Stellenbosch University (SU), located in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch in South Africa’s Western Cape, is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning. Known for its cutting-edge research, innovative teaching, and vibrant campus culture, SU attracts a diverse cohort of students from across South Africa and beyond.
This guide provides detailed information about the courses offered at Stellenbosch University, general admission requirements, specific program prerequisites, and financial considerations like tuition fees.
Courses Available
Stellenbosch University offers an impressive array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across ten faculties. These faculties provide students with a balance of academic rigor and practical application, preparing them for dynamic careers and lifelong learning.
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
- Undergraduate: Programmes in Psychology, Philosophy, Political Science, and Drama.
- Postgraduate: Master’s and PhD degrees in Journalism, Sociology, Musicology, and Linguistics.
Faculty of Science
- Undergraduate: Courses in Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, and Applied Mathematics.
- Postgraduate: Advanced research opportunities in fields like Data Science, Environmental Science, and Biochemistry.
Faculty of Education
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Education (BEd) programs focusing on Early Childhood, Intermediate, and Senior Phase education.
- Postgraduate: Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in Education Leadership, Curriculum Studies, and Inclusive Education.
Faculty of Engineering
- Undergraduate: Degrees in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Industrial Engineering.
- Postgraduate: MSc and PhD programs in Sustainable Energy, Biomedical Engineering, and Mechatronics.
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Undergraduate: Includes the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), Bachelor of Occupational Therapy, and Bachelor of Dietetics.
- Postgraduate: Master’s degrees in Public Health, Clinical Medicine, and Biomedical Science.
Faculty of Law
- Undergraduate: LLB and BA/BCom (Law).
- Postgraduate: LLM degrees in International Law, Human Rights, and Environmental Law.
Faculty of Theology
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Theology (BTh).
- Postgraduate: Master’s and Doctoral programs in Theology, Ethics, and Religion Studies.
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting, Economics, and Business Management.
- Postgraduate: MBAs, MComs, and PhDs in Business and Management Sciences.
Faculty of AgriSciences
- Undergraduate: Programmes in Agricultural Economics, Forestry, and Viticulture and Oenology.
- Postgraduate: Research-focused degrees in Agricultural Innovations and Environmental Sustainability.
Faculty of Military Science
- Undergraduate: Courses in Defence and Security Studies.
- Postgraduate: Master’s and PhD programmes in Military Strategy and Technology.
General Admission Requirements
Admission to Stellenbosch University is competitive, requiring students to meet both general and faculty-specific requirements.
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification with a Bachelor’s Pass.
- Minimum Admission Points (AP) Score: This varies by faculty and program, calculated based on school-leaving results.
- Proficiency in English or Afrikaans, as these are the primary languages of instruction.
- Submission of a complete online application with all required supporting documents.
International applicants must provide proof of qualification equivalency, typically through the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Specific Programme Requirements
In addition to the general requirements, certain programs at Stellenbosch University have specific prerequisites.
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Admission to the MBChB (Medicine) program requires excellent marks in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
- Applicants must also write the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
Faculty of Engineering
- Strong results in Mathematics and Physical Sciences are essential, with a minimum AP score often exceeding 70%.
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Courses like BCom (Accounting) require Mathematics, with a minimum score of 60% or higher.
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
- Creative programs such as Music and Drama may require an audition or portfolio submission.
Prospective students are advised to consult the faculty-specific admission guides for detailed information.
Course Fees
Stellenbosch University’s tuition fees vary based on the faculty, program, and level of study. The following provides an overview:
Undergraduate Tuition Fees
- Fees typically range from ZAR 50,000 to ZAR 90,000 per year, depending on the program.
- Professional degrees such as Medicine and Engineering are generally on the higher end of the spectrum.
Postgraduate Tuition Fees
- Coursework Master’s degrees may cost between ZAR 60,000 and ZAR 150,000 annually.
- Research-based Master’s and PhD programs often have variable costs, determined by the nature of the research and the faculty.
Additional Costs
- Students should account for expenses such as accommodation, textbooks, and laboratory fees for science and engineering courses.
Tuition Fee Payment Options
Stellenbosch University offers various payment plans to accommodate students:
- Upfront Payment Discounts: Available for those who pay the full year’s fees before the start of the academic year.
- Installment Plans: Allow students to divide payments across the year.
- International Student Deposits: Required before registration for non-South African students.
Refund policies are in place for students who withdraw from their studies, subject to certain deadlines and conditions.
Conclusion
Stellenbosch University is a hub of academic excellence and innovation, offering a wide range of courses tailored to meet the needs of modern society. Whether your interests lie in the sciences, humanities, engineering, or business, SU provides a supportive environment to pursue your dreams.
Understanding the university’s course offerings, admission requirements, and financial obligations is crucial for making informed decisions about your academic future. Explore Stellenbosch University and join a global community of scholars dedicated to making a difference.
For further details, visit the official Stellenbosch University website.
