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SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Rheumatology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
122311  Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Rheumatology 
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  EXCO 0724/24  2024-06-04  2027-06-04 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-04   2031-06-04  

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.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Rheumatology is to train specialist paediatricians to be competent in the management of the sub-speciality of Paediatric Rheumatic Diseases. The qualification will provide clearly defined standards of paediatric rheumatology practice in terms of knowledge, skills, and capabilities at an advanced level of achievement. Learners will be provided with skills knowledge and capabilities to use a wide range of appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including joint and soft tissue injection and aspiration, and synovial fluid examination.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate specialist knowledge of the epidemiology and socio-economic impact of paediatric rheumatic disorders to enable engagement with and critique of current research or practice.
  • Illustrate a command of basic and applied medical sciences relevant to paediatric rheumatic disorders, including morbid anatomy, pathophysiology, chemical pathology, immunology, and microbiology.
  • Apply a wide range of specialised skills in the classification, clinical features, laboratory findings, pathophysiology, physical, and psychosocial impact of rheumatic disorders.
  • Apply appropriate research techniques, statistical methods, and critical evaluation of the medical literature.
  • Promote research in rheumatology by supporting or participating in research activities.
  • Contribute to the education of colleagues, junior medical officers, learners, other healthcare workers, and the public.

    Rationale:
    This qualification is aligned to the College of Medicine of South Africa's requirements to be registered by the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a registered paediatric rheumatologist. The College of Medicine of South Africa provides a clear indication of the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for skilled learners in this field. It is expected that South African paediatric rheumatologists will practice their skills and apply their expertise within the framework of a specialised tertiary care unit, division, department, hospital, outpatient departments and outreach clinics. Furthermore, such specialists will commit to train general paediatricians, paediatricians with an interest in paediatric rheumatology, paediatric rheumatologist trainees and specialist paediatric rheumatologists.

    This qualification aims to promote clearly defined standards of paediatric rheumatology practice in terms of knowledge, skills, and capabilities at an advanced level of achievement and foster the development of a South African network of competent tertiary care centres in paediatric rheumatology. This qualification will provide learners with skills and knowledge to improve the care of children and adolescents within Southern Africa with chronic as well as acute rheumatic disorders. The qualification will enhance the African contribution to international scientific progress in the field of paediatric rheumatology, with special emphasis on disease patterns relevant to practice in developing countries.

    This qualification is aligned with the College of Medicine of South Africa's requirements to be registered by the Health Professions Council of South Africa as a registered paediatric rheumatologist.

    This qualification aims to address the need to properly train clinicians with a thorough understanding of and experience in clinical research in the field of paediatric rheumatology. Similar to all the subspecialty qualifications in paediatrics, learners will be qualified paediatricians who have obtained their MMed (Paed) or FC Paed (SA) degrees. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    The institution has an approved Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy applicable to equivalent qualifications for admission into the qualification. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify. RPL thus provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Bachelor of Medical Science Honours, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, NQF Level 8.
    And
  • Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 8 totalling 180 Credits.

