Stellenbosch University (SU), located in the Western Cape of South Africa, is renowned for its academic excellence, innovative research, and vibrant campus life. For students planning to enroll in 2026, SU offers a wide array of undergraduate programs across various faculties, designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their chosen fields. This blog post provides a fresh and comprehensive overview of the courses available at Stellenbosch University, helping you navigate your study options with confidence.
Faculties and Key Programmes at Stellenbosch University
SU’s academic offerings are structured across several faculties, each with unique programs and specializations:
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
This faculty offers broad-based degrees such as the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with options in Management Sciences, Economic Sciences, and Mathematical Sciences.- BCom (Management Sciences) includes an Extended Curriculum Programme (ECP) designed to support students meeting minimum admission criteria and socio-economic requirements.
- BCom (Economic Sciences) focuses on economics and includes specializations like Econometrics, Financial Sector, and Transport Economics.
- BCom (Mathematical Sciences) emphasizes mathematics and statistics with several focal areas.
- Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Offering programs in languages, social sciences, and humanities, this faculty fosters critical thinking and cultural understanding. Courses include African Languages, Sociology, Political Science, and History. - Faculty of Science
SU provides degrees in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, and unique programs like Polymer Sciences. The faculty also hosts the country’s first specialized School for Data Science and Computational Thinking, with interdisciplinary focus areas such as Analytics, Behavioural Economics, and Geoinformatics. - Faculty of Engineering
Engineering programs cover Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical Engineering, and a new Data Engineering stream. Notably, all engineering students follow a common first-year curriculum, allowing flexibility to change specializations after the first year. - Faculty of Law
The LLB degree prepares students for legal careers, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. - Faculty of AgriSciences
Unique offerings include Viticulture and Oenology, Forestry and Wood Sciences, and Horticultural Sciences focusing on various fruit and flora types.
Unique and Specialized Programs
Stellenbosch University prides itself on several distinctive programs, such as:
- Diploma in Sustainable Development
A three-year diploma with workplace-integrated learning, focusing on sustainability and entrepreneurial skills. - BAccLLB
A combined degree integrating accounting and law, ideal for students aiming for dual professional qualifications. - International Business (BCom)
A four-year program that includes a six-month international exchange, blending commerce and global studies. - School for Data Science and Computational Thinking
An interdisciplinary program launched in 2021, offering eight focus areas across faculties.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Applicants must meet the National Senior Certificate (NSC) requirements with specific achievement levels in subjects like Mathematics and Languages depending on the program. For example, the BCom (Management Sciences) Extended Curriculum requires an NSC aggregate of at least 60% (excluding Life Orientation), with 50% in Mathematics and English or Afrikaans.
Applications open on 1 April 2025 and close on 31 July 2025 for undergraduate programs. Students can apply online through the Stellenbosch University portal. It’s important to check program-specific selection criteria and prepare all required documents, including certified copies of academic records.
Learning Environment and Student Experience
SU offers a dynamic learning environment combining traditional lectures with digital resources. The university emphasizes research, community engagement, and sustainability, striving to be a carbon-neutral campus. Students benefit from modern facilities, libraries, sports complexes, and numerous cultural and academic societies
Stellenbosch University’s extensive and varied course offerings provide students with numerous pathways to academic and professional success. Whether your passion lies in commerce, science, engineering, humanities, or agriculture, SU’s programs are designed to nurture your talents and prepare you for the future.
For detailed information on all courses, admission requirements, and application deadlines, prospective students should download the official Stellenbosch University 2026 Undergraduate Prospectus and visit the university’s website.