University of Johannesburg

Africa's Future. Ignited in Johannesburg.

πŸ“ Johannesburg, South Africa πŸ‡ΏπŸ‡¦

πŸ† #3 in South Africa Β· QS World #308 Β· THE World #351 Β· ARWU #401

Quick Facts about University of Johannesburg

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 50,786
  • International: 6%
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $7,500 – $14,000/year
  • Language: English, Sesotho sa Leboa, Afrikaans, isiZulu
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About University of Johannesburg

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa, established in 2005 through a merger of several institutions. UJ is recognized as one of Africa's leading institutions, committed to excellence in teaching, research, and societal impact. With a diverse student body of over 50,000, including more than 3,000 international students from 80 countries, UJ offers a vibrant and inclusive academic environment.

Academics

UJ comprises eight faculties, offering a wide array of programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly strong in fields such as Engineering, Natural and Life Sciences, Management, Economics, and Humanities. UJ emphasizes interdisciplinary and problem-based learning, consistently ranking among the top global universities for its research-led teaching. Notably, UJ has been ranked number one in South Africa for Computer Science, Engineering, Physical Sciences, and Business and Economics in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject.

International Students

The University of Johannesburg actively fosters an international profile, attracting students and academics globally. While specific details on dedicated international student support services are not extensively detailed in the provided information, the university generally aims to provide an enriching, student-friendly learning and living experience, promoting inclusivity and holistic development. UJ has a significant international student population, with over 3,000 students from 80 countries, contributing to a multicultural environment. At the doctoral level, 14% of students are from SADC countries, 20% from the rest of Africa, and 3% from other parts of the world, highlighting its diverse postgraduate community.

Campus & Location

UJ operates across four campuses within the metropolitan area of Johannesburg: Auckland Park Kingsway (APK), Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein, and Soweto. The Auckland Park Kingsway Campus is the largest and houses the university's administration. Campus facilities include lecture rooms, libraries, sports facilities, auditoriums, student shopping centers, restaurants, and health clinics. The university has also introduced electric buses for inter-campus transportation, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and convenient student travel.

Career Outcomes

UJ is dedicated to preparing its students for the professional world, with a strong focus on employability. The Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD) offers counseling, psychometric assessments, and career development services, including work readiness programs, career consultations, and CV writing assistance. The university also has a career services portal and hosts career fairs to connect students with potential employers. In previous years, over 92.5% of UJ graduates found employment within a year of graduating. UJ actively collaborates with industry partners to provide bursaries and training programs, equipping students with essential skills for the workforce. The university also promotes student entrepreneurship, aligning with its strategic vision to increase student startup activity and address unemployment.

Information for International Students at University of Johannesburg

University of Johannesburg in Johannesburg, South Africa welcomes international students, with 6% of the student body coming from abroad.

  • 6% of students are international
  • Visa support available
  • On-campus work allowed
  • Student housing available (~$2000/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, Sesotho sa Leboa, Afrikaans, isiZulu

Admissions Requirements for University of Johannesburg

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

  • IELTS minimum: 6
  • TOEFL minimum: 80
  • Application fee: $200
  • Application deadline: September 30, 2027

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Programs at University of Johannesburg (20 programs)

University of Johannesburg offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (11)

  • Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences (BSc) β€” 36 months Β· English Β· STEM
    Students explore the fundamental principles of biology, genetics, ecology, and biochemistry, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, or environmental science.
    Field: Life Sciences
    Career outcomes: Biologist, Researcher, Environmental Scientist, Healthcare Professional (with further study)
  • Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering (BEng) β€” 48 months Β· English Β· STEM
    Students gain expertise in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (BA) β€” 36 months Β· English
    Students learn about various communication theories, media studies, public relations, and journalism, developing strong analytical and communication skills.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Professional, Communications Manager
  • Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying (BSc) β€” 48 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program trains students in cost management, financial administration, and contractual aspects of construction projects, ensuring economic viability.
    Field: Construction Management
    Career outcomes: Quantity Surveyor, Cost Consultant, Project Manager, Construction Economist
  • Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (BEd) β€” 48 months Β· English
    This program prepares students to teach young children (Grade R to Grade 3), focusing on child development, pedagogy, and curriculum design for early learning.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Foundation Phase Teacher, Early Childhood Educator, Curriculum Developer
  • Bachelor of Accounting (BCom) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This program provides a comprehensive foundation in accounting principles, financial management, auditing, and taxation, preparing students for professional accounting careers.
    Field: Accounting
    Career outcomes: Chartered Accountant, Auditor, Financial Manager, Tax Consultant
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This program explores human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional development, providing a strong theoretical and practical understanding of psychology.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychologist (with further study), Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher
  • Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng) β€” 48 months Β· English Β· STEM
    Students learn to design, develop, and maintain electrical and electronic systems, covering areas like power systems, telecommunications, and control engineering.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Electronic Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer
  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (LLB) β€” 48 months Β· English
    The LLB program provides a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, theories, and practices, preparing students for a career in the legal profession.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Attorney, Advocate, Legal Advisor, Judge (with experience)
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing Management (BCom) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This program focuses on developing strategic marketing skills, including market research, brand management, digital marketing, and consumer behavior.
    Field: Marketing
    Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Digital Marketing Specialist, Market Researcher
  • Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (BA) β€” 36 months Β· English
    Students analyze global politics, international organizations, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, preparing for careers in foreign service or international affairs.
    Field: International Relations
    Career outcomes: Diplomat, International Affairs Analyst, Policy Advisor, NGO Worker

