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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Philosophy in Reproductive Medicine 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94918  Master of Philosophy in Reproductive 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
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-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:
The purpose of this qualification is:
  • To ensure that the learner acquires a high level of theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills and experience in the field of Reproductive Medicine, via appropriate assimilation and analysis of new information, and acquire the ability to find workable solutions to problems and challenges, as well as gain practical application of knowledge accrued.
  • To prepare such learner for a career as Reproductive Medicine specialists.
  • To ensure that the learner acquires the necessary skills to identify key research opportunities, initiate well-structured research studies, complete such studies, and apply the results thereof.
  • To prepare the learner who aspires 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.
  • To contribute to the pool of academics and professionals with the competence and critical intellectual abilities to ensure advancement in the field of Reproductive Medicine and to make provision for the country's needs in a skilled scientific workforce of the highest calibre.
  • To prepare learner who can apply their skills to the task of answering the relevant questions and meeting the critical needs of the country.

    Rationale:
    The world-wide problem with infertility (two out of six married couples) has resulted appropriate training and research in this field be a priority. South Africa is no exception and the prevalence of infertility has now reached staggering proportions. Not only are skilled reproductive medicine specialists, providing patient care for a growing number of patients with infertility and endocrine problems required, but more clinical research on the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, risk factors, prevention and appropriate management of reproductive medicine has become a priority.

    This professional master's qualification addresses the need to properly train clinicians with a thorough understanding of and experience in clinical research in the field of reproductive medicine. Similar to all the subspecialty qualifications in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, learner will be qualified physicians. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    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 RPL process is subjected to the Faculty's quality assurance process. Unsuccessful applicants may appeal according to the relevant appeal procedures as stated in the Institution's General Calendar.

    The institution has an Assessment Policy and Recognition of Prior Learning (APRL) policy in place.

    Entry Requirements:
  • A specialist degree in Obstetrics and Gynaecology and registration as specialist Obstetrician Gynaecologist as well as hold a FCOG (SA) or equivalent Degree. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of 2 compulsory modules at NQF Level 9, totalling 180 Credits:
  • Master of Philosophy in Reproductive Medicine, 135 Credits.
  • Master of Philosophy in Reproductive Medicine, Module II (Research Assignment), 45 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Critically engage with the complex and interrelated challenges in the field of Reproductive Medicine and identify areas and gaps which could be addressed through critical thinking and appropriate research.
    2. Develop skills and experience in clinical reproductive medicine so as to assess patients clinically; request and interpret the necessary laboratory tests and interpret and/or perform the necessary special investigations and prescribe and/or perform the appropriate prophylactic and/or curative treatment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • A high level of theoretical knowledge is demonstrated and applied about common infertility and endocrinology problems (e.g. evaluation of the infertile couple, ovulation induction, different IVF-procedures, semen analysis and interpretation, principles of endoscopic surgery, amenorrhea, hirsuitism, premature ovarian failure, abnormal uterine bleeding, precociuous puberty).
  • Existing literature, clinical data, laboratory data, e.g. hysterosalpingogram (HSG), Ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries as well as MRI scans of the pituitary gland is critically assessed.
  • Problems are identified and solved in which responses display that responsible decisions have been made using critical and creative thinking.
  • Information is collected, analysed, organised and critically evaluated.
  • Logical, evidence-based conclusions from the data are drawn.
  • The results of the research are presented and defended in an acceptable scientific format.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community is demonstrated.
  • Communication in visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion are used effectively.
  • Science and technology is used effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  • Counselling is rendered to the patient during the termination of pregnancy.
  • The insertion of the IUCD and knowledge of the use of the intra-uterine progestagen systems is demonstrated.
  • Basic diagnostic laparoscopy and a level III in endoscopic surgery are performed.
  • In an endoscopic laboratory basic endoscopic skills are developed using box training and simulator training.
  • Under supervised performance, 40 or more diagnostic laparoscopic procedures, laparoscopic hysterectomy, laparoscopic Burch and laparoscopic myomectomy operative procedures are performed before unsupervised operating is carried out.
  • Oocyte aspirations and embryo transfers for IVF are planned, treatment is instituted, and is performed and clinical examination is documented.
  • How the laboratory runs and the quality control of this laboratory is understood.
  • In an andrology laboratory a basic semen analysis is carried out.
  • Basic endocrinological testing egcortrosyn stimulation, dexamethesone suppression are carried out.
  • The logbook containing a complete record of the cases attended to is recorded; the data to be recorded for each case is listed, two-thirds of the minimum requirements for each of the procedures are listed in the logbook.
  • Basic endocrinological testing egcortrosyn stimulation, dexamethesone suppression are conducted.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative assessments are performed on a continuous basis. This is done via the monitoring procedures and helps to identify specific weaknesses in the learner's knowledge before engaging in a formal assessment process.

    The summative assessment of a learner is performed by a process of formal internal and external examination of the two qualification modules.

    The summative assessment consists of a national written and oral examination conducted by the College of Medicine of South Africa. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is internationally comparable with:

    The Masters of Science (MSc) in Reproductive Medicine: Science and Ethics offered at the University of Kent in the United Kingdom has been designed for learners who wish to gain an advanced education and training within the context of a medical issue that affects 1 in 6 couples wishing to start a family.

    As the average age of parent's increases, the call for increasingly novel treatments to aid reproduction is similarly on the increase. In the UK around 1-2% of all babies are born through IVF. Reproductive medicine generally, and IVF in particular, is an area in which the UK is world-leading. Thus the MSc in Reproductive Medicine: Science and Ethics focuses on:
  • What is reproductive medicine?
  • Obstetrics, gynaecology and urology.
  • The science of andrology.
  • Managing abnormal pregnancy and premature birth.
  • Endocrinology and reproduction.
  • The causes of infertility.
  • Infertility and Genetics.
  • Genetics and Pregnancy.

    This qualification will aim to answer fundamental questions such as:
  • What is the scientific basis of development and infertility?

    The qualification provides training in the modern practical, academic and research skills that are used in academia and the clinic. Through a combination of lectures, small-group seminars and practical classes, you will apply this training and learn how it is applied towards the development of new therapies. The qualification culminates with an individual research project or dissertation on a specific aspect of reproductive medicine research that interests you most.

    Conclusion:
    The above mentioned qualification can be compared to Master of Philosophy in Reproductive Medicine because the purpose of both qualifications are similar, both qualifications aim to provide the learners with theoretical, practical and research skills that will enable them to practice medical reproductive medicine. The research will further add knowledge to the existing medical practices. The focus of both qualifications is on the IVF procedures, infertility and endoscopic surgery. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification will enable both horizontal and vertical articulation within the sub-framework:

    Horizontal:
  • Master of Science in Medical Science in Reproductive Biology at NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Reproductive Biology at NQF Level 9.

    Vertical:
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Reproductive Biology Reproductive Biology at NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Reproductive Biology at NQF Level 10. 
    		•

    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 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.