Rhodes University

Quick Facts about Rhodes University

• Type: Public
• Students: 7,005
• International: 20%
• Campus: Rural
• Tuition: $6,000 – $12,000/year
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
• Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Rhodes University

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.

Information for International Students at Rhodes University

Rhodes University in Grahamstown, South Africa welcomes international students, with 20% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 20% of students are international
• No visa support offered
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Rhodes University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Rhodes University:

• IELTS minimum: 7
• GPA minimum: 2.8
• Application fee: $100
• Application deadline: September 30

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Programs at Rhodes University (18 programs)

Rhodes University offers 18 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (7)

• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA) — 36 months · English
  This program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in journalism, including news gathering, writing, editing, and media ethics. Students learn to report across various platforms, from print to digital and broadcast.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (LLB) — 48 months · English
  The LLB program provides a comprehensive legal education, covering various areas of law including constitutional law, criminal law, contract law, and international law. It prepares students for legal practice and other law-related careers.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: Lawyer, Advocate, Legal Advisor, Magistrate
• Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) (BPharm) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This professional degree prepares students for a career as a pharmacist, covering pharmaceutical sciences, clinical pharmacy, and patient care. It includes extensive practical training and internships.
  Field: Pharmacy
  Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Hospital Pharmacist, Community Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program examines environmental issues from scientific, social, and economic perspectives. Students learn about ecological principles, conservation, pollution, and sustainable development.
  Field: Environmental Science
  Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Environmental Educator, Policy Analyst
• Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting (BCom) — 36 months · English
  This program provides a strong foundation in accounting principles, financial management, auditing, and taxation. Students develop analytical and problem-solving skills essential for a career in finance and business.
  Field: Accounting
  Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Manager, Tax Consultant
• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
  This program provides a rigorous foundation in pure and applied mathematics, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Students study calculus, algebra, statistics, and mathematical modeling.
  Field: Mathematics
  Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Data Scientist, Actuary, Financial Analyst
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
  This program provides a comprehensive foundation in computer science, covering areas such as programming, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering. Students develop problem-solving skills and learn to design and implement complex software systems.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, Systems Administrator, IT Consultant

Master Programs (6)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
  The MBA program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to enhance their leadership and management skills. It covers core business functions such as finance, marketing, operations, and strategic management.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Business Analyst
• Master of Science in Zoology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This research-focused program allows students to delve deeper into specific areas of zoology, such as ecology, animal behavior, or conservation biology. It involves fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and independent research.
  Field: Zoology
  Career outcomes: Zoologist, Conservation Scientist, Wildlife Biologist, Researcher
• Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This research-intensive program allows students to specialize in a particular area of chemistry, conducting original research under the guidance of faculty. It deepens theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills.
  Field: Chemistry
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Chemist, Lecturer, Product Development Specialist
• Master of Arts in English Literature (MA) — 24 months · English
  This program offers advanced study in English literature, focusing on critical theory, literary history, and in-depth analysis of texts from various periods and genres. Students engage in independent research and scholarly writing.
  Field: English Literature
  Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Editor, Writer, Educator
• Master of Science in Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program focuses on the application of biological processes for technological advancements, covering areas such as genetic engineering, molecular biology, and bioprocess technology. Students engage in advanced research and practical applications.
  Field: Biotechnology
  Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Product Development Specialist, Quality Control Scientist
• Master of Arts in Sociology (MA) — 24 months · English
  This program offers advanced study in sociological theory and research methods, allowing students to explore social structures, inequalities, and cultural phenomena. It prepares students for research and analytical roles.
  Field: Sociology
  Career outcomes: Sociologist, Researcher, Policy Analyst, Community Development Worker

PhD Programs (5)

• Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacy (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
  The PhD in Pharmacy is a rigorous research degree that requires students to conduct original, significant research contributing new knowledge to pharmaceutical sciences. Areas of focus include pharmacology, pharmaceutics, and clinical pharmacy.
  Field: Pharmacy
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Development Scientist, Regulatory Affairs Specialist
• Doctor of Philosophy in History (PhD) — 36 months · English
  The PhD in History involves extensive independent research and the production of an original dissertation that contributes new knowledge to historical scholarship. Students specialize in a particular historical period or theme.
  Field: History
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) — 36 months · English
  This advanced research degree in Education allows students to conduct in-depth studies on educational theories, policies, and practices. It prepares individuals for leadership roles in academia, research, and educational policy development.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, Policy Analyst, Curriculum Developer
• Doctor of Philosophy in Law (PhD) — 36 months · English
  The PhD in Law is a highly specialized research degree where candidates undertake original and significant legal scholarship. It prepares individuals for academic careers, advanced legal research, and policy development.
  Field: Law
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Legal Scholar, Policy Advisor, International Law Specialist
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
  This research-intensive program requires students to conduct original and significant research in an area of computer science, contributing new knowledge to the field. Specializations include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Engineer, AI Specialist

Scholarships & Tuition at Rhodes University

Annual tuition for international students: $6,000 – $12,000/year

✅ Rhodes University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Rhodes University

• National Ranking: #11 in South Africa
• QS World University Ranking: #1001
• Times Higher Education (THE): #801
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #901
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Rhodes University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• No disability support info
• Campus type: Rural
• Average class size: 15

Key Highlights

• Academic excellence, sought-after graduates
• Research-intensive, human development focus
• Diverse student body, global reach
• Strong community, supportive environment
• Favorable staff-student ratio

Accreditation

• Department of Higher Education and Training, South Africa
• Association of African Universities (AAU)
• Universities South Africa (USA)
• African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA)

Fields of Study at Rhodes University

• Humanities
• Law
• Pharmacy
• Science
• Journalism

Notable Alumni

• J.M. Coetzee
• Mark Shuttleworth
• Pravin Gordhan
• Embeth Davidtz
• Alice Krige

Frequently Asked Questions about Rhodes University

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