Engineering degrees are among the most sought‑after qualifications in South Africa.
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The nation has a strong engineering sector with demand in infrastructure, energy, mining, transport and technology.
Choosing the right university can shape your engineering career. This article lists the top universities to study engineering in South Africa.
Rankings include global and national subject rankings, industry links, research output and accredited programmes by the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
These institutions offer a range of engineering degrees, including civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical and mining engineering.
Engineering Schools in South Africa
The following South African universities are consistently ranked as the top institutions for engineering.
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- North-West University (NWU)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- University of South Africa (UNISA)
What makes a top engineering university in South Africa?
A top engineering university in South Africa combines academic quality, research output, global recognition and industry partnerships.
Rankings from the Times Higher Education (THE) and QS World University Rankings show how universities perform in engineering and technology subjects.
Engineering degrees should be ECSA-accredited to ensure they meet South African professional standards.
Accreditation means your qualification is recognised by the national engineering body and supports registration as a professional engineer after work experience.
Employers value universities that maintain strong research and practical training.
Which university in South Africa ranks highest for engineering?
The University of Cape Town (UCT) is often ranked as the top South African university for engineering and technology.
UCT’s Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment consistently appears in global rankings for engineering disciplines.
It offers accredited undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in civil, mechanical, electrical and chemical engineering.
The university is known for research in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure, as well as strong industry partnerships that help graduates with internships and work placements.
What engineering programmes does the University of the Witwatersrand offer?
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) in Johannesburg has a strong engineering faculty.
Wits is known for mining and mechanical engineering, given South Africa’s rich natural resources.
The Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment provides accredited degrees in civil, chemical, electrical and mining engineering.
Wits also supports research, practical learning and industry engagement. It has one of the highest numbers of engineering professorships in the country.
Why is the University of Pretoria a top choice for engineers?
The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of the largest engineering schools in South Africa.
It has a wide range of accredited programmes in chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mining and mechanical engineering.
UP is ranked among the best engineering schools in the world and regularly features in the top percentages of global subject rankings.
Its engineering faculty has a strong research output and produces a large number of graduate engineers annually.
How does the University of Johannesburg stand out in engineering?
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has been recognised as the best university in South Africa for engineering and technology by the Times Higher Education Subject Rankings.
UJ’s Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment offers a variety of accredited engineering degrees, including electrical, mechanical and industrial engineering.
UJ emphasises practical learning, industry engagement and applied research to support student success and job readiness.
Its research output and teaching quality help boost career prospects for graduates.
Are Stellenbosch University and UKZN good for engineering?
Yes. Stellenbosch University (SU) has a well‑regarded Faculty of Engineering with accredited programmes in civil, mechanical, electrical and industrial engineering.
Its research in infrastructure, energy and sustainable systems attracts strong academic interest nationally and internationally.
University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN) also offers solid engineering degrees, including agricultural, civil and mechanical engineering, and provides research opportunities and access to modern facilities.
Both institutions feature in subject rankings and maintain strong academic standards.
Which other universities offer recognised engineering degrees in South Africa?
Beyond the major research universities, South Africa has additional accredited institutions offering quality engineering programmes.
North‑West University (NWU) has engineering degrees in areas such as electrical, mechanical, and industrial engineering and is known for solid academic support and research.
Nelson Mandela University (NMU) has a faculty focused on engineering, built environment and technology with opportunities for hands‑on learning and industry connection.
University of South Africa (UNISA) offers flexible distance learning engineering programmes with recognised accreditation in several disciplines.
These universities expand access to engineering education across the country.
What should prospective students consider when choosing an engineering university?
Aspiring engineers should focus on several key factors.
First, check that the programme is accredited by ECSA, which is essential for future professional registration.
Look at global and national rankings to gauge academic and research quality.
Consider practical learning opportunities including labs, internships and industry partnerships.
Entry requirements vary, but strong performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences is essential. Compare costs, campus facilities and support services.
Prospective students should also explore bursaries and funding options offered by the universities and external sponsors.