Dlamini BlessingThe University of Fort Hare is one of South Africa’s most prestigious and historically significant institutions. Located in the Eastern Cape, with campuses in Alice, East London, and Bhisho, it has produced some of Africa’s greatest leaders, including Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, and Robert Sobukwe. It is a place where academic excellence meets a rich legacy of struggle and liberation.
Today, Fort Hare continues to offer quality higher education across a range of faculties. It is a comprehensive university offering programmes from undergraduate degrees to postgraduate qualifications. Its location in the Eastern Cape makes it an attractive option for students from the province and beyond.
This guide covers everything you need to know about University of Fort Hare courses and requirements, including available programmes, admission requirements, application process, and important deadlines.
University of Fort Hare Courses and Requirements: Complete Guide
About The University of Fort Hare
The University of Fort Hare was established in 1916 as the South African Native College. It became a university in 1970. It is now a comprehensive university offering a wide range of programmes in humanities, science, education, law, commerce, and health sciences.
Campuses:
Alice Campus: The main campus, with a strong focus on humanities, science, and agriculture.
East London Campus: Health sciences, commerce, and law.
Bhisho Campus: Public administration and governance.
Accreditations:
All programmes are accredited by the Council on Higher Education.
Professional body accreditations for specific programmes (e.g., Health Professions Council of South Africa, Engineering Council of South Africa).
Quick Reference: University of Fort Hare Faculties (2026)
| Faculty | Programme Areas |
|---|---|
| Education | Foundation Phase • Intermediate Phase • Further Education & Training (FET) • Adult Education |
| Health Sciences | Nursing • Public Health • Optometry • Pharmacy • Physiotherapy |
| Humanities & Social Sciences | Psychology • Sociology • History • Languages • Development Studies |
| Law | LLB • Legal Studies |
| Management & Commerce | Accounting • Economics • Business Management • Industrial Psychology |
| Science & Agriculture | Biological Sciences • Chemistry • Physics • Computer Science • Agriculture |
| Theology & Religion | Theology • Ministry • Religious Studies |
Faculty of Education
The Faculty of Education trains teachers for all phases of schooling, from foundation phase to further education and training.
Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Teacher for Grades R to 3.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Pass in a second language.
Appropriate subject combinations for teaching.
Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Teacher for Grades 4 to 6.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Pass in a second language.
Two recognised school subjects.
Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Teacher for Grades 7 to 12.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Pass in a second language.
Two recognised school subjects at the appropriate level.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 1 year
Career Outcomes: Qualified teacher for graduates.
Entry Requirements:
Recognised bachelor’s degree with appropriate subjects.
English and other language requirements.
Faculty of Health Sciences
The Faculty of Health Sciences trains healthcare professionals for the South African health system.
Bachelor of Nursing
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Professional nurse and midwife.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Life Sciences: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Selection based on academic merit and interview.
Bachelor of Pharmacy
NQF Level: 8
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Pharmacist in community, hospital, or industry settings.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Physical Science: 60 percent.
Life Sciences is recommended.
Bachelor of Optometry
NQF Level: 8
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Optometrist.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Physical Science: 60 percent.
Life Sciences is recommended.
Bachelor of Physiotherapy
NQF Level: 8
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Physiotherapist.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Physical Science: 50 percent.
Life Sciences: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Environmental Health
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Environmental health practitioner.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Physical Science or Life Sciences: 50 percent.
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
This faculty offers a wide range of programmes in the humanities and social sciences.
Bachelor of Arts
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Varies by specialisation; further study often required.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Major options include:
Psychology.
Sociology.
History.
Anthropology.
African Languages.
English.
Geography.
Development Studies.
Philosophy.
Political Science.
Bachelor of Social Work
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Social worker in government, NGOs, or private practice.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 40 percent.
Selection based on academic merit and interview.
Bachelor of Psychology
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years (followed by honours and professional training)
Career Outcomes: Pathway to professional psychology.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 60 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Faculty of Law
The Faculty of Law offers the LLB degree and other legal qualifications.
