On this page, we compare the Mining Engineering course requirements at three major universities in Gauteng: Wits, UP, and UJ. We have looked at the APS requirements, Mining Engineering high school subjects requirements, and key differences to help students decide where to apply.
It would be interesting to find out that while all three universities offer a four-year Mining Engineering degree, their entry requirements vary significantly.
1. Mining Engineering Course Requirements: Wits vs UP vs UJ
For students applying for a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Mining Engineering, APS scores and subject requirements are key factors. Here’s how the three universities compare:
| University | APS Requirement | English Requirement | Mathematics Requirement | Physical Sciences Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wits | 42+ | Level 5 (60%) | Level 5 (60%) | Level 5 (60%) |
| UP | 35 | Level 5 (60%) | Level 6 (70%) | Level 6 (70%) |
| UJ | 23 | Level 4 (50%) | Level 5 (60%) | Level 5 (60%) OR Technical Science Level 5 (60%) |
Key Differences in Mining Engineering High School Subjects Requirements:
- APS Score: Wits has the highest APS requirement (42+), followed by UP (35) and UJ (23), making UJ the most accessible option.
- Mathematics & Physical Sciences: UP has the strictest subject requirements (70% in both Maths and Science), while Wits and UJ both require 60%.
- English Requirements: Wits and UP require 60% in English, while UJ allows 50%.
- Technical Science Alternative: UJ is the only university that allows Technical Science (Level 5) as an alternative to Physical Sciences.
It would be interesting to find out that despite Wits and UP being more competitive, UJ provides a more accessible entry point for students interested in mining-related careers.
2. Which University Should You Choose for Mining Engineering?
If you are applying for Mining Engineering, the choice between Wits, UP, and UJ will depend on your APS and subject marks.
- Choose Wits if:
- You have a high APS (42+) and meet the subject requirements.
- You want to study in Johannesburg, with access to major mining companies.
- You are interested in mine planning, rock mechanics, and mineral resource management.
- 🔗 Visit Wits Mining Engineering
- Choose UP if:
- Your APS is 35+, but you have strong Maths and Science marks (70%).
- You prefer a practical and fieldwork-based approach to Mining Engineering.
- You want to study in Pretoria, with opportunities to work in South Africa’s leading mining sector.
- 🔗 Visit UP Mining Engineering
- Choose UJ if:
- Your APS is 23+, making it the most accessible option.
- You prefer an institution that allows Technical Science as an alternative to Physical Sciences.
- You are looking for a programme that focuses on mining operations, safety, and geological environments.
- 🔗 Visit UJ Mining Engineering
All three universities offer strong Mining Engineering programmes, but Wits is the most competitive, UP has the highest Maths and Science requirements, and UJ is the most accessible while offering industry-relevant training.