The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) is one of South Africa’s leading public universities and is internationally recognized for academic excellence, innovation, and research. Located in Johannesburg, Wits offers more than 3,000 courses through five faculties and 33 schools, providing students with a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate study opportunities.
If you’re planning to apply to Wits, this complete guide covers the courses offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, available faculties, admission tips, and where to download the official Wits Prospectus and Applicant Guide.
Why Choose Wits University?
Wits is consistently ranked among Africa’s top universities and offers students access to world-class education and research opportunities. Benefits of studying at Wits include:
- Internationally recognized qualifications
- Research-led teaching
- Modern laboratories and learning facilities
- Excellent graduate employability
- Strong industry partnerships
- Diverse student community
- Access to scholarships and financial aid opportunities
Faculties at the University of the Witwatersrand
Wits University offers programmes through five main faculties.
1. Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management
Popular programmes include:
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
- Accounting
- Economics
- Finance
- Information Systems
- Human Resource Management
- Marketing
- Business Science
- Actuarial Science
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Governance and Public Management
2. Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Students can study:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Architecture
- Construction Management
- Property Studies
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Quantity Surveying
3. Faculty of Health Sciences
Available programmes include:
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBCh)
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Oral Health Sciences
- Dentistry
- Public Health
- Medical Sciences
- Biomedical Sciences
4. Faculty of Humanities
Students may pursue degrees in:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Political Studies
- International Relations
- History
- Philosophy
- African Languages
- English
- Journalism
- Media Studies
- Film and Television
- Music
- Theatre and Performance
- Education
5. Faculty of Science
Science programmes include:
- Computer Science
- Data Science
- Mathematics
- Applied Mathematics
- Statistics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Geology
- Geography
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
Postgraduate Programmes
Wits offers a broad range of postgraduate qualifications, including:
- Honours Degrees
- Postgraduate Diplomas
- Master’s Degrees
- Doctoral (PhD) Programmes
- Professional Master’s Programmes
- Research Degrees
- MBA through Wits Business School
Short Courses and Professional Development
In addition to degree programmes, Wits provides continuing education and executive learning opportunities through its schools and centres. Short courses are available in areas such as:
- Business Management
- Leadership
- Project Management
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Healthcare
- Education
- Public Administration
These programmes are ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their skills or advance their careers.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme. Applicants should review:
- Minimum APS score
- Required National Senior Certificate subjects
- English language requirements
- Mathematics and Physical Sciences requirements (where applicable)
- Portfolio or audition requirements for selected programmes
Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance, as many programmes are highly competitive.
Download the Official Wits Prospectus
The official Wits Undergraduate Prospectus contains detailed information on:
- Courses offered
- Admission requirements
- APS scores
- Faculty information
- Tuition fees
- Student accommodation
- Application procedures
- Important application dates
Prospective students can access the official guide here:
Official Wits Undergraduate Applicant Guide: https://www.wits.ac.za/undergraduate/guide-for-undergraduates/
Official Wits General Prospectus: https://www.wits.ac.za/about-wits/general-prospectus/
These official resources provide the most up-to-date information for applicants.
Tips for Prospective Students
Before submitting your application:
- Research your preferred career path.
- Compare programme admission requirements.
- Check the required APS score.
- Read the faculty-specific information carefully.
- Prepare all supporting documents before applications close.
- Apply early to improve your chances of consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Wits offer postgraduate programmes?
Yes. Wits offers Honours, Postgraduate Diplomas, Master’s, Doctoral, MBA, and professional qualifications across all faculties.
How many faculties does Wits have?
The University of the Witwatersrand has five faculties comprising 33 schools and more than 3,000 courses.
Where can I download the official Wits Prospectus?
The latest undergraduate applicant guide and prospectus are available from the official Wits website under the Undergraduate Applicants section.
Final Thoughts
The University of the Witwatersrand offers one of the widest selections of academic programmes in South Africa, making it an excellent choice for students seeking quality education and strong career prospects. Whether your interest lies in business, engineering, medicine, law, humanities, or science, Wits provides internationally respected qualifications supported by exceptional teaching and research.
Before applying, be sure to review the official Wits Undergraduate Applicant Guide and Prospectus to understand programme requirements, APS scores, application deadlines, and faculty-specific information.

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