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温暖的留学目的地:摩洛哥

belkis@qs.com — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 16:21:31 +0000

Warm Study Destinations: Morocco

belkis@qs.com Tue, 01/22/2019 - 16:21

Tue, 01/22/2019 - 15:30

温暖的留学目的地:摩洛哥

The cold and gloomy weather is a definite mood-killer for many of us, and the lack of sunshine can really affect our energy and concentration levels. If you’re in the mood to study abroad in a hot country, you may like to consider Morocco.

One of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations, Morocco not only boasts some of the world’s most beautiful cultural attractions; it’s also a great place to study, with its relatively affordable living expenses and host of international study opportunities, among many other factors.

In the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2019, four of the region’s top 100 are based in Morocco - read on for a brief insight of each.

1. Al Akhawayn University Ifrane

Ah, the alpine town of Ifrane – admittedly not a very warm study abroad destination to open our list (particularly around this time of year), but certainly not one to miss out! Situated within Morocco’s Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane is also home to the kingdom’s top university; the Al Akhawayn University, which also ranks 46^th in the Arab region this year. This public, non-profit institution has a curriculum based on the American liberal arts system – making it an ideal choice for English-speaking international students.

Al Akhawayn University alumni have successfully gone on to secure roles in sectors such as international business, diplomacy, and non-profit organizations, among many others.

Although daytime temperatures are quite low at the moment, they’re expected to rise between 20°C (68°F) and 35°C (95°F) starting in mid-spring and all the way through till the summer months.

2. Université Mohammed V de Rabat

Founded in 1957, Mohamed V University in Rabat, Morocco’s capital, was formed through the merger of two separate institutions: Mohammed V University at Agdal and Mohammed V University at Souissi. It offers a selection of both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and currently ranks in the 51-60 range in the Arab region.

As the capital of Morocco, Rabat undoubtedly combines all the apparent features of a typical capital city: work and business opportunities are at their height, prices are typically soaring, and it’s a city that never sleeps. But, as the heart of the North African kingdom, one thing sets it apart from most European capital cities – its generally sunny climate. You’ll be happy to know that the seasons here are warm and cheery for most of the year, apart from the occasional cloud and rain, and consistently low temperatures at night, particularly in the winter months.

3. Université Hassan II de Casablanca

Based in Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca, Hassan II University is a relatively new institution, having been officially established in 1975. However, following a merger between two Hassan II universities in 2014, Mohammedia and Casablanca, the university considered itself a newly-created institution.

Offering a selection of courses in a variety of disciplines, the Hassan II University is home to 123 laboratories, 10 research centers, two technological platforms, an observatory, and 10 doctoral study centers providing 46 doctoral courses. It’s important to note that, as is the case in neighboring Francophone countries, the main languages of instruction at this university are Arabic and French; with technical and scientific courses taught solely in French.

Because of its location in the central-western part of the kingdom bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca can get quite windy and rainy during the winter months, though some days are rather warm and sunny during daylight hours; and of course, summers spent here are the best!

4. Cadi Ayyad University

Cadi Ayyad University is a new entrant to this year’s Arab region rankings, taking a spot within the 91-100 range. Situated in Marrakech, this public university was established in 1973, and is one of the largest in Morocco, with a reported estimate of 102,000 students enrolled. It currently has 13 branches of study, most of which are in the field of science, including biology, physics, and geology.

Marrakech is Morocco’s former imperial city, and is famed for its swarm of mosques, palaces and gardens, as well as its medieval city center (the Medina), which is home to thriving souks (marketplaces) and various historical sites of attraction. True to the vibrant and colorful energy it exudes, Marrakech is typically warm and sunny all-year-round, with temperatures at around 21°C at this time of year, and soaring during the summer months - the heat may even be too much for some!

More reasons to study abroad in Morocco

In comparison to other Arab countries, Morocco – like other North African nations such as Tunisia and Algeria – encompasses a comfortable mix of eastern and western cultures. Most Moroccans are either bilingual or multilingual; though the main languages of communication here are Colloquial Moroccan Arabic (Darija), Amazigh (Berber) and French, Spanish and English speakers are also very common – making it an ideal and easy environment for adventurous student visitors.

