TUT National Diploma in Biomedical Technology
Title: Embarking on a Journey of Discovery with a National Diploma in Biomedical Technology
Are you ready to step into the fascinating world of biomedical technology? The National Diploma in Biomedical Technology (NDBM01) at NQF Level 6 offers an exciting opportunity to explore the intricacies of medical science and technology. Located at the Arcadia Campus, this program provides a comprehensive education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the biomedical field. But before you dive in, here’s everything you need to know.
Important Changes on the Horizon
For those considering enrolling in the NDBM01 program from 2017 onwards, it’s crucial to be aware of significant changes on the horizon. Starting from 2020, the Baccalaureus Technologiae program will be phased out and replaced with qualifications aligned with the newly-implemented Higher Education Qualification Sub-Framework. To stay updated with the latest qualifications and program offerings, prospective students are advised to regularly visit the university’s website for any new updates that may not be included in the current Prospectus.
Admission Requirements and Selection Criteria
The admission requirements for the NDBM01 program vary depending on the type of senior certificate you obtained:
- For Applicants with a Senior Certificate before 2008: You should have a Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification with a minimum C symbol at Standard Grade or an E symbol at Higher Grade for English, Mathematics, Physical Science, and Biology or Physiology. The selection process includes evaluating your Senior Certificate performance (40%), a TUT potential assessment (40%), and an interview (20%) with a departmental selection panel.
- For Applicants with a National Senior Certificate in or after 2008: To be considered for this program, you need a National Senior Certificate with a bachelor’s degree or a diploma endorsement, or an equivalent qualification, with an achievement level of at least 4 for English, Life Sciences, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences. An Admission Point Score (APS) of at least 22 is required for consideration. The selection process is as follows:
- Applicants with a score of 26 and above will be invited for an interview, with the APS contributing 80% to the final admission score and the interview accounting for the remaining 20%.
- Applicants with a score of 22-25 will be invited to write the TUT potential assessment and undergo an interview. The APS will contribute 40% to the final admission score, the potential assessment 40%, and the interview 20%.
Program Duration and Presentation
The National Diploma in Biomedical Technology is a three-year program presented through day classes, with intake taking place in January only.
Exclusion and Readmission
Exclusion and readmission policies are governed by Chapter 2 of the Students’ Rules and Regulations, which outline the procedures and criteria for students in these circumstances.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), Equivalence, and Status
For information regarding Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), equivalence, and status, students can refer to Chapter 30 of the Students’ Rules and Regulations.
Practicals and Textbooks
Practical classes are an integral part of this program, and 100% attendance is compulsory. Passing the practical component of each subject is a prerequisite for sitting for the examination. Additionally, students will require textbooks and other educational materials to support their studies.
Personal Protective Equipment and Vaccination
Students must adhere to safety protocols in practical laboratories, and specific safety wear is mandatory. Furthermore, vaccination against Hepatitis B is compulsory for all students in this program.
Professional Registration
As a student in the National Diploma in Biomedical Technology program, you will be required to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a student medical technologist. International students can register with the HPCSA as student technologists but not as medical technologists.
Professional Registration as a Medical Technologist
Successful registration as a qualified medical technologist takes place four years after initial registration as a student medical technologist. This process requires completing the first three academic years successfully, working in an HPCSA-approved laboratory for at least 14 months, and passing the Board Examination of the Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists of South Africa (SMLTSA).
Laboratory Practice III (Work-Integrated Learning)
Students are eligible to register for Laboratory Practice III once they have successfully passed all subjects in the first five academic semesters. This practice must be undertaken in a laboratory accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
Subject Credits
Subject credits are indicated in brackets after each subject in the curriculum, providing an overview of the credit allocation for each.
Curriculum Overview
Now that you have a glimpse of the program structure and requirements, let’s take a closer look at the curriculum across the three years of study:
First Year Curriculum:
In the first semester, students will cover subjects such as Anatomy and Physiology I, Calculations and Statistics, Chemistry IB, Introduction to Medical Technology, and Physics IB. The total credits for the semester amount to 0.575.
In the second semester, students will delve into Biochemistry II, Blood Transfusion Technology, Cellular Pathology I, and Microbiology I, accumulating a total of 0.500 credits.
The first-year curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in biomedical sciences and related subjects.
Second Year Curriculum:
The second year of the program focuses on more specialized subjects, including Chemical Pathology I, Immunology II, Microbiology II, and Pathophysiology II in the first semester, with a total of 0.500 credits.
In the second semester, students will study Cellular Pathology II, Chemical Pathology II, Computer Skills I, and Haematology II, accumulating 0.425 credits.
This year builds on the fundamentals of the first year and delves deeper into specific areas of biomedical technology.
Third Year Curriculum:
In the third and final year, students will engage with advanced topics in Cellular Pathology III, Chemical Pathology III, Haematology III, and Microbiology III in the first semester, with a total of 0.500 credits.
Successful completion of all subjects in the first semester is a prerequisite for registering for Laboratory Practice III in the second semester, which carries 0.500 credits.
Embark on Your Biomedical Journey
With a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on practical experience, and a commitment to excellence, the National Diploma in Biomedical Technology (NDBM01) at NQF Level 6 offers an exciting pathway into the world of medical technology. Whether you’re passionate about understanding the intricacies of the human body, exploring the world of microorganisms, or contributing to healthcare through diagnostics, this program is your ticket to a rewarding and impactful career in biomedical technology.
The dynamic and ever-evolving field of biomedical technology awaits your expertise. Are you ready to take the first step on this extraordinary journey of discovery and innovation?
