Your Comprehensive Guide To UP Humanities Courses

The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s most dynamic and diverse faculties, offering a wide range of programs aimed at developing critical thinkers, creative individuals, and socially responsible leaders. The faculty is committed to academic excellence, innovation, and fostering a deeper understanding of human experience, culture, and society.

This article explores the various courses offered within the Faculty of Humanities, including categories of courses, qualifications, admission requirements, and the application process.

Categories of Courses

The Faculty of Humanities at UP offers a comprehensive selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across several disciplines. These courses are tailored to meet the academic and career aspirations of students while addressing contemporary societal needs.

1. Languages, Literature, and Linguistics

Programs in this category focus on the study of languages, literature, and the structure and function of human communication.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BA English Studies: Analyses English literature, culture, and linguistics.
• BA Language Studies: Includes Afrikaans, French, German, Spanish, and more.
• BA Linguistics: Focuses on the science of language and communication.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• Honours, Master’s, and PhD programmes in Linguistics, Literature, and Translation Studies.

2. Social Sciences

These programs examine human behavior, society, and the dynamics of social systems.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BSocSci in Sociology: Explores social structures, inequality, and cultural diversity.
• BA Psychology: Focuses on human behavior, mental health, and cognitive processes.
• BA Political Science: Analyses governance, political systems, and international relations.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• Honors, Master’s, and Doctoral programs in Psychology, Sociology, and Political Science.

3. Philosophy and Ethics

Programs in this category delve into questions of existence, morality, and human thought.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BA Philosophy: Studies classical and modern philosophical theories.
• BA Ethics and Society: Focuses on applied ethics in contemporary contexts.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• Master’s and PhD programmes in Philosophy and Applied Ethics.

4. Creative Arts and Media

This category nurtures artistic talent and critical engagement with media and cultural production.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BA Fine Arts: Combines theory and practice in visual arts.
• BA Drama: Focuses on performance, directing, and theatre studies.
• BA Visual Studies: Analyses visual culture, art history, and media studies.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• Advanced programs in Visual Arts, Drama, and Media Studies.

5. History and Heritage Studies

These programs focus on understanding the past and its influence on contemporary societies.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BA History: Covers world history, South African history, and historiography.
• BA Heritage and Cultural Tourism: Combines history with tourism management.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• Research-focused programs in History, Heritage Studies, and Archaeology.

6. Music and Performing Arts

This category develops talent in musical and performance disciplines.

Undergraduate Degrees:

• BMus (Bachelor of Music): Includes music theory, performance, and composition.
• BA Music: Combines music studies with broader humanities courses.

Postgraduate Degrees:

• Master’s and PhD programmes in Musicology, Composition, and Performance.

Qualifications

1. Undergraduate Qualifications

• Bachelor of Arts (BA): A versatile qualification with options to specialize in languages, social sciences, or the arts.
• BSocSci (Bachelor of Social Science): Focuses on social sciences, including Sociology and Anthropology.
• BMus: A professional degree for aspiring musicians.

2. Postgraduate Qualifications

• Honors Degrees: One-year programs for in-depth study in a specific discipline.
• Master’s Degrees: Research- or coursework-based programs for advanced expertise.
• Doctoral Degrees (PhD): Focused on contributing original research to a field.

Course Requirements

1. Undergraduate Admission Requirements

• National Senior Certificate (NSC): A matriculation certificate with university exemption.
• Minimum APS Score: Generally ranges from 28 to 32 depending on the programme.
• Specific Subject Requirements:
  • English: A minimum score of 60-70% for language proficiency.
  • Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy: Some programs may require a basic level of mathematics.

2. Postgraduate Admission Requirements

• Relevant Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s qualification in a related field with good academic performance.
• Honors Programmes: Typically require a minimum average of 65% in undergraduate studies.
• Master’s and PhD Programmes: Require a completed honours or master’s degree and a strong research proposal.
• Portfolio/Performance: Creative arts programs may require a portfolio or audition.

How to Apply

1. Research Your Preferred Programme

Begin by exploring the University of Pretoria’s website to find detailed information about available programs, entry requirements, and career prospects.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Applicants must gather:

• Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates.
• Proof of identification (passport for international students).
• A personal statement or motivation letter (if required).
• A research proposal for postgraduate programs.
• Proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS).

3. Submit an Online Application

• Access UP’s online application portal.
• Create an account and fill in the application form.
• Upload the required documents.
• Pay the application fee and apply before the deadline.

4. Selection Process

Applications are reviewed based on academic performance and program-specific criteria. Shortlisted candidates for creative programs may be required to attend an interview or submit a portfolio.

5. Registration and Orientation

Accepted students will receive an offer letter and instructions for registration. Orientation sessions help new students integrate into university life.

Why Choose the Humanities at the University of Pretoria?

1. Diverse Course Offerings

The Faculty of Humanities at UP offers a rich variety of programs, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

2. World-Class Education

UP is internationally recognized for its academic excellence and research contributions, ensuring that Humanities graduates are well-prepared for the global job market.

3. Interdisciplinary Approach

Many programs encourage interdisciplinary learning, combining insights from various fields to address complex societal issues.

4. Vibrant Campus Culture

The Humanities Faculty fosters a creative and inclusive community, with numerous cultural events, student societies, and performance opportunities.

5. Career Opportunities

Graduates from the Humanities Faculty find careers in education, media, public policy, research, the arts, and beyond.

Conclusion

The Faculty of Humanities at the University of Pretoria offers students an enriching academic experience, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper understanding of the human condition. With its wide range of programs, world-class faculty, and commitment to social relevance, UP’s Humanities Faculty equips students to make meaningful contributions to society and succeed in their chosen fields.

For more information or to apply, visit the University of Pretoria’s official website.