With regards to living expenses, they’re relatively affordable in Morocco, particularly if you’re traveling from Europe. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant will typically cost you 30.00 Moroccan Dirhams (US$3.13), and in addition to traditional Moroccan dishes and local street bites, you’ll also come across typically-western food chain restaurants, such as McDonalds and KFC. When it comes to rent, costs for a one-bedroom apartment vary between 1,934.17 MAD (US$202.66) and 4,562.50 MAD (US$478.06) per month, depending on whether you’re renting inside or outside the city center.

Tuition fees also tend to vary depending on where you choose to study, with tuition at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane currently costing 3,045 MDH (US$318.35) for undergraduate international students, and 3,780 MDH (US$395.19) for postgraduates. Tuition is calculated based on credits taken, which are usually 15 – 17 credits per undergraduate course, and 12 credits per postgraduate course.

No matter what city you’re in, there’s so much to enjoy in Morocco, and the locals are generally extremely warm, hospitable and friendly. A visit to a traditional local bathhouse (Hammam) here will cost just 10 to 20 MDH (US$1.04 – US$2.09), and transport is also readily available and generally affordable.

Things to look out for…

Because of the country’s background in tourism, Moroccans have plenty of experience with dealing and interacting with foreigners. Add to that Morocco’s multicultural history, and you’ll get a fine blend of multilingualism and a pretty relaxed outlook at others’ cultural differences and norms.

Of course, since the country is Muslim-majority, there will undoubtedly be a few things to bear in mind in order to stay respectful to your host country while you study abroad. For example, it’s important to remember to remove your shoes upon entering someone’s home, and to try to be discrete about eating in daylight hours during the holy month of Ramadhan, when everybody else is expected to fast until sunset. You may also want to take note of Friday, as this is considered the Muslim holy day of rest, when most shops close down at around lunchtime.

Depending on what city you’re in, it’s usually best to have company with you, particularly when you’re out and about after it gets dark. Cities like Casablanca are notorious for moderate to high crime rates, so it’s important to make sure you’re wary and never look like you’re lost or don’t know what you’re doing! You don’t want to attract the wrong type of attention, and it’s easy to get scammed or taken advantage of if you’re clueless or inexperienced.

In pretty much all major Moroccan cities, haggling is a way of life, and you’ll find that in places like the Medina in Marrakech, this is even more evident. Some souk merchants may even come across a little too demanding and forceful, which can be intimidating. But don’t let it put you off – you’ll soon get used to it, and quickly learn to either smile and walk away, or haggle back! You could be on your way home with an impressively good bargain.

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5 Must-See Architectural Gems in Marrakech

belkis@qs.com — Fri, 18 Jan 2019 15:21:39 +0000

5 Must-See Architectural Gems in Marrakech

belkis@qs.com Fri, 01/18/2019 - 15:21

Fri, 01/18/2019 - 15:00

Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa, Marrakech

Morocco, an ancient North African nation preserving a colorful history that spans over 1,000 years, is also one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, having received approximately 5.1 million visitors in the first half of 2018.

The kingdom is famous for its host of magnificent buildings, steeped in a fine blend of Andalusian, Berber-Arab and French influences; and Marrakesh, it’s fourth-largest city, is no exception, from its stunning Menara Airport (which has been dubbed the most beautiful in the world), to its many traditionally-built hotels, museums, and other attractions.

Read on to discover which five breath-taking architectural gems in Marrakesh you simply must visit.

1. Koutoubia Mosque, Djemaa el-Fna

Situated within Marrakech’s city center, Djemaa el-Fna is a highly popular spot for tourists wishing to explore the busy atmosphere of the old Moroccan city. As you walk into the square and wonder through the complex, narrow alleys of the city’s ancient Medina, you get the authentic feel of a lively street atmosphere from many centuries past – a feature that’s very characteristic of the old Islamic eras. Here sits the exciting traditional souk (marketplace) where stalls of beautiful craftsmanships of leather goods, perfectly hand-made rugs, Aladdin-style lamps, traditional lanterns and intricately carved souvenirs of all shapes and sizes adorn every corner, while the entrancing scents of Moroccan incense, spices and various culinary delights fill the air as talented street performers and cunning snake charmers entertain the masses.

