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Faculty of Veterinary Science

Faculty regulations and information

The rules for the degrees published here are subject to change and may be amended after the publication of this information. 

The General Academic Regulations and General Student Rules apply to all faculties and registered students of the University, as well as all prospective students who have accepted an offer of a place at the University of Pretoria. On registering for a programme, the student bears the responsibility of ensuring that they familiarise themselves with the General Academic Regulations applicable to their registration, as well as the relevant faculty-specific and programme-specific regulations and information as stipulated in the relevant yearbook. Ignorance concerning these regulations will not be accepted as an excuse for any transgression, or basis for an exception to any of the aforementioned regulations.

UNDERGRADUATE-SPECIFIC REGULATIONS

1. Examinations and pass requirements 
The following rules apply to the BVSc and BVetNurs programme, in addition to the University of Pretoria General Academic Regulations and General Student Rules, with the exception of pass requirements of service modules presented by other faculties: 

  1. Attendance of all lectures, practicals and clinical duties is compulsory. Absence must be justified by submission of a medical certificate or valid documentation, within three working days after returning to campus. Failure to comply may lead to a refusal to be admitted to the examination in the specific module. 
  2. Students in the BVSc and BVetNurs programme must register for all the prescribed modules in a particular year of study and may not deregister any such modules. 
  3. A student who fails one or more modules for a particular year of study fails that particular year of study and must repeat the failed module(s) before being promoted to the next year of study. 
  4. In addition to clause iii., a fourth-, fifth- or final-year student in the BVSc programme, and a second- year student in the BVetNurs programme,who fails a module or modules has to repeat all the modules for that particular year of study, except modules which were passed with a final mark of at least 65%, for which full exemption is granted during the repeat year. 
  5. For students repeating the fourth, fifth or sixth year in the BVSc programme, or the second year in the BVetNurs programme, exemption from the examination is granted for a module that was passed in the previous year if all lectures, practical sessions and/or clinical duties were attended and a year/semester mark of at least 50% was obtained in the repeat year. 
  6. The semester/year mark and examination mark contribute 50% respectively towards the final mark for all examination bearing modules.. 
  7. A head of department may require from a student to complete certain practical and/or clinical procedures or other similar requirements and to provide evidence of such before the student will be allowed access to the examination. 
  8. A student is required to obtain a minimum semester/year mark of 40%, a minimum of 40% in the examination, as well as a final mark of at least 50% to pass a module. A subminimum of 40% in subdivisions of theoretical and/or practical examinations may be required as stipulated by the dean in consultation with the head of department concerned, and as set out in the study guide. 
  9. The content, format and duration of the supplementary, special or Chancellor’s examination will be similar to that of the examination, except for oral examinations or online computer based (non-invigilated) examinations, where the supplementary, special or Chancellor’s examination may be in a different format or in exceptional conditions where the Dean may approve a different format.  Reasonable consideration should be given for the travel needs of student travel in arranging such examinations.
  10. Semester tests and examinations are scheduled as stipulated in the Faculty Academic Calendar, as approved by the dean. 
  11. A student may apply for admission to a special assessment by using the Faculty’s relevant standard operating procedure which is managed by student administration. 
  12. The percentage of weighting of subsections of an examination in the calculation of the examination mark, will be indicated in the individual study guides. 
  13. A student qualifies for a supplementary examination in terms of either of the following circumstances: 
    1. Where the final mark obtained is between 40% and 49%, or 
    2. Where the final mark is above 50% and the examination mark is below 40%, or 
    3. Where a subminimum mark for a specified section of the examination is not achieved, as explained in the relevant study guide. 
  14. A head of department may require from a student who has been admitted to a supplementary examination, to do additional prescribed work for a specified period of time before he or she may take the supplementary examination as approved by the Dean. 
  15. A head of department may require of a student to achieve a subminimum score of up to 50% in different components or sections of a supplementary examination, in order to pass the supplementary examination. 

2. Perusal and re-marking of examination papers scripts (also consult G Reg G14, and the Faculty’s Standard Operating Procedure for perusal) 

  1. After an examination, departments provide feedback to students concerning the framework that was used by the examiners during the examination. The manner in which feedback is given is determined by the head of department and published in the study guides of the specific modules 
  2. Students may apply for re-marking of an examination paper after perusal of the paper and payment of the prescribed fee. The application must be submitted within 5 working days after the publication of the results of the primary examination, and within 3 working days after the publication  of the results of the supplementary examination. The examiner will be appointed by the relevant head of the department. (Re-evaluation of oral examinations is, however, not permitted.). 

3. Exclusion 

  1. A student who is not permitted to re-register in terms of General Academic Regulation G3.2 is automatically excluded from the BVSc or BVetNurs programme at the end of the specific academic year. 
  2. A student who fails a particular year of study for the second time is automatically excluded. 

4. Re-admission and dismissal 
Also refer to General Academic Regulation G4.

A student who has been excluded may apply in writing by the specified deadline for such appeals to the Faculty Appeals Committee for consideration for re-admission, failing which the student is dismissed. The Faculty Appeals Committee has the discretion to either readmit an excluded student, or to deny the appeal, in which case the student is dismissed. 

5. Dress code 
Special instructions regarding dress as stipulated in study guides must be adhered to. The details of these will be furnished when students are notified that they have been selected for the programme. Provision is made during the orientation programme for the acquisition of protective clothing. 

6. Vaccinations 
It is required of every student to complete the required vaccination protocol against rabies as arranged by Student Administration. The protocol is for the student’s own account. (Provision is made for the availability of documentation to facilitate claims with medical aid schemes.) 

7. Statutory requirements 
It is required of all BVSc and BVetNurs students to register with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) as a veterinary student or veterinary nursing student respectively, at the time of first registration in the respective degree programme. Registration has to be renewed annually until completion of the degree programme.

POSTGRADUATE-SPECIFIC REGULATIONS

POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMAS
Postgraduate Diplomas are postgraduate specialisation qualifications at NQF-level 8 of at least 120 credits. In the Faculty, it is in general aimed at developing specific areas of knowledge and competence in a chosen field. As per the General Academic Regulations (GC3), a Faculty postgraduate diploma will allow for admission into an appropriate master’s degree (as per the minimum entry requirements).

Also consult the General Academic Regulations G16 – G29.

Programme information

  1. The curriculum consists of four compulsory core and elective theoretical modules of 30 credits each to the total value of 120 credits.
  2. Each module will require a certain amount of contact sessions and the balance may be conducted online. The detail of the sessions for each module is published in the respective study guides.
  3. A minimum number of students could be set (as per the discretion of the module coordinator) for the presentation of any given module. When the required minimum number of students for a particular module is not reached, the module will not be presented during that academic year but will be offered again in the next academic year. For some modules a maximum number of students who can enrol, may be set. The details for each module are published in the study guides.
  4. Students are required to confirm whether a module will be presented in any particular year, or not. This enquiry should be directed to the Faculty PG Student Administration co-ordinator according to the syllabi information provided in the list of modules in this yearbook.

Admission
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G16.