Master Programs (5)

  • Master of Science in Data Science (MSc) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program focuses on advanced statistical methods, machine learning, and big data technologies to extract insights and make data-driven decisions.
    Field: Data Science
    Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Developer
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) β€” 24 months Β· English
    The MBA program develops strategic leadership and management skills, covering finance, marketing, operations, and human resources for aspiring business leaders.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: Senior Manager, CEO, Consultant, Entrepreneur
  • Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Management (MEd) β€” 24 months Β· English
    This program equips educators with the skills to lead and manage educational institutions effectively, focusing on curriculum development, policy, and organizational change.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: School Principal, Education Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Education Consultant
  • Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) β€” 24 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This program offers advanced study and research in various branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Chemist, Researcher, Quality Control Specialist, Product Developer
  • Master of Public Health (MPH) β€” 24 months Β· English
    The MPH program addresses public health challenges, focusing on epidemiology, health promotion, environmental health, and health policy.
    Field: Public Health
    Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator, Policy Analyst

PhD Programs (4)

  • PhD in Computer Science (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· English Β· STEM
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in various areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, data science, and software engineering.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Engineer, Data Scientist
  • PhD in Law (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This doctoral program involves in-depth legal research in specialized areas of law, contributing to legal scholarship and jurisprudence.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, University Professor, High-Level Legal Advisor, Judge
  • PhD in Sociology (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This program involves advanced sociological research, exploring social structures, inequalities, and cultural phenomena to contribute to social theory and policy.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Sociologist, Researcher, Policy Analyst, University Professor
  • PhD in Economics (PhD) β€” 36 months Β· English
    This program offers advanced research opportunities in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics, contributing to economic theory and policy.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Economist, Researcher, Policy Analyst, University Professor

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Johannesburg

Annual tuition for international students: $7,500 – $14,000/year

βœ… University of Johannesburg offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Johannesburg

  • National Ranking: #3 in South Africa
  • QS World University Ranking: #308
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #351
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #401
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at University of Johannesburg

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses
  • Housing cost: ~$2000/month

Key Highlights

  • Leading South African university
  • Diverse student body
  • Strong in STEM and Business
  • Top-ranked research-led teaching
  • Four campuses in Johannesburg

Accreditation

  • Council on Higher Education (CHE)
  • National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
  • South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
  • BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT

Fields of Study at University of Johannesburg

  • Engineering
  • Business
  • Humanities
  • Law
  • Education

Notable Alumni

  • Joseph Kabila Kabange
  • Marthinus van Schalkwyk
  • Bontle Modiselle
  • Busisiwe Mkhwebane
  • Nathi Mthethwa

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Johannesburg

What is University of Johannesburg?

University of Johannesburg is a public university located in Johannesburg, South Africa. It has approximately 50,786 students, with 6% being international students.

How much does it cost to study at University of Johannesburg?

Tuition fees at University of Johannesburg for international students range from $7,500 – $14,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $2000/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Johannesburg?

IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. Application fee: $200. Application deadline: September 30, 2027.

What language are courses taught in at University of Johannesburg?

Courses at University of Johannesburg are taught in English and Sesotho sa Leboa and Afrikaans and isiZulu. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.

How many programs does University of Johannesburg offer?

University of Johannesburg offers 20 programs: 11 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is University of Johannesburg ranked?

#3 in South Africa Β· QS World #308 Β· THE World #351 Β· ARWU #401.

Does University of Johannesburg offer scholarships?

Yes, University of Johannesburg offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of Johannesburg provide visa support?

Yes, University of Johannesburg provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.

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