Welcome to Rhodes University, founded in 1904, the University has a well-established reputation for academic excellence.

With just over 8200 students, Rhodes is a small University, which enjoys the distinction of having among the best undergraduate pass and graduation rates in South Africa, outstanding postgraduate success rates, and the best research output per academic staff member. This is a testimony to the quality of students that Rhodes attracts and of academic provision, and to the commitment of Rhodes staff to student development and success.

Alexis Brown / Unsplash

Of our more than 8000 students, 30% are postgraduates and over 18% are international students from 54 countries around the world, making Rhodes a dynamic and cosmopolitan knowledge institution. Students are able to undertake an extensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the faculties of Humanities, Science, Commerce, Pharmacy, Law, and Education. With the most favourable academic staff to student ratio among South African universities, Rhodes students are guaranteed easy access to academics and close supervision.

The University takes pride in its motto, Where Leaders Learn, and producing graduates who are knowledgeable intellectuals, skilled professionals, and critical, caring and compassionate citizens who can contribute to economic and social development and an equitable, just and democratic society.

Almost 50% of Rhodes students and the majority of undergraduates live in the University residences, while there also special residences for postgraduates. Through a well-established structure of wardens, sub-wardens and residence committees, the residences play an important role in overall student development, including developing leadership skills.

Numerous clubs and societies provide extensive opportunities for students to participate in a variety of intellectual, social, cultural, and sports activities and further develop valuable skills.

Rhodes University looks to the future with confidence, secure that as indawo yolwazi (a place of knowledge) and through the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research and community engagement it produces outstanding graduates that are sought after and makes a vital contribution to human and social development.

Becca Tapert / Unsplash

Our graduates perform well in an increasingly competitive job market and are highly regarded by employers around the world. During your time here, we will help you prepare for your chosen career. The employability of our graduates continues to increase and rates up there with the very best the world has to offer. Our degree offering prepares students for the job market by ensuring they develop the skills employers want, whether through work experience, volunteering or social activities.

Orientation Week is designed not only to provide you with information on courses that are on offer at Rhodes University but also to expose you to the wide array of services and opportunities provided by the University to enhance your chances of success. The overarching goal of our Directorate of Student Affairs is to “create a living and learning student support system and an environment which is inclusive and is conducive to a healthy lifestyle, personal growth, development and academic success for our students.”

Our academic and support staff are here to support you; they are here to help you realise your dreams, goals and aspirations; they are here to make your university experience a positive, rewarding and fulfilling one. As a small University with dedicated and committed staff, we are able to offer that personal touch that may make a difference in your life. We encourage you to use all the professional assistance and support that is available.

On behalf of our students and staff, welcome to Rhodes University. You can rest assured that you have made the right choice for your studies. You have selected a quality institution and have taken an essential step towards achieving your personal aspirations.