A candidate is admitted to a postgraduate diploma programme only if he or she is in possession of an appropriate bachelor’s degree, or an appropriate advanced diploma, subject to G16.3 which stipulates that admission is subject to the stipulations of G1.3 and G55, which determine that a candidate may be considered for admission to a postgraduate diploma programme if he or she is a graduate from another higher education institution or has been granted the status of a graduate of such an institution; or, if he or she, by means of the recognition of prior learning (RPL), is deemed to have reached a standard of competence that is considered by Senate to be adequate for the purposes of admission as a student for a postgraduate diploma (Senate Discretionary Admission).

See programme specific admission requirements below. NOTE: In all instances an admissions examination may be required:

PG Diploma in Clinical Veterinary Sciences (08220061): BVSc (or equivalent) degree. 

PG Diploma in Laboratory Animal Science (08220062): Relevant bachelor’s degree or Bachelor of Technology degree or relevant diploma (NQF level 7). NOTE: Entry into clinical modules will be restricted to persons with the relevant veterinary qualification. 

PG Diploma in Production Animals (08220063): Relevant bachelor’s degree or Bachelor of Technology degree or relevant diploma (NQF level 7). NOTE: Entry into clinical modules will be restricted to persons with the relevant veterinary qualification. 

PG Diploma in State Veterinary Medicine (08220064): Relevant bachelor’s degree or Bachelor of Technology degree or relevant diploma (NQF level 7). NOTE: Entry into clinical modules will be restricted to persons with the relevant veterinary qualification. 

PG Diploma in Animal welfare (08220065): Relevant bachelor’s degree or Bachelor of Technology degree or relevant diploma (NQF level 7). NOTE: Entry into clinical modules will be restricted to persons with the relevant veterinary qualification. 

PG Diploma in Veterinary General (08220066): BVSc (or equivalent) degree or BVetNurs degree (or equivalent). 

Renewal of registration
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G18.

The duration of a postgraduate diploma is one year. Under exceptional circumstances, an extension of one year may be approved by the dean.

  1. A full-time student who is registered for postgraduate diploma must complete his or her study within one year of registering for the degree.
  2. Part-time students who are registered for a postgraduate diploma may be allowed to complete their studies within two years of first registering for the degree.

Examinations and pass requirements
Also consult the General Academic Regulations G23 – G28.

  1. The postgraduate diploma is conferred on strength of the successful completion of tests/assignments and an examination on each of the four 30 credit coursework modules.
  2. The Faculty does make provision for supplementary and special examinations as per General Academic Regulations G26.4 and G26.5.
  3. Every module will be evaluated through a variety of continuous assessment methods (i.e. formative assessments, assignments, summative tests, presentations and/or oral defences where applicable) (from which a year mark will be determined), as well as an examination. A year mark of at least 40% is required for admission to the examination. The year mark and examination mark will each contribute 50% to the final mark. A subminimum of 40% is required in the examination and a final mark of at least 50% to pass the module.
  4. Detailed information and/or instructions regarding requirements for year or examination assessment methods and marks are published in the relevant study guides. The calculation of marks may differ from module to module. This information is available in the study guides and students are responsible for familiarising themselves with the way in which marks are calculated in a specific module.
  5. No automatic adjustment of final individual marks from 38% and 39% to 40%, or from 48% and 49% to 50%, or from 73% and 74% to 75%, for the purposes of obtaining access to a supplementary examination, or a pass mark, or a distinction may occur.
  6. A student passes a module with distinction if he or she obtains a final mark of at least 75%.
  7. A student may only enrol for a module for a second time when the Student Administration of the Faculty receives a written motivation that is supported by the relevant head of department and subsequently approved by the Deputy Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies.

Compliance with degree requirements and degree privileges, and qualification with distinction
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G29.

  1. A postgraduate diploma qualification will be conferred on a student only if the student has complied with all the requirements for the particular qualification and has reached the level of competence prescribed for each module that is required for the qualification.
  2. No one is entitled to any privileges pertaining to a postgraduate diploma before the qualification has been conferred on him or her at a graduation ceremony. (In respect of professional registrations, faculties may issue confirmation letters to the relevant professional bodies prior to the graduation ceremonies).
  3. Qualification with distinction: A postgraduate diploma is awarded with distinction if a student meets the following requirements:
    1. Obtained a weighted average of at least 75% (not rounded), based on the minimum number of modules prescribed for the qualification in question; and
    2. Completed the qualification in the minimum period (i.e. one year for a full-time student and two years for a part-time student) (Also consult the General Academic Regulations G18.1), and
    3. Did not fail or repeat any module during an additional examination. The result of a discontinuation of a module(s) will not be considered when calculating a qualification with distinction.

MASTER’S DEGREES
Also consult the General Academic Regulations G30 – G41.

A master’s degree is a postgraduate qualification of at least 180 credits at NQF-level 9. All the master’s degrees presented by the Faculty must include a prescribed research component in the form of a research project.

The Faculty offers the following master’s degrees:

  1. Master’s degrees by dissertation (180 credits)
  2. Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation (180 credits)
  3. Professional master’s degrees (360 credits)

The following will be applicable for all three master’s degree programmes (any programme specific differences will be highlighted under the relevant degree programmes):

Agreement between student and supervisor and progress reports
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39.

After registration, an agreement (MOA) between the student and the supervisor must be signed. The document serves as the basis for the interaction between the student and the supervisor. It indicates their individual roles, responsibilities and expectations and timelines, and makes it clear that they are entering into a binding undertaking with each other. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to monitor the progress of a candidate in regard to the signed agreement (and to update it annually where applicable). In addition, the supervisor should monitor the progress of the candidate continuously by means of the graduate research management system. 

An annual progress report should be submitted to the Faculty Student Administration and also uploaded onto the graduate research management system. 

Any re-registration is conditional on satisfactory progress (see Renewal of registration section below), as confirmed by the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee based on the annual progress report(s) submitted by the head of department to Faculty Student Administration, as provided by the supervisor. The head of department must also record the approval on the graduate research management system.

Renewal of registration
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G32.

Students enrolled for a master’s degree by dissertation or a master’s degree by coursework and mini-dissertation:

  1. Must complete their studies within two years after first registering for the degree. 
  2. Students are required to re-register before 31 March of every academic year until all the requirements of the degree have been met.
  3. Providing that progress is satisfactory (based on the annual progress report(s) submitted), renewal of the registration of a master’s student will be accepted for the second year of the study. [Also see programme specific requirements with regards to certain coursework specific regulations]
  4. Renewal of registration after the two-year period is permitted only in exceptional circumstances and granted only for a limited fixed extension of this period in accordance with the relevant faculty procedures, i.e. when the Student Administration of the Faculty receives a written motivation that is supported by the relevant head of department and subsequently approved by the Deputy Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies.

Students enrolled for a professional master’s degree:

  1. An MMedVet master’s degree student must complete his or her studies within three years after first registering for the degree. 
  2. Students are required to re-register before 31 March of every academic year until all the requirements of the degree have been met. 
  3. Providing that progress is satisfactory (based on the annual progress report(s) submitted), renewal of the registration of an MMedVet master’s degree student will be accepted for the second and third year of the study. However, if the supervisor indicated that there was no progress made during a particular registration year, the student may be excluded from the programme.
  4. Renewal of registration after the three-year period is permitted only in exceptional circumstances and granted only for a limited fixed extension of this period in accordance with the relevant faculty procedures, i.e. when the Student Administration of the Faculty receives a written motivation that is supported by the relevant head of department and subsequently approved by the Deputy Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies.

