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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Master of Science: Infection Prevention and Control

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
90659	Master of Science: Infection Prevention and Control
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
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
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:
This Master of Science: Infection Prevention and Control (MSc: IPC) is aimed at:

Ensuring a high level of knowledge in the field of Infection Prevention and Control via high level of analysis of new information, the ability to deal with complexity and to find workable solutions to problems and challenges.

Preparing learners who aspire to move to a higher level of academic research work for Doctoral Studies and to promote an approach based on academic integrity and professional ethics.

Contributing to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure advancement in the field of Infection Prevention and Control and to make provision for the country's needs in a skilled scientific workforce of the highest calibre.

Preparing learners who can apply their skills to the task of answering the relevant questions and meeting the critical needs of the country.

Educating and training individuals who are able independently to perform research and who can contribute to the development of knowledge in this field of study at an advanced level.

The purpose and outcomes of the qualification will be accomplished by means of the curriculum, as learners are adequately supervised, guided and assisted by suitably qualified professionals.

Rationale:
The field of Infection Prevention and Control is an emerging discipline in South Africa. There is a great deal of research that needs to be done in this field of Science, but there is also a lack of individuals who can perform such research, especially in Africa. This programme will provide the means by which high-level researchers in this field are developed. This is not only a local need, but has been identified internationally as a priority for this field of Medicine.

The existing Postgraduate Diploma in Infection Prevention and Control (PDIC) has successfully trained a number of local and international healthcare professionals in the past few years. Master qualifications similar to this one are offered internationally to train healthcare professionals in this highly technical field of study. This qualification would thus ensure that such competencies can be developed locally. A like qualification is not currently offered at any of the other universities in South Africa.

Research that is specific to the South African and greater African populations is needed. Collaborative research is being developed with The Netherlands and Belgium as well as Berkeley University in the United States of America. The latter institution focuses on community engagement for healthcare.

There is a need to develop the local capacity of researchers specifically in this field of science, which is intended through MSc IPC.

The qualification makes provision for learners with specific learning support requirements. Such learners will be identified for extra tutorials, devoted personal attention, relevant support in learning and writing skills and in computer literacy.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

It is assumed that learners have achieved the knowledge and skills associated with a NQF Level 8 qualification.

Recognition of Prior Learning:
The MSc IPC conforms to the University's and Faculty of Health Sciences Policy for the Assessment and Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL).

The policy defines the process that must be followed in the assessment of an application for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) at postgraduate level and provides information pertaining to assessment tools that can be used in the assessment of RPL applications. The APRL process is subjected to the Faculty's quality assurance process. Unsuccessful applicants may appeal according to the relevant appeal procedures as stated in the University's General Calendar Part 1.

Access to the Qualification:
Learners must be in possession of relevant qualifications at NQF Level 8, such as:

Bachelor Honours Degree.
Or

Postgraduate Diploma in Infection Prevention and Control.
Or

Any other qualification approved for such purposes by Senate.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

The qualification consists of one compulsory thesis-based module at NQF Level 9, worth 180 credits.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Demonstrate advanced application of concepts, ethics, theories and analytical processes in relation to the chosen focus of Infection Prevention and Control.
2. Identify and solve complex problems through critical and innovative thinking, responsible and independent decision-making, and application of basic and advanced scientific methods.
3. Manage the collection, organisation, analysis, evaluation, integration and application of information from various sources, including advanced databases, in order to produce a report from a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies in the field of Infection Prevention and Control.
4. Access, analyse, organise and critically evaluate existing knowledge.
5. Demonstrate in-depth understanding of own position in relation to major debates within the Infection Prevention and Control field.
6. Critically analyse and evaluate the outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies or processes in the chosen field.
7. Utilise science and technology effectively in order to collect and present information relating to Infection Prevention and Control.

Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
After completion of the course the student will be able to:

Independently design a research project, obtain ethical approval and funding, perform such a project, present the results and conclusions in a scientific format, and accept the responsibility and accountability for the performed work within the context of the IPC.

Apply knowledge of the theoretical aspects of the subject matter systematically as defined for a selected research project.

Work independently on assignments and research projects, which require the appropriate theoretical and practical skills.

Critically evaluate and utilise a wide range of basic and complex information to solve problems effectively using appropriate methods that are relevant to infection prevention and control and to communicate knowledge, findings and potential implications to other people.

Independently apply basic and advanced technical skills and scientific methods using relevant instruments and equipment to conduct sound research that conforms to the relevant legal, safety and bioethical requirements that apply to good practice in the Health Sciences.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 1:

A clear understanding of the context (including policy, legislation and global issues), appropriate concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in the Infection Prevention and Control field are reflected through discussions.

Presentations reflect the appropriate application of the relevant concepts, methods, ethics, theories and analytical processes in the stated field.

Critical analyses and a degree of intellectual independence are displayed through written work on Infection Prevention and Control.

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 2:

Analyses of the problems and issues reflect a purposeful and critical application of advanced theory, current knowledge and expertise in the field of Infection Prevention and Control.

Interventions and/or recommendations are reflected through purposeful and creative plans to seek solutions based on theory and proven methods in the stated field.

Discussions and/or interventions are reflected through advanced application of appropriate skills, strategies and techniques in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions in the stated field.

Research and/or interventions include the appropriate and creative use of tools and/or data relevant to the Infection Prevention and Control field.

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 3:

The research inquiry is planned and conducted on the basis of a range of appropriate research designs, methods, techniques and technologies for the specific research problem.

Research themes are appropriately identified and demarcated.

Analyses of the research theme include a comprehensive and critical review of current literature and investigations.

A clear understanding of relevant research theory and practice is demonstrated through selected research methods, techniques and technologies.

Theoretical arguments, the research process, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations are critically outlined through research reports.

