Rhodes University

Rhodes University

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

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