10 Underrated University Courses in South Africa
When people think of university courses in South Africa, the big ones that usually come to mind are; Law, Medicine, Engineering, Teaching, and Accounting. While these are all valuable and respected, there are many lesser-known courses that offer fantastic career opportunities and personal fulfilment—but are often overlooked.
10 Underrated University Courses in South Africa
Let’s uncover 10 underrated university courses in South Africa that deserve more attention:
1. Emergency Medical Care
Emergency Medical Care (EMC) is not just about driving ambulances. It’s a high-skill, high-intensity programme that trains students to become advanced life support paramedics—responding to life-threatening emergencies, trauma scenes, and medical disasters.
Why it’s underrated: Many think you need to go the full medical degree route to save lives. But EMC graduates are frontline heroes. The course is challenging, but the career is incredibly rewarding.
Where to study: Durban University of Technology (DUT), University of Johannesburg (UJ), and Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).
2. Metallurgy
Metallurgy is the study of metals—how they behave, how they’re extracted, processed, and used in everything from construction to electronics.
Why it’s underrated: Most people don’t even know what it is! But metallurgists are essential to South Africa’s mining, manufacturing, and materials industries. Salaries are good, and the demand is steady in sectors like steel, automotive, and mining.
Where to study: University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, and Wits University.
3. Occupational Hygiene
Occupational Hygiene focuses on identifying and controlling workplace health hazards—like dust, noise, chemicals, and poor air quality. It’s a science-based course aimed at protecting workers' health.
Why it’s underrated: In a world where health and safety regulations are strict, occupational hygienists play a crucial role—especially in mines, factories, and construction sites.
Where to study: North-West University (NWU) and University of Pretoria.
4. Safety Management
This course trains professionals to develop safety protocols, enforce regulations, and reduce workplace accidents. It blends management principles with occupational health and safety training.
Why it’s underrated: Safety managers are in demand across industries—especially construction, manufacturing, logistics, and mining. It’s a great course for people who want a practical job that makes a difference.
Where to study: UNISA and Vaal University of Technology.
5. Draughting
Draughting (also called technical drawing or CAD design) is about creating precise plans and diagrams used in architecture, engineering, and manufacturing.
Why it’s underrated: Draughting is a skill that employers actively seek, especially in construction, civil engineering, and product design. Plus, it's great for freelance or remote work!
Where to study: The Draughting Academy, CTU Training Solutions, TVET Colleges and some universities of technology.
6. Risk Management
This BCom specialisation focuses on identifying, assessing, and minimising risks in organisations from financial risks to operational threats.
Why it’s underrated: Every business, big or small, faces risks. Risk managers help prevent disasters, protect company assets, and keep things running smoothly. It’s also an excellent path into banking, insurance, and corporate governance.
Where to study: UNISA, North-West University, and University of Johannesburg.
7. Transport Economics
Transport Economics is all about planning and managing transport systems whether it’s logistics, public transport, aviation, or freight networks.
Why it’s underrated: South Africa’s economy relies on movement of goods and people. This course opens doors in logistics companies, municipalities, airlines, and even in government transport planning.
Where to study: University of Johannesburg, Stellenbosch University, and University of Pretoria.
8. Financial Information Systems
This course combines IT with finance, teaching students to design and manage systems that handle accounting, budgeting, payroll, and more.
Why it’s underrated: It’s not quite Accounting and not quite Computer Science—but it’s in high demand. Businesses are going digital, and they need people who understand both finance and tech.
Where to study: University of Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela University, and University of South Africa (UNISA).
9. Quantitative Management
Quantitative Management is a data-driven course focused on decision-making, business analytics, and operations. It uses mathematics and statistics to solve complex business problems.
Why it’s underrated: Many people overlook this course because it sounds technical—but it’s one of the best pathways into careers in analytics, logistics, supply chain, and finance.
Where to study: UNISA and North-West University (NWU).
10. BCom in Business Informatics
Business Informatics combines IT, business processes, and data management. Think of it as the bridge between the technical world and business strategy.
Why it’s underrated: Companies are collecting tons of data but they need people who can analyse it and use it to make smart decisions. This course sets you up for careers in business analysis, systems development, IT consulting, and more.
Where to study: University of Pretoria, University of Limpopo, and University of Johannesburg.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a university course is not about following the crowd. It’s about discovering what works for you and your future. These 10 underrated university courses in South Africa offer practical skills, in-demand expertise, and exciting career paths that many students overlook.
These underrated courses offer just as much potential for success, often in fields where there’s less competition and a high demand for skills.
In fact, some of the most rewarding jobs today come from these very courses. So, don’t just choose a course because everyone else is doing it. Explore your interests, do your research, and find that “hidden gem” that aligns with your goals.
Remember: The goal isn’t just to study what’s popular—it’s to find something that fits your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Sometimes, the road less travelled really does make all the difference.
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