University of Mpumalanga

Mpumalanga: Nurturing Growth, Shaping Futures.

📍 Mbombela, South Africa 🇿🇦

🏆 #25 in South Africa

Quick Facts about University of Mpumalanga

  • Founded: 2014
  • Type: Public
  • Students: 10,000
  • Campus: Multiple Campuses
  • Tuition: $3,000 – $6,000/year
  • Language: English, African languages
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About University of Mpumalanga

The University of Mpumalanga (UMP) is a public university in South Africa, established in 2014. It has two main campuses: Mbombela and Siyabuswa. UMP is dedicated to providing quality education and research, with a focus on regional development and creating opportunities for its students.

Academics

UMP offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across three main faculties: Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Education, and Economics, Development and Business Management. The university's teaching philosophy emphasizes combining knowledge transfer with developing independent, critical thinkers. Notable programs include Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching, Bachelor of Agriculture degrees, and various diplomas in fields like Hospitality Management and Nature Conservation. UMP also focuses on research, particularly in foundation phase teaching, and integrates Indigenous Knowledge Systems into its curricula.

International Students

International students are required to provide a certified copy of their passport, a valid study permit, medical aid cover letter, police clearance, SAQA certificate, and an admission letter for registration. They must also pay 50% of their tuition fee before registration. While specific diversity statistics for international students are not readily available, UMP values diversity and aims to foster an inclusive environment. The university offers academic support services and encourages student participation in various clubs and societies for cultural integration and personal development.

Campus & Location

UMP's main campus is located in Mbombela, the capital of Mpumalanga province, a vibrant subtropical city known for its rich history and proximity to wildlife. Mbombela offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, serving as a gateway to eco and adventure activities. Nearby attractions include the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, Sudwala Caves, and the Kruger National Park. The city also boasts shopping malls and entertainment venues. The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is conveniently located near Mbombela.

Career Outcomes

UMP is committed to fostering an entrepreneurial culture among its students, aiming to produce graduates who are innovative and entrepreneurial. The University of Mpumalanga Centre for Entrepreneurship Rapid Incubator (UMPCFERI) supports students in developing business ideas into sustainable ventures and assists startups with business advice, financial, and technological support. The university also focuses on developing globally competitive graduates, with initiatives like sending students to international programs to build global networks and drive innovation.

Information for International Students at University of Mpumalanga

University of Mpumalanga in Mbombela, South Africa welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, African languages

Admissions Requirements for University of Mpumalanga

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

  • Application fee: $550
  • Application deadline: 30 November 2025

Apply to University of Mpumalanga →

Programs at University of Mpumalanga (42 programs)

University of Mpumalanga offers 42 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (21)

