What Are Universities? A Complete Guide for South African Students
Choosing what to do after high school can feel overwhelming, especially when you hear terms like:
- university,
- college,
- TVET,
- diploma,
- degree,
- undergraduate,
- postgraduate,
- and higher education.
Many students know they want to “go to university,” but they do not fully understand:
- what universities actually are,
- how they work,
- what qualifications they offer,
- or how universities differ from colleges and TVET institutions.
This guide explains everything you need to know about universities in South Africa, including:
- how universities work,
- types of universities,
- degrees offered,
- admission requirements,
- costs,
- student life,
- and career opportunities.
Whether you are still in high school, taking a gap year, or planning your future career, understanding universities is extremely important because higher education can shape your career path, income potential, and future opportunities.
What Is a University?
A university is a higher education institution where students continue studying after completing Grade 12 (Matric).
Universities provide:
- academic education,
- professional training,
- research opportunities,
- and qualifications that prepare students for careers in various industries.
Unlike high school, universities focus on specialised learning in fields such as:
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Law
- Business
- Accounting
- Science
- Information Technology
- Education
- Psychology
- Media
- and many others.
Students attend university to gain qualifications that improve their knowledge, skills, and employability.
What Is Higher Education?
Higher education refers to any education completed after high school.
This includes:
- universities,
- TVET colleges,
- universities of technology,
- and other accredited institutions.
Universities form part of South Africa’s higher education system and are regulated by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
What Do Universities Do?
Universities are not just places where people attend classes and write exams.
Their role includes:
- teaching students,
- conducting research,
- developing professional skills,
- creating innovation,
- and preparing graduates for the workforce.
Universities help produce professionals such as:
- engineers,
- doctors,
- teachers,
- lawyers,
- scientists,
- accountants,
- psychologists,
- and business leaders.
They also contribute to:
- economic development,
- technological advancement,
- and national growth.
Types of Universities in South Africa
South Africa has different types of universities, and each serves different educational purposes.
1. Traditional Universities
Traditional universities focus heavily on:
- academic theory,
- research,
- and degree-based learning.
These institutions are ideal for students interested in:
- professional careers,
- academic fields,
- research,
- and postgraduate studies.
Examples include:
- University of Cape Town
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Pretoria
- Stellenbosch University
These universities are often known for:
- strong academic programmes,
- research output,
- and global rankings.
2. Universities of Technology
Universities of Technology focus more on:
- practical learning,
- technical training,
- workplace readiness,
- and industry-related skills.
Programmes often include:
- practical projects,
- laboratory work,
- internships,
- and workplace experience (P1 & P2).
Examples include:
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
These institutions are popular among students interested in:
- engineering,
- IT,
- technical careers,
- design,
- and applied sciences.
3. Comprehensive Universities
Comprehensive universities combine:
- academic learning,
- practical training,
- and vocational programmes.
They offer:
- diplomas,
- degrees,
- certificates,
- and technical programmes.
Examples include:
- University of Johannesburg
- Nelson Mandela University
These universities offer more flexibility because students can choose from multiple learning pathways.
What Qualifications Do Universities Offer?
Universities offer different types of qualifications depending on the field of study and institution.
1. Higher Certificates
Usually:
- 1 year long
- entry-level qualification
- lower admission requirements
Often used as:
- foundation programmes,
- pathway qualifications,
- or entry into further studies.
2. Diplomas
Usually:
- 3 years long
- more practical and career-focused
Diplomas prepare students for technical and workplace-oriented careers.
3. Bachelor’s Degrees
Bachelor’s degrees are among the most recognised university qualifications.
Usually:
- 3 to 4 years long
- more advanced academically
- often required for professional careers
Examples:
- Bachelor of Engineering
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Education
- Bachelor of Laws
4. Honours Degrees
An Honours degree is completed after a bachelor’s degree.
It allows students to:
- specialise further,
- improve career prospects,
- and qualify for postgraduate studies.
5. Master’s Degrees
A Master’s degree is an advanced postgraduate qualification focused on:
- specialisation,
- advanced research,
- and professional expertise.
6. Doctoral Degrees (PhD)
This is the highest university qualification.
