Health Science, Medicine & Nursing in South Africa

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University of the Witwatersrand

Johannesburg , South Africa

BDS ( Dental Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor’s
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Nelson Mandela University

Gqeberha , South Africa

MBBS ( Medicine and Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor’s
Course Duration: 6 Years
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University of Venda

Thohoyandou , South Africa

MPharm ( Pharmaceutical Science )

Course Level: Master's
Course Duration: 2 Years
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University of the Western Cape

Cape Town , South Africa

BDS ( Dental Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor’s
Course Duration: 4 Years
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MBBS ( Medicine and Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor’s
Course Duration: 6 Years
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University of Limpopo

Limpopo , South Africa

MBBS ( Medicine )

Course Level: Bachelor’s
Course Duration: 6 Years
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Durban University of Technology

Durban , South Africa

BDS ( Dental Surgery )

Course Level: Bachelor’s
Course Duration: 4 Years
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North-West University

Potchefstroom , South Africa

MPharm ( Pharmaceutical Chemistry )

Course Level: Master's
Course Duration: 2 Years
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Why Study Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course from South Africa
 


Best Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course Programs and Specializations in South Africa with Specializations and Name of University
 

University Name

Course Program

Specializations

University of Cape Town (UCT)

MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery)

General Medicine

 

Master of Public Health

Epidemiology

 

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

General Nursing

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

MBChB

General Medicine

 

MSc in Epidemiology

Infectious Diseases

 

Bachelor of Nursing Science

Critical Care Nursing

Stellenbosch University

MBChB

General Medicine

 

Master of Science in Medicine

Sport Medicine

 

Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing

Advanced Psychiatry, Community Health, Critical Care

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

MBChB

General Medicine

 

Master of Medical Science

Anatomical Pathology, Pharmacology

 

Bachelor of Nursing

General, Community, Psychiatry, and Midwifery

University of Pretoria

MBChB

General Medicine

 

MSc in Dentistry

Periodontology, Oral Medicine and Periodontology

 

Bachelor of Nursing Science

Education and Administration

University of the Free State (UFS)

MBChB

General Medicine

 

Master of Public Health

Health Management

 

Bachelor of Nursing

General, Midwifery, Community Health, Psychiatry


Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Courses in South Africa for International Students
 

University Name

Course Program

Program Level

Notes for International Students

University of Cape Town (UCT)

MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine & Surgery)

Undergraduate

Competitive admission; requires additional exams for non-residents

 

Master of Public Health

Graduate

Offers global health perspectives

 

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Undergraduate

Provides pathways to registration in SA and abroad

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

MBChB

Undergraduate

High demand; includes clinical rotations in diverse settings

 

MSc in Epidemiology

Graduate

Focus on research in tropical diseases

 

Bachelor of Nursing Science

Undergraduate

Emphasizes primary health care

Stellenbosch University

MBChB

Undergraduate

Integrates theory with practical and community engagement

 

Master of Science in Medicine

Graduate

Specializations in clinical disciplines available

 

Postgraduate Diploma in Nursing

Graduate

Specialized tracks in various nursing fields

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

MBChB

Undergraduate

Strong focus on rural health care

 

Master of Medical Science

Graduate

Opportunities for research in biomedical fields

 

Bachelor of Nursing

Undergraduate

Comprehensive nursing education with practical components

University of Pretoria

MBChB

Undergraduate

Extensive clinical training included

 

MSc in Dentistry

Graduate

Advanced dental research and clinical practice

 

Bachelor of Nursing Science

Undergraduate

Focus on community service and clinical expertise

University of the Free State (UFS)

MBChB

Undergraduate

Emphasis on primary health care in rural settings

 

Master of Public Health

Graduate

Focus on epidemiology and health system management

 

Bachelor of Nursing

Undergraduate

Prepares for leadership roles in nursing


Bachelor Course in Health Science, Medicine & Nursing in South Africa
 

University Name

Course Program

Description

Duration

University of Cape Town (UCT)

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Comprehensive medical training covering a wide range of disciplines

6 years

 

Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy

Focuses on rehabilitating and improving patient quality of life

4 years

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Emphasizes clinical competence and patient care

6 years

 

Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy

Prepares students for practice in various physical therapies

4 years

Stellenbosch University

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Integrates theory with practical and community engagement

6 years

 

BSc in Dietetics

Focus on nutrition, food science, and diet planning

4 years

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Focus on diverse medical practices with rural health emphasis

6 years

 

Bachelor of Nursing

Provides comprehensive nursing training

4 years

University of Pretoria

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Offers extensive clinical training and health sciences education

6 years

 

Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

Trains students to support rehabilitation through occupational activities

4 years

University of the Free State (UFS)

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)

Focuses on primary health care and rural medicine

6 years

 

Bachelor of Nursing

Equips students with skills for various nursing specialties

4 years


Master Course in Health Science, Medicine & Nursing in South Africa
 

University Name

Course Program

Specialization or Focus

Duration

Description

University of Cape Town (UCT)

Master of Medicine (MMed)

Various clinical specialties such as Cardiology, Psychiatry, etc.

4 years

Advanced clinical training and research in specific medical fields.

 

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Public Health Practice, Epidemiology, Health Economics

2 years

Focuses on public health policy, management, and data analysis.

 

Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)

Advanced Practice Nursing, Education

2 years

Prepares nurses for leadership roles in healthcare.

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

Master of Medicine (MMed)

Various specialties including Pediatrics, Orthopedics

4 years

Emphasizes specialty-specific training and research.

 

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Health Systems, Policy & Management

2 years

Designed to enhance skills in health system management.

 

Master of Science in Occupational Therapy

Occupational Health

2 years

Focuses on improving rehabilitation and workplace health.

Stellenbosch University

Master of Medicine (MMed)

Family Medicine, Surgical Sciences

4 years

Focuses on advanced clinical skills and research.

 

Master of Philosophy in Nursing

Nursing Education, Clinical Nursing

2 years

Aims to enhance nursing practice and education.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Community Health, Infectious Diseases

2 years

Addresses public health challenges with a focus on local context.

 

Master of Medical Science (MMedSc)

Anatomical Pathology, Medical Microbiology

2 years

Offers specialized training in medical sciences.

University of Pretoria

Master of Medicine (MMed)

Dermatology, Neurology

4 years

Clinical specialty training with a research component.

 

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Health Policy and Management, Occupational Health

2 years

Designed to enhance leadership in public health sectors.

University of the Free State (UFS)

Master of Medicine (MMed)

General Surgery, Psychiatry

4 years

Specializes in providing advanced clinical and surgical skills.

 

Master of Nursing

Nursing Management, Education

2 years

Focuses on advanced nursing practices and leadership.


PhD Course in Health Science, Medicine & Nursing in South Africa
 

University Name

Course Program

Focus Area

Description

University of Cape Town (UCT)

PhD in Medicine

Various medical sciences including Oncology, Infectious Diseases

Advanced research in specific medical fields aiming to contribute to global health improvements.

 

PhD in Public Health

Health Systems, Global Health, Epidemiology

Focuses on addressing public health challenges through innovative research.

 

PhD in Nursing

Nursing Practice, Policy, and Education

Designed to develop leadership in nursing through research and theoretical advancement.

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

PhD in Health Sciences

Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Physiotherapy

Interdisciplinary research addressing broad aspects of health sciences.

 

PhD in Nursing

Patient Care, Health Education, Community Health

Aims to enhance nursing practice, education, and policy development.

Stellenbosch University

PhD in Medicine

Clinical Research, Public Health, Medical Biochemistry

Intensive research program focusing on clinical and biomedical research.

 

PhD in Health Science

Mental Health, Chronic Diseases, Nutrition

Research aimed at developing effective interventions and policies.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

PhD in Medicine

Infectious Diseases, Public Health

Specialized in areas critical to South Africa's health challenges.

 

PhD in Nursing

Advanced Nursing Practice, Rural Health Care

Focuses on improving healthcare delivery in diverse settings.

University of Pretoria

PhD in Health Care Management

Health Economics, Policy Analysis

Designed to advance knowledge in managing health care systems and policies.

