Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety

MQF Level

Duration and Credits

2 Years

60 ECTS

Mode of Study

Part-time Evening

This programme prepares you for professional practice in occupational health and safety through a structured and interdisciplinary curriculum. It integrates scientific principles, health and safety legislation, risk management, ergonomics and human factors, occupational safety, occupational health and occupational hygiene. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, supported by training in investigative skills and qualitative and quantitative research methods. Graduates acquire the knowledge, skills and professional competencies required to work effectively as occupational health and safety professionals across a range of organisational contexts and are prepared for further academic study in the field. Students who successfully complete the Diploma may apply to progress to a three-year top-up Bachelor Honours Degree in Occupational Health and Safety. The course is nationally recognised by the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA) as a qualifying programme for eligibility to apply for its Competent Persons Register. Internationally, the course is accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the world鈥檚 largest professional body for occupational health and safety practitioners. This course meets the academic qualification requirements for eligibility to apply for Technical Membership with IOSH (TechIOSH).

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Information for International applicants

Refer to the list of country-specific qualifications

Applicants may also be admitted in terms of the 'maturity (adult learners) clause'. Such applicants shall be in possession of a pass in an English language proficiency test as approved by the University before being admitted to the Course, provided that applicants in possession of a Secondary Education Certificate pass at Grade 5 or higher or at SEC level 3 in English Language or a pass at the same standard in a comparable qualification, shall be exempted from sitting for the proficiency test.

You are viewing the entry requirements for International applicants. Switch to Local qualifications.

You can submit your application online. The deadlines for submission of applications vary according to the intake and courses. We encourage all international applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible. This is especially important if you require a visa to travel and eventually stay in Malta.

You can compare your national qualifications to the local requirements by visiting our qualifications comparability webpage. Access more information about our admission process and English language requirements.

The University of Malta has student accommodation on campus called Campus Hub. Campus Hub is just a 2-minute walk from the main campus. For more information, visit the .

Our dedicated team at the student recruitment office is here to support you every step of the way. From the moment you start your application to the moment when you receive your decision letter, we're here to assist you. If you have any questions or need further information, don't hesitate to reach out to us. You can contact us at info@um.edu.mt, and our team will be more than happy to help.

After you receive an offer from us, our International Office will assist you with visas, accommodation and other related issues.


Semester 1

Compulsory Units (All students must register for this/these unit/s)

CLS1315	Physical Sciences in Safety, Health and the Environment	4 ECTS
CLS1320	Risk Management and Principles of Control	4 ECTS
CLS1326	Academic Skills in Occupational Health and Safety	6 ECTS


Semester 2

Compulsory Units (All students must register for this/these unit/s)

CLS1319	Biological Principles in Health, Safety and Occupational Toxicology	6 ECTS
CLS1323	Ergonomics and Human Factors	4 ECTS
PBL1020	Health and Safety Legal Framework	4 ECTS

Requirement for regular progression to Year 2: 28 ECTS credits


Semester 1

Compulsory Units (All students must register for this/these unit/s)

CLS1114	Qualitative Research Methods	4 ECTS
CLS1321	Occupational Safety	8 ECTS
CLS2302	Occupational Hygiene	4 ECTS


Semester 2

Compulsory Units (All students must register for this/these unit/s)

CLS1113	Quantitative Research Methods	4 ECTS
CLS1324	Fire Safety and the Management of First Aid	4 ECTS
CLS1325	Investigative Skills and Occupational Safety Practice	4 ECTS
CLS2303	Occupational Health	4 ECTS

Requirement for successful completion of the Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety: 60 ECTS credits

This programme of study is governed by the General Regulations for University Undergraduate Awards, 2004 for the Degree of Bachelor in Occupational Health and Safety (Honours) - B. O.H.S. (Hons) - under the auspices of the Centre for Labour Studies.

During the course, you will:

Apply scientific principles to health and safety practice: Demonstrate understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological principles that underpin workplace hazards and controls. Analyse how these scientific factors influence risk exposure, human health, and environmental impact.
Conduct effective risk assessment and control planning: Apply structured risk management methodologies to identify, evaluate, and prioritise workplace hazards. Recommend and justify appropriate control measures based on the hierarchy of control principles.
Interpret and apply legal requirements: Demonstrate understanding of national health and safety legislation, standards, and enforcement frameworks. Evaluate organisational compliance and develop strategies to meet legal and regulatory obligations.
Demonstrate competence in occupational health, hygiene and toxicology: Assess exposure to physical, chemical, biological, and ergonomic hazards using accepted occupational hygiene principles. Evaluate the toxicological properties of hazardous agents, including exposure routes and health effects. Recommend evidence-based monitoring, health surveillance, and control measures to prevent occupational illness and disorders.
Evaluate ergonomics and human factors: Apply ergonomic principles to improve workplace design, task organisation, and human performance. Analyse and prevent human error through consideration of cognitive and organisational factors.
Manage workplace safety programmes: Develop, implement, and evaluate systems for managing occupational safety, including incident reporting, emergency planning, fire safety, and first aid arrangements.

Evaluate and manage psychosocial and mental health risks in the workplace: Conduct structured assessments of work-related stressors, psychosocial hazards, and organisational factors affecting employee mental health. Recommend related prevention and intervention strategies.
Conduct research and data-driven investigation: Use qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect, interpret, and present data relevant to occupational health and safety.
Communicate professionally and academically: Demonstrate academic literacy, research referencing, and professional communication suitable for technical safety reports, presentations, and stakeholder engagement.

Non EU Applicants:

Fee per academic year: Eur 4,250

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As a graduate of this programme, you may pursue a range of career opportunities in occupational health and safety across both public and private sectors. Typical roles include occupational health and safety officer or advisor, safety coordinator, risk assessment or compliance officer, and environmental health and safety (EHS) officer. Employment opportunities exist in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and public administration, as well as within consultancy and regulatory environments. The programme also provides a foundation for further study and professional development in occupational health and safety and related fields. Successful completion of the Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety provides a pathway for further academic progression. Graduates may apply to continue their studies through a three-year top-up Bachelor Honours Degree in Occupational Health and Safety.

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