MPhil/PhD in Biomedical Sciences programmes

Entry requirements

In general, entry into the programmes is governed by subject to Academic General Regulations of the University of Botswana. The procedure for submitting applications for admissions to the MPhil/PhD programme shall be as stipulated in the University General Regulations 50.1 and 50.2. The procedure for registration for the MPhil/PhD degree programme shall be as prescribed in University General Regulation 50.3. Additional specifications are noted below.

1.0 Academic requirements

It should be noted that MPhil or PhD master training in Biomedical Science does not require a first degree in a clinical area. Clinicians who want to become biomedical scientists will, however, be eligible to apply into the programme.

1.1.1 MPhil Programme

Admission to the programme shall be in accordance with University General Regulation 50.1

  1. Candidates must have obtained a Single Major or Honours degree in any Biomedical Science, health science, or related subject with a First or Upper Second Class (overall A or B average; cumulative grade point average (cGPA) of 3.5 on a 5 point scale) from a recognized university or equivalent institution of higher education; or a Master’s degree in a relevant field in order to enrol for the MPhil programme in Biomedical Sciences.
  2. Candidates who have obtained an appropriate combined major degree with a First or Upper Second Class (overall A or B average) may be considered, provided that they have achieved at least an Upper Second-Class performance (B average) in any Biomedical Science, health science, or related subject.
  3. Candidates who have obtained degrees in any Biomedical Science, health science, or related subject, or other qualifications and have relevant experience  may be admitted to  the programme (University General Regulation 50.1.3 – see Appendix 1), provided they undergo a departmental assessment to determine their eligibility to undertake the MPhil programme in Biomedical Sciences.
1.1.2 PhD Programme

University General Regulation 50.2 shall apply. To be admitted to undertake the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, a candidate must hold an MSc /MPhil degree, or equivalent qualification, in a subject relevant to the proposed field of research

1.2 Full and part-time admissions

Students may register in a full-time or part-time capacity (University General Regulation 41.6 – see Appendix 1). Those in full-time employment must register as part-time students.

1.3 Evidence of motivation and social accountability

Such evidence is gathered by means of an interview preceding admission to the programmes and by scrutiny of the student’s previous academic record. Evidence of commitment to the programme and the necessary academic ability is required. The fact that the student has selected a programme in the health sciences is taken as evidence of social accountability.

1.4 Minimum age

There is no minimum age for admission to the MPhil/ PhD programme.

1.5 Diversity requirements

To comply with its social accountability mandate students from communities known to be underprivileged and underserved will receive priority consideration in cases where the number of applicants exceeds the allowed maximum. The same applies to students with disabilities. Within each group of applicants efforts will be made to achieve gender equality.

1.6 International students

In keeping with the University’s Strategic Plan (Priority Area 4) international students who qualify may be admitted in numbers up 10% of the total intake.

1.7 Transfers from other programmes and institutions

University General Regulation 50.4 sets out the regulations governing transfer of students from another university to the MPhil and PhD programmes. In addition students may transfer from the MPhil programme in the Department to the PhD programme; the exact circumstances under which this is allowed are set out in University General Regulation 50.7.1.1 (see Appendix 1)

1.8 ther unique but reasonable situations

There are application scenarios that may not be covered completely by the instances listed above. Such unique cases will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

2.0 Protection of enrolled learners’ policy

There is at present no policy of this nature at the University of Botswana. However official documents at University level set out ways in which enrolled learners are protected:

