Best 15 Health Science Courses in South Africa

Health science has become one of the most important fields of study worldwide, and South Africa is no exception. The demand for qualified healthcare professionals continues to rise.

This need has prompted the expansion and diversification of health science programs nationwide, providing students with many options to pursue a meaningful career.

South African institutions offer different health science programs to suit various career paths in traditional fields like medicine and nursing or newer areas such as public health, healthcare management, or medical technology.

Given the field’s complexities and the need for specialized skills, a well-chosen program will provide foundational knowledge, practical experience, and networking opportunities critical to your future profession.

This article is structured to guide you through the top 15 health science courses in South Africa, with detailed information for each program.

What Is a Health Science Course All About?
What Is the Highest-Paying Job in Health Science?
How Long Does Health Science Course Study Take in South Africa?
List of Best 15 Health Science Courses in South Africa
What Are The Requirements for Studying Medicine in South Africa?
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

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What Is a Health Science Course All About?

Health science is a multidisciplinary field that explores the various aspects of healthcare, focusing on the well-being of individuals and communities.

It encompasses theoretical and practical knowledge to understand the human body, disease prevention, and healthcare delivery. Health science courses provide students with a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology and specialized training in their chosen areas of interest, such as nursing, medicine, or public health.

Health science courses are designed to deepen students’ understanding of medical knowledge and develop essential skills needed in real-world healthcare settings.

Many programs incorporate hands-on training, laboratory work, and clinical rotations to give students experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing patient health.

This practical component is critical, as it helps future healthcare providers gain confidence and competence in their skills while under supervised environments.

Health science is a dynamic and evolving field. As medical technologies and healthcare needs grow, health science courses continuously adapt to incorporate the latest advancements.

A health science course opens doors to careers focused on improving and protecting human health at both individual and community levels.

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What Is the Highest-Paying Job in Health Science?

The highest-paying role in health science is a heart transplant surgeon, who earns an impressive average monthly salary of around R152,000.

This specialized role requires extensive training, years of surgical practice, and a deep understanding of cardiac conditions, making it one of the most challenging yet rewarding positions in healthcare.

Other top-paying positions in health science include various types of surgical specialists:

Orthopedic Surgeons: Specializing in the musculoskeletal system, orthopedic surgeons diagnose and treat conditions related to bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons.
Cardiothoracic Surgeons: These surgeons focus on surgeries involving the heart, lungs, and other thoracic organs. They often work with complex cases of heart disease or trauma.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons: These specialists handle procedures to repair or reconstruct physical defects or injuries.
Invasive Cardiologists: Although not all cardiologists perform surgeries, invasive cardiologists handle delicate procedures such as stent placements and angioplasties.
Neurosurgeons: Focusing on the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system, neurosurgeons perform complex procedures to address neurological conditions.
Pediatric Surgeons: Pediatric surgeons work with children and adolescents, performing surgeries that range from emergency procedures to treatments for congenital conditions.
Trauma Surgeons: These surgeons handle critical cases, often involving life-saving interventions in emergency rooms or intensive care units.

Among the top earners in health science, a urologist specializing in the urinary tract and male reproductive system is one of the only non-surgical roles. Urologists in South Africa earn an average monthly salary of R108,000, placing them just above general surgeons, who make about R105,000 per month.

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How Long Does Health Science Course Study Take in South Africa?

The duration of health science courses in South Africa varies depending on the level of study, type of program, and specific field within health science.

Typically, undergraduate health science degrees take between 3 to 6 years to complete, while advanced qualifications like master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and specialist certifications require additional years of study and practical experience.

Below is a breakdown of the average study duration for different types of health science programs:

1. Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science (3 to 6 years)

Undergraduate degrees are the most common starting point for students interested in health science careers. Most bachelor’s programs take around 3 to 4 years of full-time study.

These degrees provide foundational knowledge, practical skills, and clinical training, preparing students for entry-level positions in their chosen fields or further study.

2. Diplomas and Certificates in Health Science (1 to 2 years)

Diploma and certificate programs in health sciences typically require between 1 and 2 years to complete. These programs are designed for students seeking faster entry into healthcare roles or those who want to specialize in specific practical skills without committing to a full degree.

