If you’re passionate about storytelling, visual creativity, and digital innovation, South Africa offers world-class degrees in Media, Film, and Digital Arts. Whether you dream of becoming a film director, content producer, multimedia designer, or digital strategist, these universities provide cutting-edge programmes to prepare you for the dynamic media industry.
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Key Programme:
- BA in Media, Communication & Culture – An interdisciplinary degree covering journalism, public relations, film, broadcasting, and digital content creation.
Why NMU?
- Strong focus on practical media production.
- Access to modern multimedia labs and industry-connected lecturers.
Rhodes University
Key Programmes:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) – Flexible degree allowing specialisation in media studies and communication.
- Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn) – One of South Africa’s most respected journalism and media degrees.
- Bachelor of Fine Art (BFA) – Includes digital and video-based art practices.
Why Rhodes?
- Globally recognised School of Journalism and Media Studies.
- Opportunities for hands-on training in newsrooms, radio, and television production.
University of Cape Town (UCT)
Key Programmes:
- BA in Film & Media Production – Specialisations in screenwriting, directing, producing, and post-production.
- BA in Media & Writing – Focuses on journalism, corporate communication, and creative writing.
- BA in Theatre & Performance / Drama – Includes acting for stage and screen.
Why UCT?
- Strong industry links with South Africa’s film and television sector.
- Situated in Cape Town – a major hub for local and international film productions.
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Key Programme:
- Multimedia (Digital) Design – Blends creativity and technology for careers in animation, interactive media, and game design.
Why UJ?
- Industry-relevant digital arts curriculum.
- Opportunities to collaborate on real-world creative projects.
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Key Programmes:
- BA in Digital Arts – Covers animation, interactive media, and game design.
- BA in Film & Television – Focused on scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, and production management.
- BA in Fine Arts – Includes experimental and digital art practices.
Why Wits?
- Home to the Wits School of Arts, known for its innovative approach to film and digital media.
- Strong links to Johannesburg’s vibrant creative industries.
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Key Programmes:
- BA in Visual Multimedia Arts (90091) – Focuses on multimedia design, animation, and interactive digital storytelling.
- BA in Communication Studies – Covers media theory, journalism, and corporate communication.
Why UNISA?
- Flexible distance learning – perfect for working professionals.
- Affordable, accredited programmes with global recognition.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer a practical film school approach like Wits and UCT, a multimedia and digital design focus like UJ and UNISA, or a journalism and media theory foundation like Rhodes and NMU, South African universities offer world-class pathways into the media, film, and digital arts industries.