Choosing a university in South Africa is a big decision, and the University of Johannesburg (UJ) often lands at the top of the list for good reason. Located in the heart of the country’s economic powerhouse, UJ blends academic excellence with real-world relevance — and that combination matters more than ever in 2025.
Whether you’re a matriculant dreaming of your first campus visit, a working professional eyeing a postgraduate degree, or an international student navigating English-to-Afrikaans documents, this guide has you covered. Let’s walk through UJ’s courses, rankings, admission requirements, fees, and everything else you need to plan your application with confidence.
Why the University of Johannesburg Is a Smart Choice for 2025
You’ve probably heard that UJ is big, but here’s what that actually means for you. The university educates about 50,000 students across multiple campuses in Auckland Park, Doornfontein, Soweto, and Bunting Road, making it one of South Africa’s largest contact universities.
What truly sets UJ apart, though, is its focus on applied research and industry partnerships. This isn’t a university that lives in an ivory tower; it’s one that wants your degree to translate directly into a career. UJ’s tagline — Imagination, Ignited — isn’t just a slogan. It reflects a teaching philosophy built around innovation, technology, and solving the kinds of problems South African businesses actually face.
Add in the location, and you have a serious advantage. Johannesburg is Africa’s financial hub, which means you’ll study where internships, graduate programmes, and networking events are happening daily. Proximity to opportunity is a real academic edge, not a marketing gimmick.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect from UJ in 2025:
- Nine faculties covering everything from health sciences to law, engineering, and the arts.
- Blended learning options, with many courses offering both face-to-face and online elements.
- Growing international footprint, with partnerships across Africa, Europe, and Asia.
- Strong student support services, including academic advising, counselling, and career guidance.
- Residences and off-campus housing managed across its four main campuses.
The university also takes load shedding seriously. Most UJ campuses have backup power systems, and libraries and digital labs generally remain accessible during scheduled outages — a practical relief you won’t fully appreciate until you’ve experienced a winter blackout during exam season.
University of Johannesburg Rankings: How UJ Performs in 2025
Rankings don’t tell you everything, but they do help you compare apples to apples. The University of Johannesburg has made consistent upward progress in global rankings over the past five years, and 2025 is no exception.
While exact positions shift slightly depending on the ranking body, here’s how UJ generally performs:
| Ranking Body | UJ Position (2025) | What It Means for You |
|---|---|---|
| QS World University Rankings | Approximately 312th globally | Puts UJ comfortably in the top 4% of universities worldwide and among the top five in South Africa. |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings | 401–500 band | Reflects solid research output and teaching reputation on a global scale. |
| THE Young University Rankings | Around 72nd | Impressive for a university formed only in 2005 — UJ outperforms many much older institutions. |
| QS World Rankings by Subject | Top 200 for subjects like Sports Science, Theology, and Development Studies | Shows specific programmes punch above the university’s general ranking. |
| ARWU (Shanghai Rankings) | 501–600 band | Acknowledges strong research performance in natural sciences and engineering. |
Key takeaway: UJ is not just a “regional” university. It competes with established global institutions, and its subject-specific rankings prove that certain departments are genuinely world-class.
You can verify the latest figures directly on the UJ official website or the QS and THE portals, since rankings update throughout the year. For a practical perspective, however, UJ’s upward trajectory matters more than a single-year movement — it signals investment in research, facilities, and international partnerships.
Faculties and Courses at UJ: What Can You Study?
UJ’s academic structure is broad enough to cover nearly every career path you can imagine. The university is organised into faculties and colleges, each with its own admission criteria, fee structure, and study culture.
Let’s break down the main faculties and highlight popular courses for 2025.
College of Business and Economics (CBE)
If commerce is your calling, this is where you want to be. The CBE is one of UJ’s largest colleges, offering undergraduate degrees in accounting, economics, finance, marketing, and business management.
Popular programmes include:
- BCom Accounting — a direct pathway toward becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA).
- BCom Financial Management — ideal for careers in banking, investments, or corporate finance.
- BCom Marketing Management — focuses on digital marketing, consumer behaviour, and brand strategy.
