SAQA

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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Postgraduate Diploma in Chemical Pathology

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
87512	Postgraduate Diploma in Chemical Pathology
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
Postgraduate Diploma	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		EXCO 0733/25	2024-06-30	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 this qualification is to develop competent professionals capable of delivering specialised services in Chemical Pathology, addressing the current shortage of expertise in this critical field. The Diploma holder will be equipped to support academic and research activities and contribute meaningfully to the operations of a Chemical Pathology department under appropriate supervision.
Through the study of Chemical Pathology and practical applications, learners will acquire the following competencies:

Understanding of Biochemical Mechanisms and Interpretation of Laboratory Results

Apply Diagnostic Equipment, Skills, and Laboratory Techniques Proficiency

Quality Control and Assurance

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Research, Data collection, and Analysis

Ethical and Professional Conduct

Communication Skills, teamwork, and collaboration.

Develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking.

Effectively manage time, prioritise tasks, and work autonomously.

Leverage relevant communication tools, technologies, and software applications.

The purpose, design Exit Level Outcomes (ELO's) of this qualification are constructively aligned. This qualification develops the following graduate attributes and ensures that the Exit Level Outcomes (ELOs) listed below are developed, assessed and achieved:

Upon completion of the qualification, a qualifying learner will be able to:

Engage in reflective practices and explore diverse strategies to enhance learning effectiveness.

Actively participate as responsible citizens within local, national, and global communities.

Exhibit cultural and aesthetic sensitivity across a range of social contexts.

Contribute to the social and economic development of South African society.

Rationale:
There is a severe shortage of Chemical Pathology specialists, particularly in public institutions. This threatens the continuity and quality of both academic training and clinical diagnostics. The sector faces additional pressure as many institutions cannot replace ageing professionals, highlighting an urgent need for sustainable capacity development. This qualification is a strategic response to that need, ensuring South Africa remains competitive in an era of increasing global scientific and healthcare demands.

This qualification was developed in consultation with key stakeholders, including the National Department of Health, the Eastern Cape Department of Health, Health Professions Council South Africa

This qualification is designed to prepare learners for advanced study in Chemical Pathology, with the broader aim of addressing the critical shortage of specialists in South Africa, particularly within the public healthcare sector. It seeks to cultivate research potential and academic interest, especially among candidates from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, and to lay a strong foundation for an academic pathway for progression to a master's qualification in Chemical Pathology.

The qualification expands the pool of qualified researchers in the field by equipping learners with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills. These individuals will possess the intellectual rigour, research capacity, and clinical insight needed to advance research in the discipline, support academic and clinical services, and alleviate the country's demand for a highly skilled health science workforce.

The influence of this qualification on society and the economy is demonstrated through the diverse range of job roles and career paths it can generate within both the private and public sectors. The availability of internationally recognised certification guarantees global acceptance and enhances the breadth of employment opportunities available to graduates.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institution's RPL Policy is aligned with the national policies and criteria set by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and SAQA. The institution recognises that potential learners may have previous training or experience. RPL can be considered for access or advanced standing within this qualification in such situations.

RPL may therefore be used to ascertain competence for admission or access to this qualification and for module exemptions for advanced placement. Both admission status and module exemption may be granted through the RPL process.

Recognition of Prior Learning facilitates access to education, training, and career paths for those who may not have had the opportunities. Evidence of prior learning for admission status is assessed through formal RPL processes by approved institutional policy, which is aligned with national policies on the Recognition of Prior Learning. Learners submitting themselves for RPL will be thoroughly briefed before the assessment and must submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) in the prescribed format.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirements align with the qualification's admission requirements as stipulated by the HEQSF, the Higher Education Act, and institutional admission policy.
Entry Requirements:

Bachelor of Medical Sciences, NQF Level 7.
Or

Bachelor of Science (in Physiology or Biochemistry), NQF Level 7.
Or

Bachelor of Biotechnology or Biomedical Sciences, NQF Level 7.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework, Level 8 totalling 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits:

Research Methodology, Lab Management and Quality Control, 25 Credits

Electrolytes, Acid-Base and Renal Pathology, 20 Credits.

Nutrition, Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Pathology, 20 Credits.

Diagnostic Molecular Biology and Neoplasia,15 Credits.

Endocrinology and Central Nervous System Pathology, 25 Credits.

Cardiovascular Pathology and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring, 15 Credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Upon successful completion of this qualification, the graduate will be able to:
2. Integrate knowledge and critical understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts in Chemical Pathology, including the biochemical basis of health and disease.
3. Apply advanced knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, analytical methods, and quality assurance in the execution and evaluation of chemical pathology procedures.
4. Analyse and interpret biochemical test results in the context of disease pathophysiology, specifically emphasising conditions prevalent in rural and resource-limited settings.
5. Apply theoretical knowledge in practical and clinical laboratory contexts, demonstrating competence in handling samples, conducting relevant investigations, and adhering to laboratory best practices and safety standards.
6. Apply research methodologies and principles of research planning, including formulating a research question, designing a basic study, and interpreting scientific literature in the medical sciences.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 1

Apply fundamental biochemical concepts and mechanisms accurately and contextualise them within the field of Chemical Pathology.

