduate should be able to:

    2.1 Think critically and creatively, apply the scientific method and make responsible decisions in problem identification and solving.
    2.2 Work effectively and co-operatively in collaboration with individuals and groups.
    2.3 Be self-critical and accept criticism of others.
    2.4 Work independently and organise and manage him/herself and his/her activities responsibly and effectively.
    2.5 Collect, organise, analyse and synthesise data effectively, on a continuous basis.
    2.6 Communicate effectively in written and spoken presentations; showing graphical, statistical and language skills and computer literacy.
    2.8 Apply scientific and technological knowledge responsibly with respect to others and to the environment.
    2.9 View the world holistically, demonstrating knowledge and problem solving in a systematic context.
    2.10 Show evidence of self-development and an interest in the betterment of the community (effective learning strategies, responsible participation in life, exploration of educational and career opportunities, development of cultural and aesthetic sensitivity, application of knowledge and skills to benefit the community, development of entrepreneurial opportunities.).

    Exit Level Outcome 3 (Generic):

    The BScMedScHons (Underwater Medicine) graduate will be able to:

    3.1 Analyse, synthesise and evaluate a wide range of information.
    3.2 Plan and conduct basic research, using appropriate methods for the solving of problems.
    3.3 Justify and explain conclusions within the epistemology of underwater medicine.
    3.4 Argue critically and convincingly.
    3.5 Solve problems in both familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
    3.6 Effectively select and apply knowledge in a professional context.
    3.7 Communicate effectively in a form appropriate to the profession and discipline of underwater medicine.
    3.8 Relate theory to practice and vice versa.
    3.9 Recognise hierarchies in systematic relationships and analyse organisational principles underpinning a system.
    3.10 Make sound theoretical judgements and evaluations.

    Exit Level Outcome 4 (Specific):

    The BScMedScHons (Underwater Medicine) graduate will:

    4.1 Have successfully followed the presented study programme, worked independently on prescribed tasks and have participated fully in a research project within the ambit of the interests of the department, in which technical skills, the application of the scientific method and cooperation are fostered.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
  • Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > Think critically and creatively, apply the scientific method and make responsible decisions in problem identification and solving.
  • Working with others as a member of a team, group, organisation and community.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > The ability to communicate scientific knowledge clearly in written and verbal form.
    > Work effectively and co-operatively in collaboration with individuals and groups.
  • Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > The ability to apply all this knowledge to identify and address new theoretical and practical problems.
    > Work independently and organise and manage him/herself and his/her activities responsibly and effectively.
  • Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > An understanding of the use of scientific method in the acquisition of scientific knowledge.
    > Collect, organise, analyse and synthesise data effectively, on a continuous basis.
    > Plan and conduct basic research, using appropriate methods for the solving of problems.
    > Effectively select and apply knowledge in a professional context.
    > Communicate effectively in a form appropriate to the profession and discipline of underwater medicine.
    > Analyse, synthesise and evaluate a wide range of information.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > The ability to apply all this knowledge to identify and address new theoretical and practical problems.
    > Communicate effectively in written and spoken presentations; showing graphical, statistical and language skills and computer literacy.
    > Argue critically and convincingly.
    > Have successfully followed the presented study programme, worked independently on prescribed tasks and have participated fully in a research project within the ambit of the interests of the department, in which technical skills, the application of the scientific method and cooperation are fostered.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > An overview of recent, relevant and cutting-edge research in the field of underwater medicine.
    > Communicate effectively in written and spoken presentations; showing graphical, statistical and language skills and computer literacy.
    > Plan and conduct basic research, using appropriate methods for the solving of problems.
  • Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > View the world holistically, demonstrating knowledge and problem solving in a systematic context.
  • Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of society at large, by making it the underlying intention of any programme of learning to make an individual aware of the importance of.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > Analyse, synthesise and evaluate a wide range of information
    > Show evidence of self-development and an interest in the betterment of the community (effective learning strategies, responsible participation in life, exploration of educational and career opportunities, development of cultural and aesthetic sensitivity, application of knowledge and skills to benefit the community, development of entrepreneurial opportunities.).
  • Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > View the world holistically, demonstrating knowledge and problem solving in a systematic context.
    > Show evidence of self-development and an interest in the betterment of the community (effective learning strategies, responsible participation in life, exploration of educational and career opportunities, development of cultural and aesthetic sensitivity, application of knowledge and skills to benefit the community, development of entrepreneurial opportunities.).
  • Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > Show evidence of self-development and an interest in the betterment of the community (effective learning strategies, responsible participation in life, exploration of educational and career opportunities, development of cultural and aesthetic sensitivity, application of knowledge and skills to benefit the community, development of entrepreneurial opportunities.).
  • Exploring education and career opportunities.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > Show evidence of self-development and an interest in the betterment of the community (effective learning strategies, responsible participation in life, exploration of educational and career opportunities, development of cultural and aesthetic sensitivity, application of knowledge and skills to benefit the community, development of entrepreneurial opportunities.).
  • Developing entrepreunial opportunities.
    This is eveident in the following Exit Level Outcome(s):
    > Show evidence of self-development and an interest in the betterment of the community (effective learning strategies, responsible participation in life, exploration of educational and career opportunities, development of cultural and aesthetic sensitivity, application of knowledge and skills to benefit the community, development of 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome1:
  • The assessment used for this qualification ensures that the purpose of the qualification is achieved.
  • A range of formative and summative assessment methods such as literature reviews, journal article presentations, written and oral examinations are used.
  • The required range of modalities is used integratively to assess whether the specified outcomes have been achieved, i.e. successful completion of the products mentioned in (b) will indicate that the student has achieved the required standard.
  • From the assessment of samples to generalising to a domain takes place in a judicious and planned way in order to ensure reliability.
  • The assessment used meets the standard and level of achievement for NQF Level 7 (New NQF Level 8-PG1).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome2:
  • The supervisor evaluates the student on the basis of his/her efforts to work as part of a research team and to complete an independent research project.
  • A project write-up and oral presentation, as well as successful completion of written examinations, give the student the opportunity to display the other applicable abilities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome3:
  • A capacity for independent study via the satisfactory completion of papers and assignments (not to meet the criteria for publication, but showing potential for this).
  • The ability to think epistemologically, that is, to evaluate the foundations of thought and knowledge, accept relativity and the fact that some positions are more valid than others in a given frame of reference.
  • Professional working relationships within the profession or discipline.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome4:
  • Pass, with a minimum of 50%, earned in written examinations, technical skills evaluation, an oral evaluation and a satisfactory written presentation of their basic research, including an acceptable literature review.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Two written 3-hour closed book examination papers, each potentially covering the entire syllabus, but collectively demonstrating a reasonable balance between the different sections. Overall pass mark: 50% with a sub-minimum of 45% average mark for any individual paper. The format of the questions will include:
  • "Multiple choice"/"annotate the diagram"/sketch a diagram"/"fill in the missing words" style of questions.
  • Short answer questions.
  • Essay questions, answer all 4 questions (to demonstrate integrative skills).

    An oral examination of at least 30 minutes' duration. The pass-mark for this oral examination will be 50%.

    A clinical skills evaluation, based on diving associated medical emergencies.

    A research project completed to the satisfaction of the programme coordinator. The results of this project must be presented in a written format (not expected to meet the criteria for publication, but showing potential for this). 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Name of programme or Qualification; University where offered:
  • State-linked clinical fellowship programme; University of South Carolina School of Medicine/ Palmetto Health Alliance, Columbia, South Carolina.
  • State-linked clinical fellowship programme; University of California San Diego, Department of Emergency Medicine.
  • State-linked clinical fellowship programme; Louisiana State University, School of Medicine, New Orleans.
  • State-linked clinical fellowship programme; University of Pennsylvania, University of Pennsylvania Medical Centre, Department of Emergency Medicine, Institute for Environmental Medicine.

    Note:

    The fellowship programme offered in the USA is linked to the specific state. It is equivalent to the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA). (See curriculum examples of the above in the attachment) 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Articulation during the programme:
  • Modules of the BScMedScHons (Hyperbaric Medicine) will interlink with this programme. Candidates who whish to do both programmes will receive credits for modules already done.

    Articulation on completion:
  • Candidates will be able to advance to enrolment for a MScMedSc or a PhD in the field of Underwater Medicine. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The University of Stellenbosch has a system of external moderation of assessment as well as external peer review and evaluation of departments. One of the aspects of the system is an evaluation of the standards and assessment practices of the department.
  • A departmental post-graduate committee performs programme self-assessment on an ongoing basis.
  • The examination process will be moderated by an external examiner from the field of Underwater Medicine. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    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. Stellenbosch 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.