Evaluation And Exams
Assessment of modules
Assessment is usually by means of written assignments, but other assessment methods are also used, including group marks, peer review, oral presentations for the class, written papers, or computer-based examinations.
These methods can be used on their own, or in combination with other forms of assessment. Assessment may be of an individual or group effort, depending on the brief provided by lecturers. In all cases, students will know in advance what type of assessment will be used, and feedback will be provided to help students decide where they need to add to their learning.
Mark of 50% or above
Students are required to pass each module with at least 50%.
Mark between 40% and 49%
In this case, the assignment for that module must be repeated. The student must arrange for this repeat with the module presenter. If a student passes this re-assessment, a 50% mark will be given as an overall pass mark for that module.
Mark below 40%
In this case, the student must re-enrol for the entire module in the following year.
If a core/fundamental module is not passed after two attempts, the student will not be allowed to continue with the MPH programme.
A compulsory track module can only be repeated once. If it is not passed after the second attempt, the student will be asked to change tracks. If the student fails after two attempts in the second track, he or she will not be allowed to continue with the MPH programme.
If an elective module is failed after two attempts, the student will have to choose another elective module.
Final examination of the MPH
The MPH has an additional assessment of its course work other than through the assessment of individual modules. There are two comprehensive examinations; the decision lies with the examiners as to whether these examinations will be written and / or oral.
The first examination may be taken after completion of all the compulsory core modules, and covers basic knowledge in public health. The second examination may be taken after the completion of all the compulsory track modules, and covers the modules taken as part of the track or area of concentration.
As with modules, each examination must be passed with at least 50%. If a student fails either of the examinations, he or she will be required to re-write at the next examination opportunity. If the student fails for a second time, he or she will not be allowed to continue with the MPH.
Evaluation of the research report
The research report must be passed independently, with a minimum of 50%.
Summary of the MPH assessment and examination
Each module is evaluated individually, and must be passed with at least 50%. (The combined module mark contributes 40% of the overall mark for the MPH.) Students must pass a comprehensive examination paper covering the core modules (PHR 870) and a comprehensive examination paper covering the area of concentration (PHR 871). Each paper must be passed with at least 50%. (The combined exam mark contributes 40% of the overall mark for the MPH.) The research report must be passed independently with at least 50%. (The combined evaluation/s of the report contributes 20% of the overall mark for the MPH.) Cum Laude The MPH degree is conferred with distinction on a student who has obtained an average of at least 75% overall and a final mark of at least 75% for the research report.