Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), situated in Ga-Rankuwa, Gauteng Province, South Africa, is a specialized medical university dedicated to training health sciences professionals. Established in 2015, SMU offers a comprehensive range of programs focused on medicine, health sciences, oral health, pharmacy, and related scientific fields. If you are considering applying to SMU for the 2026 academic year, here is a fresh and detailed overview of the courses available, admission requirements, and application process.
Faculties and Course Offerings at SMU
School of Medicine
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), including an Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP)
- Master of Medicine (MMed) in various specializations
- Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (MSc Clinical Psychology)
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) in General Surgery
- PhD programs in various medical specializations
- Bachelor of Diagnostic Radiography (BRad Diag)
- Diploma and Higher Certificate in Emergency Medical Care (Paramedic)
School of Oral Health Sciences
- Bachelor of Dental Sciences (BDS)
- Master of Dentistry (MDent) with various specializations
- PhD in Dentistry
- Bachelor of Dental Therapy (BDT)
- Bachelor of Oral Hygiene (BOH)
School of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)
- Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)
- Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Hospital Pharmacy Management
School of Health Care Sciences
- Department of Nursing Sciences: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BCur), Honours, Master’s, and PhD programs; Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Occupational Health Nursing
- Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics: Bachelor of Science in Dietetics, Master’s, and PhD
- Department of Occupational Therapy: Bachelor, Master’s, and PhD in Occupational Therapy
- Department of Physiotherapy: Bachelor and Master of Science in Physiotherapy, including specializations and PhD
- Department of Speech Language Pathology and Audiology: Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
School of Science and Technology
- Bachelor of Science degrees with majors in Chemistry, Computer Science, Physiology, Psychology, Biology, Biochemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Applied Mathematics, and Statistics
- Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) lasting four years
- Bachelor of Science Honours, Master’s, and PhD degrees
Admission Requirements and Application Process
- Applications for the 2026 academic year open on 1 April 2025 and close on 31 July 2025 for undergraduate programs and MSc in Clinical Psychology. Postgraduate applications close on 29 August 2025 (except PhDs and Masters by Research).
- Applicants may apply for up to two study choices per application. Separate applications and documentation are required for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, but only one application fee of R300 applies.
- Admission requirements vary by program but generally include a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with minimum achievement levels in subjects such as Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and English. For example, the MBChB requires high-level passes in Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.
- Certified copies of identification documents, academic transcripts, and proof of payment must be submitted with the application.
- The university emphasizes academic potential and transformation in its selection process.
Why Choose Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University?
- SMU is dedicated exclusively to health sciences education, offering specialized training and research opportunities.
- The university is located adjacent to the Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, providing students with excellent clinical training facilities.
- SMU fosters a diverse and inclusive environment with a strong commitment to community health and social justice.
- Graduates from SMU are well-prepared for careers in healthcare, research, and academia.
Tips for Prospective Students
- Begin your application early to ensure all documents are prepared and submitted on time.
- Review the specific admission criteria for your chosen program in the official SMU prospectus.
- Ensure all supporting documents are certified and legible.
- Prepare for any additional assessments or interviews if your program requires them.
- Keep your application reference number and login details safe for tracking your application status.
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University offers a wide range of specialized programs designed to train the next generation of healthcare professionals and researchers. Its focus on quality education, clinical exposure, and community engagement makes it an excellent choice for students passionate about health sciences