The Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town boasts a proud history of innovation. Established in 1920, it is the oldest such department in the country and the new Head of Department from 1 March 2022 is Professor Mushi Matjila.
Undergraduate Training
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology trains medical students in obstetrics and gynaecology from the third year to the sixth year of the curriculum. Students are taught in the spiral curriculum and, where appropriate, interdisciplinary tuition is organised (for example, between Obstetrics and Neonatology). Students' training includes equipping students to deal with primary-level problems in obstetrics and gynaecology once they have graduated. In addition, understanding of the complexities of women's health is fostered, as well as the specific challenges in delivering maternal healthcare, newborn healthcare and women's healthcare.
Postgraduate Training
Postgraduate training is also offered and, with the development of the sub-specialities in obstetrics and gynaecology, training in preparation for the examination of the College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology will become available. Candidates may register for other research-based postgraduate degrees including MPhil, MSc, MD or PhD through the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