Key findings, justifiable conclusions and feasible recommendations are displayed though research reports.

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 4:

Current literature and research on Infection Prevention and Control are accessed, analysed, organised and evaluated systematically.

Clear evidence of effective application of the principles of research practice in Infection Prevention and Control is demonstrated through evaluations.

Conclusions and recommendations are justified by the use of appropriate evidence and arguments.

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 5:

Motivations of own position to specific debates are based on sound integration of relevant theory, practice, research and independent, creative thinking.

Resources and insights from academic and professional discourses are utilised in order to communicate and defend substantial ideas.

Understanding of one's own position and its feasibility in relation to major debates is demonstrated through discussions.

Explanations of one's position are clearly and coherently communicated through written and oral formats.

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 6:

Evaluations comprehensively describe outcomes of interventions, techniques, strategies or processes in relation to the stated goals and in accordance with corresponding theoretical assumptions.

Evaluations critically analyse outcomes in accordance with the identified needs and issues within the chosen focus area.

Evaluations are purposefully used as the basis for planning, implementing and making recommendations.

Assessment Criteria for Exit-Level Outcome 7:

Basic and advanced technical skills and scientific methods using relevant instruments and equipment to conduct sound research that conforms to the relevant legal, safety and bioethical requirements that apply to good practice in the Health Sciences are applied.

Effective communication is used through competent presentation of information and data by means of oral, audiovisual and written skills and by demonstrating appropriate graphical, statistical, linguistic and computer proficiency at a high level.

Integrated Assessment:
The learners have to complete one research project at the appropriate level - to the satisfaction of the Programme Committee.

Formative assessments are performed on a monthly basis. This is done via the monitoring procedures for the qualification.

Monitoring of learning in the programme is performed via a monthly discussion between the Programme Committee, supervisor and each individual learner, where the following issues are discussed:

Objectives for the period under review.

Candidate's self-assessment of the learning experience.

Supervisor's assessment of the learning experience.

Progress with research project.

Head of Division's comments.

Candidate's activity plan for the next month.

This process helps to identify specific weaknesses in the learner's knowledge before engaging in a formal assessment process.

The summative assessment is performed by a process of formal internal and external evaluation of the research project.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The Oxford Brookes University in England offers a Master of Science in Infection Prevention and Control. This qualification seeks to assist in the development of informed practitioners who will have a much greater understanding of complexity of infection prevention and control. Furthermore, practitioners will have the opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of the legal and ethical aspects of the public health practice.

The qualification is offered as follows:

Compulsory Modules:

Introduction to Microbiology and Immunology, 20 credits at Masters Level.

Epidemiology, 20 credits at Masters Level.

Infection Prevention and Control, 20 credits at Masters Level.

Communicable Diseases and Public Health, 20 credits at Masters Level.

Advanced Research Design 20 credits at Masters Level.

Research Module:

Dissertation for Infection Prevention and Control 60 credits at Masters Level.

The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry, Plymouth, England, offers a Master of Science in Infection Prevention and Control.

The qualification comprises the following modules:

Compulsory Modules:

Core Principles of Infection and Control, 30 Credits.

Translation of Infection Prevention and Control into Practice, 30 Credits.

Research dissertation, 60 Credits.

The Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam,Tanzania, offers a Master of Science in Disease Control and Prevention. The M.Sc. has two main components: a formal instruction (classroom-based) component and a practical (field-based) component. Learners spend about 25% (about 4 months) in the classroom in Dar es Salaam and 75% (about 20 months) in the field, where they are assigned to various sections in the Tanzania Ministry of Health and Social Welfare or other institutions. Learners frequently travel to all parts of Tanzania to conduct disease investigations, surveillance evaluations, surveys, and applied research on national health problems.

Upon the successful completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:

Apply principles of epidemiology to environmental risk assessment.

Develop a comprehensive infection prevention and control programme.

Create infection prevention and control guidelines.

Design a surveillance system.

Analyse and interpret infection control data.

The two-year Master of Science qualification offers two tracks: a track in Applied Epidemiology and a track in Epidemiology and Laboratory Management. The field epidemiology component is similar to programmes that have been established in over 25 other countries and modelled after the United States of America's Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) two-year Epidemic Intelligence Service training programme. The laboratory management component is based on CDC's Emerging Infections Program, which is a one-year applied laboratory training programme.

Conclusion:

In terms of the required research component and theoretical knowledge (and practical skills - where applicable) this MSc IPC meets international standards in terms of the requirements for a Master's Degree.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Horizontal articulation:

This qualification articulates horizontally with a Master of Science in Epidemiology at NQF Level 9.

Vertical articulation:

This qualification articulates vertically with a relevant Doctoral Degree at NQF Level 10.

MODERATION OPTIONS

External moderation of research projects and examinations plays a pivotal role in quality assurance, as well as ensuring that knowledge generated through research in Infection Prevention and Control is applicable to a wider community, taking into account regional differences and latest trends.

Two independent examiners, one of whom should be an external examiner, are appointed by the Head of Discipline in consultation with the supervisor and the Programme Committee.

The assignment, together with a copy of the guidelines for assessment and a copy of the standard (pro forma) report form, must be submitted by the Head of Discipline (and not the supervisor) to the examiners for assessment. The examiners must return the completed standard report form to the Head of Discipline together with a more detailed report, if considered necessary.

The written reports of the examiners, together with covering comment, must be submitted by the Head of Discipline via the Executive Head of Department to the Assistant Registrar (Tygerberg Campus) for further handling.

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

The assessors must be:

An experienced tutor with relevant experience in the particular module or medical field.

In possession of a similar qualification or from the same family of qualifications, at or above the NQF level of this qualification.

REREGISTRATION HISTORY

As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 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