Amidst the crowds however, one landmark stands out the most: the 12^th century Koutoubia Mosque, which stands at 253 feet (77 meters). The current mosque was built by the Almohad dynasty, who began work on the old structure (built by the Almoravid dynasty earlier in the century) as they believed the building failed to accurately face Mecca. Its rose-colored shade is very distinctive of all the buildings in Marrakech, and its intricate stonework and grounding arches are very representative of Moorish architecture.

While the mosque is completely off-limits to non-Muslims, this won’t prevent you from taking a walk around outside to enjoy the rose gardens and the orange trees, listening to the adhan (call to prayer), admiring and photographing the charming architecture, and rubbing shoulders with wandering kitties.

2. Ensemble Artisanal Marrakech

A straight 10-minute walk from Djemaa el-Fna will lead you to the doors of the Ensemble Artisanal Marrakech – a newly-built shopping complex, replete with cozy Andalusian courtyards and a dazzling yet relaxing atmosphere of Islamic architecture. The center shelters a variety of souvenir and traditional craftsman shops which sell handmade leather goods, kitchen and houseware, clothing, perfume, and much more. Everything here is sold at a fixed price, and if you’re not a haggler and the keen souk merchants are a little too much for you, then this place is your perfect alternative: you won’t get hassled, and you certainly can’t get lost.

From the outside, the building is eye-catching, with its plain rose-colored stone exterior and relatively subtle Moroccan architectural touches. But walk inside, and you’ll immediately be taken in by the elaborately ornate view that’ll welcome you. To your right, you’ll find a narrow walk-through, like a small courtyard and a few of the craftsman shops scattered around. To your left, you’re met with a wider courtyard, with tables and chairs if you wish to enjoy a snack in the sun, or the local favorite – a refreshing Moroccan mint tea.

Within the center of the courtyard, you’ll find that there are a few floors led to by short staircases – each housing several little shops, with the usual displays of goods outside. One spot that caught my eye the most, was an isle inside one of the entrances, where several smiling women were sat skilfully and brilliantly hand-weaving traditional Berber rugs.

3. Bahia Palace

Image credit: Stéphane Enten (Flickr)

Built by the Grand Vizier Si Moussa during the late 19^th century, Palais de la Bahia (literally translating to ‘Palace of the Brilliant’ or 'Palace of the Beautiful') is a splendid palace and set of gardens which, at its time, was intentionally designed to be the greatest palace. Decked in traditional Berber-Arabesque ornaments and designs, the stunning historical structure reportedly features 150 rooms, replete with a harem, situated alongside the tranquil Court of Honor. Today, it welcomes the public daily and sometimes hosts special events, such as the Marrakech Biennale, which is a major Trilingual Arts festival and the first of its kind in the region.

The background history behind this splendid construction is rather intriguing: The Grand Vizier Si Moussa, who first built the palace for his personal use, was actually a former slave who rose to power through rather unlikely means. The palace was then passed on to his son Bou Ahmed, who played a significant role in giving the palace much of the splendor it’s known for today. Magnificent gardens decorated with the country’s trademark citrus trees were added, rooms were further decorated in striking Andalusian style, and a small surrounding riad, which visitors pass by as soon as they enter the palace, was also added. As was the norm in most imperial abodes from these parts of the world, the Bahia Palace housed several concubines alongside the royal residents, particularly during the reign of Bou Ahmed. Unfortunately, the harem is off-limits to visitors, though you’re still able to explore the very personal living quarters – more notably that of one of his wives’ Lalla Zineb; here, you’ll see what’s left of her apartment’s stunning interior, including beautifully colored stained-glass windows and carved furniture of rich, dark wood.

4. Majorelle Garden

Created by French Orientalist artist, Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s, this picturesque botanical garden is certainly a work of art and fine architectural beauty. It features a collection of cactus plants, coconut palm trees, vibrant flowers, banana trees and woods of bamboo, surrounded by marble pools, water fountains, and elevated footpaths. As soon as you walk in, you’ll sense an air of almost utopian artistic quality, one that is especially unique to Orientalist painters. Every glance at Majorelle’s choice of striking colors speaks volumes, and you’ll feel like you’ve been swept into a real-life painting.

One of the garden’s most striking features, however, is its architectural centerpiece – a small abstract villa of an arrestingly beautiful shade of peacock blue, designed by the French architect, Paul Sinoir, later in the 1930s.

