A degree in Civil Engineering prepares you to design, construct, and maintain the infrastructure that powers cities and communities: roads, bridges, dams, buildings, and water systems. South Africa’s leading universities offer top-tier Civil Engineering programmes that blend academic excellence with real-world application.
Here’s your 2026 guide to the best South African universities offering Civil Engineering degrees:
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – Eastern Cape
Faculty: Engineering, the Built Environment & Technology
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) in Civil Engineering
Why Choose NMU?
NMU’s Civil Engineering programme is practical and industry-driven, with strong emphasis on structural, transportation, and environmental engineering.
2. North-West University (NWU) – North West
Faculty: Engineering
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Civil Engineering
Why Choose NWU?
NWU combines theoretical learning with design projects, labs, and fieldwork, preparing students for registration with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
3. Stellenbosch University (SU) – Western Cape
Faculty: Engineering
Programme Offered:
- BEng in Civil Engineering
(4-year accredited degree)
Why Choose SU?
SU’s Civil Engineering programme is internationally respected. It focuses on innovative technologies, sustainability, and infrastructure development.
4. University of Cape Town (UCT) – Western Cape
Faculty: Engineering & the Built Environment
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering: Civil Engineering (BSc Eng)
Why Choose UCT?
UCT is Africa’s top-ranked university. Its Civil Engineering programme emphasizes advanced research, structural design, geotechnics, and transportation systems.
5. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Gauteng
Faculty: Engineering & the Built Environment
Programmes Offered:
- Diploma in Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech)
- Advanced Diploma & Postgraduate Programmes in Civil Engineering
Why Choose UJ?
UJ offers diverse entry points for aspiring civil engineers, from diploma to advanced qualifications, with strong industry integration.
6. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – KwaZulu-Natal
Faculty: Engineering
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering: Civil Engineering (BSc Eng)
Why Choose UKZN?
UKZN’s programme emphasizes water resources, transportation, structural design, and environmental sustainability. It’s a top choice for coastal and environmental infrastructure.
7. University of Pretoria (UP) – Gauteng
Faculty: Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Civil Engineering
Why Choose UP?
UP’s programme is one of the most comprehensive in South Africa, with specialisations in structural, water, geotechnical, and transportation engineering.
8. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Gauteng
Faculty: Engineering and the Built Environment
Programme Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc Eng)
Why Choose Wits?
Wits provides an intensive, research-oriented Civil Engineering degree. Graduates are well-prepared for professional registration and leadership roles in infrastructure development.
What You’ll Study in Civil Engineering:
- Structural Analysis & Design
- Hydraulics & Water Engineering
- Transportation & Traffic Engineering
- Construction Materials & Management
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Engineering Mathematics & Mechanics
Career Opportunities:
- Civil Engineer (Consulting or Contracting)
- Structural Engineer
- Transport Planner or Engineer
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Water Resources Engineer
- Construction Project Manager