University of the Witwatersrand - WITS Speciality : Civil & Structural Engineering
programme: Civil and Environmental Engineering

Wits is a prestigious university and it is a blessing to go there. I love the student life and how a degree from there opens many doors. However, it I quite hard and often you are left to figure things out on your own. Professors are not always helpful.

I studied my civil engineering degree at the University of Witwatersrand, and my experience was a mixed bag. On the one hand, the university boasts excellent resources, including state-of-the-art libraries, counseling options, and laboratories. The campus is also proactive in academic advising, mental health services, and disability support.

However, the quality of teaching and professors in the civil engineering department is inconsistent. While some lecturers are exceptional, others are subpar. I believe this inconsistency is one reason why Wits is no longer considered the top university in South Africa.

One module that stands out in the civil engineering program is Environmental Engineering, which is not commonly offered at other universities in South Africa. However, the teaching and assessment methods for this module have been problematic in the past, leading to an unreasonably high failure rate. Fortunately, the university has made efforts to improve the teaching and assessment styles this year.

Campus life and atmosphere could be improved, as everyone seems to be focused on themselves. However, the university’s reputation for producing high-quality engineers is still esteemed, although I worry that this reputation may not be sustainable in the long term.

One memorable experience during my time at Wits was the university’s response to the passing of a friend. The university held a heartfelt memorial service, which demonstrated their care for students.

In conclusion, I would recommend Wits to prospective students, but I encourage them to weigh their options carefully. While Wits has its strengths, it’s essential to consider the potential drawbacks, particularly regarding the quality of teaching and professors.

It is a wonderful university that provides a good blend to academia and industry. Offers a wonderful experience although work load can be demanding but wouldn’t expect anything different from one of the best in the world.