We know this decision can feel overwhelming – but we also want you to be excited about this life-changing experience. Here are five reasons why we think you should join our Nelson Mandela University family.
1. Your learning experience
We are a vibrant, dynamic African university with a proud history of quality higher education that goes back a century. Through our seven faculties, we offer hundreds of study programmes ranging from certificate-level to research doctorates. Our qualifications are accredited by the relevant professional bodies locally and, in some cases, internationally.
While we offer over 500 different career fields, we are leaders in automotive engineering, marine studies, community health, the built environment, law, art and design, accounting, education and information technology. Many of our programmes also include workplace experience as part of the curriculum, giving you the advantage of being able to walk straight into the real world of work.
2. A home away from home
What better place to spend your study years than Gqeberha or George? Both are scenic destinations that give you the advantages of city living but in a friendly environment. To top that, you’ll live and study in spectacular natural surroundings – from beaches and mountains to nature reserves and indigenous forest. Six of our campuses are in Nelson Mandela Bay, with our main campus on a nature reserve and four of our campuses within walking distance of pristine beaches. Our seventh campus is at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains in the beautiful Garden Route city of George.
3. Life beyond lectures
Part of a well-rounded university education is taking part in social and cultural activities – and we have plenty for you to choose from. From our choir, which is sought-after at international choral festivals, to marimba, surfing, debating and dance, we offer close to 100 different clubs, associations, societies and sports. The extras that we offer are as important for your development as they are for your enjoyment. While you have fun and make new friends, you’ll also learn skills and develop qualities that improve your employability.
4. It’s in our name
We’re incredibly proud to bear the iconic name of Nelson Mandela, who believed in education as a force of good. He valued diversity and called on us all to treasure knowledge and never stop learning. To honour his legacy and embrace his challenge of being “caring, responsible and innovative” we’ve built a diverse, multicultural university in which all students feel a sense of belonging. We welcome students from our continent and from around the world.
5. Supporting our students
We know it can be hard being away from family and friends for the first time, and we’re here to help you on this journey towards obtaining a qualification. To support your learning and development, and help you achieve your potential, we encourage you to use our student support services and facilities.
Financial aid, your health, deciding what to study or finding suitable employment after graduation – we can help with every aspect of student life, so you can adjust to university living and make the most of your time with us.
We hope this makes your decision a whole lot easier, because we can’t wait to welcome you to the Nelson Mandela University family. Start your student journey with us by following our four-step application process. You are the future of South Africa and your life-changing experience starts with us.