 

PhD in Pharmacology

Drug Development, Clinical Pharmacology

Research in pharmacological sciences to improve drug efficacy and safety.

University of the Free State (UFS)

PhD in Biomedical Sciences

Cellular and Molecular Biology, Immunology

Focuses on basic and applied research in biomedical sciences.

 

PhD in Nursing

Community Health Nursing, Nursing Education

Prepares scholars for academic and research roles in nursing.


Diploma Course in Health Science, Medicine & Nursing in South Africa
 

University/Institution

Course Program

Focus Area

Duration

Description

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

Diploma in Emergency Medical Care

Emergency Care

3 years

Prepares students for roles as paramedics with emergency medical skills.

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

Diploma in Clinical Technology

Various Clinical Technologies

3 years

Focuses on clinical support areas like renal care, cardiology, and respiratory technology.

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

Diploma in Dental Technology

Dental Technology

3 years

Trains students in the design and manufacture of dental prosthetics.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

Diploma in Nursing

General Nursing

3 years

Prepares students for nursing roles in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.

Walter Sisulu University (WSU)

Higher Certificate in Community Health Care

Community Health

1 year

Provides basic community health care techniques and knowledge.

University of the Western Cape (UWC)

Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health

Public Health

1 year

Offers advanced knowledge and skills for public health professionals.

University of Pretoria

Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Medicine

Occupational Health

2 years

Designed for medical doctors who wish to specialize in occupational health.

Stellenbosch University

Postgraduate Diploma in Family Medicine

Family Medicine

2 years

Aims to improve the general medical skills of practicing doctors for community service.


Short-term Course of Health Science, Medicine & Nursing in South Africa
 

University/Institution

Course Program

Focus Area

Duration

Description

University of Cape Town (UCT)

Advanced Certificate in Trauma Nursing

Trauma Nursing

6 months

Focuses on specialized nursing care for trauma patients, enhancing skills in emergency interventions.

 

Short Course in Infectious Diseases

Infectious Diseases

2 weeks

Provides updates on the latest developments in managing infectious diseases.

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

Short Course in Palliative Care

Palliative Care

1 week

Aims to improve the quality of life of patients and their families facing problems associated with life-threatening illness.

 

Short Course in Health Economics

Health Economics

1 week

Teaches basic concepts of health economics and its application in the healthcare sector.

Stellenbosch University

Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Toxicology

Medical Toxicology

1 year (part-time)

Offers detailed knowledge on the diagnosis and management of poisoning and drug overdose.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

Short Course in Healthcare Management

Healthcare Management

3 months

Covers aspects of leadership and management specifically for healthcare settings.

 

Advanced Certificate in Critical Care Nursing

Critical Care Nursing

1 year (part-time)

Prepares nurses to work in high dependency and intensive care units.

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University

Short Course in Occupational Health

Occupational Health

1 month

Provides a comprehensive understanding of occupational health, including prevention and management of workplace hazards.

Durban University of Technology (DUT)

Short Course in Advanced Life Support

Emergency Medical Care

2 weeks

Designed for healthcare professionals to enhance their emergency response capabilities.


Top Universities in South Africa Offering Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Courses in South Africa with Course Programs
 

University Name

Notable Course Programs

Description

University of Cape Town (UCT)

MBChB, BSc in Occupational Therapy, MSc in Nursing

UCT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in health sciences, including specialized programs in occupational therapy and a robust medical school.

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

MBChB, Bachelor of Dental Science, MSc in Epidemiology

Wits is known for its strong emphasis on clinical training and research, offering degrees in medicine, dentistry, and public health.

Stellenbosch University

MBChB, MSc in Dietetics, PhD in Health Sciences

Stellenbosch provides a broad spectrum of health science programs, from undergraduate medical degrees to PhDs in various health fields.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

MBChB, Master of Medical Science, PhD in Nursing

UKZN offers comprehensive medical education with advanced research opportunities, including a focus on rural health.

University of Pretoria

MBChB, MSc in Sports Medicine, Master of Public Health

The university is noted for its diverse offerings in medicine and allied health sciences, with a strong focus on sports medicine and public health.

