Nelson Mandela University: Courses, Admission, Cost

Established in 1882, Nelson Mandela University is an Open University which was earlier known as Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. It was renamed to its current name in 2017. The university is associated with the Association of African Universities and the Association of Commonwealth Universities. It offers professional and vocational training. The university was developed through the formation of the PE Art School, the University of Port Elizabeth and the Vista University. The university is also associated with two sports organizations, namely Varsity Rugby and Varsity Sports Football Challenge. NMU emerged rapidly over the years.

The university comprises six campuses. One campus is set in George port and the other five campuses are located in Port Elizabeth. The main campus, South Campus is spread across an area of 2,100 acres. It is known to be the only campus to be set on a nature reserve. The students are provided with all the facilities required at the campus. They experience a calm learning environment at the campus. The North Campus is home to the university's Vice-Chancellor. The Second Avenue Campus houses the exhibition center and the school of business.

The Mission Vale Campus is known to be the biggest indoor venue in the state. The Bird Street Campus features the art hub of the university. And, the George Campus houses the Department of Environmental Studies, Nature Conservation, and Forestry. All the fests, events, competitions and seminars organized by the university are held at the main campus. It is close to many cafes and restaurants. Also, several general stores, departmental stores, and chemist shops are located nearby the campus. Public transport is easily available from the campus.

As per a record in 2017, the total strength of the university is about 27,000 students. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. The undergraduate program includes 23,000 students, and about 4,000 students are under the postgraduate program. The university majorly focuses on accounting, art & design, health & environmental sciences, information technology and engineering.

It features seven faculties and four schools, namely the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Business & Economic Sciences, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering & Information Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Law and Faculty of Science. The five schools are the School of Clinical Care Sciences, School of Lifestyle Sciences, School of Behavioral Sciences and School of Medicinal Sciences. The students are taught under experienced faculty members. Many industry professionals visit the University Guest Lectures, practical workshops, and interactive sessions. The university has a list of some notable alumni that includes Nashwa Eassa (Nano-particle Physicist), Alan Knott Craig (Technology Entrepreneur), Dave Richardson (ICC General Manager), Paul Treu (Rugby Coach), Eben Venter (Famous Novelist) and Andre Vos (Former Rugby Union Player).