Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch: Innovate. Inspire. Lead. Globally.
📍 Stellenbosch, South Africa 🇿🇦
🏆 #2 in South Africa · QS World #302 · THE World #301 · ARWU #401
Quick Facts about Stellenbosch University
- Type: Public
- Students: 35,370
- International: 10%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $9,000 – $18,000/year
- Language: English, Afrikaans
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University (SU), located in Stellenbosch, South Africa, is a public research university with a rich history, having received full university status in 1918. It is recognized for its high academic standards and rigorous programs across a wide range of disciplines, aiming to provide a quality education that prepares students for successful futures. SU is committed to being a globally engaged research institution, fostering international collaboration and contributing to society through advancing knowledge.
Academics
Stellenbosch University comprises 10 faculties and 139 departments, offering a comprehensive range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The university adopts a learning-centered approach, viewing education as a partnership where students actively co-create knowledge and learning environments. Notable faculties include AgriSciences, Arts and Social Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine and Health Sciences, Military Science, Science, and Theology. The Faculty of Engineering, for example, is particularly strong, with its BEng programs accredited by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) and recognized internationally.
International Students
Stellenbosch University International (SU International) serves as a central hub, offering comprehensive support to international students academically, logistically, and socially. This includes assistance with immigration information, such as study visas and medical cover, and providing transfer services from Cape Town International Airport or other transport hubs. International students can also participate in integration programs like the Matie Buddy Programme and the International Student Organisation of Stellenbosch (ISOS), which offers excursions, cultural experiences, and social events. In 2023, international students constituted 16% of SU's postgraduate student body, highlighting the university's diverse and global outlook.
Campus & Location
Stellenbosch University's main campus is situated in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape province. The university operates across five campuses, including the main campus, Bellville Park Campus (Business School), Saldanha Campus (Military Science), Tygerberg Campus (Medicine and Health Sciences), and Ukwanda Rural Clinical (Medicine and Health Sciences). The university promotes sustainable transport options, including safe pedestrian routes, rental "Matie Bikes," and a campus shuttle bus. The town of Stellenbosch itself offers a vibrant student life with various clubs, societies, and cultural attractions like the HB Thom Theatre and the US Art Gallery.
Career Outcomes
Stellenbosch University places a strong emphasis on preparing students for the professional world, with dedicated career services to facilitate the transition from education to employment. The university's Unit for Graduand Career Services connects students with leading employers, offering opportunities for internships, graduate recruitment, and career pathway exploration through its Gradlinc portal. Stellenbosch University graduates generally experience low unemployment rates, typically between 3% and 6%. The university also fosters a robust startup culture, with its LaunchLab incubator program supporting student entrepreneurs and helping to commercialize research and innovation.
Information for International Students at Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University in Stellenbosch, South Africa welcomes international students, with 10% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 10% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English, Afrikaans
Admissions Requirements for Stellenbosch University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Stellenbosch University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- GPA minimum: 2
- Application fee: $400
- Application deadline: July 31
Programs at Stellenbosch University (55 programs)
Stellenbosch University offers 55 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (29)
- BAgric in Agribusiness Management (BAgric) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program prepares students for various careers in the agricultural industry or agriculture-related industries, equipping them with management and entrepreneurial skills.
Field: Agribusiness Management
Career outcomes: Consultant, Entrepreneur, Manager, Extension Officer, Technician, Researcher - BScAgric in Agricultural Economics (BScAgric) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the economic principles and policies related to agriculture, preparing students for analytical and management roles in the agricultural sector.
Field: Agricultural Economics - BSc in Forestry (Forestry and Wood Sciences) (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of forestry and wood sciences, preparing students for careers in sustainable forest management and wood product industries.
Field: Forestry and Wood Sciences - BScAgric in Viticulture and Oenology (BScAgric) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program offers specialized knowledge in grape cultivation (viticulture) and winemaking (oenology), leading to careers in the wine industry.
Field: Viticulture and Oenology
Career outcomes: Winemaker, Viticulturist, Sensory Specialist, Wine Biotechnologist, Laboratory Analyst, Researcher, Production Manager, Marketer, Technician, Consultant, Entrepreneur - BA in Humanities (BA) — 36 months · English
This program provides a broad education in the humanities, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of human culture and society.