University of the Free State (UFS)

MBChB, Bachelor of Nursing, Master of Health Professions Education

UFS combines medical education with practical nursing programs and advanced health professions education.

North-West University (NWU)

Bachelor of Pharmacy, Master in Occupational Hygiene, PhD in Pharmacology

NWU offers specialized courses in pharmacy and occupational health, focusing on both practice and research.

Rhodes University

Bachelor of Pharmacy, Master of Science in Biotechnology

Rhodes excels in pharmacy and biotechnology, providing rigorous training and research opportunities.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

BSc in Emergency Medical Care, Master in Public Health Management

UJ offers unique programs in emergency care and public health, tailored to address local and global health challenges.

Nelson Mandela University

Bachelor of Nursing Science, Advanced Diploma in Midwifery

Nelson Mandela University focuses on nursing and midwifery, preparing students for critical roles in health care.


Intake of Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course in South Africa
 

University Name

Intake Periods

Notes

University of Cape Town (UCT)

January

Most health science programs start in January; applications usually close by end of September the previous year.

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

January

Single intake for health science programs in January, with applications often due in June of the previous year.

Stellenbosch University

January

Programs start in January, applications must be submitted in the previous year by the end of August.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

January

Only one intake per year for medicine and health sciences, with a mid-year closing date for applications.

University of Pretoria

January

January intake for most programs, with application deadlines typically in the preceding August.

University of the Free State (UFS)

January

Primary intake in January, especially for the MBChB and other health programs.

North-West University (NWU)

January, July (selected programs)

Main intake in January; some postgraduate or specialized courses may have a mid-year intake.

Rhodes University

January

Main intake for all courses in January, with the application period closing in the third quarter of the year.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

January

Programs usually start in January with applications closing around September.

Nelson Mandela University

January

January intake for all health-related courses, with a few programs offering additional mid-year entries.


Tuition Fees for Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course Programs in South Africa
 

University Name

Course Program

Annual Tuition Fee Range (ZAR)

Notes

University of Cape Town (UCT)

MBChB (Medicine)

60,000 - 90,000

Fees for international students can be higher.

 

BSc in Nursing

50,000 - 70,000

 

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

MBChB

70,000 - 100,000

Includes additional fees for clinical training.

 

Bachelor of Health Sciences

55,000 - 75,000

 

Stellenbosch University

MBChB

60,000 - 85,000

Fee varies by year of study.

 

BSc in Physiotherapy

40,000 - 60,000

 

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

MBChB

60,000 - 80,000

International fees may exceed 150% of local fees.

 

Bachelor of Nursing

40,000 - 60,000

 

University of Pretoria

MBChB

70,000 - 95,000

Higher fees for clinical years.

 

MSc in Nursing

20,000 - 40,000 (per annum)

Postgraduate fees are typically per annum.

University of the Free State (UFS)

MBChB

50,000 - 70,000

Fees increase for advanced years of study.

 

Bachelor of Nursing

30,000 - 50,000

 

North-West University (NWU)

BPharm (Pharmacy)

45,000 - 65,000

Pharmacy programs can be expensive due to labs.

Rhodes University

Bachelor of Pharmacy

50,000 - 70,000

 

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

BSc in Emergency Medical Care

40,000 - 60,000

Specialized equipment and training add to costs.

Nelson Mandela University

Bachelor of Nursing Science

30,000 - 45,000


Eligibility for doing Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course Programs in South Africa
 

University Name

Course Program

General Eligibility Criteria

University of Cape Town (UCT)

MBChB (Medicine)

High school diploma with high marks in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences; NBT (National Benchmark Test) may be required.

 

BSc in Nursing

Matriculation certificate with good grades in Mathematics, Life Sciences; English proficiency.

University of Witwatersrand (Wits)

MBChB

Matric with distinctions in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences; Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) registration (for postgrads).

 

Bachelor of Health Sciences

High school completion with strong marks in relevant subjects; some programs may require an interview or additional testing.

