Are you passionate about leadership, governance, and how global events shape society? A degree in Political Science or International Relations can open doors to careers in government, diplomacy, policy analysis, journalism, and international organisations such as the United Nations or African Union.
South Africa’s leading universities offer comprehensive programmes that explore local and international politics, diplomacy, human rights, and development. Here’s a full guide to the top universities offering Political Science and International Relations degrees in 2026.
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts (Politics & Economics)
- Bachelor of Arts (Public Management and Political Studies)
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
NMU’s Political Science programmes blend theory and practice, preparing students for leadership roles in governance, development, and the public sector. The university promotes critical engagement with African and global political systems.
2. North-West University (NWU)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts (Public Governance – Politics and International Relations)
- Bachelor of Social Sciences (with Political Studies and International Relations)
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
NWU focuses on governance, democracy, and international diplomacy. Students explore both South African and global politics, with opportunities for postgraduate study in peace and conflict studies.
3. Rhodes University
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts (Politics and International Studies)
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
Rhodes University’s Department of Political and International Studies is one of South Africa’s most respected. The programme encourages deep analysis of political power, governance, and international systems, with small classes that foster critical thinking.
4. Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Politics, and History
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
SPU offers a modern and dynamic BA programme combining political studies with sociology and history — ideal for students who want to understand the complexities of governance, development, and social change in Africa and beyond.
5. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Programmes:
- BA in Political, Philosophical and Economic Studies (PPE)
- BA in International Studies
Faculty: Arts and Social Sciences
Duration: 3 years
SU’s Political Science and International Studies degrees are globally competitive, offering modules in diplomacy, international law, and political economy. The PPE degree is especially popular among students aspiring to work in policymaking and government.
6. University of Cape Town (UCT)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Governance
- Bachelor of Social Science in International Relations
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
UCT’s Department of Political Studies is ranked among Africa’s best. The degree explores South African politics, comparative politics, and international relations, with a focus on policy, development, and human rights.
7. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Social Science in Political Science
- Bachelor of Arts in Governance and Political Transformation
Faculty: Social Sciences and Humanities
Duration: 3 years
UFH offers a values-based Political Science education grounded in African leadership and democratic development. The programme encourages engagement with issues such as social justice, ethics, and governance.
8. University of Limpopo (UL)
Programmes:
- BA in Political Studies
- BA in International Relations
Faculty: Humanities – School of Social Sciences
Duration: 3 years
UL’s Political Science programme prepares students for roles in governance, public administration, and diplomacy. It focuses on African politics, decolonisation, and the role of international institutions in development.
9. University of South Africa (UNISA)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE)
- Bachelor of Arts in International Politics
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Leadership and Citizenship
Faculty: College of Human Sciences
Duration: 3 years (distance learning)
UNISA’s flexible distance-learning model allows students across South Africa to study Political Science and International Relations while working. Courses include global politics, African governance, and foreign policy.
10. University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Faculty: Humanities, Social Sciences and Education
Duration: 3 years
UNIVEN’s programmes focus on African and global governance, leadership, and diplomacy. Students are encouraged to engage in research on human rights and sustainable development in Africa.
11. University of Pretoria (UP)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Political Science (BPolSci) in International Studies
- Bachelor of Political Science (BPolSci) in Political Studies
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
UP’s degrees prepare students for international careers in diplomacy, government, and policy. The International Studies programme covers global issues such as conflict, migration, and international law.
12. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
Faculty: Humanities
Duration: 3 years
Wits offers one of South Africa’s most dynamic Political Studies departments. Students engage with global politics, governance, and human rights, while developing research and analytical skills through fieldwork and case studies.
Why Study Political Science and International Relations?
- Shape the world: Understand how governments, economies, and global institutions work.
- Career opportunities: Work in diplomacy, NGOs, journalism, public policy, or academia.
- Global relevance: These degrees prepare graduates to operate in international and multicultural environments.
- Critical thinking: Develop analytical and communication skills essential in leadership roles.
How to Apply for 2026 Admission
Applications for 2026 open between April and September 2025. Applicants should have strong results in English, History, and Social Sciences.
Apply Online:
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- North-West University (NWU)
- Rhodes University
- Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
- Stellenbosch University (SU)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- University of South Africa (UNISA)
- University of Venda (UNIVEN)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Final Thoughts
Whether you dream of becoming a diplomat, policy analyst, journalist, or political researcher, these universities provide a world-class foundation in Political Science and International Relations.
With expert lecturers, global exposure, and a focus on African and international governance, studying politics in South Africa is your first step toward making a real impact in the world.
Start preparing your 2026 university application today and take your place among the next generation of changemakers.
The post Top Universities Offering Political Science and International Relations in South Africa appeared first on StudentRoom.co.za.
