Psychiatry

At the Department of Psychiatry at Stellenbosch University, our work spans addiction psychiatry, neuropsychiatry, child and adolescent mental health and global mental health challenges.Our research has led to pioneering findings on trauma, NeuroHIV, anxiety disorders and substance use. By blending teaching, research and clinical practice, we deliver evidence-based solutions that directly improve patient outcomes and public health. Our team has been instrumental in developing novel interventions that have reshaped treatment approaches and informed public health policy.

We work closely with both local community organisations and international partners, ensuring our initiatives are grounded in the unique needs of South Africa while influencing global mental health practices. Our breakthrough studies in NeuroHIV and innovative therapies for trauma and addiction, driving real
change in patient care and shaping a future of improved mental well-being locally and beyond. Housed within our division, is the Africa Unit/Institute for Clinical
Neuroscience, the Mental Health Information Centre, the SU/UCT MRC Unit on Risk and Resilience (Mental Disorders)and the SAMRC/SU Extramural Unit on the Genomics of Brain Disorders.

Contact us
+27 21 938 9658
[email protected]

Physical address
Office 2003/ 2004, Clinical Building
Tygerberg Campus
Francie van Zijl Drive

“Our breakthrough studies in NeuroHIV and innovative therapies for trauma and addiction, driving real change in patient care.”

Our programmes

Undergraduate Psychiatry Training

Psychiatry is essential to the MBChB programme, with students gaining hands-on experience through clinical rotations and case-based learning. Training is also provided for allied health students, including those in occupational therapy, physiotherapy and nursing.

MMed in Psychiatry

A four-year specialist training programme that combines coursework, clinical rotations and research. Graduates qualify to register as psychiatrists in South Africa.

Postgraduate Diploma in Addiction Care

Designed for healthcare professionals looking to specialise in addiction psychiatry. This programme provides an in-depth understanding of substance use disorders and treatment strategies.

MPhil in Subspecialist Psychiatry

Advanced training in Addiction Psychiatry, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Community Mental Health, Clinical Neuropsychiatry and Psychogeriatrics.

MSc in Neuroscience

A research-focused programme exploring the biological and psychological aspects of mental health. Students engage in interdisciplinary projects contributing to the broader understanding of brain function and disorders.

PhD in Psychiatry

A research-intensive doctoral programme for those looking to contribute to psychiatric knowledge through original research.