Rhodes University Overview
Rhodes University, located in the historic town of Makhana (formerly Grahamstown) in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is a respected small public research university known for strong academics and an engaging student experience. Founded in 1904, Rhodes has built its reputation across fields such as humanities, journalism, law, and science, supported by a substantial postgraduate community and ongoing research activity.
One of Rhodes’ most appealing features is the learning environment: smaller classes and a low student-to-lecturer ratio help students receive closer mentorship, feedback, and guidance as they progress through their degrees. The campus also blends historic architecture with modern teaching and support facilities, creating a distinctive setting for study.
2. General Information
| University Name | Rhodes University |
| Established | 31 May 1904 |
| Type | Public Research University |
| Motto | “Where Leaders Learn” |
| Location | Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), Eastern Cape, South Africa |
| Chancellor | Lex Mpati |
| Vice-Chancellor | Sizwe Mabizela |
| Student Population | Approximately 7,000 |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Faculties | Humanities, Commerce, Law, Science, Education, Pharmacy |
| Website | https://www.ru.ac.za |
3. Rhodes University Fee structure
Note: Fees can change year to year based on programme, intake, and any annual adjustments. Always confirm the latest charges directly with Rhodes University before applying or paying deposits.
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | R60,662 |
| BA Foundation Course (First 2 years) | R44,030/year |
| Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) | R66,368 |
| BCom Foundation Course (First 2 years) | R47,943/year |
| Bachelor of Business Science (BBusSc) | R66,368 (Years 1–3) |
| BBusSc (4th Year) | R53,161 |
| Bachelor of Education (BEd) | R60,584 |
| Bachelor of Fine Art (BFineArt) | R60,662 |
| Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn) – Year 1 | R60,662 |
| Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn) – Year 2 | R71,180 |
| Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn) – Year 3 | R76,530 |
| Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn) – Year 4 | R78,404 |
| Bachelor of Music (BMus) | R64,251 |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) – Year 1 | R65,410 |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) – Year 2 | R69,594 |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) – Year 3 | R71,417 |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) – Year 4 | R74,772 |
4. Faculties and Departments of Rhodes University
Rhodes University offers a diverse academic structure designed to support both focused degree pathways and research opportunities. The university is organised into six main faculties: Humanities, Commerce, Law, Science, Education, and Pharmacy. Each faculty includes multiple departments that offer specialised undergraduate programmes as well as postgraduate study options.
For example, within the Faculty of Humanities, students can explore departments such as English, History, Philosophy, and Journalism. If you’re comparing study options across South Africa, you may also want to review similar academic environments at universities like the University of Cape Town or Stellenbosch University, especially if your interests span broader research fields and larger departmental offerings.
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Commerce
- Bachelor of Business Science
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Economics
- Advanced Diploma in Business Analysis
- Postgraduate Diplomas in Accountancy, Business Analysis, Enterprise Management, and Taxation
5. Specialized Strengths
- Journalism and Media Studies – world-renowned
- Philosophy, English, Politics, and Fine Art
- Environmental Science and Ichthyology – top research fields in Africa
- Pharmacy – strong industry collaboration and training
Students choosing Rhodes often do so because the university is known for academic depth in selected disciplines. If you’re looking at comparable research-focused options in major cities, you can also compare with institutions such as the University of the Witwatersrand, which is widely recognised for research and science-related pathways.
6. Contact Information
- Website: https://www.ru.ac.za
- Phone: +27 46 603 8111
- Email: registrar@ru.ac.za
More Universities in South Africa
- University of Cape Town
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Pretoria
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