Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics at Durban University of Technology

Programme overview

The Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics is a four-year NQF level 8 degree delivered at the Steve Biko and Ritson campuses and Wentworth Hospital. It produces clinicians grounded in the theory and principles of orthotics and prosthetics, with strong clinical and practical components in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health and the private sector. Successful completion entitles graduates to register with the HPCSA as independent Medical Orthotists and Prosthetists.

Faculty: Faculty of Health Sciences | Department: Department of Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics | Duration: 4 years (minimum, full-time) | Intake: January (annual programme) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

What you will study

First-year modules include Physics, Mathematics, Materials Science, Anatomy I, Biomechanics I, Principles of Orthotics and Prosthetics, Clinical Practice I and Cornerstone 101. Clinical and practical modules become increasingly complex across the four years, covering the design, manufacture and fitting of splints, braces, surgical appliances and artificial limbs.

Career pathways

Orthotists and prosthetists work in hospitals, government departments, rehabilitation facilities and private institutions, specialty clinics and home health settings, and universities and universities of technology.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

NSC degree entry with English (rating 3), Mathematics (4), Physical Science (4), Life Science (4) and two further 20-credit subjects (4, not more than one language). Senior Certificate with matric exemption: English, Mathematics, Physical Science and Biology at HG D or SG B. Selection assesses cognitive and psychomotor abilities through a placement test, an interview and a voluntary practice report; applicants are encouraged to complete at least 8 hours of voluntary service in an orthotic and prosthetic environment and submit the report with the application. Top applicants are invited to the placement test and interview, and the 30 highest-ranked are admitted, subject to a minimum point score set from time to time.

Tuition is charged per module, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

First-time undergraduate applications for the 2027 academic year must reach the CAO by the closing date of 30 September 2026; some programmes close earlier. Applications are made online through the CAO (www.cao.ac.za). The application fee is R250 (South African citizens) or R300 (international applicants), paid when submitting; the application is active only once payment is received.

Apply through the official page: https://onlineapps.dut.ac.za/

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