3. Master’s Degrees (1 to 2 years)

A master’s degree in health science typically takes 1 to 2 years to complete. These programs are aimed at professionals who want to advance their expertise, move into specialized fields, or qualify for management and research roles.

4. Doctoral Degrees (3 to 5 years)

Doctoral programs in health science can take between 3 and 5 years to complete. PhD programs are often research-focused, with students conducting original research under the guidance of experienced faculty.

These programs suit those aiming to work in academia, research, or high-level consultancy within their field.

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5. Postgraduate Medical Specializations (4 to 7 years)

Postgraduate specializations can take 4 to 7 years for medical graduates who want to specialize. This includes practical residencies, fellowships, and specialized training that builds the high-level skills required for specific areas of medicine.

List of Best 15 Health Science Courses in South Africa

Here is a detailed look at the top 15 health science courses in South Africa, including an overview of each program, career opportunities, and tuition costs. We also added some colleges that offer health science in South Africa.

1. Medicine and Surgery (MBChB)

Institution: University of Cape Town
Website: UCT

Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) is a comprehensive six-year program that covers all aspects of human health, anatomy, physiology, and clinical practice.

It prepares students to become licensed medical doctors by offering foundational and advanced medical knowledge.

Graduates can pursue careers as general practitioners or specialize in cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, or surgery.

Tuition: ZAR 75,000 per year

2. Emergency Medical Care

Institution: Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Website: CPUT

This program focuses on emergency response skills, trauma care, and life-saving medical procedures. It includes hands-on training in emergencies to prepare students for high-pressure environments.

Graduates often work as paramedics, emergency medical technicians, or in trauma care units.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

3. Diagnostic Ultrasound

Institution: University of Johannesburg
Website: UJ

Diagnostic Ultrasound teaches students to operate ultrasound equipment for medical imaging, especially in obstetrics, cardiology, and abdominal diagnostics.

Graduates can work as sonographers in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and private practices.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

4. Podiatry

Institution: University of the Western Cape
Website: UWC

The podiatry program covers diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and lower limb, including medical and surgical procedures.

Graduates can work as podiatrists in hospitals, private clinics, or sports rehabilitation centers.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

Also, read: Top 15 Vocational Courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

5. Nursing

Institution: Nelson Mandela University
Website: NMU

This 4-year program trains students in patient care, medical-surgical nursing, and community health. It includes clinical rotations for hands-on experience in various healthcare settings.

Graduates can work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities.

Tuition: ZAR 60,000 per year

6. Chiropractic

Institution: Durban University of Technology
Website: DUT

Chiropractic studies use non-invasive techniques to diagnose and treat musculoskeletal issues, particularly spinal misalignments.

Graduates can establish private practices as chiropractors or work in rehabilitation and sports centers.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

7. Medical Laboratory Science

Institution: University of the Free State
Website: UFS

This course trains students to conduct laboratory tests, analyze samples, and assist in disease prevention and diagnosis.

Graduates work as laboratory technologists in hospitals, diagnostic labs, and research institutions.

Tuition: ZAR 48,689 per year

8. Complementary Medicine

Institution: University of Johannesburg
Website: UJ

This program covers traditional healing practices such as acupuncture, homeopathy, and herbal medicine, providing an alternative approach to healthcare.

Graduates can work in wellness centers, holistic clinics, or private practices specializing in complementary medicine.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

9. Sport and Exercise Sciences

Institution: Stellenbosch University
Website: SU

This program teaches the science behind physical activity, fitness, and sports performance, emphasizing rehabilitation and injury prevention.

Graduates can work as sports scientists, fitness coaches, or rehabilitation specialists.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

10. Veterinary Nursing

Institution: Tshwane University of Technology
Website: TUT

Veterinary Nursing covers animal care, surgical assistance, and veterinary procedures, preparing students to work with animals in medical settings.

Graduates can work as veterinary nurses in animal hospitals, clinics, and research facilities.

Tuition: ZAR 57,000 per year

11. Diagnostic Radiography

Institution: University of the Witwatersrand
Website: Wits

This course trains students to operate radiographic equipment, focusing on imaging techniques for diagnosing various medical conditions.

