The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences is a vibrant and diverse academic community, recognised for our excellence in research, teaching and creative practice. Through our 18 departments, thirteen research centres, more than 70 NRF-rated researchers, four SARChI Chairs, and a National Centre for Excellence in Scientometrics and Science Policy, we engage with the pressing social, cultural, political, technological and creative questions of our time. Rooted in Africa and globally connected, our work addresses challenges central to South Africa and the world — from social justice, governance and multilingualism to digital transformation, sustainability and the creative economy. Across the humanities, social sciences, languages and creative arts, we generate new knowledge, foster innovation and help shape a more just and sustainable future.
Contact us:
Phone: +27 21 808-2138
E-mail: [email protected]
Physical address:
Arts and Social Sciences Building, Room 492
Merriman Avenue and Van Ryneveld Street
Undergraduate programmes
We offer 14 Bachelor degree programmes that equip students with the knowledge, skills and versatility to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Our graduates are creative, discerning, highly skilled and sought-after employees who thrive across sectors, from journalism, digital media and policy development, to data analysis, education, and the creative industries.
Postgraduate programmes
Our postgraduate programmes combine rigorous, research-led teaching and supervision across all departments and research centres, facilitated by the FASS Graduate School.
Research and innovation
Our research is strategically positioned to shape global conversations about technology, society and culture. Twelve transdisciplinary research clusters bring together researchers, civil society and industry partners. Our commitment to context-aware, transformative inquiry makes FASS a leader in Africa-centred research with international reach.
Faculty stories
Media release
Coventry University awards honorary doctorate to Prof Deresh Ramjugernath
Coventry University has awarded an Honorary Doctor of Education to Prof Deresh Ramjugernath, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU).
The...
Media release
Career Day inspires future lawyers to carry Mandela’s legacy forward
Three decades after South Africa adopted one of the world’s most progressive constitutions, more than 150 aspiring lawyers gathered at Stellenbosch University...
Events
Taking sustainable energy research from the lab to the market
South African researchers should measure success not only by publications and patents, but by the tangible technologies, businesses and jobs their work creates...
Opinion and features
Mandela Day: Madiba’s life a reminder that liberation, journey to freedom continue
Nelson Mandela’s life reminds us that liberation is never a completed matter but an ongoing responsibility, and that the road to freedom is never truly finished...
Opinion and features
How emergency procurement fuels corruption – and how to prevent it
Bribery, the embezzlement of public funds, conflicts of interest, the unethical exchange of confidential information, and the steering of contracts and...
Media release
New internship programme at SU clinics opens doors for aspiring medical receptionists
For many young South Africans, earning a qualification is only the beginning of a difficult journey. The next hurdle is finding the work experience employers...