Rhodes University Courses for 2028 Application: Undergraduate

Rhodes University Courses for 2028 Application: Undergraduate & Postgraduate Programmes

If you are planning to apply to Rhodes University for the 2028 academic year, choosing the right course is one of the most important steps to take before completing your application. Rhodes University offers undergraduate programmes across Humanities, Commerce, Science, Education, Law and Pharmacy, with opportunities to combine subjects across faculties in several degree programmes. Continue to read more about Rhodes University Courses.

This guide provides an updated overview of Rhodes University courses for the 2028 application, including the major undergraduate degrees currently offered, subject options, extended-study opportunities and important information prospective students should consider before applying.

Important 2028 update: Rhodes University has not yet published its final 2028 undergraduate prospectus. The information below is therefore based on the university’s current official programme and admission information, including its 2026 materials and current Admission Gateway. Prospective 2028 students should verify the final programme list and requirements against the official 2028 prospectus when it becomes available.

What Courses Does Rhodes University Offer for 2028?

Rhodes University offers undergraduate study in several broad academic areas. Current university information identifies programmes in:

Humanities
Commerce
Science
Education
Law
Pharmacy

The university’s programmes include conventional three-year bachelor’s degrees as well as four-year degrees and extended-study routes. Some programmes also allow students to combine subjects from different faculties, giving applicants flexibility when designing their academic programme.

The main undergraduate qualifications prospective 2028 applicants should research include:

Faculty	Major Undergraduate Courses
Humanities	BA, BSocSc, BFA, BJourn, BMus
Commerce	BCom, Bachelor of Business Science, Bachelor of Economics
Science	BSc, BSc Information Systems, BSc Software Development
Education	BEd Foundation Phase Teaching
Law	LLB
Pharmacy	BPharm

Some of these qualifications have specialised curricula, while others allow students to select majors from a wide range of subjects.

Rhodes University Humanities Courses for 2028

The Faculty of Humanities provides several undergraduate degree options and a wide range of subjects from which students can construct their degree programmes.

The current Humanities programme information identifies five undergraduate degrees:

Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Bachelor of Social Science (BSocSc)
Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA)
Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn)
Bachelor of Music (BMus)

The BA and BSocSc are normally three-year degrees, while the BFA, BJourn and BMus are four-year degrees.

Bachelor of Arts (BA)

The BA is one of Rhodes University’s broadest undergraduate qualifications. It normally takes three years and requires students to develop majors through progressive study from first to third year.

Possible BA major subjects currently listed by Rhodes include:

Afrikaans en Nederlands
Anthropology
Applied Mathematics
Art History and Virtual Culture
Classical Civilisation
Computer Science
Drama
Economics
English
English Language and Linguistics
Environmental Science
Ethnomusicology
French
Geography
German
Greek
History
Human Kinetics and Ergonomics
Industrial and Economic Sociology
Journalism and Media Studies
Latin
Legal Theory
Mathematics
Mathematical Statistics
Music
Organisational Psychology
Philosophy
Politics
Psychology
Sociology
Xhosa

Not every subject combination is necessarily available in every year, and some subjects have prerequisites or staffing and timetable considerations.

This makes the BA particularly useful for students who want to combine areas such as languages, social sciences, humanities, mathematics, computing or selected science subjects.

Bachelor of Social Science (BSocSc)

The Bachelor of Social Science is another three-year Humanities qualification. It is particularly suited to students interested in social sciences and related disciplines.

Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA)

The Bachelor of Fine Art is a four-year undergraduate qualification.

The programme includes Art History and Visual Culture and BFA Studio Practice. Current Rhodes information identifies studio options including:

Graphic Design
Painting
Photographic Arts
Sculpture

Students should check the 2028 programme information for any changes to portfolio, selection or practical requirements before applying.

Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn)

Rhodes University offers a four-year Bachelor of Journalism.

The programme includes Journalism and can incorporate subjects such as:

English
English Language and Linguistics
Economics
Politics
History
Sociology

The School of Journalism and Media Studies also confirms that students can study Journalism and Media Studies through a BA route or pursue the four-year BJourn qualification.

Bachelor of Music (BMus)

The Bachelor of Music is a four-year Humanities qualification.

Current programme information includes areas such as:

Instrumental Music Studies
Music
Ethnomusicology
Sound Technology
Other approved Humanities courses

The final-year curriculum includes several papers selected from the available Music offerings.

