Somatology

Autumn Graduation
Ceremonies 2024

Somatology

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The Somatologist is a person who is interested in aesthetic improvement by means of physical and mental health. Somatologists activities include treatments such as massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, electrolysis treatments, physical education, nutritional guidance, hand, foot and facial care, depilatory and epilation treatments.
These are used in order to help a client slim down, build muscle, relax and generally become healthier by following a balanced lifestyle.

To be a suitable candidate for the profession it is important to be fit and in good physical health. Emotional strength and maturity is also a necessity as once qualified, the Somatologist will be dealing on a one to one basis with various people with many different physical and psychological needs. The National Diploma is offered on a full-time basis only.

Training given during the three-year and four year (ECP) programme leads to a Diploma and one-year Advanced Diploma Somatology respectively. The programme is divided into theoretical and practical components. Class practicals are performed on fellow students. In the second and third year, students are required to complete experiential learning and community service in order to gain workplace experience and develop social responsibility. The curriculum has been designed to give the diplomat a working knowledge and experience of all facets of health education, in order that they may play a holistic role in the general health care and wellness of individuals.

VISION

The vision of the Somatology programme is to produce quality diplomats that will then provide exceptional patients care.

MISSION

In keeping with the faculty’s mission and goals the programme aims to provide high standards of teaching and innovative learning strategies thereby producing ethical, skilful and quality Somatologists who can promote and represent their profession locally, nationally and internationally. Graduates will have the capacity to apply leadership and entrepreneurial skills thereby responding to the national imperatives of creating employment opportunities. The Somatologist will promote social responsibility through community engagement and research activities. The programme aims to encourage and improve relationships with all other health care professionals through research and being responsive to the primary health care and wellness needs of the people of South Africa, thereby adapting and cementing their position within the health care community.

DEPARTMENT GOALS

Individual potential needs of both students and staff must be encouraged and nurtured, through promoting individual support and through developmental programmes.
Liaison, local and international networking and involvement with the community, the employer bodies and all relevant stake holders must be fostered and encouraged to fulfil educational research and employment opportunities.
Improve research participation and output through increased post graduate student enrolments and publications.
Promoting the practice of self-directed learning thereby encouraging students to continually engage in a culture of lifelong learning.
Knowledge and skills in communication, leadership and entrepreneurial practices applicable to the Somatology profession are offered.
Maintenance and development of standards and qualifications is vital which recognizes that growth and development of both the profession and the needs of the people of South Africa.
Participation in community based projects to foster social responsibility within the programme.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

Owning, managing or working in a spa/salon/clinic or health hydro and on international and national shipping liners, game lodges and wellness centres, exercise as well as advising clients on nutritionally balanced eating programmes. Marketing and training positions are also available in national and international cosmetic companies and equipment houses and retail outlets. Many Somatologists work in partnership with other health care professional.

STUDENT SUPPORT

Academic support within the Somatology Programme

Students tracking
The Somatology programme has a dedicated person to track and support student progress. Students tracking system is a system that is used to track students from the first day of the academic year till the day their final exams are released. This system is used to identify students who may be “at risk” of failing a subject or may not progress to the next level. The support is provided to students on a one to one bases (mentoring).

At risk student are identified by evaluating:

Student attendance
Assessment marks
Change in behavior
Other factors that may contribute to student progression such as social and economical issues

Students “at risk” are to be referred to Faculty Academic Development and Support unit which assist with academic difficulties.

Academic Development and Support within the Faculty of Health Sciences

Academic Development and Support is aimed at improving student academic success and progress. This is done through conducting

Surviving and Thriving classes
- Time management planning
- Academic writing
- Academic reading
- Study technique
Individual Consultation
- Psycho-social issues
- Study techniques