    Compulsory modules, Level 8, 180 Credits:
  • Paediatric Rheumatology Research Project, 45 Credits.
  • Clinical Paediatric Rheumatology, 135 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Critically appraise paediatric rheumatic disorders' epidemiology and socio-economic impact, enabling them to deconstruct and defend current research and practice within the field.
    2. Master and deploy advanced knowledge of basic and applied medical sciences relevant to paediatric rheumatology, including morbid anatomy, pathophysiology, chemical pathology, immunology, and microbiology, for complex clinical analysis and problem-solving.
    3. Strategically select and apply specialised skills to independently evaluate, diagnose, and manage the classification, clinical features, laboratory findings, pathophysiology, and physical and psychosocial impact of rheumatic disorders in children.
    4. Design and justify comprehensive, holistic assessment and management plans for children with rheumatic disorders, incorporating cognitive, behavioural, and bio-psychosocial components, demonstrating sound clinical judgment.
    5. Independently prescribe and critically evaluate pharmacotherapy for rheumatic disorders, including analgesic, steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, conventional and biologic disease-modifying and immunosuppressive drugs, accounting for potential adverse effects and implementing appropriate toxicity monitoring procedures.
    6. Execute with precision and competence a wide range of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including joint and soft tissue injection, aspiration, and synovial fluid examination, demonstrating mastery of technical skills and sound clinical decision-making.
    7. Conduct original research utilizing appropriate techniques and advanced statistical methods, and critically analyse and interpret the medical literature relevant to paediatric rheumatology, drawing independent conclusions and proposing future research directions.
    8. Champion and contribute to research advancements in rheumatology through active participation in innovative and impactful research projects or by providing expert support and collaboration.
    9. Disseminate knowledge by educating colleagues, junior medical officers, students, other healthcare workers, and the public on paediatric rheumatology and related topics, tailoring content and delivery to diverse audiences and demonstrating practical communication skills.
    10. Remain at the forefront of the field by pursuing continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities and actively engaging in quality assurance initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Accurately analyse and correctly interpret research data on the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors of specific rheumatic disorders in children.
  • Develop and justify written and oral arguments that critically evaluate the impact of rheumatic disorders on individual patients, families, and healthcare systems, considering economic, social, and psychological factors.
  • Accurately compare and efficiently contrast different research methodologies used to study paediatric rheumatic disorders' epidemiology and socio-economic impact.
  • Correctly identify strengths and weaknesses of existing research and propose avenues for future research directions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Correctly and accurately explain the mechanisms and presentations of specific paediatric rheumatic disorders by correctly applying advanced knowledge of relevant medical sciences (morbid anatomy, pathophysiology, etc.).
  • Accurately differentiate between different types of rheumatic disorders based on clinical features (symptoms and signs), laboratory findings, and imaging studies.
  • Propose appropriate treatment plans based on a sound understanding of disease pathophysiology and pharmacological mechanisms of action.
  • Critically evaluate new scientific developments and their potential impact on diagnosing and managing pediatric rheumatic disorders.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Independently assess patients with suspected rheumatic disorders, incorporating detailed history, physical examination, and relevant investigations (routine and specialised tests) accurately and thoroughly.
  • Formulate accurate differential diagnoses considering various clinical presentations and underlying pathophysiology.
  • Apply a range of specialised skills like joint aspiration, synovial fluid analysis, and interpretation of imaging studies to confirm diagnosis and monitor disease activity.
  • Select and implement appropriate management strategies for different types of paediatric rheumatic disorders, tailoring options to individual patient needs.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Develop appropriate holistic assessment and management plans that address the physical, cognitive, behavioural, and psychosocial aspects of each patient's condition.
  • Collaborate effectively and respectfully with other multi-disciplinary healthcare team professionals (physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, dieticians, ophthalmologists, psychologists, etc.) to provide integrated holistic care.
  • Justify treatment decisions by considering evidence-based guidelines, individual patient characteristics, and potential risks and benefits, both verbally and in written form.
  • Accurately monitor and appropriately adapt care plans based on clinical response and evolving patient needs.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Accurately and correctly discuss the pharmacology, indications, and potential adverse effects of different medications used in paediatric rheumatology with various audiences, including fellow medical practitioners and guardians of patients.
  • Correctly prescribe medications independently, considering individual patient factors and potential interactions.
  • Accurately monitor patients for medication side effects and adjust dosages or switch medications as needed.
  • Understand the impact of medication on the growing child and adolescent: growth and development, tailor in the need family planning counselling and appropriate use of contraceptives, acknowledge the risk of teratogenicity in unplanned pregnancies and acquire fertility preservation knowledge.
  • Critically evaluate new drug efficacy and safety research, applying findings to inform evidence-based prescribing practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Accurately perform a range of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic procedures (joint injections, aspirations with accuracy, safety, and adherence to sterile technique.
  • Correctly interpret results of procedures and integrate findings into the overall patient assessment and management plan.
  • Clearly communicate and accurately explain procedures to patients and families, obtaining informed consent before proceeding.
  • Maintain clear, concise, and accurate records of procedures and outcomes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Thoroughly design and conduct relevant research projects using appropriate methodologies and statistical techniques relevant to paediatric rheumatology.
  • Conduct a thorough literature review, critically evaluating existing research and identifying gaps in knowledge.
  • Accurately analyse and interpret research findings objectively, drawing conclusions and identifying limitations.
  • Accurately disseminate research findings through presentations, publications, or other scholarly activities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Actively participate in research projects, demonstrating initiative and commitment to advancing knowledge in paediatric rheumatology.
  • Collaborate effectively with research teams and contribute meaningfully to data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
  • Provide appropriate arguments to be used to advocate for research initiatives and secure funding opportunities to support further investigation in the field.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Develop clear, concise, and engaging presentations tailored to diverse audiences (colleagues, patients, families, public).
  • Effectively communicate complex medical information using appropriate technology.
  • Appropriately adapt language and content used for communication purposes to the needs and understanding of different audience groups.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Proactively engage in continuous professional development opportunities to stay updated on the latest advancements in paediatric rheumatology.
  • Critically and accurately evaluate new evidence and guidelines, incorporating them into clinical practice where appropriate.
  • Actively participate in quality assurance initiatives and contribute to improving patient care standards in the field.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    Formative Assessments
    Formative assessments are performed continuously. Monitoring of learning is performed formally via a three-monthly discussion between the candidate and the qualification coordinator and her team, where the following issues are discussed:
  • Objectives for the period under review.
  • Candidate's self-assessment of the learning experience.
  • Qualification coordinator's assessment of the learning experience.
  • Progress with the research project.