Stellenbosch University

MBChB

National Senior Certificate with admission to bachelor's degree; high marks in Science subjects; Health Sciences Faculty Test.

 

BSc in Physiotherapy

High academic achievement in Physical Sciences and Life Sciences; additional assessment may be required.

University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

MBChB

Minimum Level 5 in English, Mathematics, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences in Matric; UCAT may be required.

 

Bachelor of Nursing

Matric certificate with a diploma pass; minimum Level 4 in Life Sciences and English.

University of Pretoria

MBChB

Matric with at least 70% in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences; selection test.

 

MSc in Nursing

Bachelor’s degree in Nursing or similar; registration with a professional body as needed.

University of the Free State (UFS)

MBChB

High marks in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences; National Benchmark Tests.

 

Bachelor of Nursing

National Senior Certificate with a diploma endorsement; Mathematics, Life Sciences, and English proficiency.

North-West University (NWU)

BPharm (Pharmacy)

Matric with Mathematics, Physical Sciences; APS score of 28 or higher.

Rhodes University

Bachelor of Pharmacy

High performance in Mathematics, Physical Sciences; English proficiency.

University of Johannesburg (UJ)

BSc in Emergency Medical Care

Matriculation with Mathematics, Physical Sciences; fitness assessment and medical tests may be required.

Nelson Mandela University

Bachelor of Nursing Science

National Senior Certificate with at least 50% in Mathematics, Life Sciences, and English.


Scholarship for Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course programs in South Africa
 

Scholarship Name

Offering Institution/Body

Eligibility and Coverage

Notes

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

South African Government

South African citizens enrolled at public universities; covers tuition, accommodation, and allowances.

Mainly for financially needy students. Requires application through the university.

Discovery Foundation Scholarship

Discovery Health

Medical students committed to rural healthcare; covers tuition and stipends.

Focus on students willing to serve in rural areas post-graduation.

Moshal Scholarship Program

Moshal Scholarship Program

Students in health sciences showing great potential and financial need.

Long-term scholarship with support services beyond financial aid.

South African Medical Association (SAMA) Scholarship

South African Medical Association

Medical students from disadvantaged backgrounds; partial funding for tuition.

Priority to those who demonstrate financial need and academic merit.

HWSETA Postgraduate Bursary

Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority

Students pursuing postgraduate studies in health sciences, including Nursing.

Available to students intending to improve health and welfare sector through research.

Investec Bursary

Investec

Meritorious students in health sciences; covers a portion of tuition.

Open to all South African students showing academic excellence.

Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) Bursary

Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation

Financially needy and academically strong students; covers all study-related expenses.

Includes leadership development and mentorship programs.

Mandela Rhodes Scholarship

Mandela Rhodes Foundation

Postgraduate students in any field including health sciences; covers tuition, accommodation, and a living stipend.

Emphasizes leadership and entrepreneurial development.


Career after Health Science, Medicine & Nursing Course in South Africa
 

Career Role

Description

Average Annual Salary (ZAR)

General Practitioner

Physicians who provide primary and preventative care, diagnose and treat various illnesses.

600,000 - 1,200,000

Registered Nurse (RN)

Provide and coordinate patient care, educate about health conditions, and provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members.

250,000 - 350,000

Specialist Doctor

Doctors who specialize in a specific area of medicine, such as Cardiology, Neurology, or Psychiatry.

800,000 - 2,000,000+

Medical Researcher

Conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.

350,000 - 650,000

Public Health Practitioner

Work to analyze the effects of genetics, personal choice, and the environment on health, in order to develop programs that protect the health of families and communities.

300,000 - 500,000

Occupational Therapist

Help patients develop, recover, improve, as well as maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

240,000 - 400,000

Pharmacist

Provide prescription medications and advice on the safe use of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.

450,000 - 700,000

Nursing Manager

Oversee nursing staff, budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

350,000 - 550,000

Biomedical Engineer

Combine engineering principles with medical and biological sciences to design and create equipment, devices, computer systems, and software used in healthcare.

350,000 - 500,000

Health Informatics Specialist

Manage patient data, information technology systems, and clinical information systems.

300,000 - 550,000