The University of KwaZulu Natal Guide! All You Need to Know About UKZN.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a renowned institution located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Established in 2004 through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville, UKZN has grown to become one of the leading higher education institutions in the country. This article delves into the various facets of UKZN, including its campuses, courses, fees, residences, extramural activities, and scholarships.
Campuses of UKZN
UKZN boasts five distinct campuses,
each with its unique characteristics and specializations:
Howard College Campus: Located in Durban, this campus is
known for its focus on the humanities, law, engineering, and the built
environment. It is one of the largest and oldest campuses, offering a vibrant
student life.
Westville Campus: Also situated in Durban, the
Westville Campus is the administrative hub of the university. It specializes in
commerce, law, and management studies, and is known for its state-of-the-art
facilities and diverse student body.
Pietermaritzburg Campus: This campus is located in the
capital city of KwaZulu-Natal and offers a picturesque setting with a focus on
agriculture, life sciences, education, and theology. It provides a tranquil
environment conducive to academic pursuits.
Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine: Situated in Durban, this campus is
dedicated to medical education and research. It is renowned for producing
highly skilled medical professionals and conducting cutting-edge research in
health sciences.
Edgewood Campus: Located in Pinetown, this campus is
primarily focused on education and teacher training. It offers a range of
undergraduate and postgraduate programs in education, preparing students for
careers in teaching and educational leadership.
Courses and Programs Offered
UKZN offers a diverse array of
academic programs, ranging from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate
qualifications and professional certificates. Here is an overview of the
courses available:
Undergraduate Degrees
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of
Surgery (MBChB)
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Bachelor of Agricultural Management
Postgraduate Degrees
Honours Degrees: Offered in various
disciplines such as humanities, sciences, commerce, and education.
Master's Degrees: Including Master of
Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Commerce (MCom), Master of Laws
(LLM), and Master of Education (MEd).
Doctoral Degrees: PhD programs across
a wide range of fields, emphasizing research and innovation.
Professional Certificates and
Diplomas
Postgraduate Certificates in
Education (PGCE)
Advanced Diplomas in various fields
Professional Development Programs:
Short courses and workshops aimed at enhancing professional skills.
Please note, this is just a very brief overview. Click here for the UKZN 2025 prospectus. Applications to study at this prestigious institution are conducted via CAO. (Click on via CAO to be led to the CAO application page.)
Average Fees at UKZN
The cost of studying at UKZN varies
depending on the program and level of study. Here is a general overview of the
average fees:
Undergraduate Programs: The tuition fees for undergraduate
programs range from approximately ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 60,000 per year, depending
on the course and faculty.
Postgraduate Programs: Fees for postgraduate programs vary
widely. For example, a Master's degree can cost between ZAR 35,000 and ZAR
80,000 per year, while PhD programs typically range from ZAR 40,000 to ZAR
100,000 per year.
International Students: International students are subject
to additional fees, which can include an international levy and higher tuition
rates, generally adding ZAR 10,000 to ZAR 30,000 to the overall cost.
It's important to note that these
fees are approximate and subject to change. Prospective students are encouraged
to consult the university's official website for the most up-to-date
information on tuition fees.
Residences at UKZN
UKZN offers a variety of on-campus
accommodation options to suit different needs and preferences. The residences
are designed to provide a comfortable and conducive living environment for
students. Here are some of the key features:
Howard College/Medical School Campus
Residences: The
University of KwaZulu-Natal's Howard College on-campus residences accommodate
around 2,379 students, including first-entrant, undergraduate, postgraduate,
and international students, with a variety of single and double rooms in
self-catering buildings featuring lounges, TV rooms, and parking. Off-campus
university-owned residences, such as St Hillier Residence for final-year
medical students and San Sabil Residence near Addington Beach, provide fully
furnished flats and shared rooms with access to amenities like shopping malls,
hospitals, and public transport.
Additionally, off-campus leased
residences managed by private landlord’s house approximately 6,000 students in
shared rooms with common kitchen and bathroom facilities.Click here to view a list of Howard College private accommodations.
Westville Campus Residences: The University of KwaZulu-Natal
(UKZN) Westville campus offers on-campus residences for 2,161 students,
including first-entrants, undergraduates, postgraduates, and international
students. These self-catering accommodations feature single and double rooms,
lounges, television rooms, and parking, located near academic buildings with
access to banking, shops, and cafeterias.
Additionally, UKZN provides
off-campus university-owned residences for 543 students, including fully
furnished flats at Dunstaple Heights and Santa Cruz in Reservoir Hills, with
shared lounges, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Off-campus leased residences from private landlord’s house around 6,000 students in shared rooms with common facilities. Click here to see the list of off campuses residences.