Bachelor of Laws
NQF Level: 8
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Attorney, advocate, legal advisor.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 60 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Competitive selection.
Faculty of Management and Commerce
This faculty offers programmes in business, accounting, economics, and related fields.
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Accountant, financial manager, pathway to CA(SA).
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce in Economics
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Economist, analyst, policy advisor.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Manager, entrepreneur, business consultant.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: HR manager, recruitment specialist, training officer.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Bachelor of Administration
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Public administrator, policy officer, government official.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: 50 percent.
Faculty of Science and Agriculture
This faculty offers programmes in the natural sciences and agriculture.
Bachelor of Science
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Varies by specialisation; further study often required.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Physical Science: 60 percent (for most majors).
Major options include:
Biological Sciences.
Chemistry.
Physics.
Computer Science.
Mathematics.
Statistics.
Geology.
Geography.
Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 4 years
Career Outcomes: Agricultural scientist, farm manager, extension officer.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Physical Science or Life Sciences: 60 percent.
Bachelor of Computer Science
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Software developer, systems analyst, IT professional.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
Mathematics: 60 percent.
Faculty of Theology and Religion
This faculty offers programmes in theology and religious studies.
Bachelor of Theology
NQF Level: 7
Duration: 3 years
Career Outcomes: Minister, pastor, religious educator.
Entry Requirements:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement.
English: 50 percent.
University of Fort Hare Admission Requirements Summary
General:
National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement for degree programmes.
Minimum subject requirements vary by programme.
Some programmes have additional selection criteria (interviews, portfolios, auditions).
Minimum APS Scores:
Most programmes require an APS of 30 to 36.
Competitive programmes (e.g., Pharmacy, Optometry) require higher APS.
Check the faculty prospectus for specific APS requirements.
Alternative Qualifications:
National Certificate (Vocational) may be considered for some programmes.
Mature age candidates may apply for admission through the Recognition of Prior Learning process.
International Students:
South African Qualifications Authority evaluation of foreign qualifications.
Valid study visa.
Proof of English proficiency.
University of Fort Hare Fees 2026
Tuition fees vary by faculty and programme. The following are estimates for 2026:
Humanities and Social Sciences Programmes:
R25,000 to R35,000 per year.
Commerce and Management Programmes:
R28,000 to R38,000 per year.
Science and Agriculture Programmes:
R30,000 to R45,000 per year.
Health Sciences Programmes:
R35,000 to R50,000 per year.
Additional Costs:
Application fee: R100 to R200.
Registration fee: Varies by programme.
Textbooks and materials: R3,000 to R8,000 per year.
Accommodation: On-campus residences or private accommodation.
Meals and living expenses.
NSFAS Funding:
NSFAS is available for eligible students in approved programmes.
Apply online at www.nsfas.org.za.
Bursaries:
Various government and private bursaries available.
Check with your faculty and the financial aid office.
Application Process
Step 1: Choose your programme.
Browse the University of Fort Hare website or prospectus.
Check the specific entry requirements.
Ensure you meet the subject and APS requirements.
Step 2: Apply online.
Applications are done through the Central Applications Office.
Go to www.cao.ac.za.
Create an account.
Complete the application form.
Choose University of Fort Hare and your programme choices.
Step 3: Upload documents.
Certified copy of your ID.
Certified copy of your National Senior Certificate or latest results.
Academic transcripts if applicable.
Proof of residence.
Other documents as specified.
Step 4: Pay the application fee.
CAO application fee (approximately R250).
Pay via EFT or credit card.
Keep proof of payment.
Step 5: Submit your application.
Review all information.
Submit before the closing date.
Print or save your confirmation page.
Step 6: Monitor your application status.
Log in to the CAO portal to track progress.
Check for any messages or requests for additional information.
Step 7: Respond to offers.
If you receive an offer, you must accept or decline by the deadline.
Pay the required acceptance deposit to secure your place.
Application Deadlines
Applications for 2026 typically open in March or April 2025 and close around September or October 2025.
