South Africa is a country with a rich history and culture. It is also known for its excellent educational system. Many reputable universities, colleges, and schools in South Africa offer high-quality education and training in IT.
The government’s aspirations to tackle the fourth industrial revolution head-on are threatened by South Africa’s chronic technical skills shortage.
This impact is seen most acutely in the scientific, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions, where expertise is required to fulfil the escalating expectations of business and industry to stay up with technology.
Page Contents
- Where To Study IT In South Africa
- 1. University of Cape Town
- 2. University of Witwatersrand
- 3. University of Johannesburg
- 4. University of Pretoria
- 5. University of KwaZulu-Natal
- 6. University of Stellenbosch
- 7. North-West University
- 8. Nelson Mandela University
- 9. University of South Africa
- 10. Rhodes University
- Is computer science tough to study?
- What does a person in IT do?
- What courses must I take to major in information technology?
Where To Study IT In South Africa
Here is a list of the best IT schools in South Africa. These schools offer IT, programming, computer science and web design courses. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in IT, then these schools will be able to prepare you for the challenges you’ll face once you’re out there on your own.
These courses are accredited by the South African Department of Education and Training (DET) and will equip you with the skills to be an Information Technology professional. The following list includes some of the best IT schools in South Africa:
1. University of Cape Town
Top-ranked in Africa, the University of Cape Town provides graduate and undergraduate students with various programs that offer top-notch IT training and growth opportunities. At the University of Cape Town, unemployed people can profit from academic programs and boot camps.
Digital libraries, network and information security, visual computing, high-performance computing and big data, and information and communication technology (ICT) for development are the key areas of interest for staff researchers.
In addition to those in telecommunications, scientific and high-performance computing, visual effects, and animation, the department maintains connections with many other IT-based companies around the nation.
- Location: Rondebosch, 7700, Cape Town, South Africa
- Website: http://www.sit.uct.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 21 650 9111
- Email address: admissions@uct.ac.za
2. University of Witwatersrand
The digital requirements of students at this school are sufficiently met by a bachelor’s degree in information engineering. IT-related disciplines like software engineering, communications, and computer networking are taught to students at the university. Students can learn how to build and create cutting-edge software in this 4-year full-time program.
At Witwatersrand, you will concentrate on improving your math, physics, and chemistry skills during your first two years of college. You can enrol in the Information Engineering degree at the beginning of the third year if you want to switch from Electrical Engineering to it.
Engineering Design, Engineering Laboratory, and Systems Management are just a few of the five additional courses you’ll take in your final year.
- Location: 1 Jan Smuts Avenue, Braamfontein 2000, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Website: http://www.wits.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 11 717 1000
- Email address: info.ccdu@wits.ac.za
3. University of Johannesburg
The Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering (ACSSE) is pleased to offer top computer science and informatics graduates to the expanding IT industries of South Africa and the rest of the world. To promote South Africa as a nation, the Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering works to build capability in the information technology sector.
The University of Johannesburg’s master’s in information technology program offers master’s-level courses in the following IT specializations: Artificial Intelligence and Immune Systems, Information Technology Security, Information Technology Governance, Services Computing, Computer informatics, and software engineering.
Students can become specialists in any field they choose, thanks to this. The students receive two years of training.
- Location: Auckland Park 2006, South Africa PO 524
- Website: https://www.uj.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 (0) 11 559 4555
- Email address: mylife@uj.ac.za
4. University of Pretoria
Students at the School of Information Technology (SIT) benefit from an integrated approach to information technology through study programs and well-equipped labs for computer science, informatics, and information science.
With a focus on industry-related trends, every degree program offered by SIT is highly sought after in the IT sector. The curriculum meets the highest international standards and offers students a foundation for further learning in an IT career and creating high-quality software.
It also gives students a breadth and depth of computing skills, problem-solving skills, and a foundation for continued learning.
- Location: Lynnwood Rd, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
- Website: https://www.up.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 12 420 4111
- Email address: enquiries@online.up.ac.za
5. University of KwaZulu-Natal
One of the industries with the fastest job growth is technology. Computer science graduates can introduce and develop new computational solutions and technologies because it spans both the theoretical and applied aspects of the study.
The discipline’s goal is to give students a firm foundation in technology and in the creation, application, and administration of outstanding solutions to technical challenges. Additionally, the program prepares students for the continual retraining required by the computing industry. IS & T is a thriving and fascinating industry.
In the “new” economy, a global setting where enterprises compete, there are continuously new developments, most recently in the fields of big data, mobile, and internet commerce. Information systems are essential in this context to handle information flows.
