Do you want to pursue a career in safety and health at work? The UNISA SAMTRAC course in South Africa can be the ideal first step for you to enter a rapidly expanding field. Trained safety specialists are more in demand than ever before as safety becomes a major focus in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, construction, and mining.
The SAMTRAC course, its availability at UNISA, and your study alternatives in South Africa will all be covered in this article.
What is the SAMTRAC Course?
SAMTRAC stands for Safety Management Training Course. It’s a well-recognized occupational health and safety qualification developed by NOSA (National Occupational Safety Association). The course equips professionals with foundational and advanced knowledge in health, safety, and environmental (HSE) management. It’s ideal for anyone looking to start or advance their career in the HSE field.
Does UNISA Offer the SAMTRAC Course?
As of now, UNISA (University of South Africa) does not offer the SAMTRAC course directly. SAMTRAC is exclusively developed and administered by NOSA, a private training provider. However, UNISA does offer health and safety-related qualifications, such as:
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Diploma in Safety Management
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Bachelor of Environmental Management
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Short Learning Programmes in Occupational Health and Safety
If you’re looking for university-level education in safety management, UNISA’s diploma or degree programs are a great option. On the other hand, if you want a more practical, industry-specific certificate, SAMTRAC by NOSA might be the better fit.
SAMTRAC vs UNISA Safety Courses – Which One is Right for You?
When deciding between SAMTRAC and a UNISA qualification, consider your career goals:
| SAMTRAC (by NOSA) | UNISA Safety Programs |
|---|---|
| Shorter duration (4–6 weeks) | Long-term academic programs (1–3 years) |
| Practical, workplace-focused | Theory-based with academic depth |
| Highly regarded in the private sector | Recognized across public and private sectors |
| Great for quick upskilling | Ideal for long-term career growth |
Where Can You Study SAMTRAC in South Africa?
While UNISA doesn’t offer SAMTRAC, you can enroll directly with NOSA at their various campuses or through online learning. NOSA has training centers in major cities like Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria. Their online SAMTRAC course is also a popular option for working professionals who want flexibility.
Why Choose SAMTRAC?
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Industry-Recognized: Trusted by top employers across South Africa.
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Quick Completion: Most people complete it in just a few weeks.
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Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers legal compliance, hazard identification, risk assessments, and more.
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Boosts Employability: Great addition to your CV for safety-related roles.