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SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Master of Medicine in Public Health 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125429  Master of Medicine in Public Health 
ORIGINATOR
Walter Sisulu University 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Promotive Health and Developmental Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0638/26  2026-03-10  2029-03-10 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-03-10   2033-03-10  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
The Master of Medicine in Public Health is a professional qualification designed to develop advanced professional and academic competence in public health, with a particular emphasis on rural and underserved populations. This qualification integrates theoretical knowledge, applied research, and experiential learning to enable learners to design, implement, manage, and evaluate comprehensive public health interventions aligned with national priorities and global health agendas.

Qualified learners will acquire advanced skills in epidemiology, leadership, health systems strengthening, policy development, disease prevention, and health promotion, underpinned by ethical practice, social accountability, and intersectoral collaboration.
Emphasising the bio-psycho-social approach, the qualification prepares practitioners to address complex, undifferentiated health challenges across diverse contexts. Learners will demonstrate competence in team leadership, mentorship, and lifelong learning, and will contribute to evidence-informed public health practice. Completion requires a research mini-dissertation and final integrative assessments, ensuring learners are prepared to deliver high-impact public health services across both local and global health systems.

The ELO's, and Graduate Attributes, listed below, are carefully developed through the various learning opportunities, design and assessments of this qualification and are aligned with the purpose of this qualification.

Graduate Attributes:
  • Advanced public health expertise: Possesses extensive knowledge of public health theory, epidemiology, and policy development to address complex health challenges globally.
  • Contextual intelligence and rural responsiveness: Implement solutions that promote equity, accessibility, and community empowerment.
  • Research and evidence-based practice: Skilled in conducting ethical research to inform public health interventions and policies.
  • Leadership and collaborative practice: Foster effective healthcare environments through coordination and interprofessional collaboration.
  • Ethical and social accountability: Uphold integrity and cultural sensitivity while prioritising community health and rights.
  • Health advocacy and communication: Clearly articulate public health issues and advocate for policy changes.
  • Lifelong learning and professional development: Engage in ongoing learning and professional development to adapt to emerging public health trends.

    Rationale:
    Walter Sisulu University, situated in a rural area of the Eastern Cape, serves a predominantly rural and disadvantaged community. The Master of Medicine qualification aims to provide aspiring specialists in Public Health Medicine with opportunities for advanced training. This initiative is designed to benefit not only young doctors from the province but also medical professionals from across South Africa and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, which addresses a dire need of professionals and specialists in public health medicine.

    The qualification was developed in consultation with the Eastern Cape Department of Health and the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPSCA) which is the regulatory body for medical qualifications and programmes. The qualification is therefore benchmarked and aligned with the minimum requirements for HPSCA programme accreditation.

    This qualification therefore responds to the regional, national and global medical professional needs and will contribute to increase the number of Public Health Specialists and consequently improve the care and health outcomes at the provincial, national and global levels.

    The qualification addresses the critical need for public health specialists equipped to serve in rural and resource-limited settings while meeting global standards of excellence. By cultivating analytical, leadership, and research capacities, the qualification prepares learners to engage with complex health challenges across diverse populations. The curriculum's strong emphasis on context-sensitive practice, ethical responsibility, and health equity fosters professionals capable of leading transformative interventions. Positioned within a rural-focused academic environment, the qualification ensures a deep understanding of local health dynamics while promoting global competence, enabling learners to contribute meaningfully to both community-based and international health systems.

    The Master of Medicine in Public Health qualification forms the last stage within a structured learning pathway that enables the development of medical specialists and the ability to register as a specialist within the medical fraternity. The Master of Medicine in Public Health is professional qualification that follows the completion of a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery qualification. Vertical articulation in the academic space is also possible through the completion of a Doctor of Philosophy qualification.

    The range of learners admitted into this qualification are practicing and fully qualified medical doctors (holders of a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery qualification with the necessary experience) who aspire to specialise in public health.

