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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Biomedical Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
96758  Diploma in Biomedical Technology 
ORIGINATOR
Central University of Technology, Free State 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Promotive Health and Developmental Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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   2033-06-30  

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 Diploma Biomedical Technology aims to develop competent professionals with extensive theoretical knowledge and be able to apply practical skills of laboratory diagnostics and analysis in the workplace. The qualification will enable the learner to integrate and use their skills learned in the medical laboratory and work independently and in a supervisory capacity within the healthcare team. It will also enable the learner to competently integrate theory, principles, proven techniques, practical experience and appropriate skills to the solution of well-defined and abstract problems in the field of Biomedical Technology. The learner will be able to become a reflective practitioner and a life-long learner in his or her profession. The learner will be able to perform routine and specialised techniques, apply quality assurance, manage resources and do research with skill and excellence.

Rationale:
Biomedical Technologists form an integral part of the diagnostic process of inpatient care. There is a need for professionals to assist with the patient clinical service provision through the laboratory processing and analysing of human tissue and blood samples in a variety of specialisation fields.

The learner will be able to perform and organise laboratory operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields in compliance with statutory requirements for ethics, safety and quality assurance. Supervisory, development of management and research skills. The learner will complete a three-year Diploma under the auspices of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). For the final qualification as a registered Medical Technologist (with HPCSA), learners will complete an internship programme in an accredited medical training laboratory and write a board examination under the auspices of The Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists (SMLTSA).

Learners also have the option to work as medical representatives for pharmaceutical companies; work in a research laboratory and data analysing for clinical trials. After registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), they may work in government, private and research health care laboratories. To practice independently as a Medical Technologist, the learner must have two years, post-registration experience. Unregistered Biomedical Technologists may work in non-diagnostic laboratories.

The learning pathway in which this qualification resides is a blended learning and problem-based approach with a significant emphasis on practical application. This profession benefits society and the economy through the development of highly skilled professionals in this field who can work in a certified laboratory or have the option to practice independently in their laboratory under the guidance of the SMTSA and HPCSA. The latter will result in innovation and job creation. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The institutions' has the policy to facilitate access to public higher education. Especially for persons who are disadvantaged in terms of access to public higher education, by recognising the prior learning achievements of individuals, irrespective of how these were acquired. In upholding this commitment, the institution's intention with this Policy is not to accredit previous learning achievements, but rather to provide learners with due recognition in determining access.