Critically evaluate the relationships between biochemical markers and physiological or pathological processes.

Apply key terminology, diagnostic categories, and disease mechanisms appropriately in case-based assessments and written work.

Appraise technological advancements and their integration into diagnostic services in the field of Chemical Pathology.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 2

Evaluate methods and results of Quality Control and Quality Assurance processes.

Discuss the principles of commonly used laboratory instruments and analytical techniques.

Perform laboratory procedures following standard operating procedures and quality assur-ance protocols.

Evaluate laboratory results in terms of accuracy, reliability, and potential sources of error.

Perform calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting processes for relevant equipment.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

Correlate laboratory test results with underlying disease processes.

Propose differential diagnosis based on data interpretation and clinical context.

Evaluate case studies and scenarios involving rural health challenges with appropriate bio-chemical reasoning.

Discuss socioeconomic and epidemiological factors influencing disease presentation and test selection.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 4

Competently handle, process, and store laboratory specimens following ethical and safety guidelines.

Recommend relevant investigations to be conducted based on clinical need and scientific rationale.

Evaluate laboratory documentation, reporting, and record-keeping against ethical, legal, and professional standards relevant to the discipline.

Recommend solutions for real-world laboratory challenges using scientific knowledge and reflective practice.

Associated Assessment Criteria: for Exit Level Outcome 5

Conduct a literature review in the Chemical Pathology field using current technologies.

Critically evaluate scientific literature and defend relevant ideas for the advancement of Chemical Pathology science.

Design a research proposal, including appropriate methodology, sampling, and data collection plans.

Identify and apply research ethics and integrity principles to a research proposal.

Conduct the research project and complete a mini dissertation.

Integrated Assessment:
Assessment, both formative and summative, is structured to measure achievement of the exit level outcomes in an integrated way through a combination of formative and summative assessments. Assessments are designed to develop and test learners' ability to apply knowledge, analyse complex problems and demonstrate critical thinking. Each module will have a final mark resulting from continuous assessment of discussions, presentations, practical and written tests, and a final practical and written externalised exam.

Formative Assessment:
Formative assessment: Continuous laboratory exposure with integrated assessment through clinically related work, clinical case discussion, departmental and interdepartmental meetings, seminars, topic review, and journal club. This contributes 60% of the final mark for each module.

Summative Assessment:
Summative assessment: includes externalised written and practical exams at the end of each module. It contributes 40% of the final mark for each module.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Postgraduate Diploma in Chemical Pathology has been benchmarked against comparable qualifications offered by internationally recognised institutions. This was done to ensure relevance, quality and competitiveness. Two institutions were selected for comparison: the UK and Australia.

Qualification 1:
Country: United Kingdom
Institution: Trinity College Dublin
Duration: Two Years

Purpose/About the course: All learners, regardless of background, will gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of Clinical Biochemistry to an advanced level, including clinical and research aspects, with special attention to current developments in the discipline.

Similarities and Differences
Advanced Clinical Biochemistry Focus

Both qualifications aim to develop advanced expertise in clinical/chemical pathology or clinical chemistry and involve both theoretical learning and practical lab application.
Research Component

Trinity requires a research dissertation for the M.Sc. option (optional for the diploma only). Our qualification includes research methodology and planning at the exit outcome level.
Practical Laboratory Skills

Trinity's coursework includes modules, technique workshops, case logbooks, and practical assessments. Our qualification emphasises practical application and instrumentation skills.

Duration

Trinity's qualification is offered as a two-year part-time qualification, compared to ours, which is a one-year full-time qualification.

Qualification 2:
Country: Australia
Institution: University of Sydney (USYD)
Duration: One Year
About the course: Preparing you for a career in medical research. Explore the science behind the human body and the causes and treatments of disease, and build the foundation for a rewarding career improving the health of people and communities. It's a unique opportunity for you to explore your research potential and put the theory from your undergraduate studies into practice. An honours qualification is well regarded in academia and industry, where further concentrated studies in a specialised area are highly sought after.

Similarities and differences

Both deepen biochemical and medical science knowledge.

Both include a research component and practical lab experience.

Both serve as pathways to further qualifications.

USYD is heavily research-oriented with a dedicated project and thesis; our Diploma provides an overview of research planning without mandating a full research project.

USYD gears toward research and academia. In contrast, our Diploma balances clinical and diagnostic competence with academic knowledge.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Horizontal Articulation:

Bachelor of Medical Sciences, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Medical Clinical Practice, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Sciences in Health Promotion, NQF Level 8.

Bachelor of Medical Science Honours in Pharmacology, NQF Level 8.

Vertical Articulation:

Master of Science, NQF Level 9.

Master of Science in Chemical Pathology, NQF Level 9.

Diagonal Articulation:
Given the specialised nature of this qualification there are no diagonal articulation opportunities.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

REREGISTRATION HISTORY

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

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