Doctor of Philosophy in Health Professions Education at Stellenbosch University

Programme overview

The Doctor of Philosophy in Health Professions Education is an advanced research degree centred on the completion of a doctoral dissertation, offered on the Tygerberg campus. Candidates conduct independent research on a specialised topic under an experienced supervisor, applying advanced research methodologies and critically engaging with the scientific literature to generate new knowledge.

Faculty: Medicine and Health Sciences | Department: Centre for Health Professions Education | Duration: Three years (normally three to four years full-time; minimum two, maximum five) | Intake: Applications 1 Apr 2026 to 31 Mar 2027 (domestic and international) | Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

What you will study

The programme requires a written research dissertation worth 360 credits at NQF level 10, completed under the supervision of an experienced academic. It normally takes three to four full-time years, with a minimum of two and a maximum of five years. The degree is normally assessed on a dissertation, or primarily on published articles (not exclusively).

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (PhD in Health Professions Education): Applicants must comply with the provisions for doctorates in Part 1 (General Rules) of the Yearbook and the Faculty's General Information on Doctoral Studies. An average of at least 50% is required for every qualification that facilitates selection. Admission requires either a relevant Health Sciences qualification and/or relevant Health Sciences experience plus a master's degree in Health Professions Education or Higher Education, or proven relevant experience with educational research and/or research in the social sciences; or another qualification deemed sufficient by Senate together with proven relevant experience in educational or social science research. Selection depends on the academic environment and its infrastructure and capacity. Applicants must provide a CV with three referees, a one-page letter of motivation and a 1-3 page research outline; proof of bursary funding is optional.

The application fee is R100 for South African citizens, permanent residents and refugee, asylum seeker and diplomatic status holders, and R400 for international applicants. Stellenbosch Business School applicants pay R1050 for the MBA and R850 for other SBS programmes. Some applicants are exempt; application fees are non-refundable.

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