- Diploma in Business Management — a shorter, practical option if you want to enter the workforce faster.
The CBE also offers an MBA that is well-regarded in South Africa, with evening and weekend classes designed for working professionals.
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment
Engineers are in high demand in South Africa, and UJ’s engineering faculty produces graduates that are ready to work from day one. The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) offers programmes accredited by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
Popular courses:
- BEng in Mechanical Engineering
- BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- BEng in Civil Engineering
- BEng in Industrial Engineering
- National Diploma in Engineering Technology — a hands-on alternative for technicians and technologists.
You’ll spend significant time in labs and workshops, especially at the Doornfontein campus, which houses UJ’s engineering and technology facilities. Expect a demanding workload, but also strong employability outcomes — engineering graduates from UJ are snapped up by mining, logistics, and manufacturing companies across Gauteng.
Faculty of Health Sciences
Healthcare is one of the most rewarding and stable career fields, and UJ’s health sciences faculty is a top choice for South African students. The faculty offers clinical training, simulation labs, and strong clinical placement partnerships with hospitals.
Programmes include:
- MBChB (Medicine) — competitive entry, with a five-year curriculum.
- BSc Nursing
- B Occupational Therapy
- B Physiotherapy
- B Pharmacy
- BA Human and Social Sciences in psychology-related fields.
Note: Health sciences programmes have strict selection processes. You’ll often need a higher APS score and may be required to pass a selection test or interview, so early preparation is non-negotiable.
Faculty of Humanities
The humanities faculty is the most diverse at UJ, covering everything from languages and literature to sociology, history, and media studies. This is where you’ll find the Department of Afrikaans, which offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Afrikaans language, literature, and applied linguistics.
Popular courses:
- BA in Humanities — flexible degree with majors in psychology, sociology, languages, and more.
- BA in Communication Science
- BA in International Relations
- BA in Language and Literary Studies — including English, Afrikaans, isiZulu, and other South African languages.
If you’re interested in the English to Afrikaans language dynamic — whether as a student, translator, or educator — the humanities faculty is your natural home. UJ offers courses in translation studies that prepare you for work in interpreting, editing, and language practice.
Faculty of Science
Science at UJ is research-intensive and well-equipped. You’ll study at the Auckland Park Kingsway campus, where modern laboratories support work in biotechnology, chemistry, physics, and computer science.
Programmes include:
- BSc in Computer Science and Informatics
- BSc in Biotechnology
- BSc in Chemistry
- BSc in Physics
- BSc in Environmental Science
- BSc in Data Science — a newer, high-demand qualification.
The Faculty of Science also runs honours degrees and masters programmes that feed directly into UJ’s research centres, including work on renewable energy and artificial intelligence.
Faculty of Law
UJ’s Faculty of Law offers both the traditional LLB degree and BA in Law. The LLB is designed to meet the requirements of the Legal Practice Council, so you’ll be on the track toward becoming an attorney or advocate.
What makes UJ’s law faculty stand out is its focus on practical legal skills. You’ll participate in moot courts, legal clinics, and community outreach programmes that give you courtroom exposure before you even graduate.
Faculty of Education
Teaching remains a respected and in-demand career in South Africa. UJ’s Faculty of Education offers the Bachelor of Education (BEd) in several specialisations, including Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, and Further Education and Training (FET) teaching.
You’ll also find postgraduate certificates in education (PGCE) for graduates who hold a degree in another field and want to switch to teaching.
Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA)
FADA is one of the most creative faculties in the country, offering programmes in:
- BA in Visual Arts
- BA in Multimedia
- BA in Industrial Design
- BArch (Bachelor of Architecture)
- BSc in Quantity Surveying
If your passion lies in creative problem-solving, FADA offers studio-based learning that combines technical skill with artistic expression. The architecture programme is professionally accredited and internationally recognised.
College of Accounting
UJ invests heavily in accounting because the demand for chartered accountants in South Africa consistently outstrips supply. The College of Accounting at UJ is one of the largest in the country, with a strong pass rate in the SAICA Initial Test of Competence.
