Are you aspiring to join the frontline of healthcare, research, or medical science in South Africa? Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) stands as a premier institution dedicated exclusively to health sciences education. If 2026 is your target year, understanding the list of courses Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University offers and the specific entry requirements Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University sets is your critical first step.
Read also: Stellenbosch University Courses and Requirements 2026
List of Courses offered at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
SMU’s academic structure is built around specialized schools, each focusing on a critical pillar of health sciences. The list of courses at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University spans from undergraduate degrees to doctoral studies, catering to a wide range of medical and scientific careers.
School of Medicine – Undergraduate Programmes
SMU’s School of Medicine is dedicated to producing highly skilled healthcare professionals. The undergraduate courses offered are designed to equip students with the knowledge and clinical skills required to succeed in the medical field.
- MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) – BMC01
- BRad (Diagn) (Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography) – BDR01
- MBChB (ECP) (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery – Extended Curriculum Programme) – BMCA01
- Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care – CEMC01
- Diploma in Emergency Medical Care – DEMC01
School of Dentistry – Undergraduate Programmes
The School of Dentistry offers a variety of qualifications for students interested in dental science and therapy.
- Bachelor’s Degree Programmes:
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
- Bachelor of Dental Therapy (BDentTher)
- Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (BOralHyg)
- Honours Degree Programme:
- Bachelor of Science Honours in Dental Sciences
School of Science and Technology – Undergraduate Programmes
This school provides the foundational scientific knowledge crucial for many health science fields.
- Bachelor of Science (Extended Curriculum Programme):
- BSc (Life Sciences) – BSCK01
- BSc (Mathematical Sciences) – BSCL01
- BSc (Physical Sciences) – BSCM01
- Bachelor of Science:
- BSc (Life Sciences) – BSCG01
- BSc (Mathematical Sciences) – BSCH01
- BSc (Physical Sciences) – BSCI01
- BSc (Occupational & Environmental Health Sciences) – BSCJ01
School of Medicine – Postgraduate Programmes
- Postgraduate Diploma Programmes:
- Diploma in Medical Physics (Dip Med Phys)
- Honours Degree Programmes:
- BSc (MS) (Hons) in Anatomical Pathology, Medical Biochemistry, Haematological Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Physiology, Psychology, Anatomy, and Medical Virology.
School of Medicine – Masters and Doctoral Programmes
- Master of Medicine (MMed) programmes in over 25+ specializations including Anaesthesiology, Surgery, Paediatrics, Psychiatry, and many more.
- Master of Science (MSc) programmes in Clinical Psychology, Medicine, and Physiology.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in various medical science fields.
School of Dentistry – Masters and Doctoral Programmes
- Master’s Programmes: Master of Dentistry (M Dent), Master of Dental Science (MDS), MSc in Dentistry.
- Doctoral Programmes: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in various dental specializations.
Entry Requirements
The entry requirements for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University are stringent and highly specific, reflecting the demanding nature of health sciences education. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission due to limited space and high competition.
General Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programmes:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC): You must be in possession of an NSC or equivalent qualification.
- Degree Endorsement: For bachelor’s degree programmes, your NSC must be with degree endorsement.
- Compulsory Subjects: Performance in specific NSC subjects is crucial. The following are standard requirements for most clinical and science degrees:
- English (Home Language or First Additional Language): Minimum level 4 (50-59%).
- Mathematics: Minimum level 4 (50-59%) or higher. Note: Mathematics Literacy is typically NOT accepted for Medicine, Dentistry, Radiography, and most BSc degrees.
- Physical Science: Minimum level 4 (50-59%) or higher, especially for MBChB, BDS, BSc, and Radiography.
- Life Sciences/Biology: Important for MBChB, BDS, and BSc (Life Sciences).
Additional Critical Requirements:
- Admission Point Score (APS): SMU calculates an APS based on your NSC results. Each programme has a minimum APS threshold, which is often significantly higher than the base requirement.
- National Benchmark Tests (NBTs): Mandatory for all undergraduate applicants. You must write the NBTs before the application closing date.
- Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) Registration: Successful applicants to clinical programmes must register with the HPCSA as student practitioners.
With a clear understanding of the list of courses at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University and the detailed entry requirements, you can now strategically prepare your application.
Read also: Sol Plaatje University Courses and Requirements 2026
