Applications for the 2025 class of the South African Field Epidemiology Training Programme (SAFETP) are currently being accepted from certified medical professionals who are committed to public service and have an interest in public health.
In order to develop specialized skills for evaluating and strengthening public health surveillance systems, looking into and controlling outbreaks, and conducting field studies to address public health priority issues, SAFETP offers a full-time, two-year residency program. The primary methods of providing training are through learning activities and on-the-job service supply. A Master of Science (MSc) in Field Epidemiology is granted by the University of Pretoria or the University of the Witwatersrand to a trainee who successfully completes the program.
Eligibility:
- The next cohort of trainees will begin in January 2025 and end in December 2026.
- Qualified professionals who are interested in joining the cohort should submit their applications before 01 July 2024.
- Applicants who are funded by their employers must ensure that this funding covers their salaries/stipends, as well as university registration and tuition fees for the two-year training period.
- Applicants currently working within the South African government at various levels, who plan to take study leave to participate in the programme and afterwards return to their workplace, must have written approval from their departments.
- A limited number of bursaries/scholarships may be available for selected applicants fulfilling predefined criteria.
Work experience requirements:
- At least 2 years of professional experience in a health field or other fields relevant to health
- Experience of working in a public health system is desirable
- Experience in health-related research will be an advantage
Educational Requirements:
- Medical, veterinary or dentistry degree; OR
- Doctorate degree in a medical/health related field; OR
- Master’s degree in a medical or health related field; OR
- Honour’s/bachelor’s degree with prior research experience
Other Key requirements:
In addition to work and educational requirements, the applicant must: - Be registered with their respective professional bodies
- Be fluent in spoken and written English
- Be computer literate and proficient in Microsoft office suite for communication, word processing, analysis, presentation and report generation.
- Knowledge of a statistical package will be an advantage
- Have a valid driver’s license and be willing to drive a hired car
- Provide proof of current physical residential address for future purposes of Domicilium citandi et executandi.