  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) — 36 months · English
    The BCom program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, economics, and management, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
    Field: Commerce
    Career outcomes: Accountant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Business Consultant
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    Students learn fundamental concepts of computing, programming, algorithms, and software development, preparing them for careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, Network Administrator, IT Consultant
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on understanding environmental issues and developing sustainable solutions, integrating knowledge from various scientific disciplines.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Policy Advisor
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) — 36 months · English
    This flexible program allows students to specialize in various humanities and social sciences disciplines, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
    Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Journalist, Policy Analyst, Community Development Worker
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program provides a scientific understanding of environmental issues, including ecology, conservation, pollution, and sustainable resource management. It equips students with skills for environmental assessment and problem-solving.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Waste Management Specialist
  • Bachelor of Science in Water Management (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program addresses the critical challenges of water resource management, covering hydrology, water quality, wastewater treatment, and policy. Students gain skills to manage water resources sustainably.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Water Resource Manager, Hydrologist, Environmental Engineer, Water Quality Specialist
  • Bachelor of Agricultural Management (B.Agric.Mgt) — 48 months · English · STEM
    This program equips students with the knowledge and skills required for effective management in the agricultural sector, covering aspects from production to agribusiness.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Farm Manager, Agricultural Consultant, Agribusiness Entrepreneur, Agricultural Researcher
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 36 months · English
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes. Students learn about various psychological theories, research methods, and applications in different contexts.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Psychological Assistant, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker, Counselor (with further study)
  • Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching (B.Ed) — 48 months · English
    This program prepares students to teach children in the foundation phase (Grade R to Grade 3), focusing on early childhood development, literacy, and numeracy.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Foundation Phase Teacher, Early Childhood Educator, Curriculum Developer
  • Bachelor of Commerce in General Management (BCom) — 36 months · English
    This degree provides a broad understanding of business principles, including finance, marketing, human resources, and operations management. It prepares graduates for various roles in the business world.
    Field: Business and Management
    Career outcomes: Business Manager, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Human Resources Officer
  • Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies (BA) — 36 months · English
    This program examines the processes of social, economic, and political change in developing countries. Students learn about theories of development, poverty alleviation, social justice, and sustainable development.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Development Practitioner, NGO Worker, Policy Analyst, Community Development Officer
  • Bachelor of Social Sciences (BSocSci) — 36 months · English
    A multidisciplinary program that explores various aspects of human society, including sociology, political science, and anthropology. It develops critical thinking and analytical skills for understanding social phenomena.
    Field: Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Social Researcher, Policy Analyst, Community Development Officer, Journalist
  • Bachelor of Arts in Culture and Heritage Tourism (BA) — 36 months · English
    This program explores the intersection of culture, heritage, and tourism, focusing on sustainable tourism development, cultural resource management, and the promotion of heritage sites. Students learn about the tourism industry and its impact on local communities.
    Field: Tourism and Hospitality
    Career outcomes: Tourism Manager, Heritage Site Manager, Cultural Tourism Developer, Tour Operator
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Communication Technology (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on the technical aspects of information and communication technologies, including programming, networking, database management, and cybersecurity. It prepares students for careers in the rapidly evolving IT sector.
    Field: Information Technology
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, Network Administrator, Database Administrator, IT Consultant
  • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
    Focusing on scientific principles, this program provides a strong foundation in agricultural sciences, preparing students for research, development, and technical roles in the industry.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Agricultural Scientist, Researcher, Extension Officer, Quality Control Manager
  • Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching (B.Ed) — 48 months · English
    Students in this program are trained to teach subjects to learners in the intermediate phase (Grade 4 to Grade 6), developing pedagogical skills and subject matter expertise.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Intermediate Phase Teacher, Educational Administrator, Learning Support Specialist
  • Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSc) — 36 months · English
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry, covering management, operations, and service delivery in hotels, resorts, and tourism.
    Field: Hospitality Management
    Career outcomes: Hotel Manager, Resort Manager, Event Planner, Tourism Operator
  • Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) — 36 months · English
    The BCom program provides a comprehensive understanding of business principles, economics, and management, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
    Field: Commerce
    Career outcomes: Accountant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Business Consultant
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    Students learn fundamental concepts of computing, programming, algorithms, and software development, preparing them for careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, Network Administrator, IT Consultant
  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences (BSc) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program focuses on understanding environmental issues and developing sustainable solutions, integrating knowledge from various scientific disciplines.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Environmental Consultant, Policy Advisor
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) — 36 months · English
    This flexible program allows students to specialize in various humanities and social sciences disciplines, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.
    Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Journalist, Policy Analyst, Community Development Worker

Master Programs (14)