Rhodes University Commerce Courses for 2028

The Faculty of Commerce currently offers three principal undergraduate degrees:

Bachelor of Business Science (BBS)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
Bachelor of Economics (BEcon)

Rhodes also has a Commerce Extended Studies Programme for eligible students who require additional academic preparation.

Bachelor of Business Science (BBS)

The Bachelor of Business Science is a four-year degree focused on quantitative and business-related study.

Current Rhodes information identifies five areas of specialisation:

Economics
Information Systems
Management
Quantitative Management
Computer Science

The curriculum includes subjects such as Accounting, Commercial Law, Communication, Computing, Economics, Mathematics and Statistics.

Students interested in business analytics, economics, information systems, management or computing may therefore find several possible directions within the BBS structure.

Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)

The Bachelor of Commerce is a three-year degree.

The current curriculum provides opportunities to specialise in areas including:

Accounting
Economics
Information Systems
Management
Statistics
Law
Selected Science subjects
Selected Social Science subjects
Selected Humanities subjects

Rhodes describes several BCom curriculum pathways, including general, accounting, law and inter-faculty options.

An important point for 2028 applicants is that Mathematics is currently a prerequisite for Rhodes Commerce degrees, and the Faculty states that applicants offering Mathematical Literacy will not be considered for a Commerce degree. This should be checked again against the official 2028 requirements before applying.

Bachelor of Economics (BEcon)

The Bachelor of Economics is a three-year programme designed for students who want substantial Economics content in their degree.

Rhodes currently identifies specialised routes including:

Economics
Environmental Economics
Mineral Economics

The Environmental Economics pathway combines Commerce and Science-related study, while Mineral Economics combines Economics with geological study.

Rhodes University Science Courses for 2028

The Faculty of Science offers undergraduate programmes covering traditional sciences, computing and interdisciplinary study.

The current Rhodes Admission Gateway identifies:

Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Bachelor of Science (Information Systems)
Bachelor of Science (Software Development)
Bachelor of Science Extended Studies Programme

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

The BSc is normally a three-year degree and provides substantial flexibility in subject selection.

Science subjects include areas such as:

Botany
Chemistry
Biochemistry
Microbiology
Computer Science
Environmental Science
Geography
Geology
Human Kinetics and Ergonomics
Ichthyology and Fisheries Science
Mathematics
Physics
Statistics
Zoology and Entomology

The Faculty also permits certain interdisciplinary combinations. For example, students may combine science subjects with selected Humanities, Commerce or Law subjects where the applicable requirements are met.

This flexibility is particularly relevant to students who are interested in interdisciplinary study.

BSc Information Systems

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems is a three-year qualification designed for students interested in computing in a commercial environment.

The current curriculum includes areas such as:

Computer Science
Information Systems
Economics
Management
Accounting
Mathematics
Statistics
Physics

The degree has a more structured curriculum than the ordinary BSc.

BSc Software Development

Rhodes also offers a Bachelor of Science in Software Development, a four-year programme designed for students interested in software systems.

The current curriculum includes advanced Computer Science and Information Systems study during the later years.

Applicants interested in software development should carefully review the Mathematics and other subject requirements applicable to the 2028 intake.

BSc Extended Studies Programme

Students who demonstrate potential for university study but do not meet the standard Science entrance requirements may have an alternative through the BSc Extended Studies Programme.

The programme provides additional academic preparation before students move into the mainstream BSc pathway. Current Rhodes information describes it as a four-year route, with specially designed courses in the initial stages.

Rhodes University Education Courses for 2028

The Faculty of Education offers several routes into the teaching profession.

For students coming directly from school, Rhodes currently offers the:

Bachelor of Education (Foundation Phase Teaching)

This is a four-year professional teaching degree designed for Foundation Phase teaching.

Current admission information indicates requirements including an NSC point score of 40 or higher, with Dean’s discretion for applicants in the 33–39 range, together with language and Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy requirements. These figures should be confirmed against the 2028 prospectus before application.

Rhodes also offers a route where students first complete a bachelor’s degree in another faculty and subsequently apply for the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). The university advises students considering this route to check their undergraduate subject choices with the Faculty of Education so that they have the appropriate subjects for their intended teaching phase.