Throughout the years from the time it was built, the garden sadly fell into neglect. Fortunately, however, it was rediscovered by the famous French fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent, who, along with his partner Pierre Berge, proudly restored it to its former glory.

Today, the Majorelle Garden is open to visitors for an entrance fee of 30 Moroccan dirhams (US$3.14).

5. Dar Si Said

Marrakech is home to several museums, displaying items, clothing and furniture of national heritage and history. One of these is Dar Si Said (literally translating to ‘House of Si Said’), a former palace located in the southern Medina, which boasts an elaborate interior of intricate carvings and tilework, majestic ceilings, an airy courtyard, ornate water fountains, beautiful balconies, and the finest Moroccan craftmanship and handicrafts – all so typical of traditional Andalusian tastes and Islamic architecture. Here, you’ll discover Marrakech’s 19^th century aristocratic lifestyle, and you’ll have the freedom to stroll around and even explore the various grand rooms situated within the upper floor of the building, with some display items dating back as far as the 11^th century.

One of the oldest and most intriguing sights in the museum is the 1,000-year-old stone basin, which sits right at the entrance. Not only is it an item of rare antiquity, but it’s also a masterpiece of Islamic art, first built in the 11^th century in Cordoba, Spain, after which it was moved to Morocco, where it stood in the Ben Youssef Madrasa (an old Islamic college) for several centuries.

Admission to the Dar Si Said museum costs 10 Moroccan dirhams (US$1.04) for adults, and 5 dirhams for children under the age of 12.

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Top 10 Universities in South Africa 2015

laura.tucker@qs.com — Fri, 03 Jul 2015 11:23:10 +0000

Top 10 Universities in South Africa 2015

laura.tucker@qs.com Fri, 07/03/2015 - 12:23

Wed, 07/08/2015 - 12:30

Top 10 Universities in South Africa 2015 main image

**This article is for the 2015 results. Click here to find out the 10 top universities in South Africa in 2016.

If you want to study at one of the top universities in South Africa, you may be interested in the recently released QS University Rankings: BRICS 2015 – a ranking of the leading institutions in the five BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa).

A total of 14 South African universities are featured in the ranking, which assesses universities’ performance on eight indicators relating to global reputation, academic staff levels, research production and impact, and internationalization.

Read on for an overview of the top 10 universities in South Africa according to the QS University Rankings: BRICS 2015, alongside information about each institution’s location, size, subject strengths and global standing.

1. University of Cape Town

Sitting among the slopes of Table Mountain’s Devil’s Peak in Cape Town, the University of Cape Town is the oldest of all South African universities, founded in 1829. A public research institution, the University of Cape Town is ranked 14^th in the 2015 BRICS ranking and 141^st in the QS World University Rankings® 2014/15. Currently home to over 26,300 students and the alma mater of five Nobel Laureates, the University of Cape Town is also affiliated with the hospital responsible for the world’s first heart transplant.

Ranked among the world’s leading universities in an impressive 23 subjects in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2015, the University of Cape Town performs best for development studies (7^th in the world) and geography (39^th).

2. University of the Witwatersrand

Located in Johannesburg, South Africa’s largest and wealthiest city, the University of the Witwatersrand is this year ranked joint 28^th in BRICS ranking and 318^th in the world rankings. Another of the oldest South African universities in operation, established in 1896 as the South African School of Mines, the University of the Witwatersrand has since become a large and comprehensive institution with a student body of almost 31,000. The school is split into five campuses in central (urban) and northern (suburban) Johannesburg.

Like a number of universities in South Africa, the University of the Witwatersrand performs exceptionally well in the field of development studies (for which it’s ranked 15^th in the world), and is also ranked internationally in a further 10 subjects.

3. Stellenbosch University

Approximately 50 kilometers east of Cape Town, you’ll find the town of Stellenbosch, which is home to another of the top universities in South Africa, Stellenbosch University. A public research institution, Stellenbosch University is ranked 34^th in the BRICS ranking and 390^th in the world rankings this year, and currently hosts a total of 28,000 students. Nicknamed the ‘City of Oaks’, the surrounding area of Stellenbosch has a welcoming feel for its large population of students and a rich history. As well as its main campus, Stellenbosch University has departments in Tygerberg, to the north of Cape Town; Bellville Park, to the east of Cape Town; and Saldanha, in the bay area north of Cape Town.

