MSc (Veterinary Science) Production Animal Studies

Faculty of Veterinary Science
Department: Production Animal Studies

Programme Code: 08251117

SAQA ID: 4967


Faculty Notes

The Faculty of Veterinary Science is unique in South Africa. It is the only institution responsible for training veterinarians and veterinary nurses. Our graduates and research programmes are vital in enhancing human and animal health, promoting biosecurity and welfare, and ensuring our production animals, wildlife and pets are safe and in good health.

The quality and scope of the Faculty’s training is such that our graduates are able to enter postgraduate programmes at universities across the world and can practice in many countries without the need to write registration exams. The Faculty is locally relevant and passionate about meeting the needs of South Africa. This not only applies to commercial farming but also to primary animal healthcare, where veterinarians as well as veterinary nurses can assist rural communities and smallholder farmers.

Programme Information

Also  consult the General Academic Regulations G39 and PG Faculty regulations.

Master’s degree by dissertation is a research master’s degree that requires a high level of theoretical engagement and in some cases, demonstration of the ability to relate knowledge to a range of contexts for professional practice. It must contain a research component at NQF level 9 (to the value of 180 credits), culminating in the acceptance of a dissertation. A research master’s degree is a full research programme designed to develop research skills which amongst others, allows the graduate to progress seamlessly to the research demands of a PhD.


Minimum duration of study

1 years, full-time


Total credits

180

Admission Requirements

  1. BVSc (or equivalent) degree or relevant four-year BScAgric degree or relevant BSc honours degree or relevant postgraduate diploma (on NQF level 8)
  2. An admissions examination may be required
  3. The candidate may be required to submit proof of experience in their selected field of study

Pass with Distinction

A master’s  degree is awarded with distinction if a student meets the following requirements:

  1. Obtained a mark of 75% or above for the research-based dissertation; and
  2. Completed the qualification within the maximum period allowed for master’s study, but not in less than the prescribed minimum period of one academic year. Note: the maximum allowable time is twice the prescribed minimum years of study in relation to postgraduate students who study part-time.

General Information

University of Pretoria Programme Qualification Mix (PQM) verification project

The higher education sector has undergone an extensive alignment to the Higher Education Qualification Sub-Framework (HEQF) across all institutions in South Africa. In order to comply with the HEQSF, all institutions are legally required to participate in a national initiative led by regulatory bodies such as the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), the Council on Higher Education (CHE), and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). The University of Pretoria is presently engaged in an ongoing effort to align its qualifications and programmes with the HEQSF criteria. Current and prospective students should take note that changes to UP qualification and programme names, may occur as a result of the HEQSF initiative. Students are advised to contact their faculties if they have any questions.

Minimum credits: 180

Fundamental modules
  • Module content:

    A web-based introductory module in research methodology that includes planning and undertaking a research project or clinical trial, collecting and analysing data, scientific writing, and enabling preparation and presenting of a research protocol.


    Period of presentation Semester 1 and Semester 2
Core modules

Annual increase information:

  • Module pricing is subject to change at the beginning of every year without prior notice.
  • UPOnline tuition fees will increase annually by approximately 5%.
  • The annual increase will apply from the March intake, which is the second intake of the year.
  • If the programme fee is paid in full upfront the student is still liable for the difference between the upfront payment and increased amount until the completion of the programme.
  • If you have any historic debt owed to the University of Pretoria, any payment you make will go towards settling that debt first.
  • All-inclusive total programme cost.
Code Module Duration Credits Cost
Fundamental modules
VRM 813 Research methodology 813 0.00 TBA
Core modules
VWE 805 Dissertation: Production animal studies 805 180.00 TBA
Totals 180.00 TBA

Enquiries about the programme

Name: Dr R Moerane
Tel:  012 529 8464
E-Mail: [email protected]
How to apply

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