The University of the Witwatersrand: Your Complete Guide
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Located in the heart of Johannesburg,
South Africa, the University of the Witwatersrand, or WITS, is known for its
academic excellence and innovation. Founded in 1896, WITS has grown into one of
Africa's top research universities, famous for its dedication to learning,
community involvement, and transformative education. This article provides a
detailed look at WITS, including its history, academic programs, facilities,
and useful information for future students.
History and Legacy
The University of the
Witwatersrand (WITS) started as the Kimberley School of Mines in 1896 in
Kimberley, South Africa. It was created to meet the growing need for skilled
workers in South Africa's booming mining industry, especially in diamond and
gold mining. The school focused on technical education in fields like mining
engineering, metallurgy, geology, and mine surveying. It quickly became known
for its practical education and its role in training professionals crucial to
the mining sector. As South Africa grew economically and socially, the need for
broader educational opportunities arose. Responding to this, the Kimberley
School of Mines expanded and moved to Johannesburg in 1904, which was becoming
the country's economic and cultural centre due to its mining activities. By
1906, the school started offering courses in science and engineering beyond
mining, recognizing the importance of diverse scientific and technical
education for the country's development.
In 1922, it was officially
established as a university and named the University of the Witwatersrand, or
WITS. This was a key moment in its history, marking its place as a leading
higher education institution in South Africa. The university grew to include
various faculties such as humanities, commerce, law, health sciences, and the
arts, along with its strong science and engineering programs. Throughout its
history, WITS has significantly influenced South Africa's intellectual and
social development. It has educated many leaders, thinkers, and professionals
who have contributed to the country's progress in various fields, advocating
for equality, justice, and positive change.
WITS is known for its academic
excellence, research innovation, and community involvement, making it one of
Africa's top universities. It attracts a diverse group of students, faculty,
and researchers, creating an environment that fosters critical thinking,
creativity, and collaboration. The transformation from the Kimberley School of
Mines to a comprehensive university shows WITS' ability to adapt to South
Africa's changing needs and its ongoing dedication to education, research, and
societal impact.
Chancellors and Leadership
Throughout its history, WITS has
been guided by visionary leaders who have steered its course with distinction.
The university's chancellors have included eminent figures from various fields,
each contributing their expertise and commitment to advancing WITS' academic
mission.
Former
Chancellors of Wits University
- Prince Arthur of Connaught
(1922-1938)
- Jan Hofmeyr (1939-1948)
- Richard Feetham (1949-1961)
- Oliver Deneys Schreiner
(1961-1975)
- Bertrand Leon “Birch” Bernstein
(1975-1982)
- Aanon Michael “Mike” Rosholt
(1983-1997)
- Richard Goldstone (1996-2007)
- Dikgang Moseneke (2012-2018)
Awards and Achievements
WITS has garnered numerous
accolades for its academic prowess, research contributions, and societal
impact. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Africa and has
earned international recognition for its research output and innovative
programs.
Rankings
The University of the
Witwatersrand is ranked #244 among the Best Global Universities. This ranking
reflects the institution's performance based on a comprehensive set of widely
recognized indicators of excellence. It is frequently ranked within the top
universities in Africa and continues to enhance its reputation on the world
stage.
Open Days and Campus Visits
WITS regularly hosts open days
and campus tours to provide prospective students with an opportunity to explore
its facilities, meet faculty members, and learn about its academic programs.
These events offer invaluable insights into life at WITS and help applicants
make informed decisions about their educational journey.
Why Choose WITS?
Prospective students are drawn to
WITS for its academic excellence, diverse community, and vibrant campus life.
The university offers a stimulating environment where students are encouraged
to question, innovate, and engage critically with global issues.
Facilities and Departments
WITS boasts state-of-the-art
facilities across its multiple campuses, equipped with modern amenities to
support teaching, research, and student life. Its faculties and departments
span a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Humanities
- Science and Engineering
- Commerce, Law, and Management
- Health Sciences
- Built Environment
Each department is staffed by
esteemed academics who are leaders in their respective fields, ensuring a
rigorous and intellectually stimulating educational experience.
Courses Offered
WITS offers a diverse array of
undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to cater to the interests and
career aspirations of its students. From arts and humanities to science and
technology, the university provides opportunities for specialization and
interdisciplinary study.
Minimum Admission Requirements
Meeting the minimum requirements does not
guarantee admission to the University. The University has a limited number of
places for first-year undergraduates, as approved by the Department of Higher
Education and Training. Final selection depends on the availability of places,
academic results, and other entry requirements.
To be considered for entry into
any of the five faculties, applicants must have:
- A National Senior Certificate
(NSC) from the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the Independent
Examinations Board (IEB), or the South African Comprehensive Assessment
Institute (SACAI).
- Certain levels of achievement
and a Bachelor’s degree pass.
- Completion of any additional
Faculty or School requirements, if applicable.
Application Process
Prospective students can apply to
WITS online through its dedicated admissions portal. The application process
typically involves submitting an online application form, academic transcripts,
standardized test scores (if applicable), and any other required documentation.
Click here to apply WITS Applications
-
You can apply for up to three programmes, and
the order of choice does not matter.
-
Ensure you meet the admission requirements for
your chosen degree.
-
Submit your application before the closing date.
- Use your full names as they appear on your ID
book/card or passport (avoid using initials or nicknames).
- If you are applying for two programmes within
the same Faculty, consider also applying for one programme in a less restricted
Faculty (such as Humanities, Commerce, or Science) to keep your study options
open, especially for programmes in faculties like Health Sciences or
Engineering.
-
Do not specify the duration of the programme;
you are applying for the first year of study.
- In line with the POPI Act, applicants must
complete their own applications and accept the University's legal declaration
of indemnity and undertaking. The University will not engage with third-party
agents facilitating applications on behalf of applicants.
Documents Required
Upload your supporting documents
at the time of application. Alternatively, you can upload them after submitting
your application via the student self-service portal at https://self-service.wits.ac.za.
- Current Matrics: Upload your
final Grade 11 results (no hard copy required).
- Already Matriculated: Upload
certified copies of all your matric certificates or foreign school leaving
certificates.
- Other Tertiary Institutions:
Upload a certified copy of official academic records for all tertiary
registrations, including a statement or certificate of good conduct stamped by
the institution’s registrar. (Interim, self-service generated results will be
accepted for initial assessment purposes for GEMP applicants only).
Closing Dates
- 30 June: Faculty of Health
Sciences (all programmes), Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of
Audiology, Bachelor of Speech-Language Pathology, BA Film and TV
- 30 September: All other
University programmes
- 30 September: Residence
applications
Application Fee
An application fee of R100 for
South African citizens and R700 for foreign citizens is required. Log into the
self-service portal to make payments before the closing dates, and use only
your Person Number or T Number as the reference.
Housing
At Wits, the residences serve as
both living and learning centres. They offer a wide variety of accommodation
options, including single-gender residences, catering residences, and mixed-gender
residences.
Transportation
Residence students can take a
Wits bus from the main campus to all nearby campuses, and enjoy free weekend
buses to Rosebank shopping mall.
Contact Details
For more information about WITS,
including admissions inquiries, campus tours, and academic programs,
prospective students can contact:
- Website: WITS website
- Tel: +27 (0) 11 717 1888
- Email: ask.wits@wits.ac.za
The University of the
Witwatersrand stands as a bastion of academic excellence and innovation in
Africa, offering students a transformative educational experience and a gateway
to a world of opportunities. Whether pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate
studies, WITS provides the ideal environment to grow intellectually,
professionally, and personally, preparing students to make meaningful contributions
to society and thrive in a globally interconnected world.
