University of KwaZulu-Natal
Innovating for Africa's future, rooted in KwaZulu-Natal.
📍 Durban, South Africa 🇿🇦
🏆 #4 in South Africa · QS World #558 · THE World #501 · ARWU #501
Quick Facts about University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Type: Public
- Students: 46,539
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $7,000 – $15,000/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of KwaZulu-Natal
Academics
UKZN offers nearly 2,000 academic programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels across its four colleges: Agriculture, Engineering and Science; Health Sciences; Humanities; and Law and Management Studies. The university is particularly strong in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, ranking highly in South Africa for physical sciences, engineering, computer science, and mathematics. UKZN is also the only university in South Africa to offer a fully accredited degree in Agricultural (Bioresources) Engineering. The teaching approach often combines practical application with research, fostering an environment where students can develop business ideas from their studies.
International Students
UKZN provides a range of support services for international students, including assistance with pre-departure orientation, cultural differences, financial implications, and visa applications. The International Student Office helps with obtaining a Certificate of Clearance for academic registration upon arrival, requiring a valid passport, study visa, and proof of South African medical aid coverage for at least one year. On-campus residences are available for international students upon application, and assistance can be provided to secure university-registered private accommodation. The university offers various clubs and societies, including cultural and religious groups, to aid in cultural integration.
Campus & Location
UKZN boasts five campuses across KwaZulu-Natal, with several located in or near Durban: Howard College, Westville, and the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine. The Westville campus, the official address of UKZN, is situated within an environmental conservancy and features a Hindu temple and an Islamic place of worship, reflecting its multicultural history. Durban itself offers a vibrant city life, and the university's international relations office has organized city tours for international students to explore local attractions like the Golden Mile. Campus facilities include libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities, with shuttle services available between campuses.
Career Outcomes
UKZN graduates demonstrate strong employment prospects, with 84% finding employment within six months of graduation. The university actively fosters industry connections, with initiatives like the UKZN Maritime Unit connecting students to industry insights and internship opportunities through public lectures and partnerships. Career development officers are available to advise students on job opportunities, bursaries, and internships from early in their studies. Furthermore, UKZN promotes an entrepreneurial culture, encouraging students to develop business ideas from their research and participate in innovation challenges.
Information for International Students at University of KwaZulu-Natal
University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for University of KwaZulu-Natal
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of KwaZulu-Natal:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Application fee: $153
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: September 30
Programs at University of KwaZulu-Natal (19 programs)
University of KwaZulu-Natal offers 19 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (11)
- Bachelor of Arts (English Studies) (BA) — 36 months · English
This program explores English language, literature, and cultural studies, enhancing critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills. Students engage with various literary genres, linguistic theories, and cultural contexts.
Field: English Studies
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Teacher, Communications Specialist - Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Agricultural Economics) (BScAgric) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program combines agricultural sciences with economic principles, focusing on the management and economics of agricultural production and food systems. Students learn about agricultural policy, marketing, and finance.
Field: Agricultural Economics
Career outcomes: Agricultural Economist, Farm Manager, Agribusiness Consultant, Policy Analyst - Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) (BSocSc) — 36 months · English
This program introduces students to the scientific study of mind and behavior, covering areas like developmental psychology, social psychology, cognitive psychology, and abnormal psychology. It provides a foundation for further study or careers in social services.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor (with further study), Social Worker (with further study), Human Resources Assistant, Researcher Assistant - Bachelor of Arts (Zulu Language and Culture) (BA) — 36 months · English
This program offers an in-depth study of the Zulu language, literature, and cultural practices. Students develop proficiency in Zulu and gain a comprehensive understanding of its rich heritage.
Field: Zulu Language and Culture
Career outcomes: Translator, Interpreter, Cultural Advisor, Teacher, Researcher - Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) (BCom) — 36 months · English
Students gain comprehensive knowledge in financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation, essential for a career in the accounting profession and business management.
Field: Accounting
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Financial Manager - Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil) (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in civil engineering principles, including structural design, water resources, transportation, and geotechnical engineering, preparing students for infrastructure development and management.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Water Resources Engineer - Bachelor of Laws (LLB) (LLB) — 48 months · English
The LLB program provides a comprehensive understanding of South African and international law, developing critical legal reasoning and practical skills for a career in the legal profession.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Attorney, Advocate, Legal Advisor - Bachelor of Medical Science (Anatomy) (BMedSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides a detailed understanding of human anatomy, including gross anatomy, histology, and embryology. It serves as a foundation for further studies in medicine or health sciences.
