If you are considering pursuing this career path then you should understand that your duties and responsibilities may involve conducting complete skin examinations, recording patients' health histories.
You may also have to diagnose and treat skin conditions such as skin cancer, warts, athlete's foot, fungal infections, eczema, acne, dermatitis and a disease called psoriasis.
Dermatologists also carry out skin surgeries for either clinical reasons (eg removal of unsightly or cancerous growths) or for cosmetic reasons (e.g. removal of a mole).
Before starting your post-graduate study for specialisation as a dermatologist, you must possess a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery(MBChB) degree for 2 years. An additional requirement is you must be registered as a medical doctor with the Health Professions Council of South Africa for 1 year.
These are the South African universities that offer a postgraduate degree in dermatology or 4 year Master in Medicine (Dermatology)
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Cape Town
- University of the Free State
- University of KZN
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
In terms of designation, the qualification is awarded by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Only then can you use the title Dermatologist behind your name.