Of the 10 subjects that Stellenbosch University is internationally ranked for, it performs best in the field of development studies (ranked 46^th in the world).

4. University of Pretoria

Currently home to a student body of over 45,000 across several campuses, the University of Pretoria is one of just a few ‘XL’ universities in South Africa. Established in 1908, this year the university is ranked 49^th in the BRICS ranking and 471-480 in the world rankings. Its main campus is based in Pretoria, the capital of the Gauteng province and a city known for its beautiful lilac Jacaranda trees which blossom across the city. Offering programs in Afrikaans and English, the University of Pretoria also boasts the only veterinary school in South Africa, the Gordon Institute of Business Science and a large collection of art and history museums.

Ranked internationally in 11 subjects, the University of Pretoria joins its fellow top universities in South Africa in ranking among the world’s top 100 schools for development studies.

5. University of Johannesburg

The youngest of the 10 top universities in South Africa, the University of Johannesburg came about as the result of a merger between Rand Afrikaans University, the Technikon Witwatersrand and part of Vista University in 2005. Now operating across nine faculties and 90 departments with a student body of over 49,000, the University of Johannesburg is this year placed 67^th in the BRICS ranking and 601-650 in the world rankings. The school has four urban campuses across the Johannesburg metropolitan area, including the Auckland Park campus and the Soweto campus, which specializes in business.

Once again, the University of Johannesburg features in the global development studies ranking, in the 51-100 range.

6. University of Kwazulu-Natal

Another of the young South African universities formed by a merger, the University of Kwazulu-Natalis the result of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville joining together in 2004. The University of Kwazulu-Natal is currently ranked 68^th in the BRICS ranking and 501-550 in the world rankings, and is made up of five campuses across the province of Kwazulu-Natal in eastern South Africa. The province itself is known as the former site of the Zulu kingdom and is home to a number of attractive parks, gardens and two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Almost 38,000 students are currently enrolled at the University of Kwazulu-Natal across a broad subject range. In 2012, the ‘KwaZulu-Natal Research Institute for Tuberculosis and HIV’ was opened at the medical campus.

The University of Kwazulu-Natal is globally ranked for four subjects this year: in the top 100 worldwide for development studies, the top 200 for agriculture & forestry and geography, and the top 300 for medicine.

7. Rhodes University

The oldest university in the Eastern Cape Province, established in 1904, Rhodes University is ranked 79^th in the BRICS ranking and 601-650 in the world rankings. Situated in Grahamstown, just over an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, Rhodes University hosts a number of popular annual arts and culture events, including the National Arts Festival and SciFest Africa. One of the smallest of the top universities in South Africa, Rhodes University has a current enrollment of around 7,000 students, almost half of whom reside on campus.

This year, Rhodes University is ranked among the world’s top 200 schools for English language & literature and communication & media studies.

8. University of the Western Cape

Although the University of the Western Cape is not included in the world rankings, it ranks 8^th in its country and 100^th in this year’s BRICS ranking. Located in the Bellville suburb of the Cape Town municipality, just 20 kilometers from Cape Town’s city center, the University of the Western Cape has been established since 1959 and now has upwards of 15,000 students. Historically, the school has played a significant role in battling racial inequality and discrimination, having originally been opened for black students during the apartheid era.

Despite not featuring in this year’s subject rankings, previous editions have seen the University of the Western Cape ranked at international level for its work in the field of education & training.

9. University of the Free State

Ranked among the top 130 schools in the latest BRICS ranking, the University of the Free State is situated in the capital city of the Free State province in central South Africa, Bloemfontein (‘blooming fountain’), which is known for its heady abundance of roses. Founded in 1904, the University of the Free State now has more than 30,000 students spread across its main campus and two other satellite campuses. Its attractions include excellent sports and medical facilities, and close proximity to the nation’s judicial capital.

10=. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

Established as a merger in 2005, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University is ranked among the top 200 BRICS institutions. Based in Port Elizabeth, a major seaport on the south coast, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University currently has a student body of around 27,000, including 3,000 international students from around the world. Popular for its art school and vocational training programs as well as its coastal setting, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University is split between five campuses, including one in the city of George.

