Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is one of the leading institutions of higher learning in South Africa, and it is recognized for academic excellence and community engagement.
Instituted in 2005, WSU has campuses in Mthatha, East London, and Butterworth, and provides various programs in different faculties.
The quality of education at the WSU prepares students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their fields. WSU plays an important role in the development of the Eastern Cape and the country in terms of research, innovation, and social responsibility.
In this article, we’ll look at WSU courses, fees, and requirements. This guide will help you know what to expect if you are looking to enrol in WSU.
Table of contents
- About Walter Sisulu University
- What types of courses does WSU offer?
- Can I take online courses at WSU?
- Are there any general education requirements that all students must complete at Walter Sisulu University?
- What is the average fee at Walter Sisulu University?
- Courses Offered at WSU
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology
- Faculty of Management and Public Administration Sciences
- Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences
- Faculty of Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Faculty of Natural Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- WSU Courses and Requirements
- WSU Courses and Requirements- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
- References
- Recommendations
Read: 10 Best Cyber Security Courses Online for Beginners and Experts
About Walter Sisulu University
WSU is named in recognition of the leading anti-apartheid – and anti-colonial – activist Walter Sisulu and thus its mission of social and transformational justice.
The university provides a caring learning environment, complete with dedicated faculty and new learning spaces.
At WSU, practical learning, community engagement, and research are highly valued and students are thus equipped with the skills needed to navigate the demands of the workplace.
The university also encourages industry collaborations, thereby increasing job prospects among students, as well as internships and practical experience.
What types of courses does WSU offer?
Walter Sisulu University (WSU) provides a variety of courses in a broad range of subject areas. The university is organized into faculties (Health Sciences, Business, Education, and Science, Engineering Technology).
At WSU, you will find programs in the fields of nursing, business management, teaching, engineering environmental science, etc. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a diploma or a degree, WSU has options that can fit your academic goals.
Alongside conventional undergraduate-taught programs, postgraduate study is offered at WSU to enhance the knowledge and career advancement of its students.
The university is committed to experiential learning and civic engagement and strives to prepare the students of the university to enter the job market upon graduation. So if you’re considering WSU for your studies, you can find something that suits you.
Also, read: Nosa Courses and Prices in South Africa
Can I take online courses at WSU?
Yes, Walter Sisulu University (WSU) provides a wide range of online courses, which appeal to a broad range of individual interests and institutional aims.
These courses are tailored to give students the flexibility required to study while balancing work, family, or other responsibilities.
To begin, just log onto the WSU website which contains a specific list of information about the courses offered online, admissions requirements, and the process for applying.
The university wants to equip students with quality education utilizing innovative approaches and provide them with means to enhance skills/knowledge even in the comfort of their homes.
Are there any general education requirements that all students must complete at Walter Sisulu University?
Yes, at Walter Sisulu University (WSU), all students are required to complete certain general education requirements as part of their degree programs.
These courses are designed to provide a well-rounded educational experience and help students develop critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills that are essential in any field.
Typically, these requirements include foundational courses in subjects like languages, mathematics, and social sciences.
Additionally, WSU emphasizes the importance of practical skills and community engagement. Many programs encourage or require participation in service-learning projects or internships that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.
If you have more specific questions about what these requirements entail for your program, we recommend checking the university’s academic catalogue or speaking with an academic advisor.
Students wanting to study at WSU must meet the minimum admission requirements for admission to the qualifications listed below:
| Higher Certificate | The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution as certified by Umalusi, the Quality Assurance Council. Institutional and program needs may require additional combinations or recognized NSC subjects and levels of achievement. |
| Diploma | The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution and an achievement rating of 3 (40-49%) or better for 4 recognized 20-credit subjects, excluding life orientation, as certified by Umalusi, the Quality Assurance Council. Institutional and program needs may require additional combinations or recognized NSC subjects and levels of achievement. |
| Bachelor’s Degree | The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution and an achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) or better for 4 recognized 20-credit subjects, excluding life orientation, as certified by Umalusi, the Quality Assurance Council. Institutional and program needs may require additional combinations or recognized NSC subjects and levels of achievement. |
| Students with international school leaving results. | Applications from students with international school leaving results are considered in terms of the “Higher Education South Africa (HESA) guideline document, ” A guide to application for exemption certificates”, and where required submission of international qualification to SAQA for benchmarking in terms of HEQC.These students will be assisted by WSU’s international office. |
| Mature age endorsements | Admission in terms of Mature Age Endorsement will be in terms of Rule 1.13 in the General Prospectus. |
Read: Top 3 Months Short Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements
What is the average fee at Walter Sisulu University?
Average fees at Walter Sisulu University can also differ according to program and study level.
