Rhodes University Faculties and Courses Offered
Rhodes University provides a diverse array of faculties and courses to cater to the academic pursuits of its students. Below is a comprehensive list of the faculties and the corresponding courses offered:
Faculty of Commerce
- Bachelor of Business Science
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Economics
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accountancy
- Postgraduate Diploma in Enterprise Management
Faculty of Education
- BEd (Foundation Phase Teaching) degree
- BEd (in-service) degrees
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Higher Education
- Bachelor of Education Honours
- Masters in Education degrees
- PhD (Education) degrees
Faculty of Humanities
- Bachelor of Art – BA
- Bachelor of Fine Art – BFA
- Bachelor of Journalism – BJourn
- Bachelor of Music – BMus
- Bachelor of Social Science – BSS
Faculty of Law
- LLB
Faculty of Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Pharmacy degree
Faculty of Science
List of Departments:
- Accounting
- Afrikaans and Netherlandic Studies
- African Languages
- Anthropology
- Biochemistry, Microbiology
- Biotechnology Innovation Centre
- Botany
- Business School
- Centre for Higher Education Research, Teaching and Learning
- Chemistry
- Chinese
- Classical Studies
- Computer Science
- Drama
- Economics and Economics History
- Education
- English Language and Linguistics
- Environmental Science
- Extended Studies Unit
- Fine Art
- French
- Geography
- Geology
- German
- History
- Human Kinetics and Ergonomics
- Ichthyology and Fisheries Science
- Information Systems
- Journalism & Media Studies
- Law
- Literary Studies in English
- Management
- Mathematics (Pure and Applied)
- Modern Fiction
- Music & Musicology
- Pharmacy
- Philosophy
- Physics and Electronics
- Political and International Studies
- Psychology
- School of Languages
- Sociology
- Statistics
- Zoology and Entomology
Prospectus
Rhodes University’s prospectus provides detailed information about the institution and the available courses. It includes guidance on the application process, registration, contact details, and the advantages of accepting admission to Rhodes University. The prospectus can be downloaded from the university’s website.
Entry Requirements
In order to study at Rhodes University, applicants must meet specific entry requirements:
- Applicants must qualify for Bachelor’s degree study and satisfy the faculty requirements.
- To qualify with a Bachelor’s pass status, applicants must take seven subjects, including four compulsory subjects (two languages, Life Orientation, and either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy), and three subjects of their choice from the school’s offering.
- Applicants must pass English language at an achievement rating of 4 (50 – 59%) or above.
- At least four of the seven subjects must be from the recommended subject list, with an achievement rating of 4 (50 – 59%) or above.
- Applicants must meet faculty requirements, including subject requirements and percentage criteria.
- Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
Recommended Subject List:
Accounting, Agricultural Science, Business Studies, Consumer Studies, Dramatic Arts, Engineering Graphics & Design, Economics, Geography, History, Information Technology, Languages, Life Sciences, Mathematics / Mathematical Literacy, Music, Physical Science, Religion Studies, Visual Arts.
The minimum entry requirements for admission to Rhodes University are specified in the table below, outlining required point levels, achievement levels for Mathematical Literacy, and the need for Life and/or Physical Sciences for degrees in Science or Pharmacy.
Table of Contents
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.