Career guide

Environmental Health Officer

Social

Inspects and enforces public health standards - food premises, water quality, waste, pollution, pest control - usually for a municipality. A mix of office work, inspections and enforcement.

School subjects

Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is generally accepted; Life Sciences and Physical Sciences help.

How you qualify

A three-year Degree or National Diploma in Environmental Health (NQF 6-7), including practical training. Registration with the HPCSA as an Environmental Health Practitioner is compulsory. Most posts are with district and metropolitan municipalities, and senior roles typically ask for about three years' experience, so entry depends on municipal vacancies as well as qualifications. Entry requirements differ by institution - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Universities of Technology and universities; municipalities as main employers; HPCSA registration compulsory

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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