Both the University of Calgary (U of C) and the University of Alberta (U of A) are excellent institutions of higher learning in Canada, consistently ranked among the top universities in the country. They both offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, strong research facilities, and vibrant student communities.
U of C is located in Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, known for its energy industry and cosmopolitan lifestyle. The university is known for its entrepreneurial spirit and focus on innovation, ranking 201st in the world for its “Entrepreneurial Spirit” in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2022. U of C also has a strong reputation in the arts and sciences, particularly in areas such as engineering, business, and health sciences.
U of A is located in Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, a major cultural and educational center. The university is known for its research excellence, ranking 125th in the world in the World University Rankings 2022. U of A has a wide range of strengths across all academic disciplines and is particularly well-regarded in areas such as medicine, law, and agriculture.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between U of C and U of A:
| Feature | University of Calgary | University of Alberta |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Calgary | Edmonton |
| City type | Cosmopolitan, energy-focused | Cultural, educational center |
| Strengths | Entrepreneurship, innovation, engineering, business, health sciences | Research excellence, medicine, law, agriculture |
| Ranking | 201st in the world (THE World University Rankings 2022) | 125th in the world (THE World University Rankings 2022) |
Ultimately, the best university for you will depend on your individual interests and goals. If you are interested in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment, U of C may be a better fit. If you are seeking a strong research university with a wide range of academic strengths, U of A may be a better option.
Here are some additional factors to consider when making your decision:
- Programs of interest: Research which programs are offered at each university, and which ones align with your academic interests.
- Cost: Compare the tuition and fees of each university.
- Location: Consider the overall lifestyle and culture of each city, and whether it is a good fit for you.
- Reputation: Research the reputation of each university in your chosen field of study.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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