The University of Fort Hare (UFH), known for its historic significance and commitment to academic excellence, has opened its postgraduate applications. Offering a wide range of programs across its faculties, UFH provides a platform for advanced learning and research. If you’re considering pursuing postgraduate studies at this prestigious institution, here’s everything you need to know about the application process, requirements, available programs, and key dates.
Programmes Offered
UFH provides a wide array of postgraduate programs across multiple faculties, including:
Faculty of Science and Agriculture
- Master’s Degrees: Agriculture, Environmental Science, and Applied Mathematics.
- Doctoral Programmes: Crop Science, Animal Science, and Horticultural Science.
Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
- Master of Arts (MA): African Languages, Philosophy, and History.
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Focus areas include Development Studies and Sociology.
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Programs such as Community Health Nursing (Master) and Doctoral studies in Nursing Science.
Faculty of Education
- Postgraduate Certificates: PGCE for Foundation Phase and Further Education and Training.
- Master’s Programmes: By coursework or dissertation, in areas like Science Education and Curriculum Studies.
Specialized Research Areas
Under Environmental and Geographical Sciences, programs emphasizing innovation, such as GIS and Remote Sensing or Climate Change research, are available.
UFH’s comprehensive postgraduate offerings aim to empower students with theoretical and practical expertise, contributing to societal and academic progress.
Application Process
The application process for postgraduate studies at UFH is streamlined to ensure efficiency. Follow these steps to apply:
- Access the Application Portal: Begin by visiting the official UFH website at and navigating to the postgraduate application section.
- Complete the Online Application Form: Fill in all required fields accurately, including personal details, academic history, and the program you’re applying for.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Prepare and upload certified copies of the following documents:
- ID document or passport.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Proof of application fee payment.
- Research proposal (if applicable to your program).
- Pay the Application Fee: The nonrefundable application fee must be paid, and proof of payment must be attached to your application. For up-to-date information, verify the fee structure on the official website.
- Submit the Application: Once you’ve completed the form and uploaded all necessary documents, submit your application. Ensure you receive confirmation of submission.
Requirements
Eligibility for postgraduate programs at UFH depends on the following:
- Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold an appropriate undergraduate degree (Honours or equivalent) for Master’s programs and a Master’s degree for Doctoral studies.
- Programme-Specific Prerequisites: Certain programs may require additional qualifications, a specific GPA, or relevant professional experience.
- Language Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to provide proof of proficiency through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Research Proposal: A comprehensive and well-structured proposal that showcases the relevance and feasibility of your study is necessary for research-based degrees.
The university reserves the right to evaluate applicants’ qualifications and suitability based on available supervisory capacity.
Key Dates and Application Deadlines
Timely submission is crucial for postgraduate applications. Here are the key dates for the academic year:
- Applications Open: May.
- Closing Date:
- Coursework-based Programmes: 30 October.
- Research-based Programmes: 31 December.
Late applications may be considered under special circumstances but are subject to availability.
Funding Opportunities
UFH offers a range of funding options for postgraduate students, including scholarships, bursaries, and fee waivers. The Govan Mbeki Research and Development Centre (GMRDC) manages these opportunities, particularly for Master’s and Doctoral students. Visit the UFH funding page for detailed information on eligibility and application procedures.
Why Choose the University of Fort Hare?
Studying at UFH offers unique advantages:
- Legacy of Excellence: UFH has a rich history of producing influential leaders and professionals.
- Research Support: Facilities like the GMRDC provide robust support for research endeavors.
- Diverse Community: With a culturally diverse student body, UFH fosters global perspectives.
Embark on your academic journey at UFH, where tradition meets innovation. Whether your goal is to advance professionally or contribute to groundbreaking research, UFH provides the ideal environment for postgraduate success.
For more information or to start your application, visit the official website: www.ufh.ac.za.