University of Port Elizabeth
university
University of Port Elizabeth

University of Port Elizabeth

Design the future, build a better world.

Schoenmakerskop, Gqeberha, 6011, South Africa

About University of Port Elizabeth

The Department of Architecture at Nelson Mandela University offers a comprehensive architectural education rooted in its regional context while engaging with national and global trends. The program emphasizes critical thinking and the appropriateness of global pressures within an African context. The department has a history of active research related to regional issues, including architectural conservation, rural school design, traditional courts, coastal architecture, urban development, and architectural computer usage. The program structure includes a three-year Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), a one-year BAS (Honours) degree, and a one-year Master of Architecture (Professional) degree.
Program NameDetails
Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS)
Bachelor

This undergraduate degree provides the foundation for architectural design, innovation, and sustainability, serving as the first step toward becoming a registered architectural technologist. The program balances theoretical and practical approaches shaped by social, economic, and ecological factors within a regional context.

3 Years
English
R44,464 per year (estimate in 2019)
Deadline: Applications are open as of April 13, 2025. Selection is based on a creative portfolio and interview.
Bachelor of Architectural Studies Honours
Bachelor Honours

This honors program builds upon the Bachelor of Architectural Studies, emphasizing advanced design and theoretical knowledge. Admission is limited and based on a portfolio review of the applicant's work.

1 Year
English
Not specified in search results.
Deadline: Not specified in search results, but typically follows the university's general application deadlines.
Master of Architecture (Professional)
Master

This postgraduate program is the fifth and final year of architectural study. Graduates can register as professional architects after complying with practical training requirements.

1 Year
English
Not specified in search results.
Deadline: Not specified in search results, but typically follows the university's general application deadlines.
Master of Architecture (Research)
Master

This research-based master's program requires the submission of a research dissertation. Research areas include architectural conservation, rural school design, traditional court design, coastal architecture, and urban development.

1 Year
English
ZAR 25980 per year (as of the information found)
Deadline: Not specified in search results, but intakes typically occur in January.
Doctor of Architecture
Doctorate

Doctoral candidates must submit a thesis based on research publications and/or completed building designs. The curriculum is rooted in the architectural themes of Africa and Southern Africa.

2 Years
English
ZAR 52660 per year (as of the information found)
Deadline: Not specified in search results, but intakes typically occur in January.
Diploma in Interior Design
Diploma

This diploma program focuses on creating habitable interiors with spatial qualities that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and psychologically sound. Students gain skills in layout, finishes, detailing, and lighting of interior spaces.

3 years
English
Not specified in search results.
Deadline: Not specified in search results, but typically follows the university's general application deadlines.
Advanced Diploma in Interior Design
Advanced Diploma

This advanced diploma builds upon the Diploma in Interior Design, providing further specialization and expertise in interior design principles and practices. Graduates will have an advanced understanding of application development.

1 year (following the Diploma in Interior Design)
English
Not specified in search results.
Deadline: Nelson Mandela University applicants must have graduated with a 360 credit National Diploma or a Diploma in Interior Design with a minimum of 65% average for specific modules.

Performance & Metrics

Institutional Stats
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Students
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Faculty
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Alumni
7
Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
All architectural programs (BAS, BAS Hons, M.Arch (Professional), National Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Architectural Technology, and Diplomas in Interior Design) are accredited by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) and the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA). The NMU School of Architecture North Campus received unconditional accreditation from SACAP in April 2023.
Admissions
Deadlines
late_applications_2027
September 30, 2026 (excluding MBChB, BPharm & BRad)
early_applications_2027
August 3, 2026 (excluding MBChB, BPharm & BRad)
international_student_applications_2027
September 30, 2026
Requirements
Minimum National Senior Certificate (NSC) statutory requirements for degree entry. Minimum Applicant Score of 370 with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics (at least 55%). Admission is subject to Departmental selection, based on the submission of a creative portfolio of work (drawings, sketches, other creative endeavors) and an interview.

University of Port Elizabeth Academic FAQ

University of Port Elizabeth is Design the future, build a better world.

Applicants are typically required to submit: Minimum National Senior Certificate (NSC) statutory requirements for degree entry. Minimum Applicant Score of 370 with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics (at least 55%). Admission is subject to Departmental sel....

University of Port Elizabeth provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS), Bachelor of Architectural Studies Honours, Master of Architecture (Professional), Master of Architecture (Research), Doctor of Architecture.

University of Port Elizabeth is situated in Gqeberha, South Africa, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, University of Port Elizabeth holds accreditations from: All architectural programs (BAS, BAS Hons, M.Arch (Professional), National Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Architectural Technology, and Diplomas in Interior Design) are accredited by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) and the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA). The NMU School of Architecture North Campus received unconditional accreditation from SACAP in April 2023..