Every year, universities worldwide are independently ranked based on a number of factors including (amongst others) the academic reputation, international nature and the ratio of students to staff.
Thanks to the growing demand for university spaces across Africa, the quality of university offerings is consistently improving. An increasing number of African universities are being included each year in the ranks of best universities worldwide.
The latest ranking, the QS World University Rankings 2021 includes a total of 11 African Universities.
When selecting a university there is a lot to consider along with the global rankings, such as reputation, relevant course options – credibility both nationally and globally – and what opportunities can be gained.
The cost of studying, living and travel should also be taken into consideration. Below are 8 of Africa’s top ranking universities with an overview of the areas of study they offer.
The University Of Cape Town (UCT) – South Africa
In the QS World University Rankings 2021, the University of Cape Town (UCT) ranked highest amongst the 11 Universities in Africa included. Founded nearly 200 years ago, UCT is home to more than 25,000 African and international students.
The university faculties include Law, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Health and Humanities.
The University Of The Witwatersrand – South Africa
Located in Johannesburg, the University Of The Witwatersrand (WITs) was founded in 1922. In 2020, WITs became the second-highest-ranking University in Africa according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU).
The university’s five faculties include Commerce, Law and Management, Engineering and the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities and Science.
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The American University In Cairo – Egypt
The American University (AUC) in Cairo is a private, English language, research university that ranks third for Africa’s Universities on the QS 2021 rankings.
It was the first university in Egypt to be accredited by National Authority for Quality Assurance and Accreditation of Education (NAQAAE) and is has global accreditation from The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Faculties include Global Affairs, Science, Business and Social Science.
“When choosing the best University for you, your son or your daughter, look into the international opportunities they might gain from different Universities.” Says Audrey Parnell an educator at Essayroo and Thesis Writing. “This could be an opportunity to study abroad for a semester or an internationally recognised accreditation.”
The University Of Johannesburg – South Africa
Another South African University to make the 2021 QS ranking, the University Of Johannesburg (UJ) offers courses in Art, Architecture, Education, Law, humanities and more.
UJ prides itself on its multicultural and vibrant environment. UJ faculties include Engineering, Law, Educations, Architecture and Economics.
The University Of Stellenbosch – South Africa
Established more than 100 years ago, the University Of Stellenbosch is a public research university known for geography, law and politics. It is equally regarded for its production of research publications. Faculties include Data Science, Medicine, Theology and Science.
Cairo University – Egypt
Home to more than 200,000 local and international students, Cairo University ranked #561-570 in the QS Global World Rankings 2021.
It ranks in joint sixth place with the University of Pretoria for universities in Africa. The University of Cairo has a diverse course offering, with more than 20 faculties offering post-graduate and graduate courses.
Ferhat Abbas Sétif University 1 – Algeria
One of Africa’s younger universities, Ferhat Abbas Sétif University 1 was established in 1978 making it a fresh-faced 42 years old.
It is ranked joint 11th in the Times Higher Education’s World University Rankings and offers seven faculties which include Science, technology, medicine and life sciences. Located in Setif, Algeria, this university is home to more than 300,000 students.
“Whilst South Africa and Egypt dominate the top university rankings of recent years, Africa offers a host of brilliant universities with top facilities in a range of regions. All of which offer uniques experiences for students,” says Gabriel Lowe a teacher at PaperFellows and State Of Writing.
University Of Pretoria – South Africa
The University Of Pretoria (UP) is a multi-campus university that offers hundreds of undergraduate and postgraduate course options.
With faculties that include Veterinary Science, Technology, Humanities, Law, Natural and Agricultural Sciences and more, UP is known for its socially impactful research.
Author: Katherine Rundell, an educational writer at Academized and PhD Writers services. She writes about global study opportunities and student guidance. Also, Katherine also writes for College Paper.
