Healing Hands, Global Dreams: Nzapheza Nomithi shares her journey of her dream career in Somatology. She believes that through Somatology, she has discovered her calling and is content that she is able to use her hands to heal, beautify and dream beyond borders.

Nzapheza Charlotte Nomithi, a dynamic and ambitious young woman, shares her story of passion discovered and purpose pursued in Somatology. Now in her third year of the Diploma in Somatology, she is mastering the art of wellness and beauty therapy and serving as the Student Representative Council (SRC): Public Relations Officer 2024/2025, a true reflection of passion, leadership and discipline.

Nomithi said that when she first arrived at CUT and enrolled on a Somatology programme, she had little knowledge of what it entailed. “When I enrolled for this course, I didn’t know or fully understand what it was all about. I initially thought it was all about learning how to apply make-up on clients to make them beautiful, but with time, I fell in love with it and came to realise that it has so much more to offer. I learned that it is about understanding the human body, healing, and enhancing beauty to help people feel good about themselves. I can now confidently say that I have stepped right into my true calling, and that is what I am all about,” she said.

         Somatologists in the making.

The Somatology course offered by the Department of Health Sciences in the Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences is a dynamic, hands-on programme designed to equip students with both scientific knowledge and therapeutic skills. It integrates physiology, dermatology, and advanced practical training in massage therapy, facial treatments, slimming technologies, and holistic health care. From Swedish and hot stone massage to galvanic facials and infrared slimming treatments, students are comprehensively trained to offer a holistic wellness service.

Nzapheza performs the vacuum suction therapy session, a powerful treatment that     targets fat elimination, exfoliates the skin, boosts elasticity, and soothes muscle tension. 

“We are trained to be versatile professionals, equipped with a wide range of skills. Our training includes hands-on experience with advanced technology, professional-grade equipment, and techniques used in top spas. We gain both theoretical knowledge of the body system and practical skills that prepare us to work in salons, wellness centers, and even on luxury cruise liners.”

Nzapheza is especially excited about the international opportunities her qualification offers. “Somatology opens so many doors; you can start your own spa business or work abroad. It’s a career that offers one the chance to travel and explore different products. As someone who loves exploring new places, I would say that’s my dream job.”

What sets CUT apart from the rest is the focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, professionalism, and student development. The Somatology programme does not just prepare you to pass exams; it prepares you to be among the best in the industry. The department’s fully equipped salon and treatment rooms allow us to engage in real-world experiences while still under academic guidance.

Part of the rejuvenating treatments offered at the CUT Spa includes the luxury facial treatment tailored to refresh, hydrate, and restore your natural glow.

Despite juggling between her leadership role and hectic academic schedule, Nzapheza said she thrives under pressure and sticks to her time management schedule to balance her social and academic life. “I plan my day; prioritise my responsibilities and appointments, and I write everything down so that I can stay organised and professional at all times.”

Somatology career at CUT

DIPLOMA: Somatology			DP_SOM
Campus	Duration of Programme	Enrolment Option(s)	SAQA Credits	NQF Level
Bloemfontein Campus	3 Years	Semester 1	360	6
Additional Admission Requirements  For candidates who matriculated in 2007 or before: In addition to the general admission requirements, a minimum mark of 50% on Standard Grade or 40% on Higher Grade in Physical Science or Biology or Physiology is required. Mathematics is recommended. For candidates who completed the NSC in 2008 and thereafter: In addition to the general admission requirements, a minimum mark of 50% in Life Sciences or Physical Science is required. A minimum of 27points on CUT scoring scale for the National Senior Certificate.
Career Opportunities Somatologists find a wealth of opportunities within this diverse industry, both nationally and internationally. Positions are found within Skin and Health Care Clinics; Private Practices, Medical Centres, Health Spas, Product Company Sales Representatives and Trainers; Cruise Liners and Airlines.

Remarks

Students can obtain an internationally recognised Comite’ International d’Esthetique et de Cosmetologie (CIDESCO) diploma at the end of their third year of study.

Did You Know? Somatology is the scientific study of the body, particularly focusing on health, beauty, and skincare. It goes beyond basic beauty therapy by incorporating a holistic approach that considers the overall well-being of the individual. Somatologists are trained to treat various skin and body conditions, improve general health and aesthetics, and offer a range of therapies like massage, aromatherapy, and stress management.

Career opportunities in Somatology

• Somatologist in a Salon, Spa, Aesthetic Clinic, or any Health and wellness centres.
• Entrepreneur opportunities.
• Manager within a beauty industry environment.
• Representative for product houses.
• Cosmetic Consultant
• Work on a luxury cruise liner

Uploaded: 08 May 2025