Global stats: UJ ranked #1 in SA for different faculties

Congratulations are in order for the University of Johannesburg (UJ). For years, the institution has flown South Africa’s flag high in the academic arena, and its latest achievements reaffirm that reputation.

In the newly released Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings by Subject 2026, UJ has been ranked number one in South Africa across several key faculties: 

These results highlight the university’s continued commitment to delivering world-class education.

Beyond its top national positions, UJ also secured second place in other important disciplines: 

Speaking about the incredible achievement, Prof Letlhokwa Mpedi, UJ’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said in a statement: “These results confirm that UJ’s strategy is not only sound, but delivering measurable impact. Our consistent top rankings in Business and Economics, Engineering, Computer Science and Physical Sciences reflect deliberate institutional choices, sustained investment in academic talent, research infrastructure and programmes aligned to South Africa’s and the continent’s development priorities. This trajectory speaks directly to our Strategic Plan 2035, which places excellence in education, impactful research and purposeful collaboration at the centre of everything we do.”

The university’s success is not limited to South Africa alone. Globally, UJ has made notable progress, placing in the 126–150 band worldwide for both education studies and law. Across the 11 subject areas assessed in 2026, the institution improved in seven and remained stable in three. Further global gains include climbing two bands to the 251–300 range in computer science and moving into the 151–175 band for social sciences.

The professor expressed pride in how the institution of higher learning is contributing positively to the global higher education sector.  

“Together, these results show how UJ continues to integrate research-led teaching with real-world impact, ensuring that our students are exposed to cutting-edge developments in their disciplines while contributing meaningfully to local and global challenges. Through sustained investment, strategic alignment and academic leadership, UJ is steadily consolidating its position as one of South Africa’s most influential universities and an increasingly visible force on the global higher education stage,” Prof Mpedi said. 

These achievements once again underscore South Africa’s growing reputation as a destination for high-quality education and reinforce the University of Johannesburg’s position as one of the continent’s leading academic institutions.