In 1959, Parliament adopted legislation establishing the University College of the Western Cape as a constituent college of the University of South Africa for people classified as "Coloured". The first group of 166 students enrolled in 1960. In 1970 the institution gained university status and was able to award its own degrees and diplomas
UWC is a research-rich environment. The academic staff is highly qualified, with 50% holding doctorates. Most departments have graduate programmes, some with the largest intake in the country. There are many institutes and centres with a strong research emphasis.
And there are significant projects and programmes which draw on expertise across departments and faculties. There are also joint endeavours between the University of the Western Cape and the universities of Cape Town and Stellenbosch. 20% of all students at UWC are postgraduates
To facilitate interactive career networking opportunities for students, faculty and prospective employers so as to prepare students for their entry into the world of work and thus increase their motivation to successfully complete their studies
Studyportals ranking look at the scores of the most used ranking systems and present you with one number of how well this University performs.
By U.S. News & World Report
Climbed 57 places compared to 2026
Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report presents all the top universities from the U.S. and 60 other countries around the world. They measure the rate of students going to their second year of studies, as well as the rate of students who graduate. It also asks university representatives on the performance of universities, and evaluates university resources, teacher salaries, graduation rates, student academic achievements and satisfaction. After calculating and comparing these criteria, U.S. News ranks the top international universities accordingly.
| 2025 | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| 726 | 714 | 657 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
By TopUniversities
Dropped 50 places compared to 2026
QS World University Rankings is one of the top international rankings measuring the popularity and performance of universities all over the world. They measure university reputation based on the impressions of higher education experts, companies who hire graduates, and teaching quality. QS also considers the ratio of international teachers and students present at universities, as well as the times research papers were mentioned by researchers. After calculating and comparing these criteria, QS ranks the universities accordingly.
| 2025 | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| 951 | 951 | 1001 |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
By Times Higher Education
This university doesn’t have a ranking for 2027 yet. Rankings are updated yearly, so check back later for the latest info.
World University Rankings is a vital resource that provides the definitive list of the world's best universities. They look at how often they're producing new ideas, what their reputation is around the world, and how much they're contributing to science and academic fields. After calculating and comparing these criteria, THE ranks the universities accordingly.
| 2025 | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| 601 | 601 | - |
We don’t have enough recent ranking data to show a 3-year trend for this university.
We are committed to providing culturally sensitive services of the highest quality. As the campus office devoted to international students, we strive to create an environment that allows for successful educational and personal experiences through orientation, advising, programs and outreach
Residence operations is responsible for all operational aspects relating to Residence buildings and services, which include but are not limited to maintenance issues, cleaning, security, pest control, transport, etc. The Residences are grouped into Clusters. Each cluster has a Cluster Coordinator who assumes responsibility for all operational aspects within his/her cluster
To those who wish to thrive in this Information Age; to learn how to find authoritative information efficiently, using technology or otherwise; for study, research, and practical daily or professional use; to augment existing knowledge; or to find a quiet refuge from daily existence, the University of the Western Cape Library is the place for you.
Computer labs are available at the following Residences: Cassinga, Basil February, Chris Hani, Colline Williams, E. Dos Santos, Liberty, Ruth First, Hector Peterson, Kwikbake and DISA Residence. There are lab managers who are able assist you with the services available. Computer Labs are accessible after working hours to enable students to type assignments, do research and social networking
To those of you who had to visit the Campus Health Centre during the renovations, we offer a big ‘thank you’ for putting up with the noise and dust that inevitably accompanies such a major process. However, we are sure that a repeat visit to the new and improved UWC Campus & Wellness Centre will justify the discomfort you have had to endure during that phase!
UWC Sport builds and profiles the image of the University through the support of both competitive and campus recreation sport as a contributor to the holistic development of the students and staff of the University.
Based on 96 reviews
I really love the institution. I think that this university has to be top 5 in the country. There is a variety of people from different cultures and nationality. This university really embraces everything it means to be South African
The EMS faculty at the university of the Western Cape is the best faculty. The staff and lecturers are kind, patient and supportive. They are willing to go above and beyond for their student's well-being.
The Accounting Program is very good and prepares students for their working life after they complete their degrees. It would be helpful to have a short stint, maybe for a week at an Accounting firm to get hands on experience.
The Global Student Satisfaction Awards empower students across the globe to determine the best universities of 2025. Universities with a score above 4.0 (out of 5) in any of the 7 award categories, receive Badges of Excellence. Congratulations!
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