Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health (MSc OSH)

Overview

The Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health (MSc OSH) is a multidisciplinary postgraduate programme aimed at advancing knowledge and professional practice in workplace health and safety. This programme supports Malawi’s national efforts to improve occupational safety and health (OSH) systems and meets global standards defined by the ILO and WHO.

Occupational Safety and Health is concerned with promoting the highest standards of physical, mental, and social well-being among workers. It plays a critical role in improving labour productivity, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and creating safer working environments, especially as Malawi experiences growth in construction, manufacturing, and other industrial sectors.

Aim of the Programme

The MSc OSH programme is designed to build capacity in the occupational safety, health, and welfare sector. It also aims to equip OHS professionals with knowledge and skills to design, implement, and evaluate OSH policies. It further promotes safer, healthier, and more productive work environments across sectors

Programme Structure

The MSc OSH is a two-year (four-semester) programme delivered in a modular format:

Year 1 (semester 1 & 2)

Ten compulsory modules (Five per semester)
Each module carries a specific number of credits contributing to the required 120 credits for coursework completion
Module include:
- - Occupational Safety
  - Occupational Health
  - Occupational Toxicology
  - Ergonomics
  - Risk Management
  - Epidemiology and Statistics
  - Workplace Health and Safety Regulations
  - Management for Occupational Safety and Health
  - Professional Practice in OSH
  - Research Methodology

Semester 3: Submission of a research proposal
Semester 4: Completion and submission of a dissertation
Research may involve experimental work, surveys, case studies, programme development, or modelling in OSH-related areas

To graduate with a Master’s degree, a student must earn:

120 credits from coursework
60 credits from the dissertation
A minimum pass mark of 50% is required for the dissertation. Students must meet all academic requirements to graduate.

Programme Duration and Extension

Standard Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Extension: Up to 2 additional semesters allowed upon application and payment of 50% of programme fees

Programme Exit Options

Postgraduate Diploma in OSH: Awarded to students who complete at least 120 credits from coursework but do not proceed with the dissertation.
Master of Science in OSH: Awarded upon successful completion of 120 coursework credits and 60 dissertation credits.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to occupational safety and health such as Environmental Health, Environmental Engineering, Chemistry or any relevant subject area, with an average grade of at least 50%.

Required Documents

- Proof of payment of the application fee (A non-refundable application fee of MK20,000.00 for Malawian applicants and US$60.00 for international applicants) – Completed PG programmes application form [insert link].
- Certified copy of academic transcript/ academic record.
- Certified copies of relevant certificates.
- Reference letters from two (2) traceable referees (at least one academic).
- Recent curriculum vitae.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit their applications via email to: applicationspostgraduate@mubas.ac.mw
Important Notes:
- Postgraduate candidates can apply at any time during the academic year.
- The closing date for receiving applications for the September intake is 30 May the same year whereas closing date for receiving applications for the March intake is 30 November the previous year

Fees Structure

Successful applicants shall be required to pay the Malawi Kwacha equivalent of US$3,250.00 per year for domicile and SADC students and US$3,750.00 per year for other international students to cater for tuition, research project supervision and dissertation examination.

Non-Programme Specific – Support Services

Accommodation Assistance

Postgraduate programmes are offered on a non-residential basis. However, the University through the Office of the Director of Students and Student Affairs (DoSA) and the Postgraduate Office supports (PG) both local and international postgraduate students in securing suitable accommodation.

Mental Health and Wellness

The university prioritizes student well-being by offering free psychological counselling through DoSA and the MUBAS Clinic. These services cover issues such as stress, anxiety, and university adjustment. In its effort to promote awareness and mental wellness each year, the university holds an annual Mental Health Day.

Medical Coverage

All registered students are automatically enrolled in the UNIMED medical scheme, providing them with access to essential healthcare services.

Orientation and Integration Support (for International Students)

- International students benefit from a well-structured orientation programme organized by the PG. The programme provides several issues including, guidance on academic life, cultural adaptation, transportation, banking, and local living. Through the programme students interact with university personnel and receive help with registration, course selection, and use of learning platforms.

Administrative and Visa Support

Through the office international student support, the university ensure that international student receive continuous support for visa applications, educational permits, and registration. The office also offer advice on local regulations to ease students’ transition and ensure policy compliance.