Rhodes University (RU)

Welcome to Rhodes University – Dr Sizwe Mabizela, Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor

Welcome to Rhodes University, founded in 1904; the University has a well-established reputation for academic excellence.

With just over 8200 students, Rhodes is a small University, which enjoys the distinction of having among the best undergraduate pass and graduation rates in South Africa, outstanding postgraduate success rates, and the best research output per academic staff member. This is a testimony to the quality of students that Rhodes attracts and of academic provision and the commitment of Rhodes staff to student development and success.

Of our more than 8000 students, 30% are postgraduates, and over 18% are international students from 54 countries worldwide, making Rhodes a dynamic and cosmopolitan knowledge institution. Students can undertake an extensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Humanities, Science, Commerce, Pharmacy, Law, and Education. Rhodes students are guaranteed easy access to academics and close supervision with the most favourable academic staff to student ratio among South African universities.

The University takes pride in its motto, Where Leaders Learn and producing graduates who are knowledgeable intellectuals, skilled professionals, and critical, caring, and compassionate citizens who can contribute to economic and social development and an equitable, just and democratic society.

Almost 50% of Rhodes students and most undergraduates live in University residences, while there are also special residences for postgraduates. Through a well-established structure of wardens, sub-wardens and residence committees, the residences play an important role in overall student development, including developing leadership skills.

Numerous clubs and societies provide extensive opportunities for students to participate in various intellectual, social, cultural, and sports activities and further develop valuable skills.