The flagship programme is the BCom Accounting (CA stream), which runs for three years followed by a one-year honours (CTA) programme. Admission is competitive, so aim for a high APS and strong mathematics results.
English to Afrikaans at UJ: Language, Documents, and Translation Tips
Here’s the interesting bit: UJ’s language policy might not be what you expect from a university with deep roots in Afrikaans history. When UJ was formed in 2005 through the merger of the Rand Afrikaans University (RAU), Technikon Witwatersrand, and Vista University, the institution chose English as its primary language of instruction.
That means your lectures, assignments, and exams will be in English, regardless of your home language. This is great news for English-speaking students, but it doesn’t mean Afrikaans has vanished from the university.
Afrikaans still plays a role at UJ in several ways:
- The Department of Afrikaans offers courses in Afrikaans literature, linguistics, and applied language studies.
- UJ staff and students often converse in Afrikaans socially, especially in humanities and education departments.
- UJ’s language services facilitate research and publications in Afrikaans where relevant.
- The university recognises multilingualism as an asset, and you can often submit certain assignments in Afrikaans with prior approval.
For international students or South Africans applying from Afrikaans-medium schools, document preparation can get tricky. Here’s what you need to know:
- If your matric certificate or academic transcripts are in Afrikaans, you’ll typically need certified English translations for your UJ application.
- Conversely, if you’re applying for a programme that requires Afrikaans proficiency (like the BA in Afrikaans studies), you may need documents translated from English to Afrikaans.
- Certified translations must come from a registered South African translator — usually a member of the South African Translators’ Institute (SATI).
The cost for certified translation services in South Africa generally ranges from R150 to R400 per page, depending on the complexity and urgency. Plan this into your application budget early, because a missing translation can delay your admission.
Key takeaway: You don’t need to be fluent in Afrikaans to succeed at UJ, but understanding the English-to-Afrikaans language landscape will help you prepare your documents correctly — and it might even open up extra study opportunities.
University of Johannesburg Admission Requirements for 2025
Admission to UJ is based on your Admission Points Score (APS), which is calculated from your matric results. Different programmes require different APS scores, and some faculties also look at specific subject passes.
Undergraduate Admission and APS Scores
Here’s the general APS breakdown for common UJ programme groups:
| Programme Group | Minimum APS | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| BCom Accounting | 36+ | Mathematics and Accounting results heavily weighted |
| BCom General | 30–34 | Mathematics at level 4 or higher recommended |
| BA Humanities | 28–30 | Language of teaching and learning at level 4+ |
| BSc Computer Science | 34+ | Mathematics at level 5+ |
| Engineering (BEng) | 36–38 | Mathematics and Physical Science at level 5+ |
| Health Sciences (MBChB) | 38–40+ | Selection tests, NBTs, and interviews required |
| BEd Foundation Phase | 28–30 | Language and Maths requirements apply |
| Law (LLB) | 32+ | English at level 5+ recommended |
What if your APS is slightly below the requirement? Don’t panic. UJ offers extended curriculum programmes in some faculties that allow you to study over a longer period with additional academic support. These pathways can be a lifesaver if your matric results weren’t your best work.
UJ also considers National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) for certain programmes, particularly in health sciences and engineering. You’ll need to register for these tests separately, usually through the NBT website, and write them before your application deadline.
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
For honours, masters, and doctoral programmes, the requirements vary by faculty. In general, you’ll need:
- A completed undergraduate degree (or equivalent) with a minimum average of 60–65% at the relevant level.
- Academic transcripts and a detailed CV.
- A research proposal for masters and PhD applicants.
- Letters of recommendation from academic referees.
Some professional programmes, like the MBA or postgraduate Diploma in Accounting, require relevant work experience. Make sure you check the specific programme page, because departmental requirements can be stricter than the general university policy.
International Students: Language Requirements and Documentation
UJ welcomes international students, but there are extra hoops to jump through. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A valid study visa issued by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Credit-bearing documents translated into English (or certified if already in English).
- A SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) certificate for qualifications obtained outside South Africa.
