Division of Mol?ecular Biology and Huma??n Gene??tics?? ?
???POSTGRADUATE STU?DIES?
???BSC HONOURS COU?RSE
This programme will equip you with both a theoretical and practical background in the basic concepts of molecular biology and human genetics. It comprises lectures, tutorials, assignments, journal article analytical discussions, writing of a project proposal, participation in a six-month research project, a research report, an oral research presentation and written examinations. ?
Programme Details
Duration: One calendar year on a full-time basis
Programme content:
Molecular Biology and Human Genetics Theory 751 (45)
Molecular Biology and Human Genetics Project 775 (75)
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Important notice: Prospective students interested in doing a Human Genetics project within the MBHG Division should apply for BSc Honours (Molecular Biology) and notify Dr Jennifer Jackson (jacksonj@sun.ac.za) ???that they are interested in the Human Genetics track.
Those that are interested in a Human Genetics project in the Department of Genetics at Stellenbosch campus (i.e. not in our division based at Tygerberg campus)? should please contact Dr Nathaniel McGregor (nwm@sun.ac.za) for further information.??
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Programme Structure:
Foundational sub-modules (compulsory): This section includes a laboratory techniques course which runs concurrently with, and complements the theoretical components.
- Basic Laboratory Practice
- Molecular Biology (Genomes, chromosomes & gene expression; Methods in functional studies)
- Immunology (Innate and adaptive immune systems and their roles in pathology; Development of diagnostic tests)
- Biostatistics & Study Design (Applied statistics focusing on a non-mathematical, conceptual, resampling-based approach)
- Bioinformatics (Computational processing and analysis of genetic and proteomic data)
Advanced sub-modules (elective): One of these is selected in association with the student's research project. The student will acquire a deeper level of insight into a specific field and will be equipped for further studies and a career in science.
- Human Genetics
- Immunology
- Mycobacteriology
Research Project: a six-month research project resulting in a written research report and an oral research presentation.
Assessment and examination
- Students are required to pass both modules with a minimum of 50% to earn the applicable credits.
- If you do not pass the theory module with a minimum of 50% after the second opportunity, you will not be permitted to continue with the research project.
- Assessment opportunities include:
- written examinations and coursework for each of the theory sub-modules.
- a project proposal, research report, research presentation, supervisor's report and written examination for the project module.
- The calculation of the final mark is subject to the “Provisions Relating to Examinations and Promotion" set forth under the chapter “中国体育彩票 Examinations" in Part 1 (General) of the Calendar.
Programme outcomes
On completion of this programme, the student will:
- Understand concepts, research methodologies and techniques relevant to Molecular Biology and Human Genetics and apply this knowledge to answer a research question.
- Competently perform basic molecular biology procedures and use these skills to conduct research to answer a defined question.
- Appreciate the complexities and limitations of current molecular biology techniques and use this knowledge to inform experimental design.
- Be equipped to analyse and critique scientific literature to identify current knowledge and inform experimental design.
- Have developed their initiative to acquire new knowledge and understanding and to generate strategies for solving research problems.
- Understand basic statistical concepts and methods and be able to apply this knowledge appropriately to the analysis of data.
- Be able to effectively communicate scientific concepts and research methods and results via oral and written presentations.
Admission and Selection requirements
An average final mark of at least 60% in one of the following qualifications from a recognized tertiary training institution:
- A bachelor's degree in science with a major in Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Physiology, Zoology, Biotechnology, Physical or Mathematical Sciences; Or
- A BTech or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution for tertiary education, provided that you have passed a preliminary examination that:
- Was conducted according to clearly defined criteria stipulated by the Faculty Board in order to ensure an adequate scientific standard;
- Was designed to assess your theoretical background and scientific maturity; and
- Was conducted by the head of the department/division as convenor in which the intended postgraduate studies are envisaged, or by his/her delegate, together with at least one other expert in the relevant field of study who has been nominated by the Dean.
- You will be considered on merit by the Committee for Postgraduate Education on the basis of a curriculum vitae and a written recommendation by the Preliminary Examination Committee.?
You may be admitted with an average final mark of less than 60% for the BSc at third-year level based on:
- An adequate motivation and/or;
- Successful completion of additional work, and proof of competence.
Important Notice: Submitting your completed application form and meeting the admission requirements does not guarantee admission.??