Medicine

The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) program at the University of the Witwatersrand is a six-year undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a career in medicine and healthcare. This comprehensive program combines rigorous academic coursework, practical clinical training, and research opportunities to develop well-rounded medical practitioners equipped to serve diverse communities. Students will engage with a curriculum that covers fundamental medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and pathology, along with core clinical disciplines such as internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and psychiatry. The program emphasizes problem-based learning, clinical skills development, and community-based education to foster critical thinking, ethical practice, and compassionate patient care. Throughout their studies, students will have the opportunity to participate in hospital rotations, community health projects, and research initiatives that enhance their understanding of healthcare systems and public health issues prevalent in South Africa and beyond. The program also aims to cultivate leadership, communication, and teamwork skills necessary for effective medical practice. Graduates of the MBChB program will be eligible to register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and pursue internships and postgraduate training to specialize further in various medical fields. The University of the Witwatersrand’s commitment to excellence in medical education, research, and community service ensures that students are prepared to meet the healthcare needs of their communities and contribute to the advancement of medicine locally and globally.

Research areas

• Anaesthesiology
• Emergency Medicine
• Internal Medicine
• Medical Physics
• Obstetrics and Gynaecology
• Ophthalmology
• Psychiatry
• Paediatrics
• Radiation Sciences
• Surgery
• Trauma Unit 

• A masters degree from Wits or another university;
• A graduate of this or another university who holds a degree in another faculty whose curriculum has ordinarily extended over not less than four academic years of full-time study
• A supervisor from the Faculty of  Humanities must be identified and approached prior to application
• Detailed CV
• Degree certificates and transcripts
• SAQA evaluation
• Proof of payment of application fee
• Letter from Dept. confirming offer
• Confirmation from Department of supervisor are required

The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) program at the University of the Witwatersrand offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to prepare students for a career in medicine. The financing of studies for this program involves several components, which applicants need to consider carefully. Tuition fees are the primary expense and vary depending on the year of study and whether the student is a South African citizen or an international student. For domestic students, the tuition fees are set annually and are subject to increases; these fees cover lectures, practicals, clinical training, and access to medical resources. International students typically pay higher tuition fees, reflecting the additional administrative and resource costs.

In addition to tuition, students must budget for mandatory registration fees, examination fees, and costs associated with uniforms, textbooks, and medical equipment. The University also recommends that students set aside funds for accommodation, transportation, and personal expenses, which can significantly impact the overall cost of a medical degree. Many students finance their studies through a combination of personal savings, family support, scholarships, bursaries, and student loans. The university offers various bursary programs specifically targeted at disadvantaged students and those demonstrating academic excellence. These bursaries may partially or fully cover tuition fees and are awarded based on financial need and academic merit.

Other funding options include government student loan schemes, such as those available through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa, which provides financial support to eligible students from low-income backgrounds. NSFAS funds can be used to cover tuition, registration, and residence costs. Many students also seek private scholarships offered by health organizations, philanthropic foundations, and corporate sponsors associated with the medical field.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources early and to apply for multiple grants and bursaries to alleviate financial burdens. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance and support in navigating available options. It is important to note that financing a medical degree is a significant commitment, and prospective students should plan their finances carefully to ensure they can complete their studies without undue financial stress. The university’s goal is to promote accessibility and support students from diverse economic backgrounds to pursue careers in medicine through various financial assistance programs.

The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) at the University of the Witwatersrand is a comprehensive and rigorous program designed to prepare students for a career in medicine. The program typically spans six years and combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical skills, emphasizing the development of competent, compassionate, and ethical healthcare professionals. Students enrolled in this program undertake a broad curriculum that includes basic sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, along with social sciences, ethics, and communication skills. As part of their training, students engage in hands-on clinical experiences at hospitals and community clinics affiliated with the university, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The program is geared toward addressing the healthcare needs of South Africa and the broader African region, with an emphasis on community-oriented primary care and disease prevention. Admission to this program is competitive and typically requires excellent academic performance in high school and a strong motivation to pursue a career in medicine. The university also seeks students who demonstrate leadership potential, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to serving diverse populations. Graduates of the MBChB program are fully qualified to register as medical practitioners in South Africa and are prepared to pursue further specializations or postgraduate studies nationally or internationally. The program is accredited by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and aligns with national and international standards for medical education. The university also provides research opportunities, encouraging students to engage in innovative projects that contribute to medical knowledge and improve healthcare outcomes. Overall, the MBChB at Wits aims to produce well-rounded physicians who are equipped to meet the challenges of modern medicine while serving their communities with professionalism and ethical integrity.