The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits, is one of South Africa’s leading institutions of higher learning. Situated in Johannesburg, this prestigious university is known for its world-class academic programs, commitment to innovation, and vibrant campus life. Wits attracts a diverse student body from across the globe and is dedicated to empowering students with the knowledge and skills needed for the future.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the courses offered at Wits, general admission requirements, specific program prerequisites, and financial considerations such as tuition fees.
General Admission Requirements
Admission to Wits University is competitive, and applicants must meet specific criteria based on their chosen program. Below are the general requirements:
- South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification with a Bachelor’s Pass.
- Minimum Admission Point Score (APS), calculated based on final school-leaving results, must meet the requirements of the specific course.
- Proficiency in English, the primary language of instruction, is demonstrated through school results or language tests for international students.
- Submission of a complete application form, including all required documentation such as transcripts and proof of identity.
Applications are evaluated holistically, considering academic records, extracurricular activities, and additional criteria specific to certain faculties.
Courses Available
Wits University offers a broad range of programs across five faculties, catering to a variety of interests and career aspirations. These faculties combine rigorous academic standards with opportunities for hands-on learning and research.
Faculty of Commerce, Law, and Management
- Undergraduate: Courses such as the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with specializations in Accounting, Management, and Economics.
- Postgraduate: Master’s and PhD programs in Business Administration, Taxation, and Law, alongside professional qualifications like the MBA.
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
- Undergraduate: Degrees in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Mining Engineering, as well as programs in Architecture and Construction Management.
- Postgraduate: Advanced degrees such as MSc in Engineering and specialized Master’s programs in Urban Design and Sustainable Energy.
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Undergraduate: Includes the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB), Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm), and BSc in Nursing.
- Postgraduate: Research-driven degrees like MSc in Epidemiology, Master’s in Public Health, and PhD programs in various health disciplines.
Faculty of Humanities
- Undergraduate: Programmes in Psychology, Journalism, Political Studies, History, and Fine Arts.
- Postgraduate: Research opportunities and advanced degrees in Philosophy, Sociology, and African Literature.
Faculty of Science
- Undergraduate: Courses such as the Bachelor of Science (BSc) with majors in Physics, Chemistry, and Biological Sciences.
- Postgraduate: Includes MSc and PhD programs in disciplines like Data Science, Biotechnology, and Environmental Science.
Each faculty at Wits combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, offering students opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving and research.
Specific Programme Requirements
While the general requirements apply to all students, certain programs at Wits have additional prerequisites:
Faculty of Health Sciences
- The MBChB (Medicine) program requires high scores in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
- Applicants must also complete the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
- Strong performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences is essential.
- A portfolio may be required for courses such as Architecture.
Faculty of Commerce, Law, and Management
- BCom programs require proficiency in Mathematics, with certain specializations demanding higher scores.
- Law applicants may need to complete an entrance exam or provide a motivation letter.
Faculty of Humanities
- Creative fields such as Fine Arts and Dramatic Arts may require a portfolio, audition, or interview.
Prospective students should consult the university’s official prospectus to ensure they meet all specific program requirements.
Course Fees
Wits University’s course fees vary depending on the faculty, level of study, and specific program. Below is an overview of the typical costs:
Undergraduate Tuition Fees
- Fees for undergraduate programs range between ZAR 50,000 and ZAR 90,000 annually.
- Courses in professional fields such as Medicine and Engineering tend to be more expensive than Humanities or Social Sciences programs.
Postgraduate Tuition Fees
- Coursework-based Master’s programs typically range from ZAR 60,000 to ZAR 150,000 per year.
- Research-focused degrees like MSc and PhD may have variable costs based on the research topic and duration.
Additional Costs
- Students should also budget for ancillary expenses such as textbooks, laboratory fees (for science-related courses), and living expenses.
Tuition Fee Payment Policies
Wits offers flexible payment options to accommodate students’ financial needs. These include:
- Upfront Payment Discounts: For students who pay the full year’s fees at the start of the academic year.
- Installment Plans: Allow students to spread payments across the academic year.
- International Student Deposits: Required for non-South African students before registration.
The university also has a refund policy for students who withdraw from a program, provided they adhere to specific deadlines.
Conclusion
The University of the Witwatersrand is an academic powerhouse offering a wide array of courses designed to equip students for impactful careers. With its robust admission process, diverse program offerings, and commitment to excellence, Wits continues to shape future leaders in South Africa and beyond.
Prospective students should carefully review the university’s course catalogs, admission criteria, and financial policies to ensure they make informed decisions. Begin your journey at Wits and become part of a legacy of innovation and transformation.
For more information, visit the official Wits University website.
