Interested in understanding how economies work, analysing markets, or shaping public policy? A degree in Economics, Econometrics, or Economic Sciences opens doors to careers in finance, government, research, and international development. South Africa’s top universities offer world-class programmes in these fields—equipping students with analytical tools to solve real-world economic problems.
Here’s your 2026 guide to the best South African universities offering Economics and Economic Sciences degrees:
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – Eastern Cape
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma & Advanced Diploma in Economics
- BCom in Economics
- BCom in Financial Planning (with Economics stream)
Why Choose NMU?
NMU offers a practical and business-focused economics education with strong links to finance, tourism, and development planning.
2. North-West University (NWU) – North West
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economic Sciences with Econometrics, International Trade, Risk Management, Agricultural Economics
- Extended BCom options available
Why Choose NWU?
NWU is one of the few universities offering multiple economics specialisations, including econometrics and agricultural risk management.
3. Rhodes University – Eastern Cape
Programmes Offered:
- Bachelor of Commerce (Economics major)
- Bachelor of Economics
Why Choose Rhodes?
Rhodes provides a strong theoretical foundation in micro, macro, and development economics—ideal for students interested in academic and research careers.
4. Sol Plaatje University (SPU) – Northern Cape
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- BCom Honours in Economics
Why Choose SPU?
SPU focuses on economic transformation and development in emerging markets, making it ideal for public sector or NGO careers.
5. Stellenbosch University (SU) – Western Cape
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economic Sciences
- BCom in International Business with Economics focus
Why Choose SU?
Stellenbosch is renowned for its economics research and policy impact. Its programmes are mathematically rigorous and research-oriented.
6. University of Cape Town (UCT) – Western Cape
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics, Economics with Law, and Economics & Statistics
- Bachelor of Business Science in Economics
Why Choose UCT?
UCT is Africa’s top-ranked university and known globally for its economics research. Ideal for those looking to enter policy, development, or international finance sectors.
7. University of Fort Hare (UFH) – Eastern Cape
Programmes Offered:
- BCom (Generic with Economics stream)
- Honours and Master’s in Economics and Development Studies
Why Choose UFH?
UFH emphasises inclusive economic development and transformation—making it ideal for students passionate about socioeconomic justice.
8. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Gauteng
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- BCom in Econometrics
- Advanced Diplomas and Postgraduate options
Why Choose UJ?
UJ offers both practical and data-driven economics programmes, ideal for careers in banking, consulting, or government planning.
9. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – KwaZulu-Natal
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in General Economics
- Economics as a major in BA or BCom streams
Why Choose UKZN?
UKZN prepares students for economic research, development work, and business forecasting, with strong community development integration.
10. University of Limpopo (UL) – Limpopo
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- Extended BCom in Economics
Why Choose UL?
UL focuses on developmental economics and rural transformation—ideal for students committed to social impact and inclusive growth.
11. University of Venda (UNIVEN) – Limpopo
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- Extended Programme in Cost & Management Accounting (with economics components)
Why Choose UNIVEN?
UNIVEN’s economics training aligns with rural development goals and sustainable economic planning for emerging economies.
12. University of South Africa (UNISA) – Distance Learning
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- BA in Economics and Development Studies
- Postgraduate Diplomas and Honours in Economics
Why Choose UNISA?
UNISA provides flexible, distance-based qualifications, ideal for professionals and those unable to attend full-time programmes.
13. University of the Western Cape (UWC) – Western Cape
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- Bachelor of Economics in Development Economics
- Postgraduate options
Why Choose UWC?
UWC focuses on economic justice, public policy, and development economics, with an emphasis on serving marginalised communities.
14. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Gauteng
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- BCom in PPE (Politics, Philosophy & Economics)
- Business Science in Finance & Economics
Why Choose Wits?
Wits is known for high-level economic research and quantitative skills training, ideal for careers in policy, finance, and academia.
📊 15. University of the Free State (UFS) – Free State
Programmes Offered:
- BCom in Economics
- BCom in Investment Management and Banking
- BCom Honours in Economics
Why Choose UFS?
UFS combines business and economics training with investment and financial planning, ideal for careers in banking and consultancy.
What You’ll Study:
- Micro & Macroeconomics
- Development Economics
- Econometrics & Statistical Analysis
- Public Finance & Policy
- International Economics
- Labour & Agricultural Economics
Career Paths in Economics:
- Economist / Economic Analyst
- Investment Analyst / Financial Planner
- Policy Advisor
- Development Consultant
- Market Researcher
- Econometrics or Data Analyst