Field: Humanities - Bachelor of Music (BMus) (BMus) — 48 months · English
This professional music degree focuses on advanced musical training, performance, and scholarship, preparing students for careers as professional musicians, composers, or educators.
Field: Music - BSc Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program delves into the molecular mechanisms of life and the application of biotechnology, preparing students for careers in research, pharmaceuticals, or genetic engineering.
Field: Molecular Biology and Biotechnology - BA in Music (BA) — 36 months · English
This program offers a comprehensive study of music, including theory, history, and performance, preparing students for careers in music education, performance, or related fields.
Field: Music - BCom (Law) (BCom) — 36 months · English
This interdisciplinary program combines business and legal studies, providing students with a strong foundation for careers in corporate law, business management, or related fields.
Field: Commerce and Law - Bachelor of Data Science (BDatSci) (BDatSci) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program equips students with the skills to analyze and interpret large datasets, preparing them for careers in data analytics, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making across various industries.
Field: Data Science - BAccLLB (BAccLLB) — 60 months · English
This combined degree program integrates accounting and legal studies, preparing graduates for careers requiring expertise in both financial and legal domains, such as forensic accounting or corporate law.
Field: Accounting and Law - BCom (Actuarial Science) (BCom) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the application of mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk in insurance and finance, preparing students for careers as actuaries.
Field: Actuarial Science - BSc in Biology (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides a foundational understanding of biological sciences, covering topics from molecular biology to ecology, preparing students for research, healthcare, or environmental careers.
Field: Biology - BSc in Actuarial Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, preparing students for a career in actuarial science, risk management, and financial analysis.
Field: Actuarial Science
Career outcomes: Actuary, Risk Analyst, Financial Analyst, Consultant - BA in International Studies (BA) — 36 months · English
Students explore global political, economic, and social issues, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in international relations, diplomacy, and non-governmental organizations.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Aid Worker, Policy Analyst, Journalist - BEng in Civil Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems, focusing on sustainable and resilient engineering solutions.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant - BSc in Food Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the scientific principles of food processing, preservation, safety, and quality, preparing students for careers in the food industry, research, and product development.
Field: Food Science
Career outcomes: Food Scientist, Quality Assurance Manager, Product Developer, Food Safety Specialist - BCom in Management Sciences (BCom) — 36 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business management principles, including economics, accounting, marketing, and operations, preparing students for diverse business careers.
Field: Management Sciences
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Manager, Consultant - BSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program explores the fundamental principles of molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology, preparing students for careers in research, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural biotechnology.
Field: Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Biotechnologist, Laboratory Manager, Pharmaceutical Scientist - BSc in Earth Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program explores the Earth's processes, materials, and history, covering geology, oceanography, and atmospheric science, preparing students for careers in environmental science and resource management.
Field: Earth Sciences
Career outcomes: Geologist, Environmental Scientist, Hydrologist, Resource Manager - BAcc in Accounting (BAcc) — 36 months · English
This program provides a thorough grounding in financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation, preparing students for careers as chartered accountants.
Field: Accounting
Career outcomes: Chartered Accountant, Auditor, Financial Manager, Tax Consultant - BSc in Actuarial Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in mathematics, statistics, and financial theory, preparing students for a career in actuarial science, risk management, and financial analysis.
Field: Actuarial Science
Career outcomes: Actuary, Risk Analyst, Financial Analyst, Consultant - BA in International Studies (BA) — 36 months · English
Students explore global political, economic, and social issues, developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in international relations, diplomacy, and non-governmental organizations.
Field: International Relations
Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Aid Worker, Policy Analyst, Journalist - BEng in Civil Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems, focusing on sustainable and resilient engineering solutions.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Consultant - BSc in Food Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the scientific principles of food processing, preservation, safety, and quality, preparing students for careers in the food industry, research, and product development.
Field: Food Science
Career outcomes: Food Scientist, Quality Assurance Manager, Product Developer, Food Safety Specialist - BCom in Management Sciences (BCom) — 36 months · English
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of business management principles, including economics, accounting, marketing, and operations, preparing students for diverse business careers.