    This process assists in identifying areas for development before engaging in the summative assessment process. Learners will be required to complete the portfolio of evidence (learning portfolio). The format for this portfolio will align with the requirements outlined by the College of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA), as the portfolio is also used as evidence of the knowledge and skills required.

    The purpose of the portfolio is to serve as a record of the candidate's training and encourage the reflective and evaluation skills of learners.
    When the candidate applies to sit for the Cert Rheumatology (SA) examination, the Portfolio and the logbook will be reviewed and signed by the Head of Department, who will supply a letter to the College of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA) certifying that the portfolio has been satisfactorily completed and that the candidate is now eligible to sit for the final exit exam.

    Content of the portfolio:
  • Work Rotations.
  • Syllabus for the Cert Rheumatology (SA) Paed.
  • Formative and Summative assessment.
  • Formal training.
  • Presentations at departmental meetings and conferences.
  • Logbook.
  • Research.
  • Declaration on Completion of Training.

    Summative Assessment
    The summative assessment of a learner is performed by a process of formal internal and external examination of the two qualification modules.
  • Clinical Paediatric Rheumatology: Clinical competency is evaluated by a formal national written and oral examination, set, marked, and assessed by the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa (CMSA).

    Structure of the Examination.
    The Certificate examination has two components:
  • A written component
  • An oral or OSCE/OSPE or clinical component.

    Each of the two components contributes 50% to the overall mark.
    The pass mark for the overall exam is 50%.
    A sub-minimum pass mark of 50% is expected for each of the two (written and the oral/OSCE or clinical)
    Components of the examination.
    There are no sub-minima for individual papers, questions, or sub-sections of the OSCE/ or oral or clinical examination. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United States of America
    Institution: University of California
    Qualification Title: Paediatric Rheumatology Fellowship
    Duration: Three years Full-time (one year of clinical training and two years of scholarly training)

    Entry Requirements:
    Applicants must have a Master's degree from an accredited institution and must be board-eligible or board-certified by the American Board of Paediatrics.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The qualification is committed to training future academic paediatric rheumatologists. The purpose of the qualification is to provide trainees with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide excellent care to patients and advance the field of paediatric rheumatology. Fellows are expected to complete one year of clinical training and two years of scholarly training to prepare for a career that combines clinical paediatric rheumatology with clinical/translational investigation, basic laboratory investigation, health services research, educational scholarship, or other areas of academic focus. The fellowship is designed to meet the requirements of the American College of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), prepare fellows for the Board Exam in Paediatric Rheumatology, and allow fellows to follow their passion.

    The goals of the UCSF Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship Program are:
  • To train top-notch, competent, compassionate clinicians prepared to succeed in an academic environment, and
  • To prepare trainees to engage in meaningful research and advance the field of pediatric rheumatology.

    On completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Provide patient care that is compassionate, appropriate, and effective for the promotion of health, prevention of illness, and treatment of rheumatic diseases.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of established and evolving biomedical, clinical, and social sciences as they apply to rheumatic diseases, and apply their knowledge to patient care and the education of others.
  • Demonstrate interpersonal and communication skills that enable them to establish and maintain professional relationships with patients, families, and other members of healthcare teams.
  • Demonstrate behaviors that reflect a commitment to continuous professional development, ethical practice, understanding and sensitivity to diversity, and a responsible attitude toward their patients, their profession and society.
  • Use scientific evidence and methods to investigate, evaluate, and improve patient care practices. It is anticipated that fellows already understand these practices through their completion of a pediatric residency.
  • Demonstrate both an understanding of the contexts and systems in which health care is provided and the ability to apply this knowledge to improve and optimize health care.

