The University of Zululand: A Comprehensive Guide
The University of Zululand (UniZulu), located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, stands as a beacon of higher education. Established in 1960, the university has grown and evolved to become a respected institution offering a range of academic programs. This article provides a detailed overview of UniZulu, including its campuses, courses, fees, admission requirements, residences, extracurricular activities, and scholarships.
Campuses
The University of Zululand operates
two campuses:
KwaDlangezwa Campus: This is the main campus located in
KwaDlangezwa, near the town of Empangeni. It houses the majority of the
university's faculties and offers a wide range of undergraduate and
postgraduate programs. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities, including
lecture halls, libraries, laboratories, and recreational areas.
Richards Bay Campus: Situated in the industrial hub of
Richards Bay, this campus focuses on providing career-focused programs that
cater to the needs of the local industry. It offers programs in commerce, law,
and management studies, with an emphasis on practical training and community
engagement.
Courses Offered
The University of Zululand offers a
diverse array of academic programs across various faculties. These include:
Faculty of Arts:
Degrees: Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of
Social Work (BSW), Bachelor of Education (BEd), and various postgraduate
degrees.
Faculty of Commerce, Administration,
and Law:
Degrees: Bachelor of Commerce (BCom),
Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Bachelor of Administration (BAdmin), and postgraduate
degrees.
Faculty of Education:
Degrees: Bachelor of Education (BEd) in
various specializations, and postgraduate degrees.
Faculty of Science and Agriculture:
Degrees: Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor
of Agriculture (B Agric), Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSc Agric), and
postgraduate degrees.
Faculty of Health Sciences:
Degrees: Bachelor of Nursing (BNurs),
Bachelor of Science in Human Movement Science (BSc HMS), and postgraduate
degrees.
Please note, this is just a general
overview of what the university has to offer. Click here to view the universities prospectus.
Fun Fact
A fun fact about the University of
Zululand is that it is the only comprehensive tertiary educational institution
north of the Tugela River in KwaZulu-Natal. This unique position enables it to
cater to a vast rural population, providing them with access to higher
education and contributing significantly to regional development.
Average Fees
The fees at the University of
Zululand vary depending on the program and level of study. On average,
undergraduate tuition fees range from ZAR 25,000 to ZAR 35,000 per year.
Postgraduate programs can cost between ZAR 30,000 and ZAR 45,000 annually.
These fees cover tuition, registration, and examination costs but exclude
accommodation and other living expenses.
Admission Requirements and APS Scores
To qualify for admission to the
University of Zululand, prospective students must meet specific requirements,
including the calculation of the Admission Point Score (APS). The APS is a
score derived from the student's performance in their matriculation (Grade 12)
exams.
Undergraduate Programs: The minimum APS required varies by
program. Generally, an APS of 28 is needed for admission to most degree
programs. Specific programs, especially those in health sciences and
engineering, may require a higher APS, often around 32 to 34.
Postgraduate Programs: Admission to postgraduate programs
typically requires a relevant undergraduate degree with a satisfactory academic
record.
How to Apply
The application process for the
University of Zululand involves several steps:
Online Application: Prospective students
must complete an online application form through the CAO website [CAO apply].
It is important to provide accurate and complete information.
Supporting Documents: This includes
your ID, school transcripts (Grade 11 and 12 if applicable), and any required
test scores.
Application Fee: A non-refundable
application fee, usually around ZAR 250, must be paid. International students are
to pay R300. Should your application be late, you pay R470 as a South African student,
and if you are an international student, you pay R580. Please note, late
applications will not be accepted after the 1st of November. The application
fees are non-refundable.
Submission: Once all documents are
gathered and the form is filled out, it should be submitted before the
application deadline, which typically falls around the 31st of
October for the following academic year.
Review and Acceptance: The university
reviews applications and notifies successful candidates. Admission letters and
further instructions are sent out to those who meet the criteria.
Residences
The University of Zululand offers
several on-campus accommodation options, providing a safe and convenient living
environment for students. The residences are designed to cater to different
needs, including:
KwaDlangezwa Campus Residences: These include traditional
dormitory-style accommodations and apartment-style living spaces. Facilities
typically include study rooms, common areas, laundry facilities, and internet
access.
Richards Bay Campus Residences: These residences are tailored to
students attending this campus, offering similar amenities to ensure a
comfortable stay.
Living on campus provides students
with easy access to academic resources, extracurricular activities, and a
vibrant community life. Additionally, there are private accommodations available
for students who do not get offered a university residence.
Extramural Activities
UniZulu places a strong emphasis on
the holistic development of its students, offering a wide range of
extracurricular activities. These include:
Sports: The university has excellent sports
facilities and offers various sports programs, including soccer, rugby,
cricket, netball, basketball, and athletics. Students can participate in
intramural leagues and represent the university in inter-university competitions.
Cultural Activities: There are numerous cultural clubs
and societies that celebrate the rich heritage of the region. These include
drama clubs, dance groups, and music bands, providing students with
opportunities to showcase their talents.
Student Organizations: A variety of student-run
organizations and clubs cater to diverse interests, including academic
societies, debate clubs, environmental groups, and more. These organizations
help students develop leadership skills and engage in community service.
Scholarships
The University of Zululand offers
several scholarships and financial aid options to support deserving students.
These include:
Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded to students who have
demonstrated academic excellence. These scholarships cover part or all of the
tuition fees and are renewable based on continued academic performance.
Need-based Financial Aid: Available to students from
financially disadvantaged backgrounds. The university assesses the financial
needs of applicants and provides assistance accordingly.
External Scholarships: UniZulu collaborates with various
organizations and foundations that offer scholarships to students. These
include corporate scholarships, government bursaries, and international
scholarships.
The University of Zululand is a
prominent institution that provides high-quality education to a diverse student
body. With its comprehensive range of programs, modern facilities, and strong
support systems, UniZulu ensures that students are well-prepared for their
future careers. From its vibrant campuses to its extensive extracurricular
activities and scholarships, UniZulu stands out as a university that nurtures
both academic and personal growth.
Whether you are a prospective student
looking for a place to study or simply interested in learning more about this
esteemed institution, UniZulu offers a dynamic and enriching environment that
is worth exploring.