2.1 Academic protection

  1. In the document “A Strategy of Excellence: The University of Botswana Strategic Plan to 2016 and beyond” commits itself to protection of enrolled students. The document’s Priority Area 5: “Improving the student experience” lists a number of measures that will promote student welfare, under then headings “To provide an integrated and holistic approach to equipping students with the necessary skills to succeed at university and in life, work and citizenship” and “To continuously innovate and change to meet identified student needs”.
  2. The Revised Academic Honesty Policy for Students (November 2006) describes detailed processes for dealing with alleged dishonesty which ensures that fair processes of enquiry and support will be followed.
  3. The Learning and Teaching Policy of 2008 (Teaching, p.6) includes a commitment to “ensure learning and teaching support is inclusive and does not discriminate or marginalise students, allowing everyone the same opportunity to succeed”.
  4. The Academic Quality Management Policy in Paragraph 5.1 “Quality in Student Assessment: Internal Moderation” mentions protection of students by ensuring the quality of assessment: “These systems shall include a minimum of internal moderation procedures that ensure validity of student assessment and reliability of marking”.
  5. In exceptional circumstances, a student may request a change of supervisor. This may be recommended by the Departmental Board to the School of Graduate Studies Board (University General Regulation 50.6.4 – see Appendix 1).
  6. University General Regulation 50.5 (see Appendix 1) makes provision for the period of study to be lengthened, in cases where students experience delays in completing their thesis.

2.2 Other protective measures

  1. The University provides group accident cover to all enrolled students. All students have free access to the 24-hour Campus Health Clinic.
  2. Security measures in hostels include placement of security personnel and fire regulations. Hostel wardens supervise the overall safety of students in hotels.

3.0 Outline of the Learning Programme structure

The programme of study shall be as stipulated in the University General Regulation 50.6 (see Appendix 1). The normal duration of these degree programmes is as follows:

 3.1 For the MPhil programme:

  1. A minimum of 2 semesters and a maximum of 4 semesters on a full-time basis.
  2. A minimum of 4 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters on a part-time basis.
  3. Under no circumstances can the duration of study be greater than 8 semesters.

 3.2 For the PhD programme:

  1. A minimum of 6 semesters and a maximum of 8 semesters on a full-time basis.
  2. A minimum of 8 semesters and a maximum of 12 semesters on a part-time basis.
  3. Under no circumstances can the duration of study be greater than 12 semesters.

3.3 The MPhil Learning Programme is normally divided into the following phases:

  1. Identifying learning topics and undertaking a comprehensive literature review in that area of knowledge.
  2. Preparing a complete research protocol and submitting it to IRB for approval. Changes are made if indicated.
  3. Collecting data and analysing it.
  4. Writing up the research thesis and submitting it for examination.

3.4

The PhD Learning Programme follows substantially the same sequence but is more intense and of longer duration since the student is expected to generate knowledge that is substantially new in the world of science.

4.0 Learning Programme aims and objectives

The aim of the proposed programmes is to develop human resource in the biomedical sciences. The proposed programmes aim to train students to become research scientists and not clinicians.

The objectives of the proposed programmes are to:

  1. Motivate and promote a climate of quality research in the basic biomedical sciences so as to help advance science and healthcare in the national and regional context. This objective addresses the University’s priority area of “intensifying research performance.”
  2. Provide clinicians, teachers, and other individuals from various professional backgrounds with opportunities for post-graduate training in the biomedical sciences, thus helping increase the number of individuals prepared for teaching and research in clinical and other science areas at tertiary level. This objective addresses the University’s priority areas of “providing relevant and high-quality programmes” and “enhancing human resources for excellence in delivery.”
  3. Address the shortage of citizen research scientists and educators in the biomedical sciences cost-effectively. This objective addresses the University’s priority area of “enhancing human resources for excellence in delivery.”
  4. Create a platform for establishing collaborative partnerships in teaching, research, and service with national and international institutions.

The DBS will achieve the above objectives by collaborating or partnering with local, regional, and international entities interested in developing healthcare delivery systems and post -graduate education in Botswana and the region. Furthermore, the DBS will seek to strengthen opportunities for collaborative research between basic scientists and clinicians desiring to tackle healthcare challenges faced by Botswana and other nations. These efforts will help address the University’s priority area of “strengthening engagement.”

5.0 Learning Programme Content

Duration of the MPhil/PhD programme shall be as stipulated in University General Regulation 50.5 and the programme of study shall be as stipulated in the University General Regulation 50.6

As is the case in postgraduate programmes the learning strategy is self-directed learning under supervision. The duration of the programme and of each step in the programme sequence of events therefore varies from student to student. The information below is based on the average maximum duration of the two programmes.

