Water & Sanitation / Environmental Engineering is one of South Africa’s most critical and scarce skills fields, playing a central role in public health, environmental protection, climate resilience, and sustainable development. With ongoing challenges around water security, ageing infrastructure, and service delivery, graduates in this field are in high demand across government, municipalities, and the private sector.
If you’re interested in engineering solutions that directly improve people’s lives, this is a powerful career path.
What Is Water & Sanitation / Environmental Engineering?
This field focuses on the engineering, management, and protection of water resources and sanitation systems, including:
- Water supply and treatment systems
- Wastewater and sanitation engineering
- Environmental protection and pollution control
- Hydrology and water resources management
- Sustainable infrastructure and climate adaptation
- Public health and environmental impact
Programmes may be offered as Environmental Engineering, Water Engineering, or specialised streams within Civil Engineering or Environmental Sciences.
Universities Offering Water & Sanitation / Environmental Engineering
Below is a grouped overview of South African universities offering programmes related to Water, Sanitation, and Environmental Engineering.
1. University of Limpopo (UL)
- University of Limpopo
- BSc in Water & Sanitation Sciences
- Strong focus on rural water supply, sanitation, and environmental sustainability
- Ideal for students interested in community-based and public-sector water solutions
- Aligned with regional and national development priorities
2. University of South Africa (UNISA)
- University of South Africa
- Water, Sanitation, and Environmental studies offered via:
- Environmental Management
- Engineering-related qualifications (theoretical focus)
- Distance learning model
- Suitable for working professionals in water and environmental sectors
- Water, Sanitation, and Environmental studies offered via:
3. University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of Pretoria
- Environmental Engineering (within Engineering faculties)
- Strong emphasis on:
- Water and wastewater treatment
- Environmental impact management
- Sustainable infrastructure and innovation
- Professionally accredited engineering pathways
- Excellent research and postgraduate opportunities
Ideal for: Students aiming for professional engineering registration and high-level technical roles.
4. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of the Witwatersrand
- Environmental Engineering and Water-focused Civil Engineering streams
- Strong research-led and urban-focused approach
- Emphasis on policy, governance, and infrastructure planning
- Excellent exposure to real-world water challenges in metropolitan contexts
Ideal for: Students interested in urban water systems, policy-linked engineering, and research.
Admission Requirements (General Guide)
Although requirements vary by institution, most programmes require:
- National Senior Certificate (Bachelor’s pass)
- Mathematics and Physical Sciences (strong results essential)
- Competitive APS scores (often 28–35+ for engineering-based degrees)
- Some programmes may require placement or diagnostic tests
👉 Always confirm the latest 2026 requirements on the university website.
Career Opportunities in Water & Environmental Engineering
Graduates can work as:
- Water & Sanitation Engineers
- Environmental Engineers
- Wastewater Treatment Specialists
- Hydrologists and Water Resource Managers
- Environmental Officers and Compliance Engineers
- Infrastructure and Municipal Engineers
Common employers include:
- Municipalities and water boards
- Department of Water and Sanitation
- Engineering and environmental consultancies
- Mining, energy, and industrial sectors
- NGOs and international development agencies
Is Water & Sanitation a Good Career in South Africa?
Absolutely. Water and sanitation are national priority sectors, with sustained demand driven by:
- Climate change and drought risks
- Infrastructure expansion and renewal
- Urbanisation and population growth
- Public health and environmental protection
This field offers strong job security, meaningful social impact, and excellent postgraduate and research opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Water & Sanitation / Environmental Engineering is a high-impact, future-proof career in South Africa. Universities like University of Pretoria and University of the Witwatersrand provide advanced engineering pathways, while institutions such as University of Limpopo and University of South Africa expand access and practical relevance.