About Us

The University of Pretoria (UP) is a seven-campus public university, with its largest campus located in Hatfield, South Africa’s dynamic diplomatic hub. Set amid Pretoria’s iconic jacaranda trees, UP is an impact-driven, research-intensive institution recognised among the world’s leading universities. We offer high-quality teaching, learning, and research across nine faculties, including South Africa’s only Faculty of Veterinary Science, Africa’s top Faculty of Law, and one of the continent’s most respected business schools.

Our community brings together some of the world’s brightest minds to address society’s most urgent challenges and unlock new possibilities for People and the Planet. At UP, education is more than studying—it is a way of life grounded in social responsibility, innovation, and building just, sustainable, and resilient futures for South Africa, Africa, and the world.

Our Story

For more than a century, UP has grown and adapted alongside South Africa, remaining steadfast in our commitment to quality education and meaningful impact. Our story is defined by transformation and vision, and it is shaped by people – our staff, students, and alumni – whose contributions continue to influence society locally and globally. Discover where we’ve come from, what defines us, and how our legacy inspires the future.

Message from the Principal

"The University of Pretoria stands on the principles of excellence, inclusivity, and impact. As Vice-Chancellor, my focus is on a human-centred approach."

Our Brand

Our brand is built on a simple yet powerful idea: Make today matter. It's more than a slogan - It's he driving force behind how we teach, learn, research, and innovate.

Our History

More than 100 years since the establishment of UP with 32 students, the University is home to over 54 000 students across nine faculties and a business school.

Strategy

Our strategy, ThriveUP 2038, is the University of Pretoria’s bold roadmap to a just, sustainable future—where people thrive, the planet is protected, and possibilities open for all.

Teaching & Learning

Our approach leverages a strong digital ecosystem, cutting-edge technology, and evidence-based practices to enhance student success and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Research

We value intellectual rigour as the foundation of research excellence, driving outcomes that address real-world challenges. Through collaboration and innovation, we strive to create knowledge that makes a meaningful impact on society.

Our Impact

UP is committed to creating a positive impact for our people and our planet. Through our research, education, and initiatives, we advance solutions that promote sustainability across all sectors.

Global Collaboration

We aim to drive a strategic, coordinated, and university-wide approach to internationalisation and the development of impactful global partnerships.

Ranking and Achievements

UP consistently ranks among the world’s top universities, offering globally relevant solutions and distinctive programmes that build careers and foster entrepreneurial and civic skills, all while driving meaningful social impact.

#1
in South Africa
for 6 subjects
#4
University in Africa
#7
in the world for
SDG 17 – Partnerships
#1
in Africa for Governance

VIEW MORE RANKINGS ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS

Our Campuses

UP has seven beautiful campuses, each with its own unique character and purpose. The faculties of Veterinary Science, Health Science, and Education are customised to their purposes, self-contained on campuses at Onderstepoort, Prinshof and Groenkloof respectively. Our Hillcrest campus is home to all our sporting codes, professional and recreational sport teams, and sports science research facilities. Our business school, the Gordon Institute of Business Science, is in Illovo, Johannesburg. All other faculties are located centrally at the Hatfield Campus.