If you’re considering a career in Architecture in South Africa, you have many universities and institutions to choose from, offering both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Here’s a detailed guide on where you can study architecture in the country, along with the specific programmes available at each institution.
Contents
- Top 12 Places to Study Architecture in South Africa
- 1. University of Pretoria (UP)
- 2. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- 3. University of Cape Town (UCT)
- 4. University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
- 5. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- 6. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- 7. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- 8. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- 9. University of the Free State (UFS)
- 10. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
- 11. Inscape Education Group
- 12. STADIO
- Final Thoughts
Top 12 Places to Study Architecture in South Africa
Below are he top best places where you can study Architecture courses in South Africa:
1. University of Pretoria (UP)
The University of Pretoria is known for offering a robust architecture programme, providing students with comprehensive education and practical experience.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS): This 3-year programme provides foundational knowledge in architecture, preparing students for further studies or entry-level positions in architectural practices.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies [BAS (Hons)]: After completing the BAS, students can progress to this 1-year honours programme, which deepens their understanding of architectural design and theory.
- Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch): This 2-year professional master’s programme is necessary for registration as a professional architect with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP).
- Website: University of Pretoria – Architecture
2. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
At UJ, architecture students receive a blend of practical training and theoretical knowledge, ideal for those aiming to become professional architects.
- Bachelor of Architecture: This 3-year undergraduate programme provides a strong foundation in architectural design, theory, and technology.
- Bachelor of Architecture (Hons): A 1-year honours programme that prepares students for advanced architectural studies and design challenges.
- Master of Architecture (MArch): A 2-year postgraduate degree focusing on preparing students for professional registration and advanced architectural practice.
- Website: University of Johannesburg – Architecture
3. University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT is one of the leading universities in South Africa, offering architecture programmes that combine academic rigour with practical skills.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS): This 3-year undergraduate programme focuses on the fundamentals of architectural design and theory.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies [BAS (Hons)]: A 1-year honours programme for students seeking to deepen their architectural knowledge.
- Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch): A 2-year professional programme required for students aiming to become registered architects.
- Website: UCT – Architecture
4. University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
WITS offers a highly regarded architecture programme with a focus on both design and theory.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS): A 3-year degree that provides a solid foundation in architectural principles.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies [BAS (Hons)]: This 1-year honours programme builds on the BAS degree, advancing students’ knowledge of architecture.
- Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch): A 2-year master’s programme designed to prepare students for professional practice and registration.
- Website: WITS – Architecture
5. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
TUT offers a strong focus on technical skills and practical training in architecture.
- Bachelor of Architecture (Professional): A comprehensive 4-year programme focusing on the professional and technical aspects of architecture.
- MArch (Professional): A 2-year master’s degree required for professional registration with SACAP.
- Website: TUT – Architecture
6. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN provides architecture programmes that emphasise both design and sustainable development.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS): A 3-year undergraduate degree offering a broad foundation in architectural design and theory.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (Hons): This 1-year honours programme builds on the BAS, focusing on more advanced design and research skills.
- Master of Architecture (MArch): A 2-year postgraduate degree designed for those pursuing professional registration.
- Website: UKZN – Architecture
7. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
CPUT focuses on applied learning, offering qualifications that prepare students for practical roles in the architectural industry.
- National Diploma in Architectural Technology: A 3-year diploma that equips students with technical and design skills required in architectural firms.
- Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Architectural Technology: A 1-year degree aimed at enhancing the technical and professional abilities of architectural technologists.
- Website: CPUT – Architecture
8. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
DUT offers architecture programmes focusing on the built environment, with a strong emphasis on practical design skills.
- Bachelor of the Built Environment in Architecture: A 3-year programme that provides a solid foundation in architectural design within the context of the built environment.
- Bachelor of the Built Environment Honours in Architecture: A 1-year honours programme for deeper study in architectural design and theory.
- Website: DUT – Architecture
9. University of the Free State (UFS)
UFS offers a range of architecture programmes, combining design innovation with practical skills.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS): A 3-year programme offering foundational skills in architecture.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies [BAS (Hons)]: A 1-year honours degree that prepares students for advanced studies or professional practice.
- Master of Architecture (Professional) (MArch): A 2-year professional master’s degree required for becoming a registered architect.
- Website: UFS – Architecture
10. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
NMMU offers a variety of architecture programmes from diplomas to advanced degrees.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS): A 3-year degree focused on architectural design, theory, and practice.
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (Hons): A 1-year honours degree providing advanced knowledge in architecture.
- Master of Architecture (MArch): A 2-year professional master’s programme necessary for professional registration.
- National Diploma in Architectural Technology: A 3-year diploma focusing on the technical aspects of architectural design.
- Advanced Diploma in Architectural Technology: A diploma focusing on advanced design and technical skills.
- Website: NMU – Architecture
11. Inscape Education Group
Inscape offers a Higher Certificate in Architectural Technology across its multiple campuses.
- Higher Certificate in Architectural Technology: This 1-year certificate programme equips students with fundamental skills in architectural technology.
- Campuses: Pretoria, Durban, Midrand, Cape Town, Stellenbosch, and Distance Learning.
- Website: Inscape – Architecture
12. STADIO
STADIO offers specialised programmes in architecture under its School of Engineering and Architecture.
- Higher Certificate in Architectural Practice: A 1-year programme that provides the foundational knowledge required for working in architectural practices.
- Website: STADIO – Architecture
Final Thoughts
Each of these institutions offers different levels of architectural study, from diplomas and certificates to professional master’s degrees. If you’re aiming to become a professional architect in South Africa, the Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) followed by the Master of Architecture (MArch) is the standard academic route, and SACAP registration is necessary to practice as a professional. Whether you choose a university or a private institution like Inscape or STADIO, South Africa offers numerous pathways to achieving your architectural career goals.
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