General examinations and pass requirements related to dissertations and mini-dissertations 
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39 for Preparation and submission of dissertation, Technical editing of the dissertation, Evaluation of the dissertation, Appointment of the examination panel, Criteria for evaluation, Examiners’ reports, Finalisation of reports.

The following general examinations and pass requirements are applicable to dissertations and mini-dissertations for the following programme codes (Note: programme specific or additional requirements are listed under each relevant programme):

  • MSc (Veterinary Science Anatomy and Physiology) (08251014)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science Companion Animal Clinical Studies) (08251015)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science Paraclinical Sciences) (08251016)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science Production Animal Studies) (08251017)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science Tropical Diseases) (08250902)
  • MSc (Veterinary Industrial Pharmacology) (08251018)
  • MSc (Veterinary Public Health) (08251025)
  • MSc (Ruminant Health) (08251024)
  • MSc (Veterinary Epidemiology) (08251022)
  • MSc (Wildlife Health, Ecology and Management) (08251019)
  • MSc (Veterinary Reproduction) (08251023)
  • MSc with specialisation in Global One Health: diseases at the human-animal interface (08251030) 
  • MMedVet (Anaesthesiology) (08250132)
  • MMedVet (Clinical Laboratory Diagnostic) (08250192)
  • MMedVet (Diagnostic Imaging) (08250143)
  • MMedVet (Equine Medicine) (08250056)
  • MMedVet (Equine Surgery) (08251122)
  • MMedVet (Ophthalmology) (08250252)
  • MMedVet (Small Animal Medicine) (08250057)
  • MMedVet (Small Animal Surgery) (08250024)
  • MMedVet (Laboratory Animal Science) (08250212)
  • MMedVet (Pathology) (08250102)
  • MMedVet (Pharmacology) (08251132)
  • MMedVet (Toxicology) (08251142)
  • MMedVet (Veterinary Public Health) (08250042)
  • MMedVet (Bovine Health and Production) (08250055)
  • MMedVet (Pig Herd Health (08250183)
  • MMedVet (Poultry Diseases) (08250172)
  • MMedVet (Reproduction) (08250032)
  • MMedVet (Small Stock Herd Health) (08250242)
  • MMedVet (Wildlife Diseases) (08250222)

A dissertation/mini-dissertation should be submitted with the written permission of the supervisor. Should the supervisor refuse to grant permission for submission, the candidate may request permission to submit from the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee (consult the General Academic Regulations G39.7.2 for the detailed procedures).

The layout of the dissertation/mini-dissertation shall conform to the dissertation layout guidelines as per the General Academic Regulations G39.10 and G39.11.

A dissertation/mini-dissertation is submitted to the Head: Student Administration, before the closing date for the relevant graduation ceremonies as announced annually (i.e. usually 30 October or 31 March to qualify for the Autumn or Spring graduation, respectively), after permission is granted by the supervisor and co-supervisor(s). (Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39 with regard to the submission and technical editing of the thesis).

If a dissertation/mini-dissertation is submitted after the due date specified above, the student takes the risk that the examination of the dissertation may be delayed and the student will not be considered for the graduation concerned. A student will only be allowed to graduate if the student has successfully complied with all the requirements for the particular programme.

The dissertation/mini-dissertation will be evaluated by two examiners (for the appointment of the examination panel, consult the General Academic Regulation G39.12.1). Also consult the Faculty MSc guidelines and reporting document for internal and external examiners.

  1. In addition to the recommendation, the examiner report should indicate the mark that the candidate has achieved, with the understanding that at least 50% is regarded as a pass mark and at least 75% as a pass with distinction.
  2. The average of the separate marks awarded by the two examiners, constitutes the final mark for the dissertation. 
  3. Should the examiners recommend minor or major revisions as set out in G39.12.4(b)(ii) and (iii), the relevant section(s) of the examiners’ reports will be made available to the candidate by the supervisor in consultation with the head of department, in order for the necessary changes to be made to the dissertation (note: the identity of the examiners may not be revealed to the candidate). As soon as the changes have been made to the dissertation by the candidate, to the satisfaction of the head of the department, the revised dissertation, accompanying rebuttal letter, copy of the draft research article (for master’s degree by dissertation and professional master’s degrees; see programme specific regulations) and a short report by the supervisor on the result, supported by the relevant head of department must be submitted via the Head: Student Administration to the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee for recommendation to the dean. In some instances where major revision was necessary, examiners might request that the revised dissertation be returned to the examiner to confirm that the changes have been addressed.
  4. Should an examiner award a mark below 50% and indicated that the revised copy of the dissertation be returned to the examiner to confirm that the suggested changes have been addressed and to ascertain if a pass mark can be awarded; the mark awarded for the revised dissertation will be capped at 50%.
  5. If a dissertation has been rejected on the basis that it does not meet the required standard, the student may be permitted by the dean, on the recommendation of the relevant head of department, to submit an amended version within 12 months, and in such case the student must bear the full cost of the examination.
  6. The dissertation can also be rejected and the degree not conferred on the candidate.

See further programme specific requirements (i.e. submission of a draft publication or oral exam, etc.) highlighted under the relevant degree programmes. 

Retention and preservation of research data
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39.

The data generated through the research conducted must be managed in accordance with the University of Pretoria’s Research Data Management policy and the related Research Data Management procedure. 

Non-disclosure of the contents of a study (Embargo): Where part of or all the contents of the master’s study must remain confidential, the supervisor will be required to submit an application in writing to the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee setting out the grounds for such a request and indicating the duration of the period of confidentiality. This period would normally not exceed 2 (two) academic years. The committee considers the application and either approves it or refers it back to the supervisor. The faculty must keep record of the decisions and the embargo, and the information must be shared with the Department of Library Services.

1) Master’s degrees by dissertation
Master’s degrees 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.

Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39.

Admission
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G31.

The Faculty offers the following master’s degrees by dissertation:

  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (Anatomy and Physiology) (08251014)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (Companion Animal Clinical Studies) (08251015)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (Paraclinical Sciences) (08251016)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (Production Animal Studies) (08251017)
  • MSc (Veterinary Science) (Tropical Diseases) (08250902)

For all master’s degrees by dissertation programmes, the Faculty Admissions Regulations state that:

  1. A candidate is admitted to a master’s programme only if he or she is in possession of a 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.

In addition:

  1. In certain cases, it remains the prerogative of the head of department to require, in addition to the entrance requirements, for the candidate to pass a proficiency test in English (TOEFL).
  2. Postgraduate applicants who have completed any foreign qualifications must have all their previous post-school qualifications evaluated by SAQA where required. Also consult the General Academic Regulations A3.6.

Programme-specific information
All students should register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM813) (non-credit-bearing). If a student has already completed a similar module for a previous degree (within the past five years) and can show sufficient evidence of competence in research skills required at postgraduate level, a student may apply for exemption from this module.

Research information
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39.

The main objective of master’s degree studies is to enable the candidate to learn how to conduct research and undertake training in research methods, under supervision. The basic requirements and Faculty expectations of an MSc are:

  1. The candidate should show the ability to undertake a research project and write up the project.
  2. The candidate does not need to make an original contribution to science, but still show the ability to do research independently.
  3. Please note that explicit hypothesis-testing, i.e. experimental work is not necessarily mandatory.

