Best Universities to Study Teaching in South Africa
Best Universities to Study Teaching in South Africa
Choosing the right university is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when pursuing a career in education. South Africa has several universities that offer accredited teaching qualifications designed to prepare future educators for careers in public schools, private schools, TVET colleges, and other educational institutions.
This guide highlights some of the best universities to study teaching in South Africa, the qualifications they offer, admission requirements, and factors to consider before applying.
Why Study Teaching?
Teaching is a rewarding profession that allows you to inspire learners, contribute to society, and build a stable and fulfilling career. Qualified teachers remain in demand across South Africa, particularly in subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Technology, and African Languages.
Benefits of studying teaching include:
- Strong career prospects
- Opportunities for promotion
- Competitive salaries and employee benefits
- Job stability
- The opportunity to make a positive impact on learners’ lives
- Flexible career paths within education
What Teaching Qualifications Are Available?
South African universities commonly offer two pathways into the teaching profession.
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
The Bachelor of Education is a four-year undergraduate degree that prepares students for professional teaching. The programme combines educational theory with practical classroom experience.
Students can usually specialise in:
- Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)
- Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6)
- Senior Phase (Grades 7–9)
- Further Education and Training (Grades 10–12)
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Graduates who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another discipline can qualify as teachers by completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
The PGCE provides teaching methodology, educational theory, and supervised teaching practice.
Best Universities to Study Teaching in South Africa
1. University of Pretoria (UP)
The University of Pretoria is recognised for its Faculty of Education and strong teacher training programmes. Students benefit from modern facilities, experienced lecturers, and extensive teaching practice opportunities.
Why choose UP?
- Excellent academic reputation
- Strong practical teaching experience
- Research-focused education
- Wide range of teaching specialisations
2. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg offers well-established education programmes that prepare students for teaching across different school phases.
Highlights include:
- Modern learning facilities
- Technology-enhanced teaching
- Practical classroom experience
- Strong graduate employability
3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits University is known for producing highly qualified educators equipped with strong leadership and teaching skills.
Students benefit from:
- Experienced academic staff
- Innovative teaching methods
- Community engagement
- Extensive school placements
4. Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University has one of South Africa’s leading education faculties and is recognised for academic excellence and educational research.
Advantages include:
- High-quality teacher education
- Practical school experience
- Leadership development
- Strong research opportunities
5. University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT offers internationally respected education programmes designed to prepare graduates for diverse teaching environments.
Students gain:
- Comprehensive teacher training
- Research opportunities
- Community-based learning
- Exposure to modern educational practices
6. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN prepares future teachers through a balanced combination of theoretical learning and practical classroom experience.
Students benefit from:
- Diverse teaching placements
- Community-focused education
- Strong academic support
- Practical teaching experience
7. North-West University (NWU)
North-West University offers accredited teaching programmes focused on developing skilled and confident educators.
Highlights include:
- Modern teaching facilities
- Practical school placements
- Professional development
- Student support services
8. Nelson Mandela University
Nelson Mandela University provides quality teacher education with a strong emphasis on community engagement and learner-centred teaching.
Students receive:
- Practical classroom experience
- Experienced lecturers
- Modern learning environments
- Career-focused education
9. University of the Free State (UFS)
The University of the Free State offers comprehensive teacher education programmes that prepare graduates for teaching careers across South Africa.
Reasons to choose UFS include:
- Well-established Faculty of Education
- Practical teaching experience
- Academic excellence
- Student support programmes
10. University of South Africa (UNISA)
UNISA is one of the largest distance-learning universities in Africa and offers flexible teaching qualifications suitable for working adults and students who require online learning.
Benefits include:
- Flexible distance education
- Affordable tuition
- National accessibility
- Wide range of education programmes
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary between universities, but applicants are generally expected to have:
- A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification
- Appropriate Admission Point Score (APS)
- English proficiency
- Good academic performance
- Subject requirements for the chosen teaching specialisation
Always check the latest admission requirements before applying.
How Long Does It Take to Study Teaching?
The Bachelor of Education generally takes four years to complete.
Students who already hold a bachelor’s degree can usually complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in one year of full-time study.
Teaching Practice
Teaching practice is a compulsory component of teacher education.
During school placements, students gain practical experience in:
- Lesson planning
- Classroom management
- Learner assessment
- Teaching different age groups
- Professional communication
- School administration
Teaching practice helps prepare graduates for full-time employment.
Tuition Fees and Study Costs
The cost of studying teaching differs between universities.
Students should budget for:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Textbooks
- Teaching materials
- Transport
- Living expenses
Many universities also provide financial aid and payment plans.
Teaching Bursaries
Several bursaries are available to students studying teaching.
Funding opportunities include:
- Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
- Provincial Department of Education bursaries
- University bursaries
- Private sector bursaries
- Scholarship programmes
Applying early can improve your chances of securing financial assistance.
How to Choose the Right University
Before applying, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation status
- Programme reputation
- Teaching practice opportunities
- Tuition fees
- Financial aid availability
- Campus location
- Student support services
- Graduate employment outcomes
Choosing the right university can have a significant impact on your education and future career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which university is best for studying teaching?
Several universities offer excellent teacher education programmes, including the University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University, and the University of the Witwatersrand. The best choice depends on your career goals, preferred location, and programme offerings.
Can I study teaching through distance learning?
Yes. Universities such as UNISA offer accredited teaching qualifications through distance learning, making them suitable for students who require flexible study options.
Do I need Mathematics to study teaching?
Requirements differ depending on the university and the teaching specialisation. Some programmes require Mathematics, while others may accept Mathematical Literacy.
Is teaching a good career?
Yes. Teaching offers job stability, professional growth, competitive benefits, and the opportunity to positively influence the lives of learners.
Final Thoughts
South Africa has many excellent universities that prepare future teachers for rewarding careers in education. Whether you choose to study at a traditional university or through distance learning, selecting an accredited institution with strong practical training will provide a solid foundation for your teaching career.
Research each university carefully, compare admission requirements, explore available bursaries, and choose a programme that aligns with your career goals. With the right education and commitment, you can become a skilled educator who helps shape the future of South Africa.