Specific deadlines vary by programme. Competitive programmes close earlier.
Check the CAO website for exact dates:
www.cao.ac.za
Apply early. Many programmes fill up well before the closing date.
Campus Locations
University of Fort Hare has three main campuses:
Alice Campus:
Main campus, located in the small town of Alice.
Hosts the Faculties of Education, Humanities, Science and Agriculture, and Theology.
East London Campus:
Located in East London, the largest city in the Eastern Cape.
Hosts the Facultes of Health Sciences, Law, and Management and Commerce.
Bhisho Campus:
Located in Bhisho, the provincial capital.
Focuses on public administration and governance.
Accommodation
The University of Fort Hare offers on-campus residence accommodation. Spaces are limited, so apply early.
Residences are available at all campuses. They provide a supportive living and learning environment.
Private accommodation is available near all campuses. The university’s housing office can assist with finding accredited private housing.
Why Choose The University of Fort Hare?
Historical Significance: A legendary institution that produced some of Africa’s greatest leaders.
Quality Education: Accredited programmes across multiple faculties.
Affordable Fees: Lower than many other universities.
Beautiful Location: Campuses in the scenic Eastern Cape.
Student Support: Comprehensive academic and social support services.
Diverse Community: Students from across South Africa and beyond.
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
What courses are offered at the University of Fort Hare?
Fort Hare offers programmes in Education, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law, Commerce, Science and Agriculture, and Theology.
What are the entry requirements for Fort Hare?
A National Senior Certificate with bachelor’s degree endorsement for degree programmes. Specific subject requirements and APS scores vary by programme.
How do I apply to the University of Fort Hare?
Apply through the Central Applications Office website: www.cao.ac.za.
When do applications open for 2026?
Applications typically open in March to April 2025 and close in September to October 2025.
What is the application fee for Fort Hare?
You pay the CAO application fee, approximately R250.
Does Fort Hare offer NSFAS?
Yes. NSFAS funding is available for eligible students in approved programmes.
What is the APS score for Fort Hare?
Most programmes require an APS of 30 to 36. Competitive programmes require higher.
Is Fort Hare a good university?
Yes. Fort Hare is a respected, historically significant university with a strong academic reputation.
Does Fort Hare have accommodation?
Yes, on-campus residences are available, but spaces are limited. Private accommodation is also available.
Can international students apply to Fort Hare?
Yes. International students must have their qualifications evaluated by SAQA and obtain a study visa.
Summary: Which Faculty Is Right For You?
Choose Education if:
You want to become a teacher.
You are passionate about working with young people.
You have good communication skills.
Choose Health Sciences if:
You want to work in healthcare.
You are compassionate and detail-oriented.
You have strong results in Mathematics and Life Sciences.
Choose Humanities and Social Sciences if:
You are interested in people, society, and culture.
You want a broad education with many career options.
You have strong language and critical thinking skills.
Choose Law if:
You are interested in the legal system.
You have strong analytical and communication skills.
You aspire to become an attorney or advocate.
Choose Management and Commerce if:
You want a career in business, accounting, or management.
You enjoy working with numbers and people.
You aspire to leadership roles.
Choose Science and Agriculture if:
You enjoy science and the natural world.
You want a career in research, technology, or agriculture.
You have strong results in Mathematics and Science.
Choose Theology if:
You feel called to ministry or religious leadership.
You are interested in faith and philosophy.
You want to serve a religious community.
Final Warning: Apply Early And Check Requirements
The University of Fort Hare is a competitive institution. Popular programmes fill up quickly. Do not wait until the closing date to apply. Submit your application as early as possible.
Carefully check the specific subject requirements and APS scores for your chosen programme. Meeting the minimum requirements is not enough; you need to be competitive.
Official Contact:
University of Fort Hare Website: www.ufh.ac.za
Central Applications Office: www.cao.ac.za
Admissions: [email protected]
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This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Courses, fees, and entry requirements are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information directly with the University of Fort Hare and the Central Applications Office before applying.