PhD students conduct advanced research and contribute new knowledge to their field.
How Long Does University Take?
The length depends on the qualification.
Typical durations:
- Higher Certificate → 1 year
- Diploma → 3 years
- Bachelor’s Degree → 3–4 years
- Engineering/Medical Degrees → 4–6+ years
- Master’s Degree → 1–2 years
- PhD → several years
What Are University Admission Requirements?
To study at university in South Africa, students usually need:
- a National Senior Certificate (Matric),
- specific APS scores,
- and required subjects.
Different courses require different subjects.
Examples:
- Engineering → Mathematics + Physical Science
- Medicine → Mathematics + Science + high APS
- Accounting → Mathematics
- Law → strong language subjects
- Education → varies by programme
Some programmes are extremely competitive and require high marks.
You can check this guide on: How to Apply & Admission Requirements
What Is APS?
APS stands for:
Admission Point Score.
Universities use APS to determine whether students qualify for programmes.
Your Matric subjects and marks are converted into points.
Higher-demand courses require higher APS scores.
How Much Does University Cost?
University can be expensive depending on:
- institution,
- qualification,
- accommodation,
- textbooks,
- transport,
- and lifestyle.
Costs may include:
- registration fees,
- tuition fees,
- accommodation,
- meals,
- and learning materials.
However, financial assistance may be available.
NSFAS Explained
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps eligible South African students pay for:
- tuition,
- accommodation,
- meals,
- and study-related costs.
NSFAS mainly supports students from lower-income households studying at:
- public universities,
- and TVET colleges.
Here is an official website for NSFAS for more information: NSFAS
University Life
University life is very different from high school.
Students are expected to:
- manage their own schedules,
- attend lectures independently,
- complete assignments,
- prepare for exams,
- and balance responsibilities.
University also introduces students to:
- networking,
- independence,
- leadership,
- and personal growth.
Some students live:
- at home,
- in student residences,
- or in private accommodation.
Challenges Students Face at University
University can also be challenging.
Common challenges include:
- financial pressure,
- academic stress,
- adapting to independence,
- time management,
- and balancing responsibilities.
Many first-year students struggle because university requires:
- discipline,
- consistency,
- and self-motivation.
Why Universities Matter
Universities help students:
- gain specialised knowledge,
- improve employability,
- increase income potential,
- and access professional careers.
Many industries require university qualifications for:
- professional registration,
- promotions,
- and career advancement.
Graduates may later work in:
- engineering,
- healthcare,
- finance,
- education,
- law,
- technology,
- mining,
- and business sectors.
Is University the Only Path to Success?
No.
University is valuable, but it is not the only route to success.
Some people succeed through:
- TVET colleges,
- artisan careers,
- entrepreneurship,
- learnerships,
- apprenticeships,
- and technical training.
The best path depends on:
- your goals,
- strengths,
- interests,
- and career ambitions.
University vs TVET College
This is one of the biggest questions many students ask.
Universities:
- more academic,
- theory-focused,
- degree-oriented.
TVET Colleges:
- more practical,
- technical,
- and skills-focused.
Both are valuable depending on the career path.
Important Advice for Students
Before applying to university:
- research careers carefully,
- understand course requirements,
- check APS requirements,
- explore bursaries,
- and think long-term.
Do not choose a course simply because:
- friends are choosing it,
- family pressures you,
- or it “sounds good.”
Choose something aligned with:
- your interests,
- strengths,
- and future goals.
You can also check: The difference between a University & a College
Thabang Maimela’s Tip
A lot of young people think university automatically guarantees success. The truth is:
what you do during university matters just as much as getting accepted.
Students who:
- build skills,
- gain workplace exposure,
- network,
- improve communication,
- and stay disciplined
usually position themselves much better after graduation.
University is not just about getting a qualification, it is also about developing yourself professionally and personally.
I am Thabang Maimela, Founder and Editor of CareersPursuit, a platform dedicated to connecting job seekers with real opportunities across South Africa and beyond. With a strong focus on learnerships, apprenticeships, and entry-level jobs, my mission is to empower individuals by providing reliable, up-to-date career information that helps them take the next step toward employment and growth.