  • Bachelor of Arts (Honours) (BA (Hons)) — 12 months · English
    An intensive one-year program that allows students to specialize in a particular discipline within the humanities or social sciences, involving advanced coursework and a research project.
    Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Policy Analyst, Journalist, Further Postgraduate Study
  • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honours) (BSc (Hons)) — 12 months · English · STEM
    An advanced program building on undergraduate agricultural science, focusing on specialized research and in-depth study within a chosen agricultural discipline.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Agricultural Researcher, Specialist Consultant, Academic, Further Postgraduate Study
  • Master of Arts (MA) — 24 months · English
    A research-based master's degree in the humanities or social sciences, allowing students to delve deeply into a chosen topic and contribute to academic discourse.
    Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Policy Advisor, NGO Program Manager, Archivist
  • Master of Commerce (MCom) — 24 months · English
    This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in various commerce disciplines, preparing graduates for leadership roles and specialized expertise.
    Field: Commerce
    Career outcomes: Senior Business Analyst, Financial Strategist, Marketing Director, Academic
  • Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) (BCom (Hons)) — 12 months · English
    This program provides advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in a specific area of commerce, preparing students for specialized roles or further postgraduate studies.
    Field: Commerce
    Career outcomes: Financial Manager, Marketing Specialist, Business Analyst, Management Consultant
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education (PGDip) — 12 months · English
    This diploma is designed for academics and professionals working in higher education. It focuses on enhancing teaching and learning practices, curriculum design, and educational leadership within the university context.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Academic Developer, Curriculum Designer (Higher Education)
  • Master of Education (M.Ed) — 24 months · English
    Designed for experienced educators, this program deepens understanding of educational theories, research, and practices, often with a specialization in a particular area.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: School Principal, Education Policy Maker, Curriculum Specialist, University Lecturer
  • Master of Science in Agriculture (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This research-intensive program allows students to conduct original research in various agricultural fields, contributing to scientific knowledge and innovation.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Senior Agricultural Scientist, Research and Development Manager, University Lecturer, Policy Advisor
  • Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in managing environmental resources and addressing environmental challenges. It covers topics such as environmental policy, impact assessment, and conservation strategies.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Environmental Manager, Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Policy Advisor
  • Bachelor of Arts (Honours) (BA (Hons)) — 12 months · English
    An intensive one-year program that allows students to specialize in a particular discipline within the humanities or social sciences, involving advanced coursework and a research project.
    Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Policy Analyst, Journalist, Further Postgraduate Study
  • Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honours) (BSc (Hons)) — 12 months · English · STEM
    An advanced program building on undergraduate agricultural science, focusing on specialized research and in-depth study within a chosen agricultural discipline.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Agricultural Researcher, Specialist Consultant, Academic, Further Postgraduate Study
  • Master of Arts (MA) — 24 months · English
    A research-based master's degree in the humanities or social sciences, allowing students to delve deeply into a chosen topic and contribute to academic discourse.
    Field: Humanities and Social Sciences
    Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Policy Advisor, NGO Program Manager, Archivist
  • Master of Commerce (MCom) — 24 months · English
    This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in various commerce disciplines, preparing graduates for leadership roles and specialized expertise.
    Field: Commerce
    Career outcomes: Senior Business Analyst, Financial Strategist, Marketing Director, Academic
  • Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) (BCom (Hons)) — 12 months · English
    This program provides advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in a specific area of commerce, preparing students for specialized roles or further postgraduate studies.
    Field: Commerce
    Career outcomes: Financial Manager, Marketing Specialist, Business Analyst, Management Consultant

PhD Programs (7)

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program involves conducting cutting-edge research to address complex environmental challenges, contributing to sustainable development and ecological understanding.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Environmental Research Scientist, University Professor, Conservation Director, Environmental Policy Advisor
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program enables students to conduct original, advanced research in various areas of computer science, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technological innovation.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Software Architect, Data Scientist
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) — 36 months · English
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in educational theory, policy, and practice, culminating in a significant original contribution to the field of education.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Education Policy Analyst, Research Fellow, Curriculum Innovator
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    A research-intensive program where candidates conduct original and significant research on complex environmental issues. It aims to contribute new scientific knowledge and solutions to environmental challenges.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Environmental Scientist, Research Director, Environmental Policy Maker
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    The highest academic degree, this program involves extensive original research and the production of a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to agricultural science.
    Field: Agriculture
    Career outcomes: Leading Agricultural Scientist, University Professor, Research Director, International Consultant
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Sciences (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program involves conducting cutting-edge research to address complex environmental challenges, contributing to sustainable development and ecological understanding.
    Field: Environmental Science
    Career outcomes: Environmental Research Scientist, University Professor, Conservation Director, Environmental Policy Advisor
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM
    This program enables students to conduct original, advanced research in various areas of computer science, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technological innovation.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Lead Software Architect, Data Scientist

Scholarships & Tuition at University of Mpumalanga

Annual tuition for international students: $3,000 – $6,000/year

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

Rankings of University of Mpumalanga

  • National Ranking: #25 in South Africa
  • Ranking tier: Unranked
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of Mpumalanga

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

  • Established in 2014, new university
  • Two campuses: Mbombela and Siyabuswa
  • Focus on regional development
  • Diverse academic programs offered
  • Integrates Indigenous Knowledge Systems
  • Located near Kruger National Park

Accreditation

  • Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
  • Council on Higher Education (CHE)

Fields of Study at University of Mpumalanga

  • Agriculture
  • Tourism
  • Education
  • Development Studies

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Mpumalanga

What is University of Mpumalanga?

University of Mpumalanga is a public university located in Mbombela, South Africa, founded in 2014. It has approximately 10,000 students.

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

Tuition fees at University of Mpumalanga for international students range from $3,000 – $6,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Mpumalanga?

Application fee: $550. Application deadline: 30 November 2025.

What language are courses taught in at University of Mpumalanga?

Courses at University of Mpumalanga are taught in English and African languages.

How many programs does University of Mpumalanga offer?

University of Mpumalanga offers 42 programs: 21 Bachelor's, 14 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is University of Mpumalanga ranked?

#25 in South Africa.

Does University of Mpumalanga offer scholarships?

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

Does University of Mpumalanga provide visa support?

Yes, University of Mpumalanga provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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