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University of the Witwatersrand - WITS
speciality: Computer Science

4.3

What Is a Computer Science Degree?

The passion for technology can lead you to choose the specialisation of Computer Science. This field has become increasingly popular in recent years, the development being so rapid that people are trying to keep up with it.

A Computer Science degree deals with the theoretical and practical foundations of information technology and computers. The scientific part merges with the practical one in various algorithms, information processing or in computational models. This specialisation often aims to study methodological processes, making representations on a computer, storage, or accessing information.

At the same time, the study of Computer Science focuses on the learning of programming languages, which are extremely important for any student. Python, C ++, Java are just a few of the programming languages ​​that are explored in depth by students in order to solve the applications received from the faculty. Furthermore, on the labour market, programming languages ​​are highly appreciated and integrated, being a useful tool for optimal performance of industries.

Benefits of a Computer Science Degree

The most important skill that young people learn following this degree is the use of programming languages. Once they grasp the logic of programming, they will easily be able to master the languages ​​and build or develop WEB applications. Additional skills that are acquired can be: network design and engineering, software engineering, multimedia design. In addition, classical skills such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving or time management are also gained by students.

According to recent studies, 6 of the 10 best jobs chosen by graduates are linked to Computer Science. These include Web Design, Computer Support Specialist, IT Operations Technician or Database Administrator. Moreover, the employment rate is favourable to the students, being over 70%. Due to the rapid advancement of technology, it is expected that the supply will grow in the future, requiring computer science specialists in any field.

Computer Science Degree Structure

To study Computer Science, students can either pursue university courses or follow courses online, depending on their availability and income. Online or outside-university courses include disciplines such as: Information Systems Management, Game Programming, Web Development, Network Fundamentals. They usually have a duration of 2 years. Although these courses provide important skills in this specialisation, students may be disadvantaged when competing with a student who has a Bachelor’s Degree. Some of the most important campuses in the world include Penn State World Campus, University of Massachusetts, Lowell (The Division of Online Learning and Continuing Education), Saint Leo University.

The Bachelor in Computer Science lasts around 3 to 4 years, depending on the university. Throughout the programme, students acquire mathematical knowledge, theoretical and practical foundation in programming. Some of the subjects discussed are: Computer Programming, Data Structures, Databases, Algorithms, Linear Algebra, Probability Theory or Statistics. These vary according to the curriculum of the university. 

A Master’s program complete the students’ necessary career skills. In this way, they have a greater understanding of computing softwares, tools, packages, and computer architecture. 

There are Master programs that can be followed even by those who have not undertaken undergraduate studies in Computer Science, such as those offered at the University of Birmingham for example. These programs can take either 2 to 5 years. 

A PhD program is especially dedicated to those who want to research or become university professors and can last between 4 to 5 years.

10 Student Reviews

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  • Information and ...
    Communication Technology
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    outstanding

    A challenging environment that requires total dedication for academic success. It demands high time management and work ethic. It provides an inclusive environment where students can grow as future professionals. I liked the culture of diversity and inclusivity. I would highly recommend Wits University

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    Programme: Information and Communication Technology
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2021
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • Information and ...
    Communication Technology
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    outstanding

    Wits is a challenging but rewarding academic institution, demanding high management of time and work ethic. It is an institution that is inclusive and provides sufficient opportunities for students to develop as individuals. What I liked about Wits is the culture of promoting diversity and a vibrant within learning environment. Yes, I would highly recommend Wits University.

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    Programme: Information and Communication Technology
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2021
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • Bsc Information ...
    Technology
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    The Critical Intellectual Culture

    My experience at the University of the Witwatersrand was both demanding and transformative, earning it a solid four out of five stars overall. The academic programme was rigorous and world-class, characterized by exceptional teaching from leading researchers and experts in their fields. I particularly valued the culture of critical intellectual engagement, where debate and challenging ideas were encouraged far beyond rote learning. The urban location in Johannesburg stood out as a major advantage, providing direct access to internships, industry connections, and real-world projects that made my studies immediately relevant. The diversity of the student body and the depth of university resources, like the extensive libraries and specialized facilities, further enriched the experience.

    However, the Wits experience is not without significant challenges. The administrative bureaucracy could often be slow and frustrating, requiring patience and proactiveness to navigate. The environment is high-pressure, with a heavy academic workload compounded by the socio-economic realities and safety concerns of its inner-city setting. This makes resilience and street-smart independence essential traits for success here.