- Proof of medical insurance covering your stay in South Africa.
- Language proficiency proof for programmes taught in English — typically IELTS (minimum score around 6.0–6.5) or TOEFL, unless you studied in English previously.
If your documents are in Afrikaans, you’ve got an advantage — you can get them translated to English more easily through local services. If they’re in another language, budget extra time for translation and certification.
Key takeaway: Start your application early. International students and those with non-English documents should begin the process at least six months before the application deadline.
How to Apply to UJ in 2025: Step-by-Step
The application process at UJ is online, but there’s a right way and a wrong way to go about it. Follow this step-by-step process to avoid unnecessary stress:
- Check application dates. Applications for 2025 typically open around March 2024 and close in September or October 2024, depending on the programme. Health sciences and engineering often close earlier.
- Create your profile on the UJ application portal (available through the UJ website). Use a valid email address you check regularly.
- Select your programmes. You can apply for up to two choices, so think strategically — consider an extended programme as your second choice if your APS is borderline.
- Upload your documents. Include your ID or passport, matric results, and any tertiary transcripts. Ensure all documents are certified and, if necessary, translated from Afrikaans to English or vice versa.
- Pay the application fee. The non-refundable fee is around R200 for South African applicants and approximately R500 for international applicants. Confirm the exact amount on the UJ fee portal.
- Complete any additional tests. If your programme requires NBTs, portfolio submissions, or interviews, register and attend before the closing date.
- Track your application status. UJ will notify you via email and the online portal as your status changes. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Pro tip: Keep a checklist of your documents. Missing a single certified copy is the most common reason applications are delayed.
After you’re accepted, you’ll receive a provisional offer which becomes final once you’ve met all academic conditions. Register for classes during the online registration period, and don’t forget to accept your place — UJ can’t hold reserved spots indefinitely.
UJ Fees, Financial Aid, and Scholarships in 2025
Let’s talk money, because university funding is one of the biggest sources of anxiety for South African students. UJ’s fees depend on your programme, your nationality, and your year of study.
| Fee Category | Estimated Annual Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (South African) | R45,000 – R85,000 |
| Undergraduate (International) | R80,000 – R130,000 |
| Postgraduate (SA and SADC) | R30,000 – R90,000, depending on programme |
| MBA / Professional programmes | R150,000 – R300,000+ |
| Residence accommodation | R35,000 – R70,000 per year |
| Books and supplies | R8,000 – R15,000 per year |
These figures are estimates, and UJ publishes its official fee schedule each year. Always verify programme-specific fees on the UJ website or in your offer letter.
Funding Options You Should Explore
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): If your household income is below the threshold (around R350,000 per year), you may qualify for free higher education and training. NSFAS covers tuition, accommodation, transport, and study materials.
- UJ Merit Bursaries: UJ automatically considers first-year students for academic bursaries based on matric results. Top achievers can receive significant fee reductions.
- Faculty-specific bursaries: Many faculties offer bursaries for students in scarce skills areas like engineering, accounting, and health sciences.
- External scholarships: Look into funding from organisations like the Transnet Foundation, KFC South Africa, Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), and various corporate trusts.
- Student loans: Banks like Standard Bank, Nedbank, and FNB offer study loans with flexible repayment terms, often with a repayment holiday during your studies.
Key takeaway: Don’t let the sticker price scare you. Apply for financial aid early, even if you think you won’t qualify — the cost of not applying is far higher than the cost of being turned down.
Student Life at UJ: Load Shedding, Residences, and Support
University is about more than lectures, and UJ knows that your living environment affects your academic performance. UJ’s campuses each have their own character:
- Auckland Park Kingsway (APK): The main campus, home to humanities, science, and law faculties.
- Auckland Park Bunting Road: Home to FADA and the School of Tourism and Hospitality.
- Doornfontein Campus: The hub for engineering, health sciences, and sports science.
- Soweto Campus: A vibrant campus offering humanities and education programmes, closely connected to the community.
Residences at UJ are administered both by the university and by private accredited providers. You can apply for on-campus accommodation during your application process, but spaces fill up fast. If you miss out, start looking at off-campus options in Auckland Park, Rossmore, and Braamfontein — which are all affordably close to campus.