    South Africa has adopted the social development paradigm of welfare, thus supporting a people-centred approach to social and economic development. This qualification plays a significant role in addressing the many pathological conditions frequently seen in the rural South African society and in similar societies and a global level. Doctors and in case, specialists being developed, will be equipped to deal with many of the consequences of social inequality, poverty and marginalisation. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Walter Sisulu University supports the principles of lifelong learning and inclusivity. The institution's RPL Policy is aligned with the national policies and criteria set by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and SAQA. The institution recognises that potential learners may have previous training or experience in medical field. In such situations, RPL can be considered for access or advanced standing (module exemption) within this qualification.

    Learners submitting themselves for RPL will be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) in the prescribed format to be assessed for formal exemption. The process is discussed briefly below:

    RPL for Access and Module Exemption:
  • Review the prior learning and consider its relevance to the minimum entry requirements.
  • Review of learning outcomes from prior qualifications at NQF 9 or training against the learning outcomes of the MMED modules.
  • Submission of an RPL PoE showing competence aligned with specific module outcomes (e.g. Health Systems Management or Epidemiology).
  • Academic exception may be granted only for coursework modules, not for the mini dissertation.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, NQF Level 8.
    Or
  • Fulfils the registration requirements of the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a Medical Practitioner (full/independent registration categories). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification is comprised of compulsory modules totalling to 480 credits at NQF Level 9.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 9, 480 Credits.
    Level 1:
  • Health Measurement and Informatics, 10 Credits.
  • Behavioural and Social Sciences, 10 Credits.
  • Environmental Health, 10 Credits.
  • Supervised Training Attachments 1, 32 Credits.
  • Advanced Learning Research Project, 20 Credits.
  • Advanced Practical Exposure 1, 38 Credits.

    Level 2:
  • Occupational Health, 10 Credits.
  • Infectious Diseases, Prevention and Control, 10 Credits.
  • Non-Infectious Diseases, Prevention and Control, 10 Credits.
  • Supervised Training Attachments 2, 40 Credits.
  • Advanced Practical Exposure 2, 50 Credits.

    Level 3:
  • Health Services Management, 10 Credits.
  • Health Economics, Budgeting, and Finance, 10 Credits.
  • Attachment Research Project, 60 Credits.
  • Advanced Practical Exposure 3, 40 Credits.

    Level 4:
  • Supervised Training Attachments 3, 10 Credits.
  • Research Project, 60 Credits.
  • Advanced Practical Exposure 4, 50 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Evaluate and manage patients with both specific and undifferentiated health challenges cost-effectively, using the bio-psycho-social model of approach in an ethical and professional manner.
    2. Effectively manage him/herself, his/her team and his/her practice, in any sector, with visionary leadership and self-awareness, to ensure the provision of high-quality, evidence-based care.
    3. Integrate and lead diverse teams by recognising roles and fostering cohesion and cooperate with colleagues as a team member.
    4. Facilitate the learning of others regarding the discipline of public health medicine, primary health care, and other health-related matters.
    5. Communicate effectively with colleagues and community and defend ideas using technology.
    6. Acquire specialised information using current technology, critically evaluate it and apply it in the design and execution of public health management plans and professional development.
    7. Design and implement a research project that, within a professional and ethical framework, contributes to expanding the knowledge in the Public Health field. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:
  • Critically evaluate complex public health and intervention plans incorporating biological, psychological, and social determinants of health.
  • Design comprehensive public health management strategies to optimise community health outcomes.
  • Defend using critical and creative thinking the selected public management health strategy.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2:
  • Advance strategic/operational plans for a public health unit that reflect efficient resource use.
  • Propose ethical governance, and leadership strategies that advance resource use.
  • Design a development plan that incorporates CPD goals and aligns these goals with current and emerging public health priorities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3:
  • Evaluate the performance of a multidisciplinary team in a real and simulated public health setting.
  • Lead and coordinate a multidisciplinary health management team.
  • Develop a portfolio reflecting personal leadership growth, time management, and self-assessment in managing public health responsibilities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4:
  • Develop a structured learning plan for junior staff.
  • Effectively implement and monitor this development plan.
  • Supervise the development of junior staff and provide regular feedback.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5:
  • Prepare and oral or written policy briefs using appropriate technology, demonstrating clarity, logical structure, and scientific integrity.
  • Engage in a structured academic debate or presentation defending a public health intervention proposal, using visual and digital tools effectively.
  • Develop and implement a health promotion campaign that reflects ethical principles and sensitivity to local cultural and societal norms.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6:
  • Identify and critically appraise, using current technology, peer-reviewed articles that are relevant for the identified public health management plan.
  • Present an evidence-informed position on the applicability of the identified plan in the public health context.
  • Propose a culturally and ethically appropriate and scientifically sound public health management plan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 7:
  • Design a research protocol addressing significant public health issues, demonstrating ethical clearance, methodological rigour, and contextual relevance.
  • Defend the proposed study and justify its novelty and how it contributes to advancing public health medicine and management.
  • Complete a research study that adheres to ethical standards and provide practical insights advancing public health medicine and management.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Various types of assessment exercises are included to ensure all programme outcomes in their different dimensions are attained and tested in an integrated manner in all assessment opportunities. These include research presentations, MCQs, MEQs SAQ and oral examinations.