Rhodes University Law Course for 2028

The main undergraduate Law qualification is the:

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Rhodes has several routes into the LLB, including pathways involving an initial degree in Humanities, Science or Commerce followed by Law study.

The university currently describes four-year, three-year and two-year LLB routes depending on the student’s previous academic background and Law coursework.

An applicant who starts with another bachelor’s degree may, for example, include Legal Theory as part of their curriculum and subsequently apply for the relevant LLB pathway.

Students should note that admission to later LLB stages can depend on academic performance and available Faculty resources. Consequently, applicants should not assume that completing the first stage automatically guarantees progression into a later LLB route.

Rhodes has also indicated that its proposed new LLB curriculum is expected to introduce ICT Law as a core final-year module in 2028, subject to the implementation of the proposed curriculum.

Rhodes University Pharmacy Course for 2028

Students interested in pharmaceutical sciences can apply for the:

Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm)

The BPharm is a four-year qualification and is registered at NQF Level 8. Rhodes states that the curriculum follows the prescribed minimum curriculum of the South African Pharmacy Council.

The programme includes areas such as:

Anatomy and Physiology
Cell Biology
Chemistry
Foundation of Pharmacy
ICT
Mathematics
Pharmaceutical Biochemistry

Current Rhodes admission information lists Mathematics, Life Sciences and Physical Sciences among the key subject requirements for Pharmacy, with the current provisional-offer requirements higher than the minimum Dean’s-discretion range. Applicants for 2028 should confirm the final requirements when the new prospectus is released.

Rhodes also explains that Pharmacy graduates can progress into professional internship and community-service requirements before registration as pharmacists.

Rhodes University Extended Studies Programmes

An important feature of the Rhodes University course structure is the availability of extended or additional academic pathways.

Current university information identifies extended-study options in areas including:

Humanities
Commerce
Science

For example, the Commerce Extended Studies Programme provides additional literacy and numerical instruction, while the Science Extended Studies Programme provides additional preparation before students enter the mainstream BSc route.

These programmes are particularly relevant for applicants who have the potential to succeed at university but whose school background or results do not place them directly into the standard programme.

Rhodes University Courses 2028: Entry Requirements

Choosing a course is only the first step. Applicants must also satisfy the admission requirements for their selected faculty.

Rhodes’ current admission information states that applicants must qualify for bachelor’s degree study and meet the relevant faculty requirements. The university also warns that satisfying minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee acceptance.

Current faculty requirements include different combinations of:

English
Mathematics
Mathematical Literacy
Life Sciences
Physical Sciences
Admission points
National Benchmark Tests

For example, the current information lists Mathematics requirements for Commerce, Pharmacy and Science applicants, while Humanities, Education and Law have their own subject and point-score requirements.

Because these requirements can change, applicants should use the figures as a planning reference and confirm the final 2028 requirements.

Rhodes University NBT Requirements

Prospective students should also consider the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs).

Rhodes’ current admission information says applicants should write the Academic and Quantitative Literacy (AQL) test, while applicants intending to enter Commerce, Pharmacy or Science are also required to write the Mathematics (MAT) test.

Students should therefore check the NBT schedule early rather than waiting until the final stages of their application.

How to Choose a Rhodes University Course for 2028

Before applying, prospective students should consider the following:

Check Your School Subjects

Make sure your Grade 12 subjects match the requirements of your intended programme.

Calculate Your Admission Points

Rhodes uses admission-point thresholds that differ between faculties. Check the current faculty requirements rather than relying on a general Rhodes University points figure.

Check Mathematics Requirements

Mathematics is particularly important for programmes in Commerce, Science and Pharmacy, while different Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirements apply to other faculties.

Consider the Duration

Some Rhodes degrees take three years, while others take four years. Extended programmes can take longer because they provide additional academic preparation.

Look at Subject Combinations

A degree such as the BA or BSc may allow considerable flexibility, while programmes such as BSc Information Systems, Pharmacy and Software Development have more structured curricula.

Check the 2028 Prospectus

The final 2028 programme list, admission requirements, application dates and other conditions should be confirmed when Rhodes University publishes its official 2028 undergraduate prospectus.

