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BACHELOR OF HEALTH SCIENCES IN MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCES: (B9B01Q)

  • Programme Duration: Full-time: Minimum 4 years and Maximum 6 years
  • NQF Level 8
  • 480 Credits

Purpose

The purpose of the Bachelor of Health Sciences in the Medical Laboratory Sciences programme is to produce graduates competent to apply theoretical and practical fundamental knowledge and skills in the fields of medical science and research. The programme provides extensive theoretical knowledge and practical training about various related modules and experiential training. The outcome of these combined offerings results in the achievement of purpose of the qualification as stipulated in the curricula. This qualification leads to registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.

Outcomes

1. Laboratory operations in clinical diagnostic laboratories and related fields are performed in compliance with statutory requirements for ethics, safety and quality assurance and with accuracy and precision. Specified laboratory equipment is maintained and used according to SOPs.
2. Laboratory results are interpreted correctly and integration of laboratory tests with pathophysiological conditions (Pathology) in a specific field of specialisation in accordance with statutory and operations requirements is achieved.
3. Supervisory, management and research skills are developed.
4. Critical evaluation of current and new trends in technology to improve practices and to solve problems in a variety of contexts is developed.
5. Evaluation of new information, concepts and evidence from a range of sources and the academic skills, values and attributes necessary to undertake independent research in the field of Medical Laboratory Sciences, in compliance with legislated and ethical research principles are acquired.
6. Management and entrepreneurial skills in the context of Medical Laboratory Sciences are applied.
7. Work behaviour is satisfactory with regard to time keeping, following of instructions, professional behaviour etc.

Rules of access and admission requirements

A Senior Certificate with Matriculation exemption, or an equivalent qualification at an equivalent standard as determined by a Status Committee, with the following compulsory subjects:

1. Biology with at least a Higher Grade C or Standard Grade B symbol.
2. Physical Science with at least a Higher Grade D or Standard Grade C symbol.
3. Mathematics with at least a Higher Grade D or Standard Grade C symbol.
4. English with at least a Higher Grade C or Standard Grade B symbol.

  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) – APS Score with minimum requirements as shown below: (Exclude Life Orientation when calculating APS)
    Minimum APS: 30
    Language of teaching and Learning: (English): 5
    Mathematics: 4
    Mathematical Literacy: Not Accepted
    Physical Sciences: 4
    Life Sciences: 5

Selection Criteria

Selection is based on academic merit, and an interview (if required).

Pass Requirements

1. Students are promoted to a subsequent semester of study if they have met the prerequisites.
2. Students retain credit for all modules passed.
3. Students may not register for module combinations that lead to timetable or examination clashes.
4. Students may not do Integrative Medical Laboratory Sciences III (Work Integrated Learning) until they have passed all first semester 3rd year modules.
5. Students are promoted to the second semester if they have passed at least 2 of the prescribed modules.
6. Students must pass at least 60% of the 1st year modules, including HAPDBY1 in order to qualify for readmission.