5.1 MPhil programme: 2 years

SEMESTER 1

Student identifies research topic, does literature search, prepares full research protocol, submits it to IRB.

PREREQUISITE: None; NCQF LEVEL: 9; CREDITS: 25

SEMESTER 2

Student starts collecting data.

PREREQUISITE: Research protocol approved by supervisor(s) and IRB; NCQF LEVEL: 9; CREDITS: 25

SEMESTER 3

Student completes data collection and undertakes data analysis.

PREREQUISITE: Data collection substantially completed; NCQF LEVEL: 9; CREDITS: 25

SEMESTER 4

Student writes thesis.

PREREQUISITE: Data analysis completed; NCQF LEVEL: 9; CREDITS: 25

The MPhil programme constitutes of 36 weeks per year, having 50 hours per week, for 2 years

5.2 PhD programme: 4 years

SEMESTER 1&2

Student identifies research topic, does literature search, prepares full research protocol, submits it to IRB.

PREREQUISITE: None; NCQF LEVEL: 10; CREDITS: 50

SEMESTER 3&4

Student starts collecting data.

PREREQUISITE: Research protocol approved by supervisor(s) and IRB; NCQF LEVEL: 10; CREDITS: 50

SEMESTER 5&6

Student completes data collection and undertakes data analysis.

PREREQUISITE: Data collection substantially completed; NCQF LEVEL: 10; CREDITS: 50

SEMESTER 7&8

Student writes thesis.

PREREQUISITE: Data analysis completed; NCQF LEVEL: 10; CREDITS: 50

The PhD programme constitutes of 36 weeks per year, having 50 hours per week, for 4 years

6.0 Programme learning outcomes

The graduates of the Department of Biomedical Sciences MPhil/PhD programme at the University of Botswana’s Faculty of Medicine will demonstrate:

6.1 Knowledge

  1. Competency in the graduate’s biomedical science specialty: substantial and up-to-date core knowledge of broad areas in basic biomedical, translational, or clinical research applicable to their area of study.
  2. Application of the essential elements of core scientific principles to analyse and evaluate problems, and to construct and implement practical solutions in the biomedical environment.
  3. The ability to evaluate their own scientific work and the work of others accurately and critically.

6.2 Skills

  1. Critical thinking, specifically employing appropriate analytical models and applying critical reasoning processes to evaluate biomedical needs and evidence; selecting among alternatives; and generating creative options in furtherance of effective and evidence-based decision making.
  2. Advanced understanding of a range of technical and conceptual approaches used in biomedical research.
  3. The ability to design, carry out, and interpret research projects that generate new knowledge that advances the biomedical sciences and human health.

6.3 Professional Behaviour

  1. Teamwork and leadership skills, specifically functioning in a variety of work groups using appropriate leadership skills and styles; collaborating with the medical fraternity and a variety of other professionals and scientists; and using elements of effective team dynamics to structure team work effectively and appropriately.
  2. The ability to apply the highest standards of ethics to their research (data management, research subjects, stewardship of research funds), and to their interactions with colleagues and the public.

6.4 Career Development

  1. The ability to articulate an appropriate set of desired potential career paths, and are aware of the preparation and initiative required to pursue these paths.

7.0 Learning opportunities for outcomes in the Programme

  1. Knowledge 
    1. Competency in biomedical science speciality; substantial up-to-date core knowledge applicable to area of study (For MPhil programme: At semester 1. For PhD programme: At semester 1 & 2).
    2. Application of the essential elements of core scientific principles to analyse and evaluate problems (For MPhil programme: At semester 1, 3 & 4. For PhD programme: At semester 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 & 8).
    3. Ability to evaluate their own scientific work and the work of others accurately and critically (For MPhil programme: At semester 1 & 4. For PhD programme: At semester 1, 2, 7 & 8).
  2. Skills
    1. Critical thinking, using appropriate analytical models, applying critical reasoning processes generating creative options in furtherance of effective and evidence-based decision making (For MPhil programme: semester 1, 2 & 3. For PhD programme: At semester 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6).
    2. Advanced understanding of technical and conceptual approaches used in biomedical research (For MPhil programme: At semester 1, 2 & 3. For PhD programme: At semester 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6).
    3. Design, carry out, and interpret research projects that generate new knowledge (For MPhil programme: At semester 1, 2, 3, & 4. For PhD programme: At semester 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 & 8).
  3. Professional Behaviour
    1. Teamwork and leadership skills collaborating with the medical fraternity using elements of effective team dynamics to structure team work effectively (For MPhil programme: At semester 1, 2, & 3. For PhD programme: At semester 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6).
    2. Apply the highest standards of ethics to their research and to their interactions with colleagues and the public (For MPhil programme: At semester 1. For PhD programme: At semester 1 & 2).
  4. Career Development
    Throughout the programmes, the students shall be able to articulate an appropriate set of desired potential career paths, and shall be aware of the preparation and initiative required