- Location: 238 Mazisi Kunene Rd, Glenwood, Durban, 4041, South Africa
- Website: http://www.ukzn.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 31 260 1111
- Email address: enquiries@ukzn.ac.za
6. University of Stellenbosch
During the first year, students who choose CIS as their major will learn about problem-solving strategies, programming (using JAVA), and software engineering.
The second year includes more complex programming techniques, computer architecture, systems analysis and design, and a thorough examination of modern operating systems. In their last year of undergrad studies, students are introduced to more complex subjects such as data transmission networks, databases, and computer security.
A topic devoted to managing information systems is taught around the conclusion of the third year. The components of Computer Science and Information Systems programs make up the CIS curriculum. Students can gain knowledge of and exposure to advancements in the intricate field of information systems and technology thanks to this combination of the two disciplines.
- Location: Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Website: http://www.sun.ac.za/english
- Phone number: +27 21 808 9111
- Email address: info@sun.ac.za
7. North-West University
Online videos and activities are mainly used to offer lectures and tutorial classes. For the convenience of the students, all lessons are saved under Downloads.
The virtual learning environment eFundi, communication with instructors and facilitators, a contact centre, library services, and numerous self-help resources are all used to support students.
All exams are given in test centres, where staff from NWU sets the questions and evaluates the answers to ensure that every student has achieved the appropriate module and program results. The only language used for instruction in distance learning courses is English.
Students will learn computerized system design, development, and delivery; management of information and information sources; creation of IT-related solutions; lifelong learning; and entrepreneurship in the course of study.
- Location: 11 Hoffman St, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
- Website: https://www.nwu.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 18 299-1111, +27 18 299-2222
- Email address: studies@mynwu.info
8. Nelson Mandela University
Nelson Mandela University is dedicated to transforming the world by actively promoting innovation in the nation, encouraging creativity, embracing technology, and training individuals to confront future problems.
It is the first institution of higher learning in South Africa to use drones legitimately. This success helped it get closer to its goal of providing a wide variety of educational opportunities that can change people’s lives for the better.
The School of Engineering can now offer undergraduate and graduate students the chance to develop specialized skills in a technical setting that supports the South African community and the specialized drone operations market. This is made possible by the establishment of its Drone unit.
- Location: University Way, Summerstrand, Gqeberha, 6019, South Africa
- Website: https://www.mandela.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 41 504 1111
- Email address: info@mandela.ac.za
9. University of South Africa
The College of Science, Engineering, and Technology is committed to offering affordable, accessible, high-quality, and relevant science, engineering, and technology programs. The college offers creative delivery methods, community engagement initiatives, and academic and administrative staff and systems to support its large student body.
Through advanced technology for engaging teaching and learning, the college takes pleasure in being the national leader in open distance e-Learning for Science and Engineering Certificate, Diploma, and Degree programs.
In particular, this college enrols more undergraduates in science and engineering than any other institution in South Africa and also accepts students from other African countries.
The college conducts advanced research with top institutions and industry partners worldwide using state-of-the-art facilities and high-tech equipment.
In addition to participating in Engaged Scholarship, initiatives are integrated with the Research programs and Teaching & Learning modules, the academic staff, and researchers at CSET.
- Location: Preller St, Muckleneuk, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
- Website: https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default
- Phone number: +27 12 429 3111
- Email address: infoservices@unisa.ac.za
10. Rhodes University
The Rhodes University faculty, staff, and students can get their information and communication technology needs to be met through the Information and Technology Services (I&TS) Division. The school focuses on five areas, each of which offers specialized services. They include Application Development, Directorate, Management Information Systems, IT Operations, and Service Delivery.
- Location: Drosty Rd, Grahamstown, Makhanda, 6139, South Africa
- Website: https://www.ru.ac.za/
- Phone number: +27 46 603 8111
- Email address: registrar@ru.ac.za
Is computer science tough to study?
If you are persistent and patient, computer science is not tough. Take your time, as the most crucial qualities in computer science are being disciplined, systematic, and patient. Computer science is what you make of it, just like any other subject of study.
What does a person in IT do?
Most frequently, an IT professional would be employed by a business’s information technology division. In terms of their computers, this person would assist the office workers.
What courses must I take to major in information technology?
The BIT course covers the following topics: Business Management, Economics, Statistics, Mathematics, English, Advanced Programming, Systems Development, Philosophy, Financial Accounting, Data Structures and Algorithms, Operating Systems, Databases, Networks, and Artificial Intelligence.
In South Africa, information technology (IT) is one of the most popular industries in the country. With so many people pursuing careers in IT, there are many schools offering courses to students who want to pursue this path. These institutions have consistently produced top-quality graduates and have been accredited by the South African Council for Higher Education (CHE).