    Formative Assessment:60%
    Formative feedback will be provided continuously on the following regular activities:
  • Two assignments with practical components and an examination every 6 months, for each module.
  • Review a self-learning work plan with objectives, time frames, implementation plan and evaluation indicators.
  • Create a list of learning needs for research.
  • Design a structured group project.
  • Teamwork building and training MBChB students.
  • Develop materials for health promotion, preventive, curative and rehabilitation for community health education training.
  • Involved in disease prevention campaigns, especially in outbreaks/pandemics.
  • Feedback from service supervisors.

    Summative Assessment:40%
    1. Duly signed and completed portfolios of performance amounting to 8, with each year having a maximum of two.
    2. Passed all core modules end-of-year exams:
  • Short report (mini dissertation).
  • Multiple choice paper.
  • Short answer question paper.
  • Essay answer question paper.
  • Oral discourse examination.
  • General oral examination.

    The mini dissertation will be examined by internal and external examiners as per WSU policies and regulations. A mark of at least 50% is required for a Pass. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared to the following international qualifications:

    Country: Botswana.
    Institution: University of Botswana (UB).
    Qualification Title: Master of Medicine in Public Health Medicine.
    Duration: 4 years.
    Credits: 640.
    NCQF Level:9.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Bachelor Honours degree in Medicine (MBBS), NCQF level 8 or equivalent.
  • Have completed at least two years of clinical practice that must include at least 12 months in a recognised supervised internship programme.
  • Be registered or registrable with the Botswana Health Professions Council (BHPC).

    Purpose:
    The purpose of this qualification is to produce physicians with knowledge, skills and competence to:
    Design appropriate evidence-based disease prevention and therapeutic interventions through research, knowledge of epidemiology, biostatistics, health care management & leadership principles which are critical for a strengthened primary care-based health system. Prevent and manage communicable and non-communicable diseases at community and population level through their understanding of health care problems in biological, physiological, psychological and socioeconomic context.

    Undertake complex healthcare measurement at population level through conducting research, programme evaluations, health surveillance and assessment of the population's health and well-being to inform public health strategic decision making. Provide technical expertise in public health using information management to educate and motivate communities to take personal responsibility for their health care.

    Exit Level Outcomes:
    1. Demonstrate a high level of competency in assessment of the population's health and well-being to inform public health strategic decision making across all tiers of a health care system.
    2. Apply advanced knowledge and clinical skills in medicine and public health to promote and protect the population's health and well-being.
    3. Develop quality and risk management within an evaluative culture for healthcare organizations.
    4. Demonstrate effective collaboration with other professions for improvement of health outcomes at community and population level.
    5. Apply clinical and advanced public health knowledge of diseases to develop health programmes and services that reduce inequalities in health across different healthcare entities.
    6. Apply advanced knowledge of disease causation models and advocacy principles to improve social determinants of health of communities.