Pietermaritzburg Campus Residences: The University of KwaZulu-Natal's
Pietermaritzburg on-campus residences accommodate about 2,200 students,
including first-entrant, undergraduate, postgraduate, and international
students, with self-catering single and double rooms near academic buildings,
banking services, shops, and cafeterias. Off-campus university-owned
residences, such as Denison Hall of Residence, situated in park-like
surroundings, cater primarily to postgraduates and final-year students, with
amenities like a clubhouse, gym, TV, snooker, and table tennis.
Additionally, off-campus leased residences
managed by private landlord’s house around 2,400 students in fully furnished
shared rooms with common kitchen and bathroom facilities. Click here to see a list of PMB campus private accommodations.
Edgewood Campus Residences: The University of KwaZulu-Natal's
Edgewood campus houses 875 students in 13 on-campus residences, accommodating
first-entrant, undergraduate, postgraduate, PGCE, and international students.
These self-catering residences near academic buildings offer single and double
rooms with access control, lounges, TV rooms, and parking, along with nearby
banking, shops, and cafeteria facilities. Off-campus university-owned
residences include Bedford Hall, located near Addington beachfront and various
amenities, accommodating students in shared rooms by gender.
Additionally, off-campus leased
residences managed by private landlords provide housing for 3,839 students in
fully furnished shared rooms with communal kitchens and bathrooms. Click here to see a list of all Edgewood campus private accommodations.
Living in university residences
allows students to immerse themselves in campus life, build lasting
friendships, and access support services easily.
Extramural Activities
UKZN places a strong emphasis on
holistic education, encouraging students to participate in a wide range of
extramural activities. These activities enhance the university experience and
promote physical, social, and cultural development. Some of the popular
extramural activities at UKZN include:
Sports and Fitness: UKZN has excellent sports
facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, sports fields, and courts. The
university offers various sports clubs, such as soccer, rugby, cricket,
netball, athletics, and tennis.
Cultural Activities: Students can engage in cultural
activities through music, dance, drama, and art clubs. The African Music
Project and other cultural initiatives provide platforms for creative
expression.
Student Organizations: UKZN has numerous student
organizations and societies catering to different interests, including
academic, social, political, and environmental groups. These organizations
offer opportunities for leadership development and community engagement.
Community Service: The university encourages students
to participate in community service and outreach programs. These initiatives
allow students to make a positive impact on local communities and develop a
sense of social responsibility.
Scholarships at UKZN
UKZN offers a range of scholarships
and financial aid options to support students in their academic journey. These
scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, including academic merit,
financial need, and specific talents or achievements. Some of the notable
scholarships available at UKZN include:
UKZN Merit Scholarships: Awarded to top-performing students
based on their academic achievements. These scholarships cover tuition fees and
may include additional allowances for books and living expenses.
Prestige Sports Scholarships: Offered to students who excel in
sports and have represented their province or country. These scholarships
provide financial support and access to top-notch training facilities.
External Scholarships: UKZN students can also apply for
scholarships funded by external organizations, such as government agencies,
private companies, and non-profit organizations. These scholarships often have
specific eligibility criteria and application processes.
Postgraduate Scholarships: The university offers various
scholarships for postgraduate students, including the National Research
Foundation (NRF) scholarships, which support research and innovation at the
Master's and PhD levels.
Prospective students are encouraged
to explore the scholarship opportunities available at UKZN and apply for those
that match their qualifications and needs. Detailed information on scholarships
and financial aid can be found on the university's official website.
Fun Fact About UKZN
A fun fact about UKZN is that it is
home to one of the largest and most diverse collections of African Music and
Dance in the world. The UKZN African Music Project, located on the Howard
College Campus, preserves and promotes the rich musical heritage of the African
continent through research, performance, and education. This unique project not
only showcases traditional African music and dance but also encourages
contemporary interpretations, making it a vibrant part of the university's
cultural life.
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is a
prestigious institution that offers a rich and diverse academic experience.
With its five campuses, extensive range of courses, vibrant student life, and
numerous support services, UKZN provides an ideal environment for personal and
professional growth. Whether you are pursuing an undergraduate degree,
advancing your studies with a postgraduate qualification, or engaging in
extramural activities, UKZN offers opportunities to excel and make a meaningful
impact. Prospective students are encouraged to explore all that UKZN has to
offer and consider joining this dynamic and forward-thinking university
community.
