Are you passionate about shaping young minds and building a better future through education? A qualification in Early Childhood Education or Foundation Phase Teaching is your gateway to a rewarding career in South Africa’s growing education sector.
If you’re planning to apply, here’s a list of leading universities that offer programmes in Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Foundation Phase Education:
Universities Offering Early Childhood Education / Foundation Phase Teaching
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Offers Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching with practical teaching experience. - North-West University (NWU)
Provides an integrated BEd programme in Foundation Phase Teaching across campuses. - Rhodes University
Offers BEd and PGCE options focusing on innovative and inclusive early learning strategies. - Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
Offers a modern BEd programme with emphasis on multilingual early childhood education. - Stellenbosch University (SU)
Recognised for high academic standards in teacher training with strong focus on literacy and child development. - University of Cape Town (UCT)
Offers postgraduate qualifications and research opportunities in Early Childhood Education. - University of Fort Hare (UFH)
Offers comprehensive BEd programmes with strong community-based learning. - University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with ECD specialisations. - University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
Provides BEd and advanced diplomas in Foundation Phase Teaching. - University of Limpopo (UL)
Offers a BEd Foundation Phase programme tailored for rural and township contexts. - University of Venda (UNIVEN)
Offers BEd programmes with focus on inclusive early education and community development. - University of South Africa (UNISA)
Offers distance learning options in ECD and Foundation Phase Teaching—ideal for working students. - University of the Western Cape (UWC)
Offers teaching qualifications aligned with community and cultural diversity. - University of Pretoria (UP)
Well-established BEd Foundation Phase programme with access to teaching schools and resources. - University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Offers BEd and postgraduate qualifications with a strong research and practical teaching focus.
Why Study Foundation Phase Teaching?
- Help shape the developmental years (Grades R–3)
- High demand for qualified educators in South Africa
- Opportunities to specialise in literacy, numeracy, and life skills
- Make a lasting impact on children’s lives and learning journeys
Need help choosing the right university or programme?
Stay tuned for upcoming guides on APS score requirements, bursaries, and online application links.
Let me know if you’d like this blog turned into a downloadable PDF or expanded to include bursary options or career paths after graduation.