What Is Oncology
Oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. A medical professional who practices oncology is an oncologist.
Entry Requirements To Study Oncology In South Africa
Before you train as a clinical oncologist you must complete a degree in medicine and have obtained a MBBS or equivalent qualification. Find out more about getting into medical school.
You then need to complete a two-year foundation programme followed by two or three years of core training. After successfully completing your first year of foundation training you become eligible for registration as a doctor with the General Medical Council (GMC). Foundation training includes undertaking rotations in a range of specialties including surgery.
To find information about the Foundation Programme, visit our applying for foundation training page.
Skills and interests
Clinical oncologists need:
a high level of compassion, sensitivity and empathy to treat people with cancer
an interest in the pathology and biology of cancers and radiation physics
an interest in the pharmacology of systemic cancer therapies
emotional resilience to help patients during very difficult times
the ability to work well in a team and to manage others effectively
excellent communication skills to deal with patients and colleagues
an interest in cancer research, statistics and new technologies
If you’re applying for a role either directly in the NHS or in an organization that provides NHS services you’ll be asked to show how you think the NHS values apply in your everyday work. The same will be true if you’re applying for a university course funded by the NHS.
Schools Offering Oncology In South Africa
Wits University – Oncology
University of Pretoria – Medical Oncology
CPUT – Oncology
University of Free State – Oncology
UCT – Radiation Oncology
Stellenbosch University – Division of Radiation Oncology
UKZN – Radiotherapy and Oncology
UFS – Oncology
Wits University – Oncology
How long does it take to study Oncology in South Africa?
Training consists of a 4 year program. There are 2 examinations.
How do I become an oncology nurse in South Africa?
a. Admission requirement(s): A basic NQF Level 6 bachelor’s degree or diploma in Nursing from a South African university or nursing college. Registration with the South African Nursing Council as a Professional Nurse.
How much do oncology nurses make in South Africa?
R358,526 (ZAR)/yr.
Where can I study oncology nursing in South Africa?
Oncology Nursing, Bachelor | Cape Peninsula University of Technology | Cape Town, South Africa.
What degree do you need to be an oncology nurse?
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
To become an Oncology Nurse, an Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is required. It’s also required to become licensed. This can be done by passing the NCLEX exam.