Graduates work as radiographers in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and radiology clinics.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

Also, read: Top 15 Vocational courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure

12. Nuclear Medicine Technology

Institution: University of Pretoria
Website: UP

Nuclear Medicine Technology uses radioactive substances to diagnose and treat diseases, particularly in oncology and cardiology.

Graduates can work as nuclear medicine technologists in hospitals and specialized imaging centers.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

13. Radiation Therapy

Institution: University of the Free State
Website: UFS

This program trains students to use radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. It includes theoretical study and practical training in oncology departments.

Graduates work as radiation therapists in hospitals and cancer treatment centers.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

14. Optometry

Institution: University of the Western Cape
Website: UWC

Optometry covers eye care, vision correction, and diagnosis of visual disorders, providing a blend of clinical and theoretical training.

Graduates can work as optometrists in private practices, vision care clinics, and hospitals.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

15. Biokinetics

Institution: North-West University
Website: NWU

Biokinetics is focused on using exercise to treat injury and improve physical functioning. It is often applied in rehabilitation and sports medicine.

Graduates work as biokineticists in rehabilitation centers, sports facilities, or private practices.

Tuition: ZAR 51,115 per year

What Are The Requirements for Studying Medicine in South Africa?

Studying medicine in South Africa is highly competitive, with requirements that reflect the demanding nature of the field.

Admission criteria vary slightly between universities, but most institutions have similar academic standards and expectations for prospective students.

Here are the typical requirements to study medicine in South Africa:

1. Academic Requirements

Minimum Aggregate: To qualify for admission, applicants must have a minimum aggregate score of 70% in their final year of high school.
Core Subjects: High performance in core subjects is essential. Specifically:
1. Mathematics: A minimum score of 50% is required.
2. Physical Sciences (Physics and Chemistry): At least 50% is necessary.
3. Life Sciences (Biology): A minimum of 50% is required.
Competitive Averages: While the minimum aggregate is 70%, due to the competitive nature of medical programs, most successful applicants have averages ranging from 75% to 85% or higher.

2. National Benchmark Tests (NBT)

Many universities in South Africa require applicants to complete the National Benchmark Tests (NBT). These tests assess academic readiness for university and cover Academic, Quantitative, and Mathematical literacy.
High scores in the NBT are often crucial, providing a more detailed picture of a student’s capabilities beyond high school marks.

3. Additional Selection Criteria

Personal Statement or Motivation Letter: Some universities may ask applicants to submit a personal statement outlining their motivation for studying medicine, career goals, and commitment to the medical field.
Interview Process: For selected candidates, some medical schools conduct interviews as part of the selection process to assess interpersonal skills, ethical perspectives, and motivations for studying medicine.

4. Non-Academic Achievements

Extracurricular Activities: Active involvement in sports, community service, volunteer work, or leadership positions can strengthen an application.
Relevant Experience: Experience in healthcare settings, such as shadowing a doctor, volunteering at a clinic, or participating in health-related outreach programs, is often advantageous.

5. Language Proficiency

Proficiency in English is typically required, as most courses are conducted in English. Depending on the university’s requirements, applicants may need to demonstrate language proficiency through high school grades or standardized tests.

6. Age Requirement and Nationality

Some universities have specific age requirements and may prioritize South African citizens. International students are welcome, but additional requirements, such as study permits and proof of financial stability, may apply.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do health science courses typically take to complete?

Most undergraduate programs last between 3 to 4 years, while postgraduate options can vary from 1 to 2 years depending on the specialization.

Are there online options for studying health sciences?

Yes! Many institutions offer flexible online or blended learning options to help you balance your studies with other commitments.

What career opportunities are available after completing a health science course?

Graduates can pursue various roles such as healthcare practitioners, researchers, public health officials, or educators in academic institutions.

Conclusion

South Africa offers a wealth of opportunities for those pursuing careers in health sciences, with many courses available to meet the needs of the healthcare industry.

Each program provides essential skills and knowledge to improve health outcomes within the country and beyond.

As we’ve seen, studying health sciences involves a commitment to academic excellence, a dedication to making a meaningful impact in communities, and a desire to contribute to the well-being of others.

Choosing the right health science course and institution is vital to a successful and fulfilling career.

Meeting the entry requirements, particularly for highly competitive medical programs, is challenging but rewarding for those passionate about healthcare and patient care.