8.0 Teaching, learning and assessment strategies

8.1 Teaching and learning strategies

8.1.1

As is the case in postgraduate programmes the learning strategy is self-directed learning under supervision, all based around the students’ research topics as they develop them from start to finish. Students make use of a large variety of relevant learning resources in this process, according to the domain of the learning that they have to master.

  1. Cognitive domain
    • For the knowledge the student has to find and master the main resource is the library’s books and journals and other material.
    • Senior colleagues in the department and peer colleagues are another useful resource.
    • If students attend relevant conferences during their period of study they will also learn much that is relevant to their research.
  2. Psychomotor domain
    • The main resource for learning motor skills (e.g. using sophisticated equipment) is experienced senior colleagues who are able to demonstrate skills, to observe them being practised and to give feedback – all until students have mastered the skills they need.
    • Reasoning and design skills are similarly learnt from experienced senior colleagues, in discussion and by getting feedback on written work.
  3. Affective domain
    • The principles of teamwork and research ethics may be learnt from documentary sources.
    • The practice of teamwork and ethical research will principally learnt from the examples of senior colleagues and also peers, and also in discussions with them and feedback from them.
  4. Career development
    • In their interactions with colleagues and peers, and by attending conferences, students become aware of career possibilities following on completion of their studies.
8.1.2

Consistent with University policy for MPhil/PhD, coursework will generally not be required. However, the Departmental Board may, consistent with University General Regulation 50.0, require a student to take or audit certain relevant courses and/or guided independent study where a gap in the student’s knowledge base was identified.

8.2 Assessment strategies

8.2.1

Thesis supervision constitutes a regular process of continuing assessment. Theses are supervised in accordance with the provisions of University General Regulation 50.9.

  1. Registered candidates will be allocated a supervisory (thesis) committee consisting of their supervisor(s) and at least two independent members as deemed appropriate by the Department (University General Regulation 50.6
  2. The supervisor(s) monitor(s) student progress and advise(s) on the direction of the research.
  3. Students meet with their supervisor(s) formally on a monthly basis and with the supervisory committee periodically.
  4. From time to time, the supervisor/student will be asked to report through the Departmental Board to the School of Graduate Studies on the progress of the candidate.
8.2.2

The sole summative assessment consists of the examination of students’ theses.

  1. The MPhil/PhD thesis shall be submitted in accordance with the provisions of University General Regulation 50.8.
  2. The thesis may be submitted in the format specified in University General Regulation 41.9.6 (see Appendix 1) or as a collection of papers published in peer-reviewed journals or books, provided the overall thesis forms a logical and linked development of ideas (University General Regulation 50.8.2.5.
  3. Examination shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the University General Regulation 50.9. An oral examination is mandatory for MPhil and PhD submissions (University General Regulation 50.9.5.1).

9.0 Progression pathways

  1. Students must receive IRB approval before they can start data collection.
  2. Permission must be obtained from a supervisor before a thesis may be submitted for examination (University General Regulation 50.8).
  3. As mentioned above individual students may be required to undergo specific remedial training in areas in which supervisors note that they lack knowledge and/or skills that they need to complete their research successfully.
  4. The notification of results and award of degree shall be in accordance with University General Regulation 50.10.

 

In pursuit of academic excellence