South Africa Field Epidemiology Training Programme Opens Applications for 2027 Intake
Public Health Professionals Invited to Apply for Prestigious SAFETP Residency Programme
The South Africa Field Epidemiology Training Programme (SAFETP) has officially opened applications for its 2027 intake, offering health professionals an opportunity to develop advanced epidemiology, outbreak investigation, disease surveillance, and public health leadership skills.
Hosted through partnerships with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the University of Pretoria (UP), and the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), the programme is recognised as one of South Africa’s leading field epidemiology training initiatives.
The residency programme is designed to strengthen public health systems by developing highly skilled epidemiologists capable of responding to disease outbreaks, conducting health research, and improving public health decision-making across Africa.
Programme Overview
| Programme | South Africa Field Epidemiology Training Programme (SAFETP) |
|---|---|
| Intake Year | 2027 |
| Programme Type | Field Epidemiology Residency |
| Focus Areas | Public Health, Epidemiology, Disease Surveillance |
| Training Partners | NICD, University of Pretoria, University of the Witwatersrand |
| Qualification Pathway | BSc (Hons), MSc Epidemiology and Biostatistics |
| Location | South Africa |
| Application Method | Online Application |
What Is SAFETP?
The South Africa Field Epidemiology Training Programme is a competency-based training programme that combines academic learning with practical field experience.
The programme prepares professionals to:
- Investigate disease outbreaks
- Conduct epidemiological research
- Strengthen disease surveillance systems
- Analyse public health data
- Support evidence-based health policies
- Respond to public health emergencies
- Improve healthcare systems through research and data analysis
Graduates often go on to play key roles within government departments, research institutions, public health agencies, international organisations, and universities.
Why Field Epidemiology Matters
Recent global health emergencies have highlighted the critical role played by epidemiologists.
Field epidemiologists help governments and healthcare systems:
Detect Disease Outbreaks
Early identification of outbreaks helps prevent widespread transmission.
Monitor Public Health Trends
Data analysis assists decision-makers in developing effective health interventions.
Support Public Health Policy
Research findings contribute to evidence-based healthcare planning.
Strengthen Health Systems
Disease surveillance and epidemiological investigations improve national preparedness.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following educational requirements:
Medical, Veterinary or Dentistry Degree
OR
Doctorate Degree
In any One Health-related field.
OR
Master’s Degree
In any One Health-related field.
OR
Honours or Bachelor’s Degree
With prior research experience.
All qualifications must be from accredited institutions and relate to human health, animal health, environmental health, or public health disciplines.
Work Experience Requirements
Applicants must possess:
✔ At least two years of professional experience in:
- Human Health
- Animal Health
- Environmental Health
- Agricultural Health
Additional Advantages
The following experience will strengthen an application:
- Public health system experience
- Epidemiology exposure
- Research experience
- Disease surveillance experience
- Health programme implementation
Other Important Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be registered with the relevant professional body
- Be fluent in spoken and written English
- Be computer literate
- Be proficient in Microsoft Office applications
- Have strong communication and report-writing skills
- Possess a valid driver’s licence
- Be willing to travel and drive hired vehicles
- Provide proof of residential address
Knowledge of statistical software packages will be an added advantage.
Universities Participating in the Programme
University of Pretoria (UP)
Applicants should apply for:
First Choice:
BSc (Hons) Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Second Choice:
MSc Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Applicants who already possess an appropriate Honours qualification in Epidemiology may apply directly for the MSc programme.
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Applicants should apply for:
Master of Science in Epidemiology
Specialisation:
Field Epidemiology
Documents Required
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Certified copies of qualifications
- Certified academic transcripts
- Updated two-page Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose (maximum 500 words)
- Proof of university applications
- SAQA evaluation for foreign qualifications (where applicable)
Statement of Purpose
Applicants must explain:
- Career goals
- Interest in epidemiology
- Reasons for applying to SAFETP
- Future public health aspirations
A strong statement can significantly strengthen an application.
Selection Process
SAFETP applications are highly competitive.
Applicants may be assessed through:
Application Screening
Academic and professional qualifications are reviewed.
Interviews
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for in-person interviews.
Additional Assessments
Further evaluations may be conducted where necessary.
Selection is based on:
- Academic performance
- Professional experience
- Quality of application
- Interview performance
- Public health potential
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates may pursue careers as:
- Epidemiologists
- Public Health Specialists
- Disease Surveillance Officers
- Outbreak Investigators
- Health Data Analysts
- Research Scientists
- Public Health Programme Managers
- Government Health Advisors
The demand for epidemiology expertise continues to grow across South Africa and internationally.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete:
Step 1
Submit an online SAFETP application.
Step 2
Apply separately to:
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
Both university applications are mandatory in addition to the SAFETP application.
Applicants should carefully review university-specific deadlines before submitting applications.
Contact Details
SAFETP Secretariat
Eudie Hlabioa
📞 +27 11 386 6542
University of Pretoria
Lesiba Mpati
📞 +27 12 356 3292
University of the Witwatersrand
Lerato Podile
📞 +27 11 717 2605
Expert Analysis
Public health experts continue to identify epidemiology as one of the most important disciplines for strengthening healthcare systems.
The increasing frequency of disease outbreaks, emerging health threats, and public health emergencies has created a growing demand for highly trained epidemiologists capable of analysing complex health challenges and guiding evidence-based responses.
SAFETP remains one of the most respected pathways for health professionals seeking advanced public health training in Southern Africa.
Final Thoughts
The South Africa Field Epidemiology Training Programme 2027 presents an outstanding opportunity for healthcare, veterinary, environmental health, and public health professionals to advance their expertise while contributing to stronger health systems.
For professionals passionate about disease prevention, outbreak response, research, and public health leadership, the programme offers world-class training and valuable career development opportunities.
Interested candidates are encouraged to begin preparing their applications early due to the highly competitive nature of the programme.
Sources and References
- South Africa Field Epidemiology Training Programme (SAFETP)
- National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD)
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
- Public Health Workforce Development Programmes
Editorial Transparency
This article is based on information provided in the official SAFETP 2027 Call for Applications. Applicants should verify programme requirements, application procedures, and university deadlines directly through the official SAFETP and university platforms before applying.
Published: June 2026
Category: Public Health, Research Opportunities, Professional Development, Healthcare Training