Learners wishing to gain access to the institution through RPL must present themselves for consideration, along with all credible evidence of learning achievements. The institution is only responsible for encouraging and supporting such applications.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate (Vocational), NQF Level 4, granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate without endorsement.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate or Advanced Certificate in a related field. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Levels 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 180 Credits:
  • Anatomy & Physiology I, 12 Credits.
  • Introduction to Medical Technology, 10 Credits.
  • Chemistry I, 12 Credits.
  • Physics I, 12 Credits.
  • Calculations & Statistics, 12 Credits.
  • English Proficiency, 8 Credits.
  • Pathophysiology I, 12 Credits.
  • Biochemistry I, 12 Credits.
  • Immunology I, 12 Credits.
  • Computer Skills I, 6 Credits.
  • Microbiology I, 15 Credits.
  • Blood Transfusion Technology, 15 Credits.
  • Chemical Pathology I,15 Credits.
  • Cellular Pathology I,15 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6, 180 Credits:
  • Microbiology II, 15 Credits.
  • Haematology II, 15 Credits.
  • Chemical Pathology II, 15 Credits.
  • Cellular Pathology II,15 Credits.
  • Microbiology III, 15 Credits.
  • Chemical Pathology III, 15 Credits.
  • Haematology III, 15 Credits.
  • Cellular Pathology III, 15 Credits.
  • Work-integrated Learning, 60 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Select and perform routine specialised clinical diagnostic techniques in specified disciplines per statutory requirements. Through the application of knowledge of principles of methods and instruments, physiological and pathophysiological conditions in the place of study, workplace or both.
    2. Perform and monitor Quality Assurance procedures within predetermined limits.
    3. Manage resources efficiently and effectively.
    4. Participate in research in Medical Technology in compliance with ethical research. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Assess specimens for suitability for tests requested.
  • Routine and specified specialised media, stains, solutions and prepare reagents according to SOPs.
  • Analyse specimens using appropriate SOPs and Quality Control procedures.
  • Analyse principles, methods and application of different SOPs are correct.
  • Record and compare results with established reference ranges and appropriate control specimens.
  • Demonstrate accurate data capturing and retrieval skills electronically and manually
  • Evaluate laboratory results through correlation of data in the context of the principles, techniques and instrument.
  • Recognise factors that affect procedures and test results and take appropriate action.
  • Evaluate laboratory results through correlation of data with physiological and pathological conditions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain the principles of Quality Assurance and apply in the context of the tests performed.
  • Evaluate and interpret quality control results and Quality Assurance data and take appropriate action.
  • Assess, review and update SOPs where necessary.
  • Monitor instruments for efficient functioning and take proper action when necessary.
  • Perform corrective and preventive maintenance of equipment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Explain, draw up and implement a budget for the laboratory.
  • Describe and enforce relevant legislation.
  • Develop and apply appropriate training qualifications for staff and Continuing Professional Development qualifications.
  • Demonstrate selection, recruitment and interview techniques.
  • Apply mechanisms for stock control.
  • Evaluate the economic viability of instruments and methods.
  • Effective utilisation of laboratory space is demonstrated, taking into account physical constraints, safety, personnel equipment and the provision of service.


    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify and investigate changes in methodology and disease profiles in clinical diagnostic laboratories.
  • Select appropriate information from relevant sources.
  • Collate, analyse and synthesise and present information coherently and scientifically, including statistical and graphical methods.
  • Access, organise and present information using appropriate Information Technology.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative Assessment:
  • Assignments.
  • Written tests.
  • Work schedule evaluations.
  • Projects in teams.
  • Reports on tasks and projects.

    Summative Assessment:
  • Workplace evaluation by supervisors.
  • Project reports.
  • Oral presentations.
  • Interviews.
  • Written and practical examinations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification relates to the BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology, offered by the School of Allied Health Sciences, Manipal. The qualification aims to provide efficient and balanced training in laboratory medicine.
    Given the focus on healthcare and the demand for allied health professionals, career opportunities for clinical lab professionals are expected to grow faster than the average of all other occupations. The course consists of three years of the academic program plus one year of Internship. The electives of this qualification include Haematology, Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Histopathology, Cytology, Blood transfusion.

    This qualification also relates to the Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science at the Queensland University of Technology in Australia. It is a 4-year qualification at 384 credits. It has similar learning content, teaching methods and Work-integrated Learning (WIL) components. Learners will go beyond one specific area and incorporate advanced knowledge in all areas of clinical pathology. Their study will focus on the fundamental concepts that underpin medical laboratory science before advancing to more specialised concepts and techniques. Learners will be introduced to the local, national and global profession and its role in the Australian healthcare system, health and understand how this relates to laboratory operations, and Quality Assurance systems. During practical classes in the laboratories, learners will learn the latest techniques used in industry, allowing them to develop their skills to a professional standard. An essential part of the qualification is the 12-week work-integrated learning internship. The internship will enable learners to apply their learning, network with and be mentored by, practising medical scientists and clinical researchers. Qualifying learners of this qualification can choose to work across all areas (multidisciplined), specialise in an area of particular interest or complete postgraduate studies for a career in research. QUT qualifying learners are currently researching in cancer biology, malaria, eye disease, stem cell therapies, transfusion science and infectious disease. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Food Technology, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Biomedical Technology, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor in Biomedical Technology, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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. Central University of Technology, Free State 


    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.