Field: Medical Science
Career outcomes: Medical Researcher, Anatomist, Health Science Educator - Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
This program provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding environmental issues, combining biology, chemistry, geology, and ecology. Students learn about environmental management, conservation, and sustainability.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Policy Analyst - Bachelor of Nursing (BN) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program prepares students for a professional career in nursing, covering fundamental nursing principles, clinical skills, patient care, and healthcare ethics. Students gain extensive practical experience in various healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Healthcare Administrator - Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program trains students in the science and practice of pharmacy, covering pharmacology, pharmaceutics, and clinical pharmacy. Graduates are prepared to dispense medication and provide patient care.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher
Master Programs (4)
- Master of Science in Hydrology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on the study of water, its distribution, movement, and quality on Earth. Students learn about water resource management, hydrological modeling, and the impact of climate change on water systems.
Field: Hydrology
Career outcomes: Hydrologist, Water Resource Manager, Environmental Consultant, Researcher - Master of Social Science (Criminology) (MSocSc) — 24 months · English
This program offers advanced study in criminology, exploring theories of crime, criminal justice systems, and social responses to crime. Students engage in research on crime prevention and offender rehabilitation.
Field: Criminology
Career outcomes: Criminologist, Policy Analyst, Researcher, Criminal Justice Professional - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This advanced program focuses on cutting-edge topics in computer science, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, and software engineering, through research and coursework.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer, Researcher - Master of Education (Educational Leadership) (MEd) — 24 months · English
This program prepares educators for leadership and management roles in schools and educational institutions. It covers educational policy, curriculum development, and organizational management.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Principal, Education Administrator, Curriculum Developer
PhD Programs (4)
- PhD in Public Health (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in public health, addressing complex health challenges and developing evidence-based interventions. Students contribute to public health policy and practice.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Researcher, Epidemiologist, Health Policy Analyst - PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves cutting-edge research in various fields of electrical engineering, such as power systems, electronics, telecommunications, and control systems. Students contribute to technological advancements through their research.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Engineer, University Professor, Senior Electrical Engineer, Innovator - PhD in Management (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program focuses on rigorous research into various aspects of management, including organizational behavior, strategic management, and human resource management, contributing to management theory and practice.
Field: Management
Career outcomes: Management Consultant, University Professor, Senior Executive - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves in-depth research in various areas of chemistry, such as organic, inorganic, physical, or analytical chemistry, contributing new knowledge to the scientific community.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Industrial Chemist
Scholarships & Tuition at University of KwaZulu-Natal
Annual tuition for international students: $7,000 – $15,000/year
✅ University of KwaZulu-Natal offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of KwaZulu-Natal
- National Ranking: #4 in South Africa
- QS World University Ranking: #558
- Times Higher Education (THE): #501
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #501
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Merged from two historic institutions.
- Diverse, research-led South African university.
- Strong STEM and Agricultural Engineering.
- Significant international student support.
- Five campuses across KwaZulu-Natal.
Accreditation
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- SAQA
- Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA)
Fields of Study at University of KwaZulu-Natal
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Law
- Science
Notable Alumni
- Pravin Gordhan
- Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma
- Hashim Amla
- Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka
- Salim Abdool Karim
Frequently Asked Questions about University of KwaZulu-Natal
What is University of KwaZulu-Natal?
University of KwaZulu-Natal is a public university located in Durban, South Africa. It has approximately 46,539 students.
How much does it cost to study at University of KwaZulu-Natal?
Tuition fees at University of KwaZulu-Natal for international students range from $7,000 – $15,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of KwaZulu-Natal?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. Application fee: $153. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: September 30.
What language are courses taught in at University of KwaZulu-Natal?
Courses at University of KwaZulu-Natal are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of KwaZulu-Natal offer?
University of KwaZulu-Natal offers 19 programs: 11 Bachelor's, 4 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of KwaZulu-Natal ranked?
#4 in South Africa · QS World #558 · THE World #501 · ARWU #501.
Does University of KwaZulu-Natal offer scholarships?
Yes, University of KwaZulu-Natal offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of KwaZulu-Natal provide visa support?
Yes, University of KwaZulu-Natal provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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