The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has positioned itself as the leader in Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) education on the African continent.
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This guide details the specific 4IR courses available at UJ for the 2026 academic year.
It covers free courses for the public, compulsory modules for students, and specialized professional qualifications.
The Strategy Behind UJ’s 4IR Focus
UJ does not view 4IR as just a single subject or a computer science niche.
The university integrates these technologies into every faculty, from Law to Humanities.
The goal is to produce graduates who are adaptable to a digital-first workforce.
This approach ensures that a law student understands AI ethics, and an art student understands digital design.
Free 4IR Courses for the Public
UJ offers fully online, free courses to the general public.
These courses are designed to upskill the nation without any financial barriers.
You do not need a matric exemption or a prior degree to register for these specific short courses.
Artificial Intelligence in the 4IR (Free)
This is the most popular short learning programme available on the UJ Digital platform.
It is a 100% online course that you can complete at your own pace.
The course does not teach you how to code or program complex algorithms.
Instead, it teaches you what AI is and how it affects your daily life and career.
Course Curriculum Breakdown:
- Unit 1: 4IR and Automation: You learn the history of industrial revolutions and how automation changes work.
- Unit 2: Evolution of AI: This unit traces the historical milestones of Artificial Intelligence.
- Unit 3: AI Fundamentals: You learn the difference between human and machine intelligence.
- Unit 4: AI in the Real World: This section covers global applications in health, security, and business.
- Unit 5: AI in China and Africa: You study how different regions are adopting these technologies.
- Unit 6: Future of Work: This unit discusses which jobs might disappear and which new ones will emerge.
- Unit 7: 4IR and Ethics: You examine the moral dilemmas posed by autonomous machines.
- Unit 8: Conclusion: A wrap-up of the concepts learned.
Upon completion, you receive a digital certificate from the University of Johannesburg.
This certificate can be added to your CV or LinkedIn profile.
African Insights (Free)
While not strictly a “tech” course, this is often paired with the AI module.
It is also free and fully online for the public.
It introduces students to African intellectual traditions and debates.
UJ encourages taking this to ensure technological advancement does not ignore local context.
Compulsory 4IR Modules for Undergraduates
If you are a registered student at UJ, you cannot avoid 4IR education.
The university has made specific modules mandatory for all undergraduate degrees.
Artificial Intelligence in the 4IR (Undergraduate Module)
Every undergraduate student, regardless of their major, must complete this module.
It is similar to the public course but is a formal requirement for graduation.
It appears on your academic transcript.
The university believes this creates a baseline of digital literacy across all graduates.
Students access this through the uLink student portal.
It is fully online, meaning you do not attend physical classes for this specific module.
Assessments are done via multiple-choice quizzes on the Moodle platform.
Specialized 4IR Degrees
For students who want to make a career out of these technologies, UJ offers specific degree programs.
These are full-time, contact qualifications that require a strong matric pass.
BA in Politics, Economics, and Technology (PET)
This is a unique degree designed specifically for the 4IR era.
It does not fit into the traditional “Arts” or “Science” boxes.
It combines political science, economics, and technology studies.
Students learn how technology influences political systems and economic markets.
It prepares graduates for roles in policy-making, tech consulting, and analysis.
Bachelor of Engineering and Computer Science
These are the technical degrees that build the systems behind 4IR.
UJ is ranked highly for its Engineering and Computer Science faculties.
Key specializations include:
- Data Science: Learning to analyze massive datasets to find patterns.
- Cyber Security: Protecting digital assets in a connected world.
- Intelligent Industrial Systems: Applying AI to manufacturing and engineering processes.
Short Learning Programmes for Professionals
UJ offers “Short Learning Programmes” (SLPs) for working professionals.
These are paid courses designed to update the skills of people already in the workforce.
4IR for Accountants
This course was developed in partnership with the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
It is aimed at CAs and finance professionals.
It covers how blockchain, AI, and cloud computing affect the audit and finance sectors.
Modules include:
- Machine Learning for Finance.
- Natural Language Processing in Audit.
- Ethics for the Digital Accountant.
Perspectives for Professionals in Business
This SLP targets managers and business leaders.
It focuses on digital transformation strategies.
Leaders learn how to implement new technologies without disrupting their current business models.
It covers the “Internet of Things” (IoT) and how to manage remote, digital teams.
Admission Requirements
For the Free Public Courses:
- There are no academic requirements.
- You only need a valid email address and an internet connection.
- You must register on the UJ Digital platform.
For Undergraduate Degrees:
- You need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass.
- Specific Admission Point Scores (APS) apply.
- Science and Engineering degrees require high marks in Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
- Mathematical Literacy is generally not accepted for the technical 4IR degrees.
For Short Learning Programmes (Paid):
- Most require a NQF Level 5 or 6 qualification (Diploma or Degree).
- Some are open to applicants with relevant work experience.
How to Register for UJ 4IR Courses
The registration process depends on which type of course you want.
For Free Courses:
- Visit the UJ Digital website (ujdigital.uj.ac.za).
- Click on “Browse Courses.”
- Select “Artificial Intelligence in the 4IR.”
- Create an account and start learning immediately.
For Formal Degrees:
- You must apply via the main UJ applications portal.
- Applications usually close in September of the previous year.
- Late enquiries are handled via the Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) in January/February.
For Paid Short Courses:
- These have different intake dates throughout the year.
- You apply directly through the specific faculty offering the course (e.g., College of Business and Economics).
- Payment is required before the course begins.
Why Choose UJ for 4IR?
UJ is ranked as one of the top universities in South Africa for global excellence.
The Times Higher Education (THE) rankings often place UJ high for impact.
The university has invested heavily in 4IR infrastructure.
This includes the “4IR Experience Room” launched in partnership with Schneider Electric.
Students get exposure to real-world technologies, not just theory.
The Vice-Chancellor’s office drives these initiatives personally.
This top-down support ensures the curriculum remains relevant to modern industry needs.
By choosing UJ, you align your education with the future direction of the global economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the free courses accredited?
The free courses offer a certificate of completion from UJ.
They do not carry NQF credits towards a formal degree.
They are useful for CV enhancement and personal development.+1
Can I do the compulsory module if I am not a UJ student?
No, the specific undergraduate module is for registered students only.
However, the public version covers very similar content.
Do I need a laptop?
Yes, these courses are digital.
You need a reliable device (laptop or tablet) and internet data to watch videos and take quizzes.+1
How long do the courses take?
The free AI course is estimated to take 40 to 50 hours of study.
You can complete it over several weeks.
Formal degrees take 3 to 4 years of full-time study.