Faculty of Science
Building South Africa’s scientific, intellectual, and technological capabilities
The Faculty of Science is a leading hub for education and research in the physical, biological and mathematical sciences. With eight departments, multiple research centres, institutes and research chairs, we provide an intellectually stimulating environment where students engage with complex scientific challenges and are challenged to find sustainable solutions – from undergraduate to postgraduate level.
Our students learn to think critically when tackling real-world problems, based on a solid knowledge foundation in the natural sciences. With state-of-the art analytical equipment and laboratory infrastructure at hand, we provide ample opportunities for hands-on training and developing your analytical skills to better address these challenges.
Undergraduate programmes
The Faculty of Science offers diverse undergraduate programmes in the biological, physical and mathematical sciences. Our flexible and agile degree programmes prepare students for the modern world of work and equip them with the necessary skills set for the 21st century. We provide a unique, personalised student experience that serves as a catalyst for transformative change.
Postgraduate programmes
In our postgraduate programmes, we strive for a healthy balance between basic and applied research, taking into consideration the needs of the South African community at large. A multidisciplinary approach on national and international levels, and across subject, faculty and other boundaries, is advocated. Research is supported by various centres, analytical facilities and institutes under the auspices of our eight academic departments.
Our distinguishing features
Department of Biochemistry
Biochemistry brdiges the gap between chemistry and biology, exploring the chemical and molecular processes that drive life.
Department of Botany and Zoology
We are a leader in the field of biology and ecology, with a specific focus on the unique opportunities offered by Africa's biodiversity.
Department of Chemistry & Polymer Science
The programme provides students with training in the fields of inorganic, organic, analytic, physical and polymer chemistry in one of the most dynamic and best equipped chemistry departments in the country.
Applied Mathematics Division
Applied maths is a branch of mathematics that is concerned with developing mathematical methods and applying them to science, engineering, industry and society. In applied mathematics, the discoveries and activities are driven by applications.
Centre for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
This degree programme combines Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Computer Science and Genetics on a multidisciplinary level.
Department of Earth Sciences
We delve into the processes that shape our planet - from the geological forces sculpting mountains and oceans to environmental factors influencing Earth's ecosystems.
Computer Science
Computer science is the theory and practice of algorithms - a wonderful combination of invention and design, science and engineering to solve problems with computers.
Stellenbosch University Water Institute
Our research is conducted in collaboration with industry and government to solve water-related challenges, provide technology transfer and develop human capital resources in the water industry.
Our Research
With a strong ethos of research excellence, our researchers make an important contribution to society. From the fundamental to applied sciences, they address the many challenges facing South Africa and the world. We often work in collaboration with research councils, government institutions and industry partners to find innovative solutions to real-world problems, while nurturing and promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Due to the importance of the natural sciences in interdisciplinary research, we play a key role in initiatives such as the Stellenbosch University Water Institute, the Centre for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, the Institute for Biomedical Engineering, the African Microbiome Project, the School for Data Science and Computational Thinking, and the School for Climate Studies.
Our Social Impact
The Faculty of Science is committed to using the expertise and knowledge of our researchers and students to benefit society through ethical and sustainable initiatives and research projects. We also work with numerous institutions to promote and encourage awareness of the importance of science and technology in society.
Our many initiatives reflect our dedication to improving science education, fostering public understanding of science and inspiring future generations of scientists.
Top stories
Discover stories of our pursuit of impactful solutions, building learning communities that leverage the latest technologies, and our exceptional people.
Media release
Dinosaur eggshells unlock a new way to tell time in the fossil record
An international team of geologists and paleontologists is pioneering a groundbreaking methodology to reliably determine the age of fossil-bearing rocks — by...
Media release
Scientists reveal another piece in Long COVID puzzle
In patients with Long COVID, a new study has revealed structural association between circulating microclots and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs).
This...
Innovation and entrepreneurship
“Out-of-the-box” technologies needed to fight against multi-drug-resistant pathogens
Some of the latest “out-of-the-box” technologies and research in the fight against multi-drug-resistant pathogens in hospitals’ Intensive Care Units and public...
Upcoming Events
Attend our events for the opportunity to discover, grow, learn and engage with our community.