    I would recommend Wits, but with clear guidance. It is ideal for self-motivated, academically strong students seeking a top-tier degree and an education that engages deeply with South Africa’s dynamic context. It is less suitable for those expecting a sheltered, tranquil campus life. Ultimately, Wits prepares you not just with a respected qualification, but with a hardened, critical perspective on the world—forged equally by its excellent academics and its challenging environment.

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    Programme: Bsc Information Technology
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2019
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • Computer and ...
    Information Science
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    best

    It was great being here. even though there were bad days, but I have a great experience. I don’t wanna lie academically it was hard to conquer the WITS edge. I enjoyed my res experience . Varsity days were the best days of my life.

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    Programme: Computer and Information Science
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2023
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • MSc Data ...
    Science
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    Academic

    Academically is very excellent and our professor was supportive. My stay was well. My only issue is the acts of sexual assaults that happens around the university which starts to make it really unsafe for female students in the university. I wish they could reinforce safety measures to ensure safety for all students.

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    Programme: MSc Data Science
    Degree: Master's
    Graduation: 2020
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • IT Management
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    100

    This is really good university they take a good care of students. I would recommend people to study hard this a good place to be at.
    I had a very good experience with the lectures and the environment.

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    Programme: IT Management
    Degree: Master's
    Graduation: 2018
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • Informatics
    Elizabeth
    One of the best institutions

    As a current PhD student at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), my experience has been a blend of academic excellence, personal growth, and some structural challenges. Wits has a strong reputation across Africa and globally for its research output and academic rigour, and this is well reflected in the quality of supervision and the critical thinking the institution promotes. I’ve particularly appreciated the intellectual diversity across faculties, the emphasis on interdisciplinary research, and the availability of online resources such as library databases, postgraduate writing support, and ethics training.

    Another aspect I value is the vibrant student culture. Wits is home to a broad mix of local and international students, and there are many opportunities to get involved through seminars, councils, and student-led initiatives. The campus itself has historical significance and offers a mix of modern and classic academic infrastructure.

    However, my experience has also been marked by administrative inefficiencies, especially for international students. Delays in communication, visa support, and postgraduate funding processes can be frustrating and impact academic progress. Some support systems feel overwhelmed, and clearer processes would greatly improve the student experience.

    Despite these issues, I’m proud to be part of Wits and believe its strengths outweigh its shortcomings.

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    Programme: Informatics
    Degree: PhD
    Graduation: 2026
    Delivery Type: Blended
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • Computer Science
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    Computer science student

    As a Computer Science student at Wits, my experience has been a mix of great opportunities and serious challenges. The course is well-structured, covering key areas like artificial intelligence, data science, and software development. The lecturers are highly knowledgeable, and their passion for the subject makes some of the content really engaging.

    However, the workload is intense, and it’s easy to fall behind if you don’t stay disciplined. A lot of the learning is self-driven, meaning you have to put in extra effort outside of lectures to really understand the material. Some students feel that while the course is strong academically, it doesn’t always prepare you for real-world industry demands unless you actively seek internships or side projects.

    Overall, Wits provides a solid foundation in Computer Science, but success depends on how much effort you’re willing to put in. If you’re serious about tech and ready to work hard, it’s a great place to study

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    Programme: Computer Science
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2022
    Delivery Type: Online
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  • Computer Science
    avatar
    Quality of the programme

    I’ve had an incredible experience at the university, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a well-rounded education. The program is exceptional, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers the entire spectrum of the field. This approach allows students to gain a deep understanding of the subject matter, exploring various aspects and disciplines.

    What I appreciate most about the program is the flexibility it provides. By exposing students to the full range of possibilities, it enables us to discover our true passions and interests. We can then focus on the areas that resonate with us the most, developing specialized skills and expertise.

    The university itself is a fantastic learning institution, providing a supportive and stimulating environment that fosters growth and development. The faculty is comprised of experienced professionals who are dedicated to helping students succeed. The campus resources are top-notch, offering state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that enhance the learning experience.

    Overall, I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to study at this university. The program has been instrumental in helping me identify my strengths and interests, and I’m confident that it will continue to provide students with a world-class education.