In general, undergraduate courses can cost between R30,000 and R50,000 per year for South African students and may cost more for international students. It is always wise to refer to the website of the department or faculty in question for the most current fee, as it can vary.
Don’t forget other expenses like registration fees and textbooks, as well as housing. Financial aid (such as grants) and scholarships at the university are sometimes made available to reduce these costs.
If you have any specific concerns or questions about your situation, reaching out directly to the university’s admissions office can be helpful.
Read: Best 15 TUT Courses In South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure
Courses Offered at WSU
WSU offers a wide range of courses across several faculties. Below is an overview of the faculties, and the courses they offer for the 2025 academic year.
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology
- Diploma in Building Technology
- Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma in Information and Communications Technology in Applications Development
- Diploma in Information and Communications Technology in Business Analysis
- Diploma in Information and Communications Technology in Communication Networks
- Diploma in Information and Communications Technology in Support Services
Faculty of Management and Public Administration Sciences
- Higher Certificate in Versatile Broadcasting
- Diploma in Administrative Management
- Diploma in Hospitality Management
- Diploma in Human Resources Management
- Diploma in Journalism
- Diploma in Local Government Finance
- Diploma in Management
- Diploma in Marketing Management
- Diploma in Policing
- Diploma in Office Management and Technology
- Diploma in Public Management
- Diploma in Public Relations Management
- Diploma in Small Business Management
- Diploma in Sport Management
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Bachelor of Administration
Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences
- Diploma in Accountancy
- Diploma in Financial Information Systems
- Diploma in Internal Auditing
- Bachelor of Accounting
- Bachelor of Accounting Sciences
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management
- Bachelor of Commerce in Economics
- Diploma in Fashion
- Diploma in Fine Art
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Social Sciences
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Psychology
- Bachelor of Social Work
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Bachelor of Medical Sciences
- Bachelor of Medicine in Clinical Practice
- Bachelor of Nursing
- Bachelor of Health Sciences in Medical Orthotics and Prosthetics
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
Faculty of Natural Sciences
- Diploma in Analytical Chemistry
- Diploma in Consumer Sciences and Food Nutrition
- Diploma in Pest Management
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Statistical Science
- Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences
- Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
- Bachelor of Science in Pest Management
- Bachelor of Science in Physics
Faculty of Education
- Diploma in Adult and Community Education and Training
- Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Arts & Culture)
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Consumer & Management Sciences)
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Economic & Management Sciences)
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Humanities)
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Languages)
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Maths, Science, and Technology)
- Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Technical and Vocational)
Also, read: Top 15 Vocational Courses in South Africa | 2025 Fee Structure
WSU Courses and Requirements
Here’s a detailed table capturing some of the courses, requirements, and fees for the 2025 academic year:
| Faculty | Course | Admission Requirements | Fees (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business, Management Sciences, and Law | Bachelor of Commerce in Management | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R45,000 per year |
| Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R45,000 per year | |
| Bachelor of Laws (LLB) | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R50,000 per year | |
| Diploma in Business Management | NSC with 30% in English and 40% in relevant subjects | R35,000 per year | |
| Education | Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase) | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R40,000 per year |
| Bachelor of Education (Intermediate Phase) | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R40,000 per year | |
| Bachelor of Education (Senior Phase) | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R40,000 per year | |
| Health Sciences | Bachelor of Nursing | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R55,000 per year |
| Bachelor of Pharmacy | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R60,000 per year | |
| Bachelor of Medical Sciences | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R55,000 per year | |
| Science, Engineering, and Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R50,000 per year |
| Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R60,000 per year | |
| Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science | NSC with 30% in English and 50% in relevant subjects | R50,000 per year |
Here’s a PDF document where you can find further details on all the courses- DOWNLOAD PDF.
WSU Courses and Requirements- Frequently Asked Questions
Application deadlines depend on the program, but in general, the application period is from May through September of the following academic year. It is better to verify the dates on the WSU website,” etc.
Yes, WSU provides a range of scholarships and financial assistance for qualifying students. These may such as for academic potential, financial need, or criteria specific to the area of study.
Yes, applicants may apply to several courses but must apply individually to each program. To fulfil the admission requirements of each course, it is essential.
Conclusion
Walter Sisulu University provides different programs in different faculties so they can follow their interests and succeed in their chosen profession.
As an institution committed to academic rigour and social involvement, WSU offers students the opportunity to continue their education in South Africa.
So, we hope this guide on WSU courses and requirements gives you all the answers you seek. If you have any questions.
References
- mabumbe.com – WSU COURSES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR 2025 APPLICATIONS
- eduupdates.co.za– 2025 INFORMATION BROCHURE
- wsu.ac.za – Walter Sisulu University (WSU) Courses and Requirements
Recommendations
