The HCert (Vacc) programme is a basic introductory programme for in-service HCWs who work in EPI-SA and private sector clinics offering infant / childhood vaccination services. HCert (Vacc) is designed to equip HCWs with the theoretical knowledge and practical expertise necessary for running an up-to-date clinic offering infant / childhood vaccination services. HCert (Vacc) introduces students to key concepts in vaccinology, and at the end of the programme students will be knowledgeable about vaccine-preventable diseases, vaccines, vaccination and immunisation, and will be able to apply this knowledge in the practice of vaccine delivery and administration within the framework of EPI-SA.
The programme is divided into 2 blocks consisting of 11 modules over 30 weeks. The duration of the first block is 15 weeks, with a draft Portfolio of Vaccinology Theory and Practice being submitted for Mid-Year Formative Assessment at the end of Week 15. The duration of the second block is 15 weeks and includes practical assignments with formative assessments of practice and a certificate of competence being issued when students have mastered all the techniques. During week 30, students finalise and submit their final Portfolio of Vaccinology Theory and Practice which is used for the End of Year Summative Assessment.
Student selection and registration:
Minimum admission requirements: Registered General Nurse and Midwife with the SA Nursing Council, or a 3 year qualification in a relevant health science (i.e. in which training in vaccinating is included) from a tertiary institution registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
Students must register for the academic year at the beginning of the year before the closing date, as specified in the SMU General Calendar.
Selection criteria:
Priority will be given to in-service HCWs who are currently working within the field of vaccination, or who are planning to work within this field in the near future. Applicants will be required to write a motivation explaining why they should be accepted for this programme. 5 Recognition of prior learning: Modules 6 to 11 all have practical assignments which are based on vaccination practices. Students who are already competent in vaccination practices and can produce evidence of this competence, will be able to submit this evidence and thus be exempt from completing these assignments. Their supervisor / manager / employer will be required to complete and sign a certificate of practice for each specific task, and these certificates will form part of the Portfolio of Vaccinology Theory and Practice
Duration of study:
The duration of study for the HCert (Vacc) programme is subject to the stipulations under Rules G9 and G10 in the SMU General Calendar. Minimum duration period: 1 year Maximum duration period: 2 years A student who interrupts his/her studies retains credit for modules passed for a maximum period of two years, subject to Rule G10 in the SMU General Calendar