The research topic is determined in consultation with the supervisor and the relevant head of department, and the research project(s)/ dissertation that follow, must be approved according to Faculty guidelines. 

Research undertaken by a master’s student is conducted in accordance with the University’s Code of ethics for scholarly activities. All research proposals must be submitted for ethics clearance/approval/exemption to the relevant faculty research and/or research ethics committee. Faculty research ethics committees may consider and approve or reject research proposals in accordance with the guidelines of the general policy.

Examinations and pass requirements
The degree is conferred by virtue of the successful completion of a dissertation. 

The general guidelines as stipulated under the heading “Examinations and pass requirements related to dissertations and mini-dissertations” apply. 

Additional programme specific requirement for master’s degrees by dissertation: Before or on submission of the final copy of the dissertation, a student must submit a draft first-author research article for publication to the supervisor (Also consult the General Academic Regulations G39 - G40). The draft article should be based on the research study undertaken (and as approved by the Faculty Research Ethics committee) during the master’s study and be approved by the supervisor(s) concerned. The supervisor should then take the draft paper through all the processes of revision and resubmission as may be necessary and/or appropriate for publication. The affiliation of both the student and the supervisor(s) should be listed as the University of Pretoria.

Compliance with degree requirements and degree privileges, and qualification with distinction
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G40.

  1. A master’s degree by dissertation will be conferred on a student only after the successful completion of all requirements of each component of the relevant degree programme, including the submission and successful evaluation of a research-based dissertation, draft publication, and compliance with all the requirements for the particular programme.
  2. A master’s degree is not deemed to be completed if the electronic version of the dissertation has not been submitted to the relevant faculty administration prior to the date of closure of the graduation/finalist list for the forthcoming graduation ceremony.
  3. No one is entitled to any privileges pertaining to a master’s degree before the qualification has been conferred on him or her at a graduation ceremony. In respect of professional registrations, faculties may issue confirmation letters to the relevant professional bodies prior to the graduation ceremonies.
  4. Qualification 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 (i.e. study while working full-time).

2) Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation
A coursework master’s degree requires a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual independence, and in some cases demonstration of the ability to relate knowledge to a range of contexts for professional practice. It must contain a research project comprising at least 60 credits, culminating in the acceptance of a mini-dissertation.

In the Faculty, the coursework master’s degree curriculum consists of compulsory core and elective theoretical modules (90 credits) as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits).

Also consult the General Academic Regulations G35 - 38.

Programme information

  1. Each module requires a certain amount of contact sessions and the balance may be presented online. The detail of the contact sessions for each module is published in the study guides.
  2. A minimum number of students could be prescribed (as per the discretion of the module coordinator) for the presentation of any given module. When the required minimum number of students for a particular module is not reached, the module will not be presented in that academic year but will be offered again in the next academic year. For prescribed modules a maximum number of students who can enrol may be set. The details for each module are published in the study guides. 
  3. Registered students are required to confirm whether a module will be presented in any particular year. This enquiry should be directed to the Faculty PG Student Administration co-ordinator according to the syllabi information provided in the list of modules in this yearbook.

Admission
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G31.

The Faculty offers the following master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation:

  • MSc (Veterinary Industrial Pharmacology) (08251018)
  • MSc (Veterinary Public Health) (08251025)
  • MSc (Ruminant Health) (08251024)
  • MSc (Veterinary Epidemiology) (08251022)
  • MSc (Wildlife Health, Ecology and Management) (08251019)
  • MSc (Veterinary Reproduction) (08251023)
  • MSc with specialisation in Global One Health: diseases at the human-animal interface (08251030) 

For all the master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programmes, the Faculty Admissions Regulations state that 

  1. A candidate is admitted to a master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme only if he or she is in possession of a BVSc (or equivalent) degree or relevant four-year BScAgric degree or relevant BSc honours degree or relevant postgraduate diploma (on NQF level 8). [EXCEPT for MSc (Veterinary Reproduction) (08251023) for which the minimum admissions requirement is: BVSc (or equivalent) degree]
  2. An admissions examination may be required.
  3. The candidate may be required to submit proof of experience in their selected field of study.

In addition:

  1. In certain cases, it remains the prerogative of the head of department to require, in addition to the entrance requirements, for the candidate to pass a proficiency test in English (TOEFL).
  2. Postgraduate applicants who have completed any foreign qualifications must have all their previous post-school qualifications evaluated by SAQA where required. Also consult the General Academic Regulations A3.6.
  3. In cases where online modules are offered, basic computer skills are required in order to successfully participate in the degree programme.

The following will be applicable for all the master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programmes (any programme specific differences will be highlighted under the relevant degree programmes): 

Research information
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G39.

The coursework master’s degree consists of coursework modules (90 credits in total) as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits). A mini-dissertation is not a deemed to be a research-based master’s dissertation and is of limited scope and extent. The content should cover enough work for a case report or short communication. The basic requirements and Faculty expectations of a coursework master’s degree mini-dissertation are: 

  1. The student should show the ability to undertake a research project and write up the project.
  2. The student does not need to make an original contribution to science, but still show the ability to do research independently.
  3. Please note that explicit hypothesis-testing, i.e. experimental work is not necessarily mandatory.

Candidates must submit a mini-dissertation which deals with an applied field of study. The topic is determined in consultation with the supervisor and the relevant head of department and must be approved according to Faculty guidelines. The mini-dissertation is based on an applied research project or related research projects which need not be original), planned and reported by the candidate. Assistance with statistical processing, applied specialised procedures, etc. is allowed, but must be acknowledged as such.

Research undertaken is conducted in accordance with the University’s Code of ethics for scholarly activities. All research proposals must be submitted for ethics clearance/approval/exemption to the relevant faculty research and/or research ethics committee. Faculty research ethics committees may consider and approve or reject research proposals in accordance with the guidelines of the general policy.

Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements: The MSc coursework degree is conferred by virtue of the successful completion of examinations on the coursework modules and a mini-dissertation.

The Faculty does make provision for supplementary and special examinations as per General Academic Regulations G37.4 and G37.5. 

For the coursework, a minimum examination mark of 50% is required in each of the modules where a semester or year mark is not required. However, where a semester or year mark is required, the latter will contribute 50% to the final mark. A subminimum of 40% is required in the examination and a final mark of at least 50 % to pass the module. Instructions regarding requirements for semester, year or examination marks are published in the study guides, for the specific attention of candidates.

If a student fails a coursework module, he/she will have to repeat the module the next year. A module may not be repeated more than twice. Please refer to other specific conditions stipulated in the study guide of each module.

For the mini-dissertation: The general guidelines as stipulated under the heading “Examinations and pass requirements related to dissertations and mini-dissertations” apply. 
 

Programme-specific information

2.1 For the following four programmes there are only curriculum differences; for all of them, the research information, examinations and pass requirements as set out above (under the heading “Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements”) applies.

2.1.1 MSc (Veterinary Public Health)

Curriculum: The curriculum consists of three compulsory core modules (EPL 851, VPH 881 and VPH 883 for 10, 40 and 40 credits, respectively) as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits). In addition, students should also register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM 813) (non-credit-bearing). 

2.1.2 MSc (Ruminant Health)

Curriculum: The curriculum consists of one compulsory core module (RUM 801 for 40 credits) and a choice of one of two elective modules (BHH 801 or SSH 801 for 40 credits each), as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits). In addition, students should elect any appropriate module on 800 level to the value of at least 10 credits (to make up the total of 90 credits for the coursework), approved by the head of department. Students should also register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM813) (non-credit-bearing). 