    Modules:
  • Public Health Principles and International Health, 4 Credits.
  • Introduction to Clinical Research, 4 Credits.
  • Introduction to Medical Literature, 4 Credits.
  • Principles and techniques of medical education, 4 Credits.
  • Dissertation (I, II, III, IV & examination), 72 Credits.
  • Introduction to Healthcare Organization and Management, 7 Credits.
  • Introduction to Public Health Medicine (I&II), 130 Credits.
  • Intermediate Public Health Medicine (I, II, II, IV), 274 Credits.
  • Advanced Public Health Medicine (I & II), 137 Credits.

    Similarities and Differences:
  • The UB is modelled on the College of Public Health Medicine of South Africa.
  • The South African (SA) qualification is also modelled and complies with the requirements of the College of Public Health Medicine of South Africa.
  • The SA qualification graduate attributes, include advanced public health expertise, contextual intelligence (rural responsiveness), research and evidence-based practice, leadership, ethical accountability, advocacy, lifelong learning.
  • The UB qualification will provide clinical competence in public health medicine, socially accountable practice, critical thinking, lifelong learning, research capacity.
  • Both qualifications are offered over four years.
  • The two qualifications have similar entry requirements which necessitate the completion of an MBChB/MBBS and relevant experience. The qualifications have an identical duration of four years, and they are both pitched at NQF/NCQF level 9 and articulate to identical programmes, horizontally and vertically.

    Differences:
  • The only notable difference is the difference in credits of 640 compared to the 480.

    Country: New Zealand.
    Institution: Royal New Zealand College of Public Health Medicine (RNZCPH).
    Qualification/Programme Title: Public Health Medicine Training.
    Duration: 45 months (Approximately 4 years).

    Purpose and outcomes:
    The qualification is designed to train Registrars and to develop their expertise in the practice of public health medicine. It offers teaching, guidance and development of core skills and professional attributes to prepare Registrars for the variety of roles and challenges encountered in the workplace.
    The qualification has 2 stages, the Basic Training Phase and the Advanced Training Phase.
    The basic training phase is completed through an accredited university where Registrars are required to take certain prescribed papers to ensure they cover the subject areas most relevant to the practice of Public Health Medicine. The prescribed papers differ between the Universities of Auckland and Otago, reflecting the different structure of the courses at each of the Universities. Registrars are expected to undertake College prescribed MPH papers prior to optional papers, where the university timetable allows.

    Similarities:
  • The South African (SA) qualification has many similarities with the New Zealand qualification. These similarities include entrance requirements, the overall qualification purpose and the exit level outcomes. Additional similarities can be found in the duration and the qualification structure.
  • Both qualifications have an approximately 4-year duration.
  • The exit level outcomes of the qualifications are similar and are designed to develop competent public health medicine specialists who have the relevant graduate attributes and can demonstrate the competencies and outcomes listed below.
  • The two qualifications also have a similar structure with coursework, a dissertation and practical training which is experiential learning undertaken by employment at approved training sites as well as participation in other relevant training activities outside the work site.
  • Once both qualifications are completed, learners are eligible to apply for Fellowship of the College and to apply to the Medical Council of New Zealand for vocational registration in the scope of Public Health Medicine, like HPCSA requirements.

    Differences:
  • There are no fundamental differences between these two qualifications. A small difference is however noted in the full 4 years (48 months) for the SA qualification compared to the 45 months at the RNZCPH.
  • There are also differences in subject choices between the two qualifications.
  • The SA qualification is structured and has no electives. All the subjects are mandatory.
  • The RNZCPH qualification allows learners to elect certain modules during the basic training stage. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal and vertical articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, NQF Level 9.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health, NQF Level 10.
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and International Affairs, NQF Level 10.

    Diagonal articulation:
    Given the specialised nature of this qualification there are no diagonal articulation opportunities on the OQSF. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A. 

    NOTES 
    N/A. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Walter Sisulu University 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.