Universities and Online Degrees Guide

Stellenbosch University

Bachelor of Science with Honours in Pathology

The Bachelor of Science with Honours in Pathology in Health Professions is offered by Stellenbosch University.

Program Length: 1 YEAR.

Bachelor of Science with Honours in Pathology offered by the Stellenbosch University at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Programme outcomesOn completion of this programme, you will demonstrate skills in:

• the identification and solving of problems;
• the efficient and responsible application of scientific methods and technology;
• the efficient collection, organisation, analysis, evaluation, integration and application of information;
• competent and efficient personal organisation and self-management;
• personal self-development, with an emphasis on insight, responsibility, accountability, continued learning, self-criticism, acceptance of criticism from others, and the ability to work independently;
• the ability to work as part of a team and to add value to the group as a whole by way of constructive cooperation;
• effective communication through the competent presentation of information;
• development of a holistic approach to problem solving within the context of respect and sensitivity towards other people, the community and the environment;
• imparting understanding of the importance of health sciences in general, and laboratory medicine in particular, to the community through the communication of information and results and the transfer of relevant technology; and
• awareness of the opportunities, challenges, needs, requirements and ethical principles that apply to research and good laboratory practice in the health sciences profession.

In addition, you must have:

• a sound knowledge of the theoretical principles applicable to the subject matter of the compulsory and relevant choice module in pathology;
• the ability to work independently on assignments and research projects;
• the ability to critically evaluate and utilise information to solve problems effectively by means of appropriate methods with regard to the pathology discipline(s) concerned;
• the ability to apply technical skills and scientific methods, and to use relevant equipment to conduct research that adheres to the applicable legal, safety and bioethical requirements; and
• the ability to design a research project independently, to perform such a project within a group, to present the results and conclusions in an appropriate scientific format and to accept responsibility for them.

Compulsory modules

Laboratory Practice (3)

Epidemiology and Research Methodology (10)

Introduction to Molecular Pathology (17)

Pathology Research Project (60)

Elective modules

Choose one of the following modules.

Anatomical Pathology (30)

Chemical Pathology (30)

Haematology (30)

Immunology (30)

Assessment and examination

• The final mark is determined by the weighted average of the marks for the components that are assessed.
• You obtain a subminimum of 50% for each of the following assessment components:
  • Compulsory modules
    • evaluation of practical skills
    • a log-book on the learning activities and skills mastered, including a summary of the laboratory log-book
    • a combination of class tests, assignments and reports where applicable
  • Pathology research project
    • successful completion of the research project
    • a written report and oral presentation on completion of the research project
  • Elective module
    • a three-hour written examination
• You need a final mark of 50% to obtain the degree and a mark of 75% or higher to pass the degree with a distinction.