    Assessment:
    Various research tracks are available to paediatric rheumatology fellows, including basic science, clinical science, and health services research. The fellow is expected to participate in a scholarly project during the last two years of the fellowship program, which may consist of a research project or a medical education project. The qualification ensures a meaningful, supervised research experience based on the early establishment of a mentor appropriate to the fellow's interests. Fellows are encouraged to write a grant, to provide meaningful experience in grant-writing. Trainees are encouraged to receive advanced training, either through a formal curriculum or mentoring as appropriate. They are expected to prepare and submit a work product, usually a manuscript for publication, as per the requirements of the ABP.

    Similarities:
  • The University of California (UC) and the South African (SA) qualifications all require learners to complete clinical training as well as a research component, allowing for the building of knowledge and practical skills as well as research skills, enhancing the knowledge of the discipline.
  • UC and SA qualifications share a similar purpose/rationale which is to provide trainees with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide excellent care to patients and advance the field of paediatric rheumatology.
  • UC and SA qualifications share similar exit level outcomes, in which learners will be able to apply, evaluate and demonstrate professional development, ethical practice, and understanding and sensitivity to diversity.
  • UC and SA qualifications share similar assessments, which consist of portfolio evidence which may consist of a research project or medical education project.

    Differences:
  • The UC qualification is offered over three years of full-time study whereas the SA qualification is offered over one year of full-time study.
  • The UC qualification requires applicants who hold a Master's degree whereas the SA qualification requires an Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma in a cognate field.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: University of South Wales
    Qualification Title: Master of Science in Rheumatology (Online Delivery)
    Duration: One year full time

    Entry Requirements:
    Applicants will typically hold a first degree or equivalent (including international qualifications) in a relevant professional healthcare field, such as a medical or nursing degree. Registered healthcare professionals without these recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be considered.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    Having specialist knowledge in Rheumatology is an increasingly important role and extra responsibility of medical personnel. The qualification is aimed at health professionals who are interested in a leadership role including Doctors, GPs, Allied Health Professionals, Practice Nurses, and those with related undergraduate degrees (e.g. Chiropractors, Osteopaths, Physiotherapists, Podiatrists, Occupational therapists, Pharmacists) or equivalent professional qualifications and background experience.
    The online master's course in Rheumatology aims to create professionals who can independently access information and use the information to critically assess, evaluate and disseminate the evidence base related to Rheumatology. It will develop problem-solving and clinical skills together with preparing students to take a leadership role in Rheumatology.

    On completion of the qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the care of patients in rheumatology.
  • Critically evaluate current research in rheumatology.
  • Apply a critical awareness of current issues affecting the care of patients undertaking rheumatology treatments.
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of rheumatology that will facilitate decision-making in unpredictable and/or complex situations.

    Qualification structure:
    The qualification consists of the following compulsory modules:
  • Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal in Rheumatology, compares with Paediatric Rheumatology Research Project.
  • Professional Project

    Assessment
    Learners are expected in the first 8 weeks to interact with their tutor on a weekly basis. Learners select a specific project and submit a project summary/proposal (approximately 1,500 words).
    Once the proposal has been approved, the professional project (10,500 words) itself is then completed through online guidance and supervision offered by the tutor.

    Similarities:
  • The University of South Wales (USW) and the South African (SA) qualifications are offered over one year of full-time study.
  • USW and SA qualifications require learners who completed their first degree or equivalent including international qualifications in a relevant professional healthcare field and a registration with a Health Profession.
  • USW and SA qualifications share a similar purpose/rationale which is aimed at health professionals who are interested in a leadership role including Doctors, GPs, Allied Health Professionals etc.
  • USW and SA share similar modules, Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal in Rheumatology.
  • USW and SA qualifications share similar exit level outcomes in which learners will be able to critically evaluate current research in rheumatology. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Philosophy in Developmental Paediatrics, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Neonatology, Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Cardiology, NQF Level 9
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Critical Care, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Endocrinology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, NQF Level 9
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Infectious Diseases, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Medical Oncology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Nephrology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Neurology, NQF Level 9.
  • Master of Philosophy in Paediatric Pulmonology, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Medical Nuclear Science, NQF Level 10
  • Doctor of Medicine, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Medicine in Medical Oncology, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal Articulation
    No diagonal articulation options are available. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    NA 

    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.