UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG

Study of Science

Faculty website

The Faculty of Science has a long tradition of excellence in teaching and research! If you enjoy mathematics, want to learn more about the world, care for the conservation and use of our natural resources and enjoy solving problems, then the Faculty of Science at Wits is for you. The study of science and scientific research is an exciting journey into tradition, experiment observation and deduction. A science degree opens doors to diverse fields including medical research, computer science, chemistry, biotechnology etc. Research strength ensures that staff members keep in touch with the latest developments in their fields. This benefits both postgraduate and undergraduate students. In addition to basic research in various fields, including mathematical modelling, high energy physics, biotechnology, molecular biology and environmental sciences, increasing effort is being devoted to applied research linked to a variety of activities in southern Africa.

Many fields of study are offered within the Bachelor of Science (BSc)

The broad areas are:

  • Biological and Life Sciences
  • Earth Sciences
  • Mathematical Sciences
  • Physical Sciences
  • Environmental Sciences

The Bachelor of Science aims to acquaint students with the basic scientific disciplines and is primarily a stepping stone rather than an end in itself. The programme develops the academic skills of exactness and clarity and an appreciation of method. An additional year of study could lead to a teaching qualification or a more specialised Honours qualification. Because the Faculty actively encourages research, many students go on to study for Master of Science and PhD degrees.

Degrees offered

Bachelor of Science - BSc: 3 years

Bachelor of Science - BSc: 4 years
The 4 year programme is for applicants
who do not meet the likely acceptance level criteria and are required to write a selection test