University of KwaZulu-Natal
About the university
University of KwaZulu-Natal is one of the leading public research universities in South Africa, formed through the merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. It has five campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, giving students access to both academic environments and coastal city life. The university is especially strong in health sciences, engineering, and agriculture, and plays a key role in research focused on African development and public health. With partnerships in over 50 countries, students benefit from exchange programs and international collaboration.
Key information
- Location: Durban, ZA
- Ranking #5
- QS #558
- THE #501
- National ranking #5
- Institution type: public
Popular faculties
- Medicine
- Health Sciences
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Law
- Business
- Agriculture
Programs (29)
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Pharmacy
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance and Accounting
- Marketing
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Law
- Political Science
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- History
- Linguistics
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Education
- Fine Arts
- Music
Student body
- Total students: 33,600
- Undergraduate: 28,000
- Graduate: 5,675
- International students: 2%
Campus life
Student life at UKZN combines academic focus with a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Campuses in Durban are close to the Indian Ocean, so students often balance studies with outdoor activities like beach sports and social events. The university has a diverse student community, which creates a multicultural environment. Facilities include libraries, labs, sports complexes, and student centers. Compared to Europe or the US, the cost of living is relatively low, making it a practical option for international students.
Housing & accommodation
Housing cost: $200 - $600 / per month
Housing options
- On-campus residences
- Private apartments
- Shared housing
Student clubs and organizations
- Entrepreneurship club
- Cultural societies
- Debate club
- Environmental club
- Student representative council
Sports
- Football
- Rugby
- Cricket
- Athletics
- Swimming
Career & internships
Employment rate: 80%
Partner companies
- PwC
- Deloitte
- KPMG
- Eskom
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Standard Bank
Internships: UKZN integrates practical experience into many degree programs, especially in health sciences, engineering, and agriculture. Students often complete clinical practice, fieldwork, or industry placements as part of their studies. The university collaborates with hospitals, research institutes, and companies, helping students gain relevant experience before graduation. Career services also support CV preparation and job search strategies.
Admission requirements
Required documents
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copy
- English proficiency test
- Application form
Minimum GPA: 2.7
Tuition costs
- $3,000 - $8,000 / per year
- Acceptance rate: 40.00%
- Scholarships available: UKZN offers scholarships mainly based on academic performance and financial need. International students have limited internal funding options, but high-achieving applicants may receive merit awards, especially in fields like science, engineering, and health. Postgraduate students can access research grants and funded projects. External funding from South African government programs and international organizations is also an important option.
Quick facts
- Founded: 2004
- Teaching languages: english
- Study formats: offline
Contact
- [email protected]
- +27 31 260 1111