List of University of Pretoria Courses and Requirements – A Detailed Guide

The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s largest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning. Located in Pretoria, the capital city of South Africa, UP has built a strong academic reputation both nationally and internationally. Known for its comprehensive range of courses, innovative research, and commitment to student success, the University of Pretoria offers a wealth of opportunities for those pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate education in various fields.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the diverse courses offered at the University of Pretoria, the admission requirements for each program, and how prospective students can apply to join this esteemed institution.

1. About the University of Pretoria

Established in 1908, the University of Pretoria is a research-intensive university with a strong focus on innovation, global partnerships, and community engagement. UP has consistently ranked among the top universities in South Africa and is known for its cutting-edge research output, state-of-the-art facilities, and world-class faculty members.

The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a range of disciplines, including engineering, humanities, health sciences, law, economics, and natural sciences. UP prides itself on its diverse student body, providing a welcoming environment for both local and international students.

With a robust emphasis on academic excellence and research-driven education, the University of Pretoria is a key player in shaping South Africa’s future leaders, professionals, and researchers.

UP Faculties:

• Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Faculty of Humanities
• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
• Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
• Faculty of Theology

2. List of University of Pretoria Courses

The University of Pretoria offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across multiple faculties. Here’s an overview of some of the key programs available:

a. Undergraduate Programs

1. Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) The MBChB program at UP is a rigorous and comprehensive course that prepares students for a career in medicine. Students are trained to become competent doctors through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
   • Duration: 6 years
   • Key Modules: Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Surgery, Clinical Medicine, Internal Medicine, Psychiatry
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 60% in English, 70% in Mathematics, 70% in Physical Science, and 70% in Life Sciences.
     • Additional selection criteria may apply, including an entrance exam or interview.
2. Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) The BEng program at the University of Pretoria offers various specializations such as Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. It prepares students for careers in engineering, where they can design, innovate, and problem-solve in technical fields.
   • Duration: 4 years
   • Key Modules: Engineering Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electrical Systems, Structural Analysis, Materials Science
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 60% in English, 70% in Mathematics, and 70% in Physical Science.
     • Additional selection criteria may apply.
3. Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) The BCom degree at UP is one of the university’s most popular programs. Students can specialize in fields such as Accounting, Economics, Finance, Marketing, and Human Resource Management, providing them with the necessary skills to succeed in the corporate world.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Accounting, Economics, Business Management, Marketing, Finance, Business Law
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and 60% in Mathematics.
     • Specific subject requirements may depend on the chosen specialization.
4. Bachelor of Laws (LLB) The LLB program at UP provides students with a comprehensive understanding of South African law, legal principles, and practices. Graduates are equipped to pursue careers in legal practice, public service, or academia.
   • Duration: 4 years
   • Key Modules: Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Contract Law, Legal Research, Torts, Property Law
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 60% in English and 60% in other relevant subjects (e.g., History, Business Studies).
     • Additional selection processes may apply.
5. Bachelor of Science (BSc) The BSc program at the University of Pretoria offers a wide range of specializations in the natural sciences, including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science, and Biological Sciences. It is ideal for students interested in scientific research or technology.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Environmental Science, Computer Science
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 60% in English and 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science or Life Sciences, depending on the specialization.
6. Bachelor of Education (BEd) The BEd program prepares students for a career in education, equipping them with the skills necessary to teach across various educational levels, from primary to secondary school.
   • Duration: 4 years
   • Key Modules: Educational Psychology, Curriculum Development, Teaching Methods, Classroom Management, Sociology of Education
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and relevant subjects based on the teaching phase.
7. Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences (BSc Agric) The BSc Agric program at UP offers specializations in fields such as Agricultural Economics, Animal Science, Plant Production, and Soil Science. The program focuses on equipping students with the skills necessary to address challenges in the agricultural sector.
   • Duration: 4 years
   • Key Modules: Animal Science, Plant Biology, Soil Science, Agricultural Economics, Crop Production
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 60% in English and 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science or Life Sciences.
8. Bachelor of Arts (BA) The BA program at UP offers students the flexibility to choose from a variety of subjects in the humanities, including Sociology, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Political Science, and Communication Studies.
   • Duration: 3 years
   • Key Modules: Sociology, Psychology, Philosophy, Political Science, History, Media Studies
   • Admission Requirements:
     • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 50% in English and relevant subjects based on the chosen specialization.

b. Postgraduate Programs

1. Master of Business Administration (MBA) The MBA program at UP’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers and leadership skills. The program focuses on strategic thinking, leadership development, and business innovation.
   • Duration: 1-2 years
   • Key Modules: Leadership, Organizational Behavior, Strategy, Marketing, Financial Management, Innovation Management
   • Admission Requirements:
     • A relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., BCom, BSc, or equivalent) with at least 60%.
     • A minimum of 3-5 years of professional work experience.
2. Master of Engineering (MEng) The MEng program at UP is aimed at students who want to deepen their technical knowledge and expertise in fields such as Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Chemical Engineering.
   • Duration: 1-2 years
   • Key Modules: Advanced Engineering Topics, Research, Design Projects
   • Admission Requirements:
     • A relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., BEng) with at least 60% in the chosen field of study.
3. Master of Laws (LLM) The LLM program at UP offers students an opportunity to specialize in areas such as Human Rights Law, Commercial Law, or Constitutional Law.
   • Duration: 1-2 years
   • Key Modules: Specialization in chosen area of law, Legal Research, Dissertation
   • Admission Requirements:
     • An LLB degree or equivalent qualification with at least 60%.
4. Master of Science (MSc) The MSc program at UP offers a range of specializations in fields such as Environmental Science, Physics, Chemistry, and Computer Science. This program is research-based and allows students to deepen their understanding of scientific principles.
   • Duration: 2 years
   • Key Modules: Research Methodology, Specialized Topics, Dissertation
   • Admission Requirements:
     • A relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., BSc) with at least 60% in the chosen field of study.

3. Admission Requirements for University of Pretoria Courses

The general admission requirements for undergraduate programs at the University of Pretoria include:

• A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification with appropriate subject combinations and required minimum grades.
• For competitive programs like Medicine, Engineering, or Law, higher marks in subjects such as Mathematics and Physical Science are required.
• Some programs, such as Fine Arts, may require portfolios or additional entrance assessments.

For postgraduate programs, candidates typically need:

• A relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum

of 60% or higher.

• Additional requirements such as professional work experience, research proposals, or interviews may apply.

4. How to Apply for University of Pretoria Courses

To apply to the University of Pretoria, follow these steps:

1. Visit the University’s Official Website: Review the courses and admission requirements for each program.
2. Create an Online Application Account: Register on UP’s online application portal.
3. Complete the Application Form: Fill in personal details, academic history, and program preferences.
4. Upload Documents: Submit necessary documents such as your NSC results, identity proof, and any other required materials.
5. Pay the Application Fee: Complete the payment for the application fee.
6. Submit the Application: After reviewing your application, submit it online.
7. Track Application Status: Use the application portal to track your application status.

For more information or to apply, visit UP’s official website: www.up.ac.za.