Study

Master of Science in Veterinary Science (MSc (Veterinary Science))

The MSc in Production Animal Studies is a research degree. Students with a BVSc or equivalent degree, as well as students holding BSc degrees at the honours level or 4-year BSc (Agriculture) degrees or a relevant postgraduate diploma (on NQF level 8), can be considered.

Topics for research are defined by the student in conjunction with the supervisor. A module on Research Methodology (VRM 813) is required of all students, whereas other coursework may be required at the discretion of the supervisor. The minimum and maximum duration is one and two years for the MSc (Research) and two and three years respectively for MSc (Course Work). The degree is conferred based on assessment of a dissertation and submission of a manuscript suitable for publication. The dissertation is examined by one internal and/or two external examiners.

There are five MSc degrees offered by the Department:

  • MSc (Veterinary Science)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (option: Reproduction)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (option: Epidemiology)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (option: Ruminant Health)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (option: Wildlife, Health, Ecology)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The PhD in Production Animal Studies is a research degree. An appropriate Master’s degree is required for admission, and additional requirements may be stipulated by the Head of Department. Topics are defined by the student in conjunction with the supervisor and Head of Department. Coursework may be required at the discretion of the supervisor. The minimum duration of study is three years with one extension for completing the studies. The PhD is conferred based on a thesis, a minimum of one article for publication, one submitted and a draft article. Before or on submission of the final copy of the thesis, a student must submit proof of acceptance of an article for publication issued by an accredited journal to the Head: Student Administration. Three examiners are appointed.

Master of Veterinary Medicine (MMedVet)

This degree includes training in both theoretical and practical aspects of a specific discipline and also includes a research component. The minimum period is three years. The maximum duration for the degree is six years, or four years in the case of candidates who have already completed an appropriate Honours degree. Veterinarians holding an MMedVet degree may register with the South African Veterinary Council as specialists in the appropriate disciplines. Candidates are therefore advised not only of the University requirements for the degree but also the SAVC requirements.

There are six MMedVet degrees offered by the Department:

  • MMedVet (Bov) – Bovine Health and Production
  • MMedVet (Suill) – Pig Herd Health
  • MMedVet (Altil) – Poultry Diseases
  • MMedVet (Gyn) – Theriogenology
  • MMedVet (CaprOv) – Small Stock Health
  • MMedVet (Fer) – Wildlife Diseases

Programme Components

The theoretical components are structured into a specialist module and ancillary modules drawn from related fields in support of the specialist module. Ancillary modules may be designated as core ancillaries required of all candidates, or elective ancillaries from which candidates may select a specified number.

Practical aspects of the discipline are taught during practical training embedded within the coursework and in the form of supervised clinical training. The duration of the clinical training is specified, and evidence of exposure must be submitted in the form of case logbooks.

The research project must lead to submission of a mini-dissertation and a manuscript suitable for publication. The final composition of a candidate’s MMedVet degree is agreed upon by the supervisor and Head of Department.

Admission Criteria

  1. Subject to General Regulations G.30 and G.62, a candidate must hold a BVSc or equivalent degree. In certain cases, the Head of Department may require a BVSc Honours degree [Reg.v.2(c)], with applicable modules achieving at least 60% before commencing the MMedVet degree.
  2. Credits for Honours modules are retained for two years unless decided otherwise by the Head of Department.
  3. The Head of Department may require evaluations, practical assessments, or English proficiency tests (TOEFL).
  4. Annual admissions depend on departmental capacity and available posts.

Duration and Attendance Requirements

  1. For candidates with applicable BVSc Honours modules: minimum 3 years, maximum 4 years. If all modules are required, maximum 6 years.
  2. The Dean must be satisfied that candidates have access to facilities and supervision.
  3. Attendance requirements are determined by the Dean as recommended by the Head of Department.
  4. Candidates must complete an acceptable Research Methodology module.
  5. Candidates must maintain a supervisor-signed logbook every six months, available for SAVC audits.

Curricula

Elective modules are determined in consultation with the Head of Department. Modules from other UP faculties may form part of the prescribed programme if deemed necessary.

Postgraduate Diploma in Production Animals (PGDip)

This programme is offered by the Department of Production Animal Studies. The following persons may benefit from enrolling for the PGDip:

  • DAFF staff needing theoretical training in veterinary public health, epidemiology, and disease management.
  • BTech or National Higher Diploma graduates in Animal Health preparing for master’s study.
  • Veterinarians completing compulsory community service who require refresher training.
  • Registered veterinarians pursuing continued professional development (CPD).
  • Veterinarians in solo practices seeking advanced knowledge without full specialist training.
  • Staff members of African veterinary schools who benefit from online modules.

The curriculum consists of four compulsory and elective theoretical modules of 30 credits each (total 120 credits). Also consult General Regulations.

Further details can be found in the Faculty Yearbook:
http://www.up.ac.za/yearbooks/faculties/view/VET/Faculty%20of%20Veterinary%20Science