Are you passionate about public health, clean water, safe food, and sustainable living environments? A qualification in Environmental Health can lead you to a rewarding career focused on protecting human health and the environment. South Africa’s top Universities of Technology offer accredited Environmental Health programmes that equip students with practical and scientific skills to address real-world health and environmental challenges.
Here’s a guide to the best institutions offering Environmental Health courses in 2026:
1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – Western Cape
Faculty: Health and Wellness Sciences
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma in Environmental Health
- Bachelor of Environmental Health
- Advanced Diploma in Environmental Health
- Master of Environmental Health
Why Choose CPUT?
CPUT provides a complete academic journey with strong emphasis on occupational health, waste management, and environmental monitoring. Their graduates are well-equipped for roles in municipalities, health departments, and industry.
2. Central University of Technology (CUT) – Free State
Faculty: Health and Environmental Sciences
Programme Offered:
- Diploma in Environmental Health
- Duration: 2 years
- APS Requirement: 27 points
- Subjects Needed: Life Sciences & Physical Science
Why Choose CUT?
CUT’s Environmental Health diploma emphasizes practical training through work-integrated learning, making graduates job-ready upon completion.
3. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Gauteng
Faculty: Sciences
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health
Why Choose TUT?
TUT’s BSc programme provides deep scientific training in pollution control, food hygiene, occupational health, and health education. It is ideal for students wanting to work in public health enforcement or research.
4. Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – Gauteng
Faculty: Applied and Computer Sciences
Programme Offered:
- Diploma in Environmental Sciences
Why Choose VUT?
While not specifically titled “Environmental Health,” VUT’s Environmental Sciences diploma includes modules relevant to environmental protection, ecosystem health, and sustainability. It suits students interested in environmental monitoring and conservation.
5. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) – KwaZulu-Natal
Faculty: Applied and Health Sciences
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health
Why Choose MUT?
MUT’s BSc programme is designed to meet the growing demand for environmental health practitioners in South Africa. The curriculum covers water quality, sanitation, communicable diseases, and air pollution control.
Core Subjects You’ll Study:
- Environmental Law & Policy
- Occupational Health & Safety
- Waste and Water Management
- Food Hygiene & Inspection
- Epidemiology and Disease Control
- Environmental Toxicology
Careers in Environmental Health:
- Environmental Health Practitioner (EHP)
- Public Health Inspector
- Waste Management Officer
- Occupational Health & Safety Officer
- Environmental Compliance Officer
- Air and Water Quality Analyst
Conclusion:
Environmental Health is more vital than ever in protecting communities and ecosystems from disease, pollution, and hazardous exposure. Whether you aim to work in government, private industry, or NGOs, these top South African universities of technology provide the qualifications and skills needed to make a real impact.