Degrees in South Africa

Every country in the world displays some diversity, but South Africa takes the cake with more types of terrain than photographers have memory cards for. This means you will have all sorts of exciting academic, social, and adventure opportunities when you pursue a degree abroad in South Africa no matter which location you choose.

Cape Town. Affectionately known as the “Mother City,” Cape Town will keep an eye out for you while you pursue a degree abroad within her walls. Degrees abroad in Cape Town also mean panoramic views for days—but that’s only a small part of why the University of Cape Town is a frontrunner in South Africa education. It’s got a top-notch rep for the strongest collegiate system in Africa. And, school admin are actively working to make UCT a more demographically inclusive institution. Not only that, the university sits at the foot of Cape Town’s Table Mountain, which is why UCT is frequently called one of the world’s most beautiful college campuses!

Johannesburg. Jo’burg. Jozi. JHB. Egoli. Nicknames are a term of endearment and the abundance of names Johannesburg answers to shows how near and dear the city is to its citizens. With over seven faculties, the University of Johannesburg is surrounded by tons of resources due to its location in the business center of South Africa. And when you need a study break, Jo’burg’s best kept secret is that there are adventures aplenty scattered all over the City of Gold like buried treasure.

No matter your major, deciding to complete a degree abroad at any one of the universities in South Africa is sure to bring you new insights and some serious adventures. Here are some of the top majors pursued by wanderlusters like you looking to earn a degree abroad in South Africa:

Many students are attracted to study in South Africa for the nation’s unique plant and animal life. Therefore, degree abroad programs that focus on conservation, biology, and zoology are quite popular. Students can study wildlife management, visit national parks, and learn how the country handles environmental challenges like poaching and climate change while studying in South Africa.

South Africa’s history is also uniquely situated to teach students about issues related to political science, social policy, and public health. You can examine how the apartheid era affected the country, and then evaluate the effectiveness of current social and political policies.

Pursuing a degree abroad in South Africa doesn’t have to break the bank, and many students find that it is actually quite affordable to do so. Though you may shed some tears over the cost of your flight, prices will be much more reasonable once you’ve landed. With smart planning, living expenses in South Africa are relatively low for international students. Most degree abroad program fees include tuition and housing, with some even providing stipends for meals too. Many degree abroad programs in South Africa will allow you to use financial aid to cover program costs. There are also many scholarship and fundraising  opportunities that can help you swing the fees.

Most students who are looking to earn a degree abroad in South Africa stay in housing arranged by their program provider, which is usually in a private apartment shared with other students or a student residence (like a dorm) on campus. These types of housing arrangements allow you get to know other students in a relaxed environment and can be a great way to meet friends and travel buddies. Housing is often close to campus, allowing you to partake in campus life and benefit from a short commute to class.

The majority of students will need to apply for a visa to pursue a degree abroad in South Africa. Your program provider and university are usually more than helpful with this process, making sure you’re all squared away before you show up for your first day of class. For more information on what your specific visa situation might look like, check out GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory.

Picking up a degree at one of South Africa’s top ranked institutions will be nothing short of epic. South African universities rankings reign supreme, so you’re looking to enhance your education, South Africa is one of the best places earn a degree abroad and hone all those book smarts.

And as any one of the universities for international students in South Africa, you will be getting more than just book smarts. Your street smarts will also sharpen and your awareness of privilege will probably skyrocket. You’ll also be privy to the strength and perseverance of impoverished South Africans pushing, despite it all. It’s a mentality that will teach you about your own strength and help you grow exponentially.