2026 FACULTY AT A GLANCE
MAKE TODAY MATTER
The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of Africa’s leading research-intensive universities and the largest contact university in South Africa. We produce relevant, socially impactful research to find solutions for the world’s most pressing issues. We believe that in every moment lies the potential to make a positive impact on the future and, in doing so, change the world for the better.
We have a high quality of teaching and learning in the classroom, online and in communities. We have support in place for our students to graduate on time as well-rounded, responsible citizens - fully prepared for the world beyond university. Our degrees are locally accredited and internationally recognised. We have agreements in place with the relevant legal accreditation bodies around the world to ensure the recognition of our academic programmes.
Guided by a vision for global research leadership, our mission is to excel in our core functions of research, teaching and learning — integrating engagement with society and the communities we serve. The University uses the following elements as its navigational markers:
QUALITY RELEVANCE DIVERSITY SUSTAINABILITY
PROMOTING RESEARCH WITH REAL-WORLD IMPACT
UP’s research and collaborative efforts with its partners are key to transforming the lives of people by providing African solutions to global concerns. UP is rated among the top 1% of universities globally in 14 of the 22 Essential Science Indicator (ESI) fields. Our theme-based approach leverages knowledge fields and research platforms for the greatest impact. Transdisciplinary research projects with the potential to make a real-life difference are strongly encouraged.
FOSTERING EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AND LEARNING
Our educational approach has a strong focus on inclusivity and equitable access to education, but ultimately on equity of outcomes. Our committed academics have multiple approaches to teaching to ensure that students with a variety of learning strengths succeed. UP believes that a vibrant student experience encompasses more than successful grades. The University therefore offers a wide range of support services to foster resilient students. We believe our multi-layered support systems play a significant role in student success.
We produce graduates who understand the world of work and can make a valuable contribution to their communities. Our ready-for-work courses help our students to prepare for the workplace, and our entrepreneurship programmes foster the entrepreneurial spirit to encourage innovation.
FACULTY OF EDUCATION
The Faculty of Education fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Our programmes benefit from strong partnerships with the Department of Basic Education and other UP faculties. We embrace a hybrid teaching model, blending faceto-face and online learning. Students enjoy access to top-tier facilities, libraries, online resources, expert lecturers, and support services to enhance their academic journey.
ACADEMIC OFFERING
43 5
DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAMMES AVAILABLE
postgraduate degree programmes: Adv Dip in School Leadership and Management, Adv Dip in Visual Impairment, PG Dip in TVET, BEd Hons, MEd, PhD undergraduate degree programmes
Education is evolving, and so are we. Our approach to teaching and learning is rooted in innovation and adaptability, ensuring that our students receive a dynamic and impactful education.
faculties of education in South Africa (QS Rankings)
We train sports coaches and administrators to work in educational settings, enhancing physical education through sports and improving athlete performance with management principles.
82.7%
Academic staff members with a doctorate
FACULTY RESEARCH PROFILE
20
NRF-rated researchers
RESEARCH CENTRES TEACHING AND LEARNING ENTITIES
• Centre for the Study of Resilience
• Centre for Evaluation and Assessment
• Centre for the Advancement of Sustainable Higher Education Futures
• Centre for Visual Impairment Studies
• Centre for Diversity and Social Cohesion
• Living Laboratory for Innovation
• Unit for Distance Education
• Pre-University Academy
• Lesson Study
• Work Integrated Learning
ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS
Humanities Education Educational Psychology
Science, Mathematics and Technology Education
Early Childhood Education
Education Management and Policy Studies
GRADUATE SUPPORT
Producer of work-ready graduates
100% of students find placement to do their work-integrated learning (WIL)
3 500+ students placed for WIL to date
Partnered with 874 schools for WIL student placement
UNIT FOR DISTANCE
EDUCATION
BECOME A LEADER IN EDUCATION
students in our Unit for Distance Education 4 430+
PRE-UNIVERSITY ACADEMY
The University of Pretoria, Pre-University Academy (UP-PUA) serves as a link between basic and higher education to broaden the educational pathways of talented local learners from different socioeconomic classes. It aims to produce the next generation of global leaders that are not only grounded in their academic disciplines but can think across disciplinary boundaries and engage in debates and discussions about diverse and contemporary global issues.
