The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a renowned institution of higher learning in South Africa, celebrated for its strong emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. Formed in 2004 through the merger of the University of Durban-Westville and the University of Natal, UKZN has since become a premier destination for students seeking quality education across a diverse range of disciplines.
This guide provides an in-depth overview of the courses offered at UKZN, the general admission criteria, specific program requirements, and a breakdown of tuition fees.
Courses Available
The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its five campuses: Westville, Howard College, Pietermaritzburg, Edgewood, and the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine. Its offerings span several faculties, each with unique academic strengths and areas of focus.
Faculty of Humanities
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology, Sociology, and Media Studies.
- Postgraduate: Master’s and Ph.D. in Cultural Studies, Philosophy, and Political Science.
Faculty of Law and Management Studies
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounting, Marketing, and Business Administration; Bachelor of Laws (LLB).
- Postgraduate: MBAs, MComs in Finance, and LLMs in Human Rights and Environmental Law.
Faculty of Engineering
- Undergraduate: Degrees in Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Civil Engineering.
- Postgraduate: MSc and PhD programs in Renewable Energy, Nanotechnology, and Structural Engineering.
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB), Bachelor of Nursing, and Bachelor of Physiotherapy.
- Postgraduate: Master’s in Public Health, Clinical Medicine, and Occupational Therapy.
Faculty of Science and Agriculture
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture, Environmental Science, and Biotechnology.
- Postgraduate: Research programs in Climate Change, Plant Pathology, and Genetics.
Faculty of Education
- Undergraduate: Bachelor of Education (BEd) for Early Childhood, Intermediate, and Senior Phase teaching.
- Postgraduate: Honours, Master’s, and PhDs in Curriculum Studies, Educational Psychology, and Leadership.
Faculty of Medicine
- Undergraduate: Specialised courses in Medical Sciences, Dentistry, and Optometry.
- Postgraduate: Advanced training in Biomedical Sciences, Neurosurgery, and Community Health.
With over 100 academic programs and multiple research opportunities, UKZN caters to diverse career aspirations and academic interests.
General Admission Requirements
Admission to the University of KwaZulu-Natal is based on a combination of academic achievement and faculty-specific criteria.
- National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification with a Bachelor’s Pass.
- Admission Points Score (APS): Calculated from the results of six recognized NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Each program has a specific minimum APS requirement.
- Proficiency in English is demonstrated through a high school qualification or an internationally recognized language test.
- Submission of a completed online application form with all supporting documents, including proof of identity and academic records.
International applicants must ensure their qualifications are verified by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Specific Programme Requirements
Certain programs have additional entry requirements beyond the general criteria. These are designed to ensure students have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success.
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Admission to the MBChB (Medicine) program requires exceptional grades in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
- Applicants must also complete the National Benchmark Test (NBT) and may need to attend interviews.
Faculty of Engineering
- Strong performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences is essential, with an APS score often exceeding 36 for most engineering programs.
Faculty of Law
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB) applicants must demonstrate proficiency in language and analytical skills, often evidenced by a high score in English.
Faculty of Education
- Prospective teachers must meet subject-specific requirements for the phase they intend to teach, such as a strong background in Mathematics for teaching in the Senior Phase.
Faculty of Science and Agriculture
- Programs in Biological or Physical Sciences often require a solid foundation in Mathematics and Natural Sciences.
Applicants are encouraged to consult the UKZN prospectus or specific faculty guidelines for detailed information on program requirements.
Course Fees
UKZN tuition fees vary significantly based on the faculty, program, and level of study. The university maintains a transparent fee structure to help students and families plan their finances effectively.
Undergraduate Tuition Fees
- Tuition for undergraduate programs ranges from ZAR 40,000 to ZAR 90,000 per year.
- Professional degrees in Medicine, Engineering, and Law tend to be on the higher end of this spectrum.
Postgraduate Tuition Fees
- Master’s programs typically cost between ZAR 50,000 and ZAR 150,000 annually, depending on the nature of the coursework and research involved.
- Doctoral studies often have variable costs based on research requirements, with some faculties offering fee waivers for specific PhD research areas.
Additional Costs
- Students should budget for accommodation, textbooks, laboratory fees (where applicable), and transportation.
Tuition Fee Payment Options
To support students in managing their financial obligations, UKZN provides flexible payment options:
- Upfront Payment Discounts: Students who pay their full tuition fees before the start of the academic year may qualify for discounts.
- Installment Plans: Tuition fees can be paid in multiple installments throughout the year.
- International Student Deposits: Non-South African students are required to pay a deposit before registration.
Refund policies are in place for students who withdraw, provided the necessary conditions and deadlines are met.
Conclusion
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is a leading institution that combines academic excellence with an inclusive ethos, offering a broad spectrum of courses tailored to diverse interests and career goals. With its commitment to world-class teaching and research, UKZN equips students with the skills needed to thrive in a globalized world.
Understanding the university’s course offerings, admission requirements, and tuition fees is essential for making informed decisions about your academic future. For further details and to begin your application journey, visit the official UKZN website.