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    Programme: Computer Science
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2019
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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  • Computer Science
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    Computer science program at Wits

    As a proud Witsie, I can confidently say that the University of the Witwatersrand offers one of the best computer science programs in South Africa. If you’ve ever imagined diving deep into the world of algorithms, machine learning, or just trying to figure out why your code won’t compile (spoiler alert: it’s probably a missing semicolon), Wits is the place where you’ll get the support, the facilities, and the knowledge to turn those tech frustrations into triumphs.

    Let’s talk about resources, because we all know that a great program is only as strong as the tools it gives you. Wits certainly doesn’t skimp here. The computer labs are equipped with the latest software and hardware, ensuring that you’re ready to tackle everything from coding assignments to complex data structures. Whether you’re working on your final-year project or just trying to debug that pesky code at 3 a.m., these labs are open for the long haul.

    The libraries are another highlight—while you might initially think of them as quiet, book-filled havens, they also offer a range of digital resources, journals, and books that support your computer science courses. And if you prefer working with a group, there are plenty of collaborative study spaces scattered around the campus where you can hash out coding problems with fellow students.

    Wits is no stranger to offering top-notch support, and its computer science students are no exception. Academic advising is readily available, especially when you’re mapping out your course progression or deciding between specializing in AI, cybersecurity, or software development. Professors and teaching assistants are approachable (yes, even when you’ve completely misunderstood a concept), and the tutoring services are there when you need that extra bit of help.

    The university also offers career counseling, and let me tell you, when you’re studying computer science, this becomes invaluable. The tech industry moves fast, and Wits is well-connected with a variety of big-name tech companies, so they’re always hosting career fairs, networking events, and workshops. There’s also a strong emphasis on internships—getting hands-on experience during your studies is practically a given, and those internships can often translate into full-time job offers after graduation.

    The big question: does Wits prepare you for the real world? In short: absolutely. Wits computer science grads are highly sought after. With its international reputation and strong industry ties, Wits is one of the go-to places for tech employers, both locally and abroad. Whether you’re gunning for a job in software development, data science, or artificial intelligence, the career prospects are vast, and the job placement rates are strong.

    Many Wits computer science students find roles with top companies like Google, Microsoft, and Deloitte even before they’ve thrown their caps in the air at graduation. The university’s global ranking in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs speaks volumes to the quality of education you’ll get here—and when you have a Wits degree, you’ve got the credentials that will open doors around the world.

    Now, I’ll be honest—being a computer science student at Wits can feel like a marathon at times. With all the coding assignments, projects, and exams, it’s easy to lose track of the outside world. But trust me, Wits has a lot to offer outside of the lecture halls (or, you know, the countless hours spent staring at a terminal window).

    The student body is diverse, passionate, and very involved in extracurricular activities. There are plenty of tech-related clubs, from hackathons hosted by the Wits Computer Science Society to coding competitions that will push your skills to the limit. If you want to build something, there’s no shortage of opportunities to collaborate with fellow students on innovative projects.

    Beyond the tech side of things, Wits also has a strong arts, sports, and cultural scene. Whether it’s attending a music event on campus, playing soccer in the campus leagues, or grabbing a bite at one of the nearby restaurants (because yes, even coders need to eat), there’s something for everyone. And, if you’re into gaming, don’t worry—Wits has a strong esports community too.

    Wits consistently ranks among the top universities in South Africa, and its computer science program holds its own both locally and internationally. It’s recognized for producing highly skilled, adaptable graduates, and its emphasis on research means that you’re learning from professionals who are often at the cutting edge of their fields. The global reputation of Wits, particularly in STEM, continues to grow, which bodes well for the future of its computer science program.

    Without a doubt, yes. If you’re serious about computer science and want to get a world-class education while also enjoying a rich and varied student experience, Wits is a great choice. The program offers a balance of rigorous academics, access to cutting-edge resources, strong industry connections, and a lively campus atmosphere. Yes, it’s challenging—but that’s what makes the payoff so sweet. Whether you want to develop the next big tech innovation or just land a solid job in the IT field, Wits provides the foundation, the support, and the opportunities you’ll need to succeed.

    So, if you’re ready to code your future at one of the top universities in Africa, Wits is waiting for you. It’s a challenge, yes, but one that pays off in ways you won’t regret.

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    Programme: Computer Science
    Degree: Bachelor's
    Graduation: 2024
    Delivery Type: On Campus
    Campus: Johannesburg
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