Top IT & Computer Science Degrees to Study in SA Universities in 2026
If you're passionate about technology, problem-solving, or software development, a qualification in Information Technology (IT) or Computer Science can open doors to some of the fastest-growing and highest-paying careers in South Africa and globally.
In this guide, we explore the top IT and Computer Science degrees offered at South African universities in 2026, along with their entry requirements, career paths, and where to study them.
Top IT & Computer Science Degrees to Study in SA Universities in 2026
Why Study IT or Computer Science in South Africa?
South Africa has a thriving tech sector and a growing need for skilled graduates in:
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud Computing
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Network and Systems Administration
- Mobile and Web App Development
With top-ranked universities offering internationally recognised qualifications, studying locally gives you access to quality education at affordable costs—with plenty of opportunities to work, freelance, or even launch your own startup.
Top IT & Computer Science Degrees in 2026
Here’s a list of popular and high-demand qualifications offered at leading South African institutions:
1. BSc in Computer Science
Type: 3-year degree
Where to Study:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Entry Requirements:
- NSC with Mathematics (minimum 60–70%)
- APS of 34–40+ depending on institution
- Physical Sciences often recommended or required
Career Opportunities:
- Software Developer
- Systems Analyst
- Game Developer
- Researcher
- AI/ML Engineer
2. Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT)
Type: 3–4-year degree, often includes business and systems modules
Where to Study:
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- North-West University (NWU)
Entry Requirements:
- NSC with Mathematics (60–70%)
- APS of 30–36
- English 50%+
Career Opportunities:
- IT Project Manager
- Network Administrator
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Systems Engineer
- DevOps Specialist
3. BSc in Information Systems / Informatics
Type: 3-year degree
Where to Study:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Rhodes University
Entry Requirements:
- APS of 30–34
- Maths or Math Literacy depending on institution
- Strong performance in English
Career Opportunities:
- Business Analyst
- Systems Integrator
- Database Administrator
- ERP Consultant
4. Diploma in IT / Software Development
Type: 3-year diploma
Where to Study:
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- TVET Colleges
Entry Requirements:
- NSC with pass in Maths or Math Literacy
- APS of 20–26
Career Opportunities:
- Junior Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Support Technician
- QA Tester
5. BSc in Data Science or Artificial Intelligence (Emerging)
Type: 3–4-year degree
Where to Study:
- University of Johannesburg (BSc in AI)
- University of Pretoria (UP) – Data Science stream in BSc CS
- Stellenbosch University – Honours/Masters level options
Entry Requirements:
- Strong Mathematics background (70%+)
- APS of 36–42
- Interest in stats, logic, and automation
Career Opportunities:
- Data Scientist
- Machine Learning Engineer
- AI Specialist
- Data Analyst
Top South African Universities for IT & Computer Science (2026)
University | QS Africa Ranking | Notable Highlights |
| University of Cape Town | #1 in Africa | Strong research in CS & AI |
| Wits University | Top 5 | Known for deep tech and software innovation |
| Stellenbosch University | Top 5 | Offers well-rounded degrees with real-world focus |
| University of Pretoria | Top 10 | Offers BIT, CS, and AI streams |
| University of Johannesburg | Top 15 | Innovative programs in AI and emerging tech |
Skills You’ll Learn in These Programs
Most IT/CS degrees in South Africa combine theory with hands-on programming and tech stack experience, including:
- Programming languages: Python, Java, C++, JavaScript
- Database design (SQL, NoSQL)
- Networking and cloud systems
- Agile and DevOps practices
- Mobile and web app development
- Cybersecurity fundamentals
- Algorithms and data structures
Universities Still Open for 2026 Applications!!!
- Vaal University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Walter Sisulu University (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
- University of Mpumalanga (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)
- University of Cape Town (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
- Stellenbosch University (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
- North West University (Closing Date: 31 August 2025)
- Tshwane University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Free State (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Limpopo (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Venda (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Central University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Johannesburg (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
- Nelson Mandela University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Witwatersrand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Western Cape (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Sefako Makgatho University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Durban University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- University of Zululand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
- Sol Plaatje University (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)
Admissions Tips for 2026 Applicants
- Start Early – Applications open between April and August 2025
- Meet APS and Math Requirements – Strong Maths is a must
- Compare Program Content – Look at modules and specialisations
- Apply to Multiple Universities – Boost your chances of acceptance
- Get Involved in Tech – Coding clubs, bootcamps, and personal projects help
Future-Proof Your Career
IT and Computer Science are future-focused fields that continuously evolve. With a South African degree in hand, you can work locally or globally in some of the most in-demand roles—whether as a developer, cloud engineer, AI specialist, or entrepreneur.
As tech adoption grows, so do the opportunities. Choosing the right program in 2026 can set you on a path to building smart systems, solving real-world problems, and shaping the future.
