Universities and Online Degrees Guide

Stellenbosch University

Master of Philosophy in Cancer Science

The Master of Philosophy in Cancer Science in Health Professions is offered by Stellenbosch University.

Program Length: 4 YEARS.

Master of Philosophy in Cancer Science offered by Stellenbosch University at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

The MPhil in Cancer Science is an interdisciplinary programme focused on providing an indepth understanding of cancer from a molecular, environmental, public health and treatment perspective. It is aimed at students wanting to broaden their understanding of the complexities concerning cancer, and pursue cancer or cancer-related research with the aim of reducing its burden on humanity. The programme is intended to deliver theoretical and practical insights needed to address the increasing incidence of cancer and provide a pathway for postgraduate students who wish to pursue a cancer research career with a view to making an impact on the disease incidence and mortality. The hallmarks of cancer are extremely complex and given the depth of research that is required, this programme will mould a skill set designed to advance current knowledge about this disease and tackle key problem areas through research.

Modules are offered using face-to-face contact sessions (lectures, tutorials, and site visits where appropriate) and independent study. Most modules consist of 50% contact time and 50% independent study (unless otherwise specified).

Programme content

The programme consists of modules with a total of 120 credits and a research assignment of 60 credits. All modules are compulsory.

First year

Principles of Cancer Therapy (12)

Biostatistics I (12)

Biostatistics II (12)

Infections and Cancer (12)

Cancer Epidemiology (12)

Introduction to Health Systems and Public Health (12)

Molecular Basis of Cancer and Tumour Physiology (12)

Qualitative Research Methods (12)

Research Proposal Writing and Grantsmanship (12)

Nutrition and Cancer (12)

 

Second year

Assignment (Cancer Science) (60)

Assessment and examination
Modules

• Formative and summative assessment of modules (120 credits) will be conducted by means of written examinations, oral presentations, written assignments and participation in discussions. Formative assessments contribute 50% and summative assessments 50% to the module mark.
• You must obtain a subminimum of 45% for formative as well as summative assessments, and an overall pass mark of 50% for each module.
• If you fail a module, you may be denied the right to reregister for the programme.
• You must participate successfully and integrate knowledge in projects, reports and assignments.
• Strict deadlines for assignments are enforced. If you submit an assignment after the due date and time, it will not be assessed. University guidelines relating to misconduct and dishonesty will apply.

Research assignment

• You must submit a satisfactory assignment demonstrating your ability to conduct an independent scientific investigation, interpret the results and draw conclusions from the results. The assignment is assessed according to the guidelines of the University.
• You must submit the research assignment in the form of an article ready for publication. The assignment will be assessed by internal as well as external examiners.