What is Public Health?
Public health is “the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private, communities and individuals”.
Where Can I Study Public Health In South Africa
1. University of Witwatersrand
The University of Witwatersrand, considered one of the best public health universities in South Africa, offers a Master’s degree in Public Health that is African-focused. However, the degree’s six specializations show that African education is as complex and applicable as any emerging economy.
The Health Systems and Policy track is best for those pursuing roles in public and non-governmental sectors. The course aids them in managing regulatory and health system challenges in an emerging economy such as Africa.
2. University of the Western Cape
The University of the Western Cape established the School Of Public Health to support the university’s thrust for more comprehensive health education in Africa, while also setting an example for other emerging economies worldwide.
It aims to produce graduates knowledgeable in both theory and practice of public health. Its roster of courses ranges from Post-graduate diploma programs to Master’s and Doctoral courses. These are all offered on a part-time or full-time basis and can be taken online for added convenience.
3. University of Pretoria
The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria was established to further the university’s foothold as a center of research in Africa.
This excellent public health school is well-renowned for its research quality, relevance, and technical expertise while making an impact locally and abroad. The university takes pride in its 6,000-strong student body, with more than 40 disciplines’ worth of medical and dental fellowship training.
4. University of Venda
The University of Venda is a rural-based institution, which sets it apart from its more established counterparts. The strength of this university is staying close to its roots and providing valuable insights for its students through community-based research.
As public health is a key priority in rural communities, the university offers Postgraduate Diploma, Master,’s, and Doctoral degrees in Public Health. Since the University of Venda is known as one of the best public health universities in South Africa, its courses were made to form leaders in health promotion and disease prevention most especially in developing communities.
5. University of Kwazulu-Natal
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is a state university that takes pride in its research intensity. Its Public Health program is open as Postgraduate diploma and Master’s degree courses, aiming to produce graduates who will become change agents in their respective communities.
These courses can be part-time endeavors, stretching up to two years for Postgraduate diploma takers, and up to five years for Master’s students.
What can you do with a Public Health degree in South Africa?
Career Opportunities
- Disease prevention and control.
- Biostatistics (at entry level)
- Community health work.
- Education and teaching (Health Promotion)
- Epidemiology (at entry level)
- Health administration.
- Health awareness, policy, and promotion.
- Nutrition, dietetics, and exercise.
Is public health in demand in South Africa?
Access to and the quality of a country’s health care has a tremendous effect on the emotional and economic well-being of its people.
South Africa needs public health professionals and there are opportunities for those with public health or health sciences degrees.