Are you passionate about designing buildings, shaping skylines, or planning sustainable cities? A career in Architecture and the Built Environment is a creative and technical pathway that blends art, engineering, and innovation. Here’s a full list of South African universities offering Architecture and Built Environment courses in 2026.
Architecture / Built Environment – Full List by University
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- Diploma in Architectural Technology
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- BSc in Construction Management
- BSc in Building
Offered under the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Technology – focuses on practical and sustainable design principles.
2. University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- BSc in Construction Studies
- BSc in Property Studies
- BSc in Geomatics
UCT’s School of Architecture, Planning & Geomatics is internationally recognized and research-driven.
3. University of Pretoria (UP)
- BSc Architecture
- BSc Construction Management
- BSc Quantity Surveying
- BSc Real Estate
- Postgraduate Architecture & Built Environment specialisations
UP is one of South Africa’s leading institutions for professional registration pathways in architecture and construction.
4. Stellenbosch University (SU)
- BSc in Conservation Ecology (environmental planning focus)
- BEng in Civil Engineering (Built Environment relevance)
- BSc in Earth Science & GeoInformatics (spatial data & land use applications)
While SU does not offer a traditional architecture degree, it provides strong built environment-related qualifications.
5. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning
- BSc in Construction Studies
- BSc in Property Studies
Wits School of Architecture and Planning is known for urban innovation, design, and research in African cities.
Why Choose Architecture & Built Environment?
- Shape the future of cities, housing, and infrastructure
- Combine artistic vision with technical precision
- High demand in urban planning, green building, and construction project management
Application Tips
- Apply early (many deadlines fall between August–September )
- Prepare a design portfolio (required by most architecture schools)
- Check for extended curriculum programmes and bursary options
Need help choosing between Architecture, Urban Planning, or Construction Management? Just ask—I’ll guide you based on your interests and APS!