2.1.3 MSc (Veterinary Epidemiology) 

Curriculum: The curriculum consists of six compulsory core modules (EPL 851, EPL 852, EPL 853, EPL 855, EPL 856 and EPL 895 for 10, 20, 20, 5, 5 and 15 credits, respectively), as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits). In addition, students should elect any appropriate module on 800 level to the value of at least 15 credits (to make up the total of 90 credits for the coursework), approved by the head of department. Students should also register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM 813) (non-credit-bearing). 

2.1.4 MSc (Veterinary Reproduction)

Curriculum: The curriculum consists of one compulsory core module (GSK 801 for 15 credits) and a choice of three out of five elective modules (GSK 806, GSK 807, GSK 808, GSK 809 or GSK 810 for 25 credits each), as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits). Students should also register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM 813) (non-credit-bearing). 

2.2 For the following two programmes (programme codes: 08251018, 08251019), there will only be an intake of new students every second year. It remains the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that the degree they wish to apply for, will indeed be presented. Please contact the relevant head of department according to the syllabi information provided in the list of modules in this Faculty Regulations document. Note: the research information, and the examinations and pass requirements as set out above (under the heading “Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements”) apply; programme specific regulations are indicated below. 

2.2.1 MSc (Wildlife Health, Ecology and Management) 

Curriculum: The curriculum consists of four compulsory core modules (NLB 800, NLB 810, WLS 810 and WLS 811 for 20, 20, 20 and 15 credits, respectively) and a choice of one of two elective modules (WLS 812 or WLS 813 for 15 credits each), as well as a mini-dissertation (90 credits). In addition, students are also permitted to elect any other appropriate module on 800 level to the value of 15 credits (instead of choosing one of the two electives offered in the programme), approved by the head of department. Students should also register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM 813) (non-credit-bearing). 

Note: The first year is dedicated to coursework modules whilst the 2nd year is dedicated to the research work. 

Additional entry requirements: The programme is limited to minimum of 4 students and maximum of 12 students for enrolment. Due to an increased interest in the programme, all applicants will be subjected to an entry test.

Additional examinations and pass requirements: In addition to what is set out above under the heading “Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements”, the following also apply:

  1. Failure of certain basic core modules (NLB 810, NLB 800, WLS 810, WLS 811) in the first semester of the first year will lead to the student not being able to proceed with other modules and the student will have to repeat the modules when they are offered again (Note: The firstyear of entry is every 2 years). This is stipulated in the study guide of each of the modules.
  2. These students will be offered a special examination if they meet the minimum requirements, and an additional extra-ordinary examination if they meet the requirements stipulated in the study guide.
  3. If the student successfully completed VRM 813 in year 1, he/she may continue with the research project in year 2.

2.2.2 MSc (Veterinary Industrial Pharmacology)

Curriculum: The curriculum consists of two compulsory core modules (FAK 876 and VIP 800 for 40 and 50 credits, respectively) as well as a mini-dissertation (VIP890 for 90 credits). In addition, students should also register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM813) (non-credit-bearing). 

Note: The first year is dedicated to coursework modules whilst the 2nd year is dedicated to the research work. 

Additional examinations and pass requirements: In addition to what is set out above under the heading “Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements”, the following also apply:
Failure of either FAK 876 or VIP 800 core modules, the student will have to repeat the modules when they are offered again (Note: The first year of entry is every 2 years). This is stipulated in the study guide of each of the modules.
These students will be offered a special examination if they meet the minimum requirements, and an additional extra-ordinary examination if they meet the requirements stipulated in the study guide.
If the student successfully completed VRM 813 in year 1, he/she may continue with the research project in year 2.

2.3 The following programme (08251030) is presented in collaboration with the Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium and differs from the above with regards to a number of aspects: 

2.3.1 MSc with specialisation in Global One Health: diseases at the human-animal interface

Curriculum: This degree is offered by means of a combination of e-learning, face-to-face teaching and a compulsory collaborative induction/field-workshop. It consists of the following components:

  1. A two-week compulsory induction/field-workshop.
  2. Four compulsory core modules (AHE 811, EPL 802, OHB 801 and VRM 812 for 9, 12, 12 and 9 credits, respectively) - all taken in the first semester of Year 1.
  3. Elective modules: Elect modules to the value of 48 credits from the list of elective modules below, and ensure that the following rules are adhered to:
    1. Choose two modules to the value of 18 credits from the following skills-based modules: ASR 811, AVB 817, AVH 811, AVV 811, EPL 804, TCK 811 and VMB 816.
    2. Choose three modules from the following list of theory-based modules: AHE 812, AHE 813, AHE 814, AHE 815, AHE 816, EPL 803, GVD 811 and TBD 814.
  4. Mini-dissertation (90 credits).

Additional requirements: According to the Bologna Bachelor-Master structure, a master’s degree is required to register at ITM. (Note: A four-year BSc degree in the South African context is equivalent to a Master’s degree in the Bologna system).

Additional examinations and pass requirements: In addition to what is set out above under the heading “Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements”, the following also applies for the coursework modules:
A student that fails two or more core modules (AHE 811, EPL 802, OHB 801, VRM 812) during the first semester of Year 1, will not be allowed to continue in the MSc programme.
If a student fails a coursework module, he/she will have to repeat the module the following year. A module cannot be repeated more than twice.

For the mini-dissertation: In addition to what is set out above under the heading “Master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation programme examinations and pass requirements”, the following also applies with regards to the mini-dissertation: The mini-dissertation will include an oral examination conducted face to face or via video conference. The oral examining panel will include an examiner from each institute (excluding the supervisor). A mark constituting a maximum of 10% of the final mini-dissertation mark must be granted. The dissertation will be examined by one internal and one external examiner as stipulated by the UP regulations; this mark will constitute 90% of the final mini-dissertation mark.

Compliance with degree requirements and degree privileges, and qualification with distinction
Also consult the General Academic Regulations G40.

  1. A coursework master’s degree, will only be conferred on a student after the successful completion of the requirements of each component of the relevant degree programme, including a pass mark for each of the prescribed coursework modules, the submission and successful evaluation of the mini-dissertation or other research-relevant output as may be required, and compliance with all the prescribed requirements for the particular programme. 
  2. A coursework master’s degree is not deemed to be completed if the electronic version of the mini-dissertation has not been submitted to the relevant faculty administration prior to the date of closure of the graduation/finalist list for the forthcoming graduation ceremony.
  3. No one is entitled to any privileges pertaining to a coursework master’s degree before the qualification has been conferred on him or her at a graduation ceremony. In respect of professional registrations, faculties may issue confirmation letters to the relevant professional bodies prior to the graduation ceremonies.
  4. Qualification with distinction: A coursework master’s degree is awarded with distinction if a student meets the following requirements:
    1. Obtained a weighted average of at least 75% (not rounded) in the coursework modules required to comply with degree requirements; and 
    2. Obtained a final mark of 75% or above for the mini-dissertation; and
    3. Completed the qualification within the maximum period allowed for master’s study, but subject to being registered for at least the prescribed minimum period of one academic year. Note: the maximum allowable time is twice the prescribed in relation to postgraduate students who study part-time (i.e. study while working full-time).
    4. In the case of a coursework master’s degree, the student did not fail or repeat any module during an additional examination. The result of a discontinuation of a module(s) will not be considered when calculating the final marks in order to qualify for a distinction.

