University of Cape Town
university
University of Cape Town

University of Cape Town

Nurturing critical thinkers and challengers of the status quo through student-centred education, reflecting on social impact and diverse cultural values in the

Roeland St, District Six, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa

About University of Cape Town

The School of Architecture, Planning & Geomatics at the University of Cape Town is uniquely positioned within Sub-Saharan Africa, offering a wide variety of nationally and internationally accredited degree programmes. With over 500 students and 27 full-time academic staff, the school embodies a miniature global south metropolis. Students are encouraged to develop independence in research, writing, and design within Cape Town's complex urban environment, which serves as both inspiration and testing ground. The School builds upon a rich history of social engagement, fostering critical thinkers who proactively address social justice and transformation in South Africa. Its mission is to deliver student-centred education that critically reflects on social impact and confronts diverse cultural values. As home to the African Centre for Cities and the Zamani project, it provides unparalleled access to leading expertise, promoting team-based, cross-disciplinary, design-research oriented learning in architecture, conservation, landscape, city and regional planning, surveying and urban design.
Program NameDetails
Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS)
Bachelor

This full-time course provides a broad education in architecture, emphasizing the relationship between architectural design, building technology, history, and theory. It equips students with the skills for innovative thinking and prepares them for graduate studies or entry into related fields.

3 Years
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Bachelor of Architectural Studies (Honours)
Bachelor (Honours)

This honors degree builds on the BAS foundation, focusing on cultural, social, political, technological, and ecological issues within the built environment. It is essential for final registration as an architect.

1 Year
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Master of Architecture (MArch Prof.)
Master

This program builds upon the BAS (Hons) and is essential for registration as an architect. It reflects a commitment to cultural, social, political, technological and ecological issues.

Varies
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Master of Architecture (MArch) by Research
Master

This research-based degree requires a prior Master of Architecture (MProf) degree. Students work on self-defined areas of interest with a staff supervisor, contributing to international knowledge through addressing development, planning, and design problems.

Minimum 1 year
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)
Master

This program focuses on environmental planning and design. The course extends the base of knowledge through graduate study with particular emphasis on landscape design.

1 Year
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Bachelor of Landscape Architecture (Honours)
Bachelor (Honours)

This honours degree provides advanced knowledge and skills related to landscape architecture practice, including landscape and urban design. A bridging stream is available for applicants with non-design related degrees.

1 Year
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Master of Urban Design (MUD)
Master

This interdisciplinary program focuses on the positive impact on the design of African cities, creating socially aware urban designers. The course considers the application of urban design and southern spatial theory in African cities.

1 year (full-time), 2 years (extended)
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Master of City Planning and Urban Design (MCPUD)
Master

This postgraduate degree focuses on city planning and urban design. The school is committed to ensuring that students are exposed to the best possible team-based, cross- disciplinary, design-research oriented forms of teaching and learning.

Varies
English
Deadline: See UCT application details
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
PhD

This research degree is available to students from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds. Students work on self-defined areas of interest in close co-operation with a staff supervisor.

Minimum 2 years
English
25680 ZAR / year
Deadline: See UCT application details
Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
Master of Philosophy

This encourages interdisciplinary research in the field of the built environment, into which students from a wide variety of Honours degrees can enroll. The minimum period of registration for a masters degree is one year.

Minimum 1 year
English
Deadline: See UCT application details

Performance & Metrics

Institutional Stats
0
Students
0
Faculty
0
Alumni
10
Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
Nationally and internationally accredited degree programmes. Architecture programs are expected to be accredited by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP).
Admissions
Highly competitive, receiving approximately 1300 applications annually for limited spots.
Acceptance Rate
Deadlines
local_applicants
November 30 (for the following year's intake)
international_applicants
October 31 (for the following year's intake)
Requirements
0: For postgraduate degrees, a three-year undergraduate degree in architectural studies or equivalent (NQF Level 7).
1: Minimum 11 months of practical work experience in an architectural setting (for specific programs/honours).
2: Portfolio submission including a letter of motivation, CV, academic writing sample (min 2000 words), three design projects, and evidence of practical/independent work.
3: Minimum 50% in English (Home Language or First Additional Language) and pure Mathematics (Mathematics Literacy not accepted).
4: Faculty Point Score (FPS) of approximately 348 points, or Weighted Point Score (WPS) of at least 408 points for National Senior Certificate (NSC) students.
5: Demonstrated English language proficiency.

University of Cape Town Academic FAQ

University of Cape Town is Nurturing critical thinkers and challengers of the status quo through student-centred education, reflecting on social impact and diverse cultural values in the

The acceptance rate for University of Cape Town is Highly competitive, receiving approximately 1300 applications annually for limited spots., reflecting the selectivity of its academic programs.

Applicants are typically required to submit: For postgraduate degrees, a three-year undergraduate degree in architectural studies or equivalent (NQF Level 7)., Minimum 11 months of practical work experience in an architectural setting (for speci....

University of Cape Town provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), Bachelor of Architectural Studies (Honours), Master of Architecture (MArch Prof.), Master of Architecture (MArch) by Research, Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA).

The institution maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of Approximately 18.5:1, ensuring personalized mentorship and studio culture.

University of Cape Town is situated in Cape Town, South Africa, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, University of Cape Town holds accreditations from: Nationally and internationally accredited degree programmes. Architecture programs are expected to be accredited by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP)..