Quality of Education: South Africa is home to some of the best medical schools in Africa, known for their rigorous programs and comprehensive training. Institutions like the University of Cape Town and the University of Witwatersrand have high academic standards and are recognized globally.
Diverse Learning Environment: The country's unique health challenges, including a high burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases, provide students with a rich, practical learning environment. This exposure is invaluable for hands-on experience and understanding diverse health issues.
Affordability: Compared to many Western countries, the cost of higher education in South Africa is relatively low. This affordability extends to tuition fees, accommodation, and overall cost of living, making it a financially viable option for international students.
Cultural Diversity: South Africa is known as the "Rainbow Nation" due to its multicultural society. This diversity enriches the educational experience, allowing students to learn in a culturally rich and inclusive setting.
Global Recognition: Degrees from South African institutions are well-regarded internationally. Graduates from South African medical schools are known to meet global standards, which facilitates easier mobility and recognition in the global job market.
Research Opportunities: South Africa is a leader in medical research, particularly in areas such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria. Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research that is directly applicable to real-world health issues.
English Medium Instruction: As English is one of the official languages and the primary medium of instruction in higher education, international students often find it easier to adapt and study in South Africa.
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 |
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 |
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 |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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 |
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 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 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 |