Housing

The Bachelor of Housing programme at the University of the Witwatersrand is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required to address complex housing issues within urban and rural contexts. This programme offers a multidisciplinary approach, combining principles of urban planning, architecture, social sciences, and sustainable development to prepare graduates for impactful careers in housing policy, development, and management. Throughout the course, students engage in rigorous theoretical coursework complemented by practical projects, internships, and fieldwork that foster hands-on experience. The curriculum emphasizes understanding the social, economic, and environmental factors influencing housing development, as well as policy formulation and implementation aimed at improving living conditions across diverse communities. Students are encouraged to critically analyze existing housing systems, explore innovative solutions for affordable and sustainable housing, and develop strategic planning acumen. The programme also focuses on community engagement and participatory approaches to ensure that housing interventions are equitable and responsive to local needs. Graduates of this degree are well-prepared to undertake roles in government departments, non-governmental organizations, housing development agencies, and private sector firms dedicated to urban development projects. They possess strong research, analytical, and communication skills necessary for effective advocacy and policy development in the housing sector. With a vibrant academic environment and access to Wits’ extensive resources and distinguished faculty, students are supported in pursuing research and initiatives that contribute to sustainable urban growth and social innovation. The Bachelor of Housing at Wits University aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled professionals but also committed change-makers dedicated to creating inclusive, resilient, and affordable housing solutions for communities across South Africa and beyond.

The Master of the Built Environment in the field of Housing consists of coursework and research. The coursework, which has the same credit weighting as the research component, is designed to complement the research enquiry. The elective course allows for individual specialisation beyond the essential housing competencies taught in the compulsory courses. The degree is structured as follows:

• 4 compulsory Category A courses (70 points)
• 1 elective from Category B (20 points)
• Housing Research Report (90 points)

Category A: Compulsory Housing Courses

• ARPL7004 - Housing Theories, Concepts and Policy (20)
• ARPL7005 - Social and Technical Sustainability in Housing (20)
• BUQS7006 - Housing Finance and the Law (20)
• ARPL7040 - Research Methods (10)

Category B: Housing Electives

• BUQS7008 - Management of Existing Housing Stock (20)
• ARPL7007 - Housing Seminar (20) - focus on informal settlement upgrading
• ARPL7045 - Housing Research Report (90)

An honours or equivalent degree with a minimum of 65% aggregate is required. As the MBE Housing is interdisciplinary, the honours or equivalent degree may be in any field. ‘Differently qualified’ candidates that are considered for admission are those with substantial work experience (minimum four years) in the field of housing at senior management level, but with formal qualifications at lower levels (three year university or former technikon degree). The procedure we apply in assessing applications from differently qualified candidates involves a personal interview with the selection committee. Differently qualified candidates must submit their applications early to allow for the interview procedure.

• Certified copies of all your degree certificates and a full academic transcript covering all periods of registration. Include all details of courses undertaken and the marks obtained. Certified copies must bear the original Commissioner of Oaths’ stamp and signature. Any documentation not in English must be translated and sworn to by an authorised translator. Credit certificates are not acceptable. 
• Curriculum vitae. 
• An applicant to a postgraduate programme who holds a foreign qualification, is required to submit proof of evaluation of the qualification by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• Attach certified copies of all your programme certificates and a full transcript of your academic record, to your application form. If you have applied for Financial Aid, obtain a separate copy for their records;
• Include all details of courses undertaken and the marks obtained. Any documentation not in English must be translated and sworn to by an authorised translator.
• A pass in the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with a score of at least 7.0. 
• A non-refundable application fee of R200 is required. 

The University of the Witwatersrand offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Housing degree programmes. Students are encouraged to explore a range of funding sources to support their studies, including government bursaries, loans, scholarships, and university-specific financial aid schemes. The South African government provides support for eligible students through bursary programs aimed at promoting access to higher education in the field of housing and related disciplines. These bursaries often cover tuition fees, accommodation, and study materials, and are awarded based on academic merit and financial need.

In addition to government support, the university itself offers several scholarships and bursaries specifically targeted at Housing students. These are typically awarded on the basis of academic excellence, leadership qualities, and community involvement. Students are advised to consult the university’s Financial Aid Office for detailed information and application procedures. Private sector sponsorships and international funding opportunities may also be available for qualifying students, particularly those seeking to specialize or undertake postgraduate studies in housing.

The university encourages students to explore external financial support, including bank loans and sponsorships from non-governmental organizations active in urban development and housing initiatives. Application processes for these funds often require proof of admission, academic transcripts, and sometimes a statement of purpose outlining the student's commitment to the field of housing.

Students enrolled in the programme are advised to plan their finances early to ensure smooth progression throughout their studies. Budgeting for tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and other living expenses is essential. The university’s financial aid services provide guidance on managing educational costs and accessing additional funding opportunities. Overall, the combination of institutional support, government aid, and external funding sources aims to make housing education accessible and affordable for deserving students, fostering the development of skilled professionals capable of contributing to sustainable urban development and housing solutions.

The University of the Witwatersrand offers a comprehensive program in Housing that aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address housing challenges within urban and rural contexts. This program explores various aspects of housing development, policy, planning, and management, emphasizing sustainable and equitable solutions. Students are introduced to the social, economic, environmental, and political factors that influence housing provision and urban development. The curriculum includes theoretical foundations as well as practical applications, such as project planning, design, and implementation strategies. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers in government departments, non-governmental organizations, private sector firms, and international agencies involved in housing development and policy formulation. Throughout their studies, students engage with current issues such as housing affordability, homelessness, informal settlements, and the impact of climate change on urban housing. The program also emphasizes research skills and critical thinking, encouraging students to develop innovative approaches to complex housing problems. By integrating interdisciplinary knowledge, practical experience, and policy analysis, the program seeks to contribute to the development of affordable, sustainable, and inclusive housing solutions in South Africa and beyond. Graduates of the program are equipped to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, advocate for vulnerable populations, and influence housing policy at local, national, and global levels. The university's strong links with industry partners and government agencies provide students with valuable internship opportunities and exposure to real-world challenges. Overall, the Housing program at Wits University strives to produce socially responsible professionals committed to improving living conditions and advancing urban development goals.