University of Pretoria

Overview

The University of Pretoria is a multi-faculty, research-intensive university based in South Africa. Internationally recognized for its academic and research quality, the university offers various academic programs in a broad range of fields. It serves over 50,000 students, with subjects taught across 140 academic departments and 85 research institutes, centers, and units. The university is also considered the largest contact university in the country and one of the leading institutions in all of Africa.

Originally a part of the Johannesburg-based Transvaal University College, the University of Pretoria was established in 1908 and initially offered courses in languages, sciences, and law. It commenced academic activities with only 32 students, four professors, and three lecturers until the establishment of additional faculties and academic departments in later years. As the university’s academic activities were expanded, the student population also increased over the century, making it one of the leading research-intensive universities in the continent.

The university also produces the highest number of graduates in South Africa annually. Widely known for its quality, relevance, and impact, the University of Pretoria continuously strives for the highest standards of teaching in research. It is currently divided into nine highly regarded faculties—Faculties of Economic and Management Sciences; Education; Health Sciences; Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology; Humanities; Natural and Agricultural Sciences; Law; Theology and Religion; and Veterinary Science.

Across all fields of study, the University of Pretoria strongly promotes a culture of excellent teaching, enabling students to maximize their own intellectual potential in their respective fields. It also gives a strong focus on inclusivity and equitable access to education using contact sessions in traditional lectures, practical sites, laboratories, and seminars. With over 100 years of experience, the university offers inquiry-based, hybrid, and community-based learning approaches.

Furthermore, the University of Pretoria boasts of state-of-the-art research facilities, academic libraries, and modern laboratories. Spread across seven campuses in the city of Pretoria, the university provides students with spaces where they can learn or study individually or by group. It also presents various skills development and practical learning opportunities, allowing students to achieve academic development and become well-rounded graduates in the future.

Students at the University of Pretoria can also benefit from the additional activities and learning resources offered by the university. They can choose from a wide range of support services and offerings, including mentoring, tutoring, and advising services. In pursuit of academic excellence, the university supports students in conducting research in their field to learn and discover answers on their own.