3) Professional master’s degrees
A specialist master’s degree requires a high level of theoretical and practical engagement, intellectual independence as well as a demonstration of the ability to apply knowledge to the resolution of complex problems in appropriate areas of professional practice. In addition, a professional master’s degree must include a research component that comprises at least 45 credits, culminating in the acceptance of a mini-dissertation or other forms of research such as technical reports, and/or a series of peer-reviewed articles or other research-equivalent outputs. 

In the Faculty, a master's degree in Veterinary Medicine (MMedVet) is a clinical specialty degree at NQF-level 9 of 360 credits designed to be completed in 3 years of full-time study (residential training program). The training program consists of clinical work (at least 90 weeks of supervised clinical training), coursework, culminating in a multi-component examination (270 credits) and a research project resulting in a mini-dissertation (of 90 credits) and subsequent publications as required for SAVC registration as a specialist. The student bears the responsibility of ensuring that they familiarise themselves with the SAVC requirements and regulations that might be applicable for registration as a specialist.

Also consult the General Academic Regulations G35 – 38 (coursework) and G39 – G40 (mini-dissertation).

Programme information

  1. The MMedVet degree may entitle the holder to registration as a specialist with the South African Veterinary Council together with other requirements as determined by Council. Candidates are encouraged to review current Council guidelines on specialist registration. 
  2. The candidate will be required to work full-time at the faculty in the field of specialisation under supervision of an approved supervisor for the required duration, or with approval from the SAVC, conduct clinical practice in specified facilities and based on a programme approved by the supervisor.
  3. Students are required to confirm whether a module will be presented in any particular year. This enquiry should be directed to the Faculty PG Student Administration co-ordinator according to the syllabi information provided in the list of modules in this yearbook.

Admission
Also consult the General Academic Regulations G31.

The Faculty offers the following master’s degrees by coursework and mini-dissertation:

  • MMedVet (Anaesthesiology) (08250132)
  • MMedVet (Clinical Laboratory Diagnostic) (08250192)
  • MMedVet (Diagnostic Imaging) (08250143)
  • MMedVet (Equine Medicine) (08250056)
  • MMedVet (Equine Surgery) (08251122)
  • MMedVet (Ophthalmology) (08250252)
  • MMedVet (Small Animal Medicine) (08250057)
  • MMedVet (Small Animal Surgery) (08250024)
  • MMedVet (Laboratory Animal Science) (08250212)
  • MMedVet (Pathology) (08250102)
  • MMedVet (Pharmacology) (08251132)
  • MMedVet (Toxicology) (08251142)
  • MMedVet (Veterinary Public Health) (08250042)
  • MMedVet (Bovine Health and Production) (08250055)
  • MMedVet (Pig Herd Health (08250183)
  • MMedVet (Poultry Diseases) (08250172)
  • MMedVet (Reproduction) (08250032)
  • MMedVet (Small Stock Herd Health) (08250242)
  • MMedVet (Wildlife Diseases) (08250222)

For all the professional master’s degrees programmes, the Faculty Admissions Regulations state that 

  1. A candidate is admitted to a professional master’s degrees programmes only if he or she is in possession of a BVSc degree or an equivalent veterinary degree. 
  2. Have applicable experience as a veterinarian of at least two years, or training of at least one year in the specific field as an intern at a recognised training facility.
  3. An entrance examination may be required.
  4. Registration as a veterinarian with the South African Veterinary Council (SAVC) or authorisation by the SAVC to be enrolled for MMedVet studies.

In addition:

  1. The candidate will be required to work full-time at the faculty in the field of specialisation under supervision of an approved supervisor for the required duration. 
  2. In certain cases, it remains the prerogative of the head of department to require, in addition to the entrance requirements, for the candidate to pass a proficiency test in English (TOEFL).
  3. Postgraduate applicants who have completed any foreign qualifications must have all their previous post-school qualifications evaluated by SAQA where required. Also consult the General Academic Regulations A3.6.
  4. International requirements: Candidates are required to write the SAVC exam and be registered with the SAVC or apply for special permission from the council before applying for a MMedVet degree.

Notification: 
While the MMedVet is an advanced professional programme equivalent to specialist certification, registration to practice as a specialist is controlled by the SAVC or international equivalent. These bodies may have additional requirements for registration that are not university requirements. Please check their requirements as well.

Selection process:

  1. Based on an interview.
  2. The number of students that can be admitted to the MMedVet degree programme annually depends on the training capacity of a department, the number of specialists appointed and the number of available posts.

Unpaid residency posts may be considered, provided the student meets the necessary qualifying standards to the satisfaction of the head of department. These unpaid residency posts are for a period of 3 years, which can be extended to 4 years with the dean’s approval.

Programme-specific information
All students should register for (and pass) the module Research methodology (VRM 813) (non-credit-bearing). If a student has already completed a similar module for a previous degree (within the past five years) and can show sufficient evidence of competence in research skills required at postgraduate level, a student may apply for exemption from this module.

Research information
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G38.

The MMedVet master’s degree consists of a minimum of 90 weeks of clinical training, coursework modules as well as a mini-dissertation of 90 credits. The basic requirements and Faculty expectations of an MMedVet mini-dissertation are: 

  1. The student should show the ability to undertake a research project and write up the project.
  2. The student does not need to make an original contribution to science, but still show the ability to do research independently.
  3. Please note that explicit hypothesis-testing, i.e. experimental work is not necessarily mandatory.

The MMedVet master’s degree mini-dissertation is based on a research project or related research projects (which need not be original), planned and written down by the student within the theme of the chosen specialisation. (Assistance with statistical processing, applied specialised procedures, etc. is allowed, but must be acknowledged.) The student may use appropriate research done previously, to add to the writing of the mini-dissertation.

Research undertaken by an MMedVet master’s student is conducted in accordance with the University’s Code of ethics for scholarly activities. All research proposals must be submitted for ethics clearance/approval/exemption to the relevant faculty research and/or research ethics committee. Faculty research ethics committees may consider and approve, or reject research proposals in accordance with the guidelines of the general policy. 

Examinations and pass requirements
Also consult the General Academic Regulations G35 – 38 (coursework) and G39 – G40 (mini-dissertation).

The MMedVet is conferred by virtue of completion of a minimum of 90 weeks of clinical training, examination in specialist module, and a mini-dissertation. 

Examination in specialist module: Also consult the Faculty’s SOP MMedVet examinations guideline as reflected in the study guides.

The examination(s) in the specialist field of study may only be taken on completion of the minimum clinical training which includes successful presentation of seminars. Special permission will have to be obtained from the HOD if the examination is conducted at an earlier stage. The examination will consist of a theoretical component (the addition of an oral exam is optional and dependant on the discipline) and a practical component (optional; dependant on the discipline). The nature and duration of the specialist module's examination(s), which must fully test the theoretical knowledge as well as the practical skills of the student, is determined by the head of department in which the chosen field of study is presented.

A minimum examination mark of 50% is required in each of the theoretical and practical sections of the specialist module. 