On the practical side, load shedding is a reality of South African life. UJ has invested in backup power infrastructure, so most campus buildings — including libraries, computer labs, and student centres — remain functional during outages. Evening classes may be adjusted, but you’ll rarely lose a full study session to the dark.
UJ also offers a range of student support services:
- Academic Development Centre for tutorials, writing support, and study skills workshops.
- Student Counselling for mental health support, which is free and confidential.
- Career Services to help with CVs, interview preparation, and graduate placements.
- Disability Rights Unit ensuring accessible learning environments.
- Student Finance office to guide you through funding and payment arrangements.
Career Prospects: Where a UJ Degree Can Take You
A university degree is a means to a career, and UJ graduates have a strong record of employment. According to various graduate employment surveys, UJ performs well in producing work-ready graduates, particularly in fields like accounting, engineering, IT, and health sciences.
Here’s what makes UJ graduates attractive to employers:
- Work-integrated learning is embedded into many programmes — you’ll complete industry placements or projects as part of your degree.
- UJ’s Johannesburg location means internship opportunities are a quick taxi ride away.
- The university’s focus on 4IR technologies — artificial intelligence, data science, robotics — means you graduate with forward-looking digital skills.
Notable UJ alumni include entrepreneurs, CEOs, artists, journalists, and academics. A UJ degree doesn’t guarantee success, but it consistently opens doors. The university’s alumni network is active and supportive, with mentorship programmes and networking events across the country.
Key takeaway: Choose a UJ programme based on where you want to go, not just where you are. UJ gives you the tools; you bring the determination.
Frequently Asked Questions About the University of Johannesburg
Is the University of Johannesburg a good university in 2025?
Yes, UJ is considered one of the top universities in South Africa. It ranks around 312th globally in the QS World University Rankings and is particularly strong in subjects like engineering, accounting, sports science, and development studies. Its location in Johannesburg also gives students unmatched access to internships and employment opportunities.
What APS score do I need to get into UJ?
Your required APS depends on your chosen programme. Humanities courses may accept an APS of around 28–30, while competitive programmes like engineering and health sciences typically need 36–40+. Check the specific programme requirements on the UJ website and consider extended curriculum programmes if your APS is borderline.
Does UJ teach in English or Afrikaans?
UJ’s primary language of instruction is English. However, the university offers Afrikaans courses and recognises multilingualism as an asset. Afrikaans-speaking students can often submit assignments in Afrikaans with departmental approval, but most academic work must be conducted in English.
Do I need to translate my documents from English to Afrikaans for a UJ application?
Generally, no — UJ requires documents in English, so if your certificates are in Afrikaans, you’ll need them translated to English. Only specific Afrikaans-language programmes or research projects might require English-to-Afrikaans translation. Always use a certified translator registered with bodies like SATI for official submissions.
What is the closing date for UJ applications for 2025?
Application closing dates vary by programme but generally fall between September and October 2024 for the 2025 academic year. Health sciences and other selection courses may close earlier. Submit your application as early as possible — ideally by June or July — to improve your chances of securing a spot.
How much are UJ tuition fees for 2025?
South African undergraduates can expect to pay roughly R45,000 to R85,000 per year, while international undergraduate fees range from R80,000 to R130,000. Residence and books add another R40,000 to R80,000 annually. NSFAS and UJ bursaries can significantly reduce these costs if you qualify.
Final Thoughts: Is UJ the Right University for You?
The University of Johannesburg is a bold, ambitious institution that rewards bold, ambitious students. It offers strong rankings, diverse programmes, and a location that connects you directly to South Africa’s economic heartbeat. If you’re willing to put in the work, UJ can absolutely be the launchpad for the career you want.
Your next step is simple: check the programme requirements, gather your documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Whether you’re translating your Afrikaans certificates, polishing your CV for a postgraduate application, or just figuring out your APS, take it one step at a time. You can do this.
The future is waiting — and at UJ, it’s imagined, ignited, and ready for you.