Wits Humanities 2027: Your Ultimate Guide to Programmes & Application

Why Choose the Faculty of Humanities at Wits?

Choosing where to pursue your higher education is a pivotal decision, and for humanities, Wits offers an unparalleled experience. The Faculty of Humanities is not just an academic institution; it's a dynamic hub of excellence where intellectual curiosity thrives. You'll be taught by esteemed international scholars and benefit from a student-centred ethos that places your growth and development at its core. As Dean Professor Mucha Musemwa often highlights, the rigorous training provided here is specifically designed to prepare graduates for a rapidly changing and complex world. Furthermore, Wits' prime location in Johannesburg – a pulsating economic and cultural heart of Africa – provides unique opportunities to engage directly with the continent's dynamic links and diverse communities, enriching your studies with real-world context.

Explore Diverse Humanities Programmes at Wits

The Faculty of Humanities at Wits boasts an impressive array of undergraduate programmes, offering pathways across arts, education, and development. Whether your passion lies in understanding human behaviour, shaping young minds, or exploring digital frontiers, there's a programme tailored for you. Here’s a glimpse into the diverse options available:

• BA (General): A flexible three-year degree allowing you to combine various majors such as Anthropology, History, Languages, and more, providing a broad interdisciplinary foundation.
• BA (Law): This three-year programme offers a robust foundation, serving as an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to pursue careers in the legal field.
• BA (Digital Arts): A four-year immersive degree where you can dive into cutting-edge fields like game design, animation, and interactive media.
• BA (Film and Television): Over four years, this programme equips you with the skills and knowledge required for filmmaking, directing, screenwriting, and production.
• BA (Fine Arts): A four-year intensive programme focusing on studio practice, art history, and critical art theory, fostering creative expression and academic rigor.
• BMus (Music): This four-year degree is designed for aspiring musicians, covering performance, composition, musicology, and ethnomusicology.
• BA (Theatre and Performance): A four-year programme where students explore various aspects of theatre, from acting and directing to dramaturgy and performance studies.
• BEd (Various Phases): A comprehensive four-year teaching qualification, allowing specialisation in Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, or Senior Phase and FET, preparing you for a fulfilling career in education.
• BA (Audiology): A four-year professional degree focused on the study and treatment of hearing disorders, preparing graduates for clinical practice.
• BA (Speech-Language Pathology): This four-year programme addresses communication disorders, training students to assess, diagnose, and treat a range of speech and language difficulties.
• BA (Social Work): A four-year programme dedicated to understanding social development, empowering individuals and communities, and advocating for social justice.

Navigating Wits Humanities Admission Requirements

For your 2027 application, understanding the admission requirements is crucial. Generally, all programmes require a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor's pass. Beyond that, specific Admission Point Scores (APS), English proficiency, and other subject requirements apply. It's important to remember that these are general guidelines, and Wits often places deserving applicants on waitlists if their scores are close to the threshold.

• BA (General): An APS of 36+ is required, with a level 5 in English. Applicants with an APS of 30-35 may be waitlisted.
• BA (Law): A competitive APS of 43+ is needed, along with a level 5 in English. Additionally, you'll need at least a level 3 in Mathematics or a level 4 in Mathematical Literacy. An APS of 40-42 might place you on the waitlist.
• BA (Digital Arts): Requires an APS of 36+ and a level 5 in English. You will also need to complete a workshop or questionnaire as part of the application process.
• BA (Film and Television): An APS of 34+ and a level 5 in English are necessary. A portfolio and an interview will be part of the selection process.
• BA (Fine Arts): Applicants need an APS of 34+ and a level 5 in English, along with a creative portfolio.
• BMus (Music): An APS of 34+ and a level 5 in English are required. Successful applicants will also undergo an audition and an interview.
• BA (Theatre and Performance): Requires an APS of 34+ and a level 5 in English, with an audition as a key part of the assessment.
• BEd (Various Phases): An APS of 37+ and a level 5 in English are standard. Specific Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirements may apply depending on the teaching phase you choose.
• BA (Audiology/Speech-Language Pathology): Both programmes require an APS of 34+, a level 5 in English, and critically, a level 4 in Mathematics. You will also need to write the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
• BA (Social Work): An APS of 36+ and a level 5 in English are required. Applicants with an APS of 34-35 may be waitlisted.

A unique and important requirement for many humanities programmes is the completion of two courses in either isiZulu, Sesotho, or South African Sign Language (SASL), or an equivalent language. This reflects Wits' commitment to fostering multilingualism and cultural understanding relevant to the South African context.

Beyond the Degree: Career Paths for Wits Humanities Graduates

A humanities degree from Wits is not just a qualification; it's a foundation for a versatile and impactful career. The critical thinking, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills you develop are highly sought after across various industries. Your degree can open doors to numerous fulfilling professions:

• In the Arts: Become a professional artist, curator, arts administrator, performer, musician, filmmaker, or theatre practitioner.
• In Education: Excel as a dedicated teacher, educational researcher, curriculum developer, or educational consultant, shaping the future of South African youth. In Mpumalanga, particularly, there is a consistent demand for skilled educators across various phases.
• In Development and Healthcare: Contribute as a social worker, community development officer, audiologist, or speech-language pathologist, making a tangible difference in people's lives. These roles are particularly vital in provinces like Mpumalanga, addressing critical social and health needs.
• Other Fields: Humanities graduates also thrive in journalism, publishing, research, marketing, public relations, human resources, government, and non-profit organisations.

The interdisciplinary nature of Wits Humanities ensures you are well-equipped to adapt and innovate in an ever-evolving job market, locally and internationally.

Thabo's Roadmap: Essential Application Tips for Wits 2027

Thabo, your journey to Wits begins now. Here are some crucial tips to ensure your 2027 application is strong and timely:

• Application Deadlines: For most undergraduate programmes, the application deadline is 30 September. However, be aware that some specific programmes, particularly those requiring portfolios or auditions, might have an earlier deadline, often as early as 30 June. Always check the specific programme requirements on the Wits website.
• Required Documents: Ensure you have certified copies of your National Senior Certificate (NSC), any necessary National Benchmark Test (NBT) results, and prepare your portfolios or audition pieces well in advance if required for your chosen programme.
• Estimated Fees: While subject to change, the estimated fees for the 2026 academic year ranged from approximately R47,220 to R90,660, depending on the programme. Plan your finances accordingly for 2027, factoring in potential increases.
• Gain Experience: While still in Middelburg, seek opportunities to gain relevant experience. Volunteer in local communities, participate in school plays, join a debate club, or assist at an NGO. Such experiences not only enrich your personal growth but also strengthen your university application, demonstrating your commitment and interest in the humanities.
• Explore Scholarships: Wits offers various scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit and financial need. Begin researching these opportunities early, as they can significantly alleviate the financial burden of university studies.

Your Future Starts Now!

Thabo, the Faculty of Humanities at Wits University offers an extraordinary environment where you can hone your skills, expand your worldview, and prepare for a career that makes a real impact. From the rich cultural tapestry of Mpumalanga to the vibrant intellectual life of Johannesburg, your journey promises to be transformative. Don't delay – get started on your application for 2027 and take the first step towards a bright future. We eagerly await your application!