List of Rhodes University Postgraduate Programmes

Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (DipAcc)
Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analysis
Postgraduate Diploma in Enterprise Management
Postgraduate Diploma in Taxation
Postgraduate Diploma in Advancement and Resource Mobilisation
Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies
Postgraduate Diploma in Economic Journalism
Postgraduate Diploma in Media Management
Postgraduate Diploma in English Language Teaching
Bachelor of Commerce Honours (BCom Hons)
Bachelor of Economics Honours (BEcon Hons)
Honours in Journalism and Media Studies
Honours in Art History and Visual Culture
Honours in Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Commerce (MCom)
Master of Economics (MEcon)
Master of Commerce in Financial Markets
Master of Commerce in Taxation
MCom in Complex Problem Solving
Master of Arts (MA) in Art History
Master of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies
Master of Arts in Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Master of Fine Art (MFA) in Fine Art Practice
Master of Fine Art (MFA) in Curatorial Practice
Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)
Master of Science (MSc) in Hydrology
Master of Science (MSc) in Water Resource Science
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Journalism and Media Studies
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Art History
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Commerce
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Linguistics and Applied Language Studies
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Hydrology
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Water Resource Science
Doctor of Economics (DEcon)

How to Apply to Rhodes University for 2028

Rhodes University provides an online application route through its admission system. Its Admission Gateway includes sections covering admission, entry requirements, international students, application procedures, curriculum selection, fees and financial aid.

A typical application process involves:

Researching available Rhodes University courses.
Selecting your preferred qualification.
Checking the faculty-specific admission requirements.
Checking whether you need the NBT AQL and/or MAT.
Preparing your supporting documents.
Completing the online application.
Selecting the appropriate curriculum or programme.
Submitting the application before the applicable deadline.
Monitoring communication from Rhodes University regarding your application.

Applicants should use the official Rhodes University application system rather than relying on unofficial application websites.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhodes University Courses for 2028

What courses can I study at Rhodes University in 2028?

Current undergraduate offerings include degrees in Humanities, Commerce, Science, Education, Law and Pharmacy. Major qualifications include BA, BSocSc, BFA, BJourn, BMus, BCom, Bachelor of Business Science, Bachelor of Economics, BSc, BSc Information Systems, BSc Software Development, BEd Foundation Phase Teaching, LLB and BPharm.

Does Rhodes University offer Computer Science?

Yes. Computer Science can be studied within the BSc and is also available through programmes such as BSc Information Systems and Bachelor of Business Science, depending on the chosen curriculum.

Does Rhodes University offer Medicine?

The current Rhodes University undergraduate programme information does not list a Medicine or MBChB degree. Applicants interested in medical training should therefore consult universities that offer the relevant professional qualification.

Does Rhodes University offer Nursing?

Nursing is not listed among the current undergraduate degrees on the university’s Admission Gateway. Applicants interested in Nursing should check institutions offering accredited nursing qualifications.

Does Rhodes University offer Law?

Yes. Rhodes University offers the Bachelor of Laws (LLB), with different routes depending on the applicant’s previous academic background.

Does Rhodes University offer Pharmacy?

Yes. Rhodes offers the four-year Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm).

Does Rhodes University offer Education?

Yes. The university offers a four-year BEd in Foundation Phase Teaching. Graduates of other bachelor’s degrees can also pursue the PGCE route where they meet the applicable requirements.

When should I check the Rhodes University 2028 prospectus?

Applicants should check the official Rhodes University Admission Gateway and undergraduate prospectus when the 2028 materials are released. The university’s current Admission Gateway prominently provides the 2027 Undergraduate Prospectus, indicating that the 2028 prospectus should be treated as the authoritative source once published.

Final Thoughts on Rhodes University Courses for 2028

Rhodes University provides a broad selection of undergraduate study options for students interested in Humanities, Commerce, Science, Education, Law and Pharmacy. Its course structure also provides opportunities for interdisciplinary study, particularly within qualifications such as the BA, BSocSc, BSc, BCom and Bachelor of Business Science.

For the Rhodes University 2028 application, prospective students should begin by identifying a programme that matches their career interests and current school subjects. They should then check the relevant faculty requirements, NBT requirements and curriculum structure.

Because the final Rhodes University 2028 prospectus has not yet been published, applicants should avoid treating current 2026/2027 requirements as guaranteed 2028 requirements. Instead, use the current official information for planning and confirm the final requirements, course availability and application deadlines once Rhodes University releases its 2028 admission materials. The university’s official Admission Gateway is the appropriate starting point for prospective students.