The Faculty regulations do provide for supplementary and special examinations as per General Academic Regulations G37.4 and G37.5; however, only after an additional period of training (theoretical and/or practical) as prescribed has been completed.

Note: Students who intend applying for membership of a specialist college abroad later on, should bear in mind that many of these colleges require a minimum examination mark and a final mark of at least 60% for admission. The student bears the responsibility of ensuring that they familiarise themselves with the relevant college requirements and regulations that might be applicable.

Mini-dissertation: The general guidelines as stipulated under the heading “Examinations and pass requirements related to dissertations and mini-dissertations” apply. 

Before, or on submission of the final copy of the dissertation, a student must submit a draft first-author research article for publication to the supervisor (Also consult the General Academic Regulations G39 - G40). The draft article should be based on the research study undertaken (and as approved by the Faculty Research Ethics committee) during the master’s study, and be approved by the supervisor(s) concerned. The supervisor should then take the draft paper through all the processes of revision and resubmission as may be necessary and/or appropriate for publication. The affiliation of both the student and the supervisor(s) should be listed as the University of Pretoria.

Compliance with degree requirements and degree privileges, and qualification with distinction
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G40.

  1. A professional master’s degree, will be conferred on a student only after the successful completion of every requirement of each component of the relevant degree programme, including the achievement of a pass mark for the prescribed coursework module, the submission and successful evaluation of the mini-dissertation or other research-relevant output, and compliance with all the requirements for the particular programme. 
  2. A professional master’s degree is not deemed to be completed if the electronic version of the mini-dissertation has not been submitted to the relevant faculty administration prior to the date of closure of the graduation/finalist list for the forthcoming graduation ceremony.
  3. No one is entitled to any privileges pertaining to a professional master’s degree before the qualification has been conferred on him or her at a graduation ceremony. In respect of professional registrations, faculties may issue confirmation letters to the relevant professional bodies prior to the graduation ceremonies.
  4. Qualification with distinction: A professional master’s degree is awarded with distinction if a student meets the following requirements:
    1. Obtained at least a final mark of 75% (not rounded), based on the module prescribed for the professional master’s degree in question; and
    2. Obtained a final mark of 75% or above for the mini-dissertation; and 
    3. 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 that of the prescribed duration time period in relation to postgraduate students who study part-time (i.e. study while working full-time).
    4. In the case of a coursework master’s degree, the student did not fail or repeat any module during an additional examination. The result of a discontinuation of a module(s) will not be considered when calculating the final marks in order to qualify for a distinction.

CONVERSION OF MASTER’S BY DISSERTATION TO DOCTORAL STUDY
Consult the General Academic Regulation G41.

DOCTORAL DEGREES
Also consult the General Academic Regulations G42 – G55.

A doctoral degree is a postgraduate qualification of at least 360 credits at NQF Level 10 and must demonstrate a high level of research capability and it must make a significant and original academic contribution at the knowledge frontiers of a discipline or field. The work must be of a quality to satisfy peer review consideration and merit the publication of at least three research articles. It requires a candidate to undertake research at the most advanced academic levels, requiring a high level of theoretical engagement and intellectual and research independence, culminating in the submission, assessment and acceptance of a thesis; as well as the submission of proof of acceptance of a first-author research article for publication issued by an accredited journal. 

Admission 
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G42.

The Faculty offers the following doctoral degrees:

  • PhD (Veterinary Science) Anatomy and Physiology (08261006)
  • PhD (Veterinary Science) Companion Animal Clinical Studies (08261007)
  • PhD (Veterinary Science) Paraclinical Sciences (08261008)
  • PhD (Veterinary Science) Production Animal Studies (08261009)
  • PhD Veterinary Science) Tropical Diseases (08260272)

For all doctoral degree programmes, the Faculty Admissions Regulations calls for:

  1. Relevant master’s degree in science. 

In addition:

  1. It remains the prerogative of the relevant head of department to require an admissions test prior to registration for the degree study, in addition to the regulatory requirements. 
  2. A pass in a proficiency test in English (TOEFL) at an acceptable level may also be required, especially in the case of international candidates.
  3. Postgraduate applicants who have completed any foreign qualifications must have all their previous post-school qualifications evaluated by SAQA where required. Also consult the General Academic Regulations A3.6.

Agreement between student and supervisor and progress reports
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G50.

After registration, an agreement (MOA) between the student and the supervisor must be signed. The document serves as the basis for the interaction between the student and the supervisor. It indicates their individual roles, responsibilities and expectations and timelines, and makes it clear that they are entering into a binding undertaking with each other. It is the responsibility of the supervisor to monitor the progress of a candidate in regard to the signed agreement (and to update it annually where applicable). In addition, the supervisor should monitor the progress of the candidate continuously by means of the graduate research management system. 

An annual progress report should be submitted to the Faculty Student Administration and also be uploaded onto the graduate research management system. 

Any re-registration is conditional on satisfactory progress in the first two years of study, as confirmed by the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee - based on the annual progress report(s) submitted by the head of department, and as provided by the supervisor. The head of department must also record the approval on the graduate research management system.

Research information
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G50.

The main objective of doctoral studies is to enable the candidate to to demonstrate high-level research capability and make a significant and original academic contribution at the frontiers of a discipline or field. The basic requirements and expectations of a PhD at the Faculty are:

  1. That the project should have been planned, executed and the results written up by the candidate.
  2. The findings should make an original, meaningful contribution to science. 
  3. The project should be sufficient to generate three research articles of which at least one must be published to comply with the degree requirements. It is recommended that the second article has been submitted for publication and the third to be in a draft format when the thesis is submitted for examination. 
  4. Please note that explicit hypothesis-testing, i.e. experimental work is not necessarily mandatory.

The research topic will be determined in consultation with the supervisor and the relevant head of department, following which the research projects will be approved in terms of Faculty guidelines and the General Academic Regulations. Each candidate must satisfy the relevant head of department that he or she is working at an institution with the necessary facilities, to enable him or her to complete the work as required for the degree, satisfactorily.

Research undertaken by a doctoral student is conducted in accordance with the University’s Code of ethics for scholarly activities. All research proposals must be submitted for ethics clearance/approval/exemption to the relevant faculty research and/or research ethics committee. Faculty research ethics committees may consider and approve or reject research proposals in accordance with the guidelines of the general policy.

Renewal of registration
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G44.

A student for doctoral studies must complete his or her studies within three years after first registering for the degree. 

Students are required to re-register before 31 March of every academic year until all the requirements of the degree have been met.
Providing that progress is satisfactory (based on the annual progress report(s) submitted), renewal of the registration of a doctoral student will be accepted for the second and third year of the study. 

Renewal of registration after the three-year period is permitted only in exceptional circumstances and granted only for a limited fixed extension of this period in accordance with the relevant faculty procedures, i.e. when the Student Administration of the Faculty receives a written motivation that is supported by the relevant head of department and subsequently approved by the Deputy Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies.

Examinations and pass requirements
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G50 for Preparation and submission of a thesis, Technical editing of the thesis, Evaluation of the thesis, Appointment of the examination panel, Criteria for evaluation, Examiners’ reports, Finalisation of reports.

The degree is conferred by virtue of the successful completion of a thesis as well as and the submission of proof of acceptance of first-author research article for publication issued by an accredited journal. The thesis must contain proof of a candidate’s ability to conduct original research that contributes to the development of new knowledge and expertise.