Field: Management Sciences
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Manager, Consultant - BSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program explores the fundamental principles of molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology, preparing students for careers in research, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural biotechnology.
Field: Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Biotechnologist, Laboratory Manager, Pharmaceutical Scientist - BSc in Earth Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program explores the Earth's processes, materials, and history, covering geology, oceanography, and atmospheric science, preparing students for careers in environmental science and resource management.
Field: Earth Sciences
Career outcomes: Geologist, Environmental Scientist, Hydrologist, Resource Manager - BAcc in Accounting (BAcc) — 36 months · English
This program provides a thorough grounding in financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation, preparing students for careers as chartered accountants.
Field: Accounting
Career outcomes: Chartered Accountant, Auditor, Financial Manager, Tax Consultant
Master Programs (14)
- MSc in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and software engineering, preparing graduates for research or high-level industry positions.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Software Architect, Researcher - MBA (Master of Business Administration) (MBA) — 21 months · English
This program develops strategic leadership and management skills, covering core business functions like finance, marketing, operations, and human resources, preparing graduates for executive roles.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: CEO, Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur - MA in Clinical Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English
This professional master's program trains students in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention, preparing them for supervised practice as clinical psychologists.
Field: Clinical Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor, Mental Health Practitioner - MSc in Viticulture and Oenology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
Students gain advanced knowledge in grape cultivation (viticulture) and winemaking (oenology), combining scientific principles with practical applications for the wine industry.
Field: Viticulture and Oenology
Career outcomes: Winemaker, Viticulturist, Wine Consultant, Researcher - MPhil in Futures Studies (MPhil) — 24 months · English
Students learn to analyze long-term trends, anticipate future challenges and opportunities, and develop strategic foresight for organizations and societies.
Field: Futures Studies
Career outcomes: Futurist, Strategic Planner, Innovation Consultant, Policy Analyst - MSc in Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
Students develop expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning, and big data analytics, applying these skills to extract insights and solve complex problems across various industries.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Developer - MPhil in Sustainable Development (MPhil) — 24 months · English
Students gain interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to address complex sustainability challenges, integrating environmental, social, and economic perspectives.
Field: Sustainable Development
Career outcomes: Sustainability Consultant, Environmental Manager, Policy Analyst, NGO Worker - MSc in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and software engineering, preparing graduates for research or high-level industry positions.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Software Architect, Researcher - MBA (Master of Business Administration) (MBA) — 21 months · English
This program develops strategic leadership and management skills, covering core business functions like finance, marketing, operations, and human resources, preparing graduates for executive roles.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: CEO, Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur - MA in Clinical Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English
This professional master's program trains students in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and intervention, preparing them for supervised practice as clinical psychologists.
Field: Clinical Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Therapist, Counselor, Mental Health Practitioner - MSc in Viticulture and Oenology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
Students gain advanced knowledge in grape cultivation (viticulture) and winemaking (oenology), combining scientific principles with practical applications for the wine industry.
Field: Viticulture and Oenology
Career outcomes: Winemaker, Viticulturist, Wine Consultant, Researcher - MPhil in Futures Studies (MPhil) — 24 months · English
Students learn to analyze long-term trends, anticipate future challenges and opportunities, and develop strategic foresight for organizations and societies.
Field: Futures Studies
Career outcomes: Futurist, Strategic Planner, Innovation Consultant, Policy Analyst - MSc in Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
Students develop expertise in statistical modeling, machine learning, and big data analytics, applying these skills to extract insights and solve complex problems across various industries.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Developer - MPhil in Sustainable Development (MPhil) — 24 months · English
Students gain interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to address complex sustainability challenges, integrating environmental, social, and economic perspectives.
Field: Sustainable Development
Career outcomes: Sustainability Consultant, Environmental Manager, Policy Analyst, NGO Worker
PhD Programs (12)
- PhD in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic) (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral candidates conduct original research in specialized areas of electrical and electronic engineering, contributing new knowledge to the field and advancing technological innovation.
Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Senior Engineer, Innovator - PhD in Law (PhD) — 36 months · English
Doctoral candidates engage in advanced legal research, contributing original scholarship to various fields of law and developing expertise for academic or high-level legal policy roles.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, Judge, Policy Advisor, Senior Legal Counsel - PhD in Public Health (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral candidates conduct advanced research on public health issues, epidemiology, health policy, and health promotion, aiming to improve population health outcomes.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Researcher, Epidemiologist, Health Policy Advisor, University Lecturer - PhD in Philosophy (PhD) — 36 months · English
Doctoral candidates undertake in-depth philosophical inquiry, contributing original research to areas such as ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, or political philosophy.
Field: Philosophy
Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Ethicist, Writer - PhD in Conservation Ecology (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral research focuses on understanding and addressing environmental challenges, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management through ecological principles.
Field: Conservation Ecology
Career outcomes: Conservation Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Researcher, Policy Advisor - PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral candidates conduct cutting-edge research in various areas of biomedical science, contributing to advancements in medicine, disease understanding, and therapeutic development.
Field: Biomedical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, University Professor, Biotech Scientist, Drug Developer - PhD in Engineering (Electrical and Electronic) (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral candidates conduct original research in specialized areas of electrical and electronic engineering, contributing new knowledge to the field and advancing technological innovation.
Field: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Senior Engineer, Innovator - PhD in Law (PhD) — 36 months · English
Doctoral candidates engage in advanced legal research, contributing original scholarship to various fields of law and developing expertise for academic or high-level legal policy roles.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, Judge, Policy Advisor, Senior Legal Counsel - PhD in Public Health (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral candidates conduct advanced research on public health issues, epidemiology, health policy, and health promotion, aiming to improve population health outcomes.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Researcher, Epidemiologist, Health Policy Advisor, University Lecturer - PhD in Philosophy (PhD) — 36 months · English
Doctoral candidates undertake in-depth philosophical inquiry, contributing original research to areas such as ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, or political philosophy.
Field: Philosophy
Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Ethicist, Writer - PhD in Conservation Ecology (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral research focuses on understanding and addressing environmental challenges, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management through ecological principles.
Field: Conservation Ecology
Career outcomes: Conservation Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Researcher, Policy Advisor - PhD in Biomedical Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
Doctoral candidates conduct cutting-edge research in various areas of biomedical science, contributing to advancements in medicine, disease understanding, and therapeutic development.
Field: Biomedical Sciences
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, University Professor, Biotech Scientist, Drug Developer
Scholarships & Tuition at Stellenbosch University
Annual tuition for international students: $9,000 – $18,000/year
✅ Stellenbosch University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Stellenbosch University
- National Ranking: #2 in South Africa
- QS World University Ranking: #302
- Times Higher Education (THE): #301
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #401
- Ranking tier: Top 500
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Stellenbosch University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Leading research institution in Africa
- Globally engaged, diverse student body
- Strong engineering programs, ECSA accredited
- Comprehensive academic offerings, 10 faculties
- Supportive international student services
Accreditation
- Department of Higher Education and Training, South Africa
Fields of Study at Stellenbosch University
- Law
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Business
- Medicine
Notable Alumni
- F.W. de Klerk
- Mark Shuttleworth
- Johann Rupert
- Christiaan Barnard
- Koos Bekker
Frequently Asked Questions about Stellenbosch University
What is Stellenbosch University?
Stellenbosch University is a public university located in Stellenbosch, South Africa. It has approximately 35,370 students, with 10% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Stellenbosch University?
Tuition fees at Stellenbosch University for international students range from $9,000 – $18,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Stellenbosch University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. GPA minimum: 2. Application fee: $400. Application deadline: July 31.
What language are courses taught in at Stellenbosch University?
Courses at Stellenbosch University are taught in English and Afrikaans. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does Stellenbosch University offer?
Stellenbosch University offers 55 programs: 29 Bachelor's, 14 Master's, and 12 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Stellenbosch University ranked?
#2 in South Africa · QS World #302 · THE World #301 · ARWU #401.
Does Stellenbosch University offer scholarships?
Yes, Stellenbosch University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Stellenbosch University provide visa support?
Yes, Stellenbosch University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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