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Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Toxicology

Postgraduate diploma
ID:
0710_100_G101

The Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Toxicology aims to train you, as an appropriately qualified scientist, in the field of medical toxicology. The curriculum covers the most important areas of medical toxicology and will help broaden your knowledge as a healthcare professional. After completing the course, you will:
• have the practical skills to diagnose and manage patients exposed to poisonous chemicals;
• be able to work in medical facilities where you can assist in managing poisoned patients; and
• be able to advise other healthcare professionals on the diagnosis and management of poisoned patients.

Contact information
Mrs Carine Marks
Programme coordinator
+27 21 938 9334

Programme overview

Duration
One year
Campus
Tygerberg
Type
Coursework

More information

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When applying

When applying for a postgraduate programme, some may require you to upload additional supporting documents beyond completing the standard application form online. Where such documents are required, more information will appear under the section below titled “Supporting Application Documents.”

Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the programme.

Minimum admission requirements

Specific admission requirements
• A bachelor’s degree (e.g. MBChB, BPharm or BNur) or another relevant qualification on at least NQF level 7.
• If you are an international student who did not use English as medium of instruction for your undergraduate studies, you may be required to provide evidence of your oral and academic writing proficiency in English.
• BScHons with a minimum of 2 years’ experience

Programme structure

Duration
The programme extends over two years.

Presentation
The programme is offered by means of blended learning and includes e-learning, guided self-study, assignments, homework tasks and e-portfolios for integrated reflection, as well as two formal face-to-face lecture weeks.

Programme content
You must complete all five modules listed below.
Introduction to Toxicology 775(24)
Poisoning Management and Prevention 775(24)
Poisoning with Biological Toxins 775(24)
Poisoning with Non-drug Chemicals 775(24)
Poisoning with Pharmaceuticals 775(24)

Assessment and examination
• To obtain the PG Dip (Medical Toxicology) you must:
o show satisfactory attendance of classes and satisfactory participation in e-learning activities; and
o pass each of the five modules with an average mark of at least 50%.
• The final mark is calculated as follows:
o Section 1: written assignments and online quizzes (25%).
o Section 2: e-portfolios for integrated reflection (15%).
o Section 3: discussions of case studies (24%).
o Section 4: Two written examinations (36%) – one online and one in person.
• To pass the programme with distinction you must obtain a mark of 75%.

Last updated 01 April 2026
Disclaimer:
The University reserves the right to amend the information on this webpage at any time. While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete, it may be subject to change or become outdated. It remains the responsibility of prospective students to verify all details against the relevant faculty yearbook or directly with the relevant department.

Application dates

South African students
Applications open:
1-Apr 2026
Applications close:
30-Sep 2026

International students
Applications open:
1-Apr 2026
Applications close:
31-Aug 2026