If you’re passionate about languages, communication, or the study of linguistics, South African universities offer a rich variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in these fields. From African languages to modern linguistics, students can pursue Bachelor of Arts degrees with diverse language combinations and career possibilities in translation, editing, interpreting, teaching, and research.
Here’s a detailed look at some of the best universities in South Africa offering Languages and Linguistics courses:
1. University of South Africa (UNISA)
UNISA offers one of the most comprehensive selections of language combinations under its Bachelor of Arts (BA) programme. Students can choose double majors from:
- African Languages (isiZulu, isiXhosa, Sepedi, Setswana, etc.)
- Linguistics
- English Studies
- Afrikaans
- Arabic
- French
- Portuguese
- Mandarin Chinese
- Communication Studies
- Translation and Interpreting
- Theory of Literature
UNISA’s flexibility in language pairings is ideal for students looking for custom combinations in linguistics, communication, or cultural studies.
2. University of Cape Town (UCT)
UCT offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in:
- Linguistics
- English Language & Literature
- African Languages & Literatures
- Arabic, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Xhosa
Specialised programmes include:
- BA in Translation & Linguistics
- BA in Language & Communication
UCT’s Faculty of Humanities is known for strong interdisciplinary offerings linking linguistics with philosophy, politics, and education.
3. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits provides a BA in Language Studies through its Faculty of Humanities with options to major in:
- Linguistics
- African Languages
- English
- Translation
- Communication Studies
Students interested in sociolinguistics, language acquisition, or African linguistic heritage will find Wits a top destination.
4. Rhodes University
Rhodes University offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a focus on:
- English Language & Linguistics
- African Languages (isiXhosa)
- French, German
- Translation & Interpreting
With a strong emphasis on research and communication, Rhodes is ideal for students pursuing careers in academia, publishing, or teaching.
5. North-West University (NWU)
NWU’s BA in Language and Literary Studies includes:
- Language Practice
- Communication
- Language Technology
- Afrikaans, Setswana, Sesotho, English
The university also offers specialised degrees such as:
- BA in Ancient Languages
- BA in Language Technology
NWU’s multiple campuses provide unique language combinations and professional pathways in editing, translation, and language technology.
6. University of Pretoria (UP)
UP offers several language-rich degrees, including:
- BA Languages
- BA Linguistics
- BA in Translation and Professional Writing
Languages taught include English, Afrikaans, German, French, Sepedi, IsiZulu, Portuguese, and more. UP emphasizes multilingualism and real-world applications in government, business, and media.
7. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
UWC provides:
- BA in Languages
- BA Honours in Afrikaans, English, Setswana
- Strong focus on community language development and multilingual education
Ideal for students focused on socio-political language use, literature, and inclusive education.
8. University of Limpopo (UL)
UL offers a BA in:
- Contemporary English and Multilingual Studies
- Translation and Linguistics
- Language Practice
This university is a leading choice for students interested in African language promotion and multilingual public service communication.
9. Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
SPU has:
- BA Honours in Languages (Afrikaans, English, Setswana)
- MA in Afrikaans, English, Setswana
Its curriculum is rooted in Northern Cape linguistic heritage, making it perfect for students looking to preserve indigenous languages.
10. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN offers:
- BA with majors in Linguistics, African Languages, English Studies
- Language-focused degrees with intercultural communication components
Its Centre for African Language Teaching offers resources and support for mother-tongue education and research.
Conclusion
Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a translator, linguist, writer, educator, or cultural advisor, South African universities offer world-class opportunities in language and linguistics studies. From UNISA’s flexible offerings to UCT and Wits’ interdisciplinary strengths, there’s a path for every language enthusiast in 2026.
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