Rhodes University

Rhodes University, located in Makhanda (Grahamstown), South Africa, is a public research university established in 1904. It is recognized for its academic excellence, producing highly sought-after graduates and contributing significantly to human and social development. Rhodes University maintains a strong sense of community and offers a supportive environment for its diverse student body.

Academics

Rhodes University comprises six faculties: Humanities, Commerce, Law, Science, Education, and Pharmacy. The university is known for its favorable academic staff-to-student ratio, ensuring close supervision and accessibility to academics. Programs like Literary Studies in English emphasize critical and imaginative thought, situating individual works within broader cultural history and literary understanding. The institution also offers specialized programs such as a Bachelor of Journalism and a Bachelor of Pharmacy.

International Students

Rhodes University embraces a decentralized internationalization model, integrating most international student services with those for South African students, while the International Office provides specialized support. All international students require a valid study visa and medical aid from an approved South African scheme to register. While specific diversity statistics for Rhodes University were not immediately available, the university attracts international students from 54 countries, making it a dynamic and cosmopolitan institution. The university fosters cultural integration through various student societies and clubs, offering opportunities for social interaction and community engagement.

Campus & Location

Rhodes University's campus is situated in Makhanda (Grahamstown), a small city in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The campus itself is urban and highly residential, with almost half of all students, and the majority of undergraduates, living in university residences. These residences play a vital role in student development and leadership skills. The campus is considered safe, with a Campus Protection Unit providing 24-hour patrols and escort services.

Career Outcomes

Rhodes University boasts increasing employability rates for its graduates, who are highly regarded by employers globally. A 2016 study indicated an average unemployment rate of 7% among Rhodes graduates. The university's career services aim to prepare students for the job market by developing essential skills through work experience, volunteering, and social activities. The majority (73%) of Rhodes graduates in the 2016 study were employed in the private sector, often finding jobs through personal contacts and networks.