Paediatric Forensic Pathology

The Paediatric Forensic Pathology program at the University of Cape Town offers in-depth training and specialized knowledge in the field of child death investigations from a forensic pathology perspective. This programme is designed for medical professionals and pathologists who wish to develop expertise in forensic autopsies related to paediatric cases, including sudden, unexplained, or suspicious child deaths. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students gain a thorough understanding of the medico-legal aspects of paediatric pathology, including the techniques of forensic autopsy, histopathology, microbiology, toxicology, and the documentation of findings crucial for legal proceedings.

The programme emphasizes practical training alongside theoretical instruction, enabling students to acquire skills in identifying cause of death, understanding patterns of injury, and recognizing signs of abuse or neglect. Students will learn about relevant legal frameworks, ethical considerations, and the importance of meticulous evidence collection and preservation. The programme also covers topics such as pediatric disease processes, congenital anomalies, infectious diseases, and environmental factors impacting child health, providing a broad foundation to support forensic investigations in complex cases.

Students will participate in supervised autopsies in a well-equipped forensic pathology laboratory, engaging directly with real cases to develop diagnostic competence. The programme encourages interdisciplinary collaboration with law enforcement, legal professionals, pediatric specialists, and social workers to ensure a holistic approach to child death investigations. Graduates of this program will be equipped to work in forensic pathology units, hospitals, or government agencies involved in child protection and justice systems, contributing crucial expertise to child death reviews, medico-legal reports, and court testimonies.

The Paediatric Forensic Pathology program is committed to advancing research and innovation in forensic child death investigations, supporting the development of best practices and improving outcomes for affected families. With a combination of academic excellence, practical exposure, and a focus on ethical standards, the programme prepares graduates to make significant contributions to the field of forensic medicine and child protection. The University of Cape Town’s strong reputation for research, comprehensive curriculum, and state-of-the-art facilities make it an ideal place to pursue specialization in this critical area of forensic pathology.

• PTY7040W MPhil Paediatric Forensic Pathology Part 1
• PTY7041W Paediatric Forensic Pathology Minor Dissertation

DP requirements and progression rule

FMD76 Students are required: 

• (a) to attend at least 90% of lectures, tutorials and practicals; and
• (b) to pass all formative assessments of the coursework component in order to gain entrance to the final coursework examination. 

• Have an MMed in Forensic Pathology or approved equivalent; and 
• Be registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa. 
• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The University of Cape Town offers a specialized program in Paediatric Forensic Pathology designed to equip medical professionals with in-depth knowledge and practical skills necessary for investigating deaths involving children. This program is part of the university’s commitment to advancing forensic medicine and pediatric pathology, combining theoretical coursework with hands-on experience in forensic laboratories and external case investigations. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the legal aspects of forensic examinations, advanced techniques in autopsy procedures, child abuse and neglect investigations, and the medico-legal documentation required for court proceedings. Students also learn about the forensic analysis of biological samples, the interpretation of histopathological findings, and the application of toxicology and microbiology in forensic cases involving children. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, often involving collaborations with law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and forensic laboratories to provide a comprehensive understanding of the medico-legal and social aspects of child death investigations. Graduates of this program are expected to be proficient in conducting detailed autopsies, identifying signs of abuse or neglect, and providing expert testimony in court settings. The program prepares students for careers in forensic pathology, pediatric medicine, legal consultancy, and forensic research, contributing significantly to efforts aimed at reducing child mortality and combating child abuse. Entry requirements typically include relevant medical qualifications, such as an MBChB degree, and a background in pathology or paediatrics is advantageous. The program duration varies but generally spans one to two years, depending on whether undertaken as a full-time or part-time course. Upon completion, graduates join a network of forensic experts dedicated to protecting children's rights and advancing forensic medicine in South Africa and beyond.