The following is applicable to theses:

A thesis should be submitted with the written permission of the supervisor. Should the supervisor refuse to grant permission for submission, the candidate may request permission to submit from the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee (consult the General Academic Regulations G50.1.7(b) for the detailed procedures).

The format of the thesis shall conform to the thesis guidelines as per the General Academic Regulations G50.2 and G50.3. 

Should a thesis be prepared based on published papers (i.e. in cases where a doctoral candidate has published articles based on results emanating from the doctoral study conducted at the University while being registered as a doctoral candidate, prior to the submission of the thesis), the General Academic Regulation G50.1.9 needs to be complied with. 

A thesis is submitted to the Head: Student Administration, before the closing date for the relevant graduation ceremonies as announced annually (i.e. usually 30 August or 31 March to qualify for the Autumn or Spring graduation, respectively), after permission is granted by the supervisor and co-supervisor(s). (Also consult the General Academic Regulation G50 with regard to the submission and technical editing of the thesis).

If a thesis is submitted after the due date specified above, the student takes the risk that the examination of the thesis may be delayed and the student will not be considered for the graduation concerned. A student will only be allowed to graduate if the student has successfully complied with all the requirements for the particular programme.  

Before or on submission of the final copy of the thesis, a student must submit proof of acceptance of a first-author research article for publication issued by an accredited journal, to the Head: Student Administration. 

  1. The accepted article should be based on the research study(ies) undertaken (and as approved by the Faculty Research Ethics committee) during the doctoral study, and be approved by the supervisor(s) concerned. 
  2. A published literature review (e.g. the introduction to the thesis) will not suffice in meeting this criterion. Exceptions may, however, be considered (on prior approval by the Chair of the Postgraduate and Research Committee) where the review is published in the form of a meta-analysis or significant re-analysis (with an appropriate statistical methodology), and consists of a significant piece of ‘original’ research in its own right. 
  3. In all instances, the affiliation of both the student and the supervisor(s) must be indicated as the University of Pretoria. 
  4. The supervisor shall be responsible for ensuring that the accepted article has been taken through all the procedures of revision and resubmission, as may be necessary. That will also be the case for any further publications emanating from the study after graduation. Note: although not a formal requirement, it is expected that the doctoral study will result in at least three first-author publications for the student (of which one will constitute the accepted publication as referred to above). It is also recommended that the second article has been submitted for publication and the third to be in a draft format when the thesis is submitted for examination.
  5. In exceptional cases the Dean may allow a student to graduate subject to UP Regulations. (Also consult the General Academic Regulation G51).

The thesis will be evaluated by three examiners (for the appointment of the examination panel, consult the General Academic Regulation G50.4.1). Also consult the Faculty MSc guidelines and reporting document for internal and external examiners.

  1. A specific mark for the thesis is not allocated, but the examiner’s report should clearly state the recommendation that the thesis be accepted or rejected. Reasons must be provided should the recommendation be that the thesis should be rejected.
  2. If the degree is to be conferred without any changes as contemplated in G50.4.4(b)(i), the supervisor must submit a short report on the result, supported by the relevant head of department via the Head: Student Administration to the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee for recommendation to the dean. Proof of acceptance of a publication should also be submitted. 
  3. If the examiners recommend minor or major revisions as set out in G50.4.4(b)(ii) and (iii), the relevant section(s) of the examiners’ reports will be made available to the candidate by the supervisor in consultation with the head of department, in order for the necessary changes to be made to the thesis (note: the identity of the examiners may not be revealed to the candidate). As soon as the changes have been made to the thesis by the candidate, on recommendation of the supervisor and to the satisfaction of the head of the department, the revised thesis, accompanying rebuttal letter, proof of acceptance of a publication and a short report by the supervisor on the result, supported by the relevant head of department must be submitted via the Head: Student Administration to the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee for recommendation to the dean. In some instances where major revision was necessary, examiners might request that the revised thesis be returned to the examiner to confirm that the changes have been addressed.
  4. If the examiner(s) recommend the thesis cannot be accepted in its current form but that the candidate be invited to revise the thesis and to resubmit it as soon as the candidate has made the recommended major changes to the thesis, it is required that the revised copy of the thesis (and accompanying rebuttal letter) be returned to the examiner to confirm that the suggested changes have been addressed and to ascertain that the thesis can be accepted. If the examiner upon re-examination accept the thesis, the same procedure as described above under point (iii) will be applicable. 
  5. If a thesis has been rejected on the basis that it does not meet the required standard, the student may submit an amended version within 12 months, and in such case the student must bear the full cost of the examination.

Faculty PhD Celebration: 
Candidates will be invited immediately prior to their graduation to present their work to the faculty, friends and family that they’ve invited to the event. The faculty will cater for this event and ensure that students and senior management are available for photographic opportunities. Student will be required to be in formal academic attire for the event. It is also recommended, where possible, that supervisors, and faculty management also be in formal academic attire for the event.

Compliance with degree requirements and degree privileges, and qualification with distinction
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G54.

  1. A doctoral degree will be conferred on a student only after the successful completion of every requirement of each component of the relevant degree programme, including the submission and successful evaluation of the thesis, proof of acceptance of a research publication in an accredited journal, as well as compliance with all the requirements for the particular programme.
  2. A doctoral degree, including a doctoral degree by virtue of publications, is not deemed to be completed if the electronic version of the thesis or other research-relevant output has not been submitted to the relevant faculty administration prior to the date of closure of the graduation/finalist list for the forthcoming graduation ceremony. 
  3. No one is entitled to any privileges pertaining to a doctoral degree, or a doctoral degree by virtue of publications, before the qualification has been conferred on him or her at a graduation ceremony.
  4. A doctoral degree, including a doctoral degree by virtue of publications, is not conferred with distinction.

Retention and preservation of research data
Also consult the General Academic Regulation G50.

The data generated through research conducted at the University of Pretoria must be managed in accordance with the Research Data Management policy and the related Research Data Management procedure. The policy enables the verification of the research and is aimed at the protection of students, researchers, principal investigators and the University against a variety of disputes concerning published or patented research, and the retention of detailed research records for later access.

Non-disclosure of the contents of a study (Embargo): Where part or all of the contents of the doctoral study must remain confidential, the supervisor will be required to submit an application in writing to the Faculty Postgraduate and Research committee stating the grounds for such a request and indicating the duration of the period of confidentiality. This period would normally not exceed 2 (two) academic years. The committee considers the application and either approves it or refers it back to the supervisor. The faculty must keep record of the decisions and the embargo, and the information must be shared with the Department of Library Services.

DOCTORAL DEGREE BY VIRTUE OF PUBLICATIONS
Consult the General Academic Regulation G53.

The regulations and rules for the degrees published here are subject to change and may be amended after the publication of this information.

The General Academic Regulations (G Regulations) and General Student Rules apply to all faculties and registered students of the University, as well as all prospective students who have accepted an offer of a place at the University of Pretoria. On registering for a programme, the student bears the responsibility of ensuring that they familiarise themselves with the General Academic Regulations applicable to their registration, as well as the relevant faculty-specific and programme-specific regulations and information as stipulated in the relevant yearbook. Ignorance concerning these regulations will not be accepted as an excuse for any transgression, or basis for an exception to any of the aforementioned regulations.

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