Overview
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is one of South Africa’s leading public universities, established in 2005 through the merger of Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and parts of Vista University. Located in the heart of Johannesburg, Gauteng, UJ is a vibrant, diverse institution with a student population exceeding 50,000, including over 3,000 international students from more than 80 countries. Students typically choose UJ for its broad qualification offerings, practical learning options in fields like engineering and health sciences, and a strong focus on preparing graduates for work and further study. The university is known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and global engagement. With four main campuses—Auckland Park Kingsway, Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein, and Soweto—UJ offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across nine faculties, including Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, and the Arts. Guided by its motto “Service Through Knowledge”, UJ continues to play a transformative role in higher education in Africa and beyond.
If you are comparing options in the same region, you may also want to review guides for similar study pathways, such as the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) or the University of Pretoria.
2. General Information
| Name | University of Johannesburg (UJ) |
| Established | 1 January 2005 (via merger of RAU, Technikon Witwatersrand, and Vista campuses) |
| Type | Public University |
| Motto | Diens Deur Kennis (Afrikaans) – “Service Through Knowledge” |
| Location | Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa |
| Campuses | Auckland Park Kingsway (APK), Auckland Park Bunting Road (APB), Doornfontein (DFC), Soweto (SWC) |
| Student Population | Over 50,000 students, including more than 3,000 international students from over 80 countries |
| Academic Staff | 1,276 permanent instructional/research professional staff |
| Chancellor | Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka |
| Vice-Chancellor | Letlhokwa George Mpedi |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition fees can vary by programme, module type, and whether a course includes laboratory or practical components. Use the ranges below as a starting point, and confirm your final fee estimate for the specific qualification you want to study.
| Humanities | R41,177 – R50,874 |
| College of Business and Economics | R23,050 – R51,851 |
| Science (Non-laboratory modules) | R43,121 – R51,230 |
| Science (Laboratory modules) | R64,677 – R71,947 |
| Law | R41,661 – R47,837 |
| Education | R41,661 – R55,607 |
| Health Sciences (Non-laboratory modules) | R51,115 – R52,322 |
| Health Sciences (Laboratory modules) | R48,689 – R86,347 |
| Engineering and the Built Environment | R48,689 – R62,468 |
| Art, Design & Architecture | R48,689 – R62,468 |
For additional planning, it can also help to compare how fees and academic support typically differ across public universities such as the Stellenbosch University (note: confirm current programme fees directly with the institution).
4. Faculties
- Art, Design and Architecture
- Business and Economics
- Education
- Engineering and the Built Environment
- Health Sciences
- Humanities
- Law
- Science
- College of Business and Economic
Because UJ is structured around these faculties, your application route often determines which academic regulations, module prerequisites, and assessment formats apply. If you are exploring research or broad public-university options, the University of Cape Town (UCT) is a useful benchmark for how South African faculties and academic pathways can be organised.
5. Specialized Programs
- Some programs, especially those in engineering, health sciences, and science (laboratory-based), may have higher tuition due to the additional resources, labs, and equipment required for practical learning.
- Certain programmes may also include work-integrated learning, clinical exposure, studio or design components, or specialist software and equipment. Always check the specific programme page or your faculty requirements to confirm what is included.
- Always check with the university for specific program requirements and costs.
6. University Resources and Support for Students
- Academic Support Services: UJ provides support services such as academic tutoring, writing workshops, and assistance for students with disabilities. These are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
- Career Services: UJ’s career center offers workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and internship placements to help students prepare for their careers after graduation.
- Health and Counseling Services: The university offers a variety of health services, including counseling, mental health support, and general health clinics. Students are encouraged to use these services if they need emotional or physical health support during their studies.
- International student adjustment: For students coming from outside South Africa, plan early for accommodation, document requirements, and onboarding processes. If you are also comparing institutions across the region, guides like the University of Nairobi can be helpful when researching how universities manage student services in different countries.
7. Content information
- Phone (Call Centre): +27 (0)11 559 4555
- WhatsApp: +27 87 240 6854
- Email: mylife@uj.ac.za
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