10=. North-West University

A sneaky 11^th addition to our top 10 list of universities in South Africa, North-West University is within the same band in the BRICS ranking as Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University – both placed at 151-200. Formed as a merger in 2004, North-West University hosts a total of 47,000 students across three campuses based in Potchefstroom and Mahikeng in the North-East province and Vanderbijlpark in Gauteng province.

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Top 10 Universities in the BRICS Countries 2014

laura@qs.com — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 09:26:00 +0000

Top 10 Universities in the BRICS Countries 2014

laura@qs.com Wed, 06/18/2014 - 10:26

Thu, 06/19/2014 - 02:00

Top 10 Universities in the BRICS Countries 2014 main image

Following the inaugural edition of the QS University Rankings: BRICS last year, this ranking of universities in the BRICS countries has now been extended to include an additional 100 institutions. Visit the interactive rankings table to view the full list and compare universities on eight individual indicators, or keep reading to get a quick introduction to this year’s top 10 universities in the BRICS countries…

1. Tsinghua University (China)

Retaining the number one spot this year, China’s Tsinghua University is actually rated second among BRICS institutions according to both the employer and academic surveys – but it beats close rival Peking University on almost all the other indicators used; the only exception is research citations, in which Tsinghua has made progress since the last edition of the ranking. Located in Beijing and one of the elite “C9” group of research universities, Tsinghua University is ranked 48th in the 2013/14 QS World University Rankings®.

2. Peking University (China)

Also located in Beijing, and also a C9 member, Peking University is actually two places above Tsinghua in the global ranking – but the adapted methodology used for the BRICS ranking means it comes one place lower here. Peking University is rated the leading BRICS institution in QS’s global surveys of both academics and employers, and ranks within the top 10 universities in the BRICS countries for citations per paper, reflecting the strong impact of its research. Its overall score remains fairly stable this year, with progress in faculty/student ratio balancing out slightly weaker scores for proportion of staff with a PhD and proportion of international students.

3. Lomonosov Moscow State University (Russia)

Russia’s Lomonosov Moscow State University claims its strongest score for faculty/student ratio, for which it ranks fourth among BRICS universities. More generally, the BRICS ranking suggests that high academic staffing levels are one of the major strengths of Russian universities compared to those in the other BRICS countries; the top 10 universities on this indicator are all Russian. Lomonosov Moscow State University also comes fifth for global academic reputation and is within the top 10 universities in BRICS nations for proportion of international students. Its weakest area is research, in terms of both production rates and impact levels.

4. University of Science and Technology of China (China)

The University of Science and Technology of China has climbed two places since the last edition of the BRICS ranking. It has improved scores on several indicators, most notably for proportion of academic staff members qualified to PhD level. Based in the city of Hefei (about four hours’ drive south of Beijing), the university was founded by the Chinese Academy of Sciences with a mission of contributing to China’s growing economy through education and development in the science and technology fields. Its strong research focus is reflected in high scores for both productivity and impact; it ranks fourth among BRICS universities for papers published per faculty member and seventh for citations per paper.

5. Fudan University (China)

Continuing China’s dominance of the top 10 universities in the BRICS countries, Fudan University is rated third among BRICS institutions by employers and fourth by academics. It also comes fourth in the research citations indicator – China’s top scorer on this measure – but falls one place overall this year, having reported a weaker faculty/student ratio. Located in Shanghai, it is (like all of the Chinese universities within this top 10) a C9 member, and also part of the Universitas 21 international network of universities. Its international focus is reflected in a high percentage of international students; among these top 10 universities, it has the third strongest score for this indicator.

6. Nanjing University (China)

Also down one place overall this year, Nanjing University has lost ground in several indicators, including those assessing proportion of international students, staff members with a PhD and faculty/student ratio. However, it retains strong scores for global academic reputation (seventh among BRICS universities), proportion of international faculty members (ninth), and citations per paper (11th) – clearly earning a place among the top 10 universities in the BRICS countries. Its location, the city of Nanjing, is preparing to host the 2014 Summer Youth Olympics, and has long been one of China’s most significant commercial centers.

7. Universidade de São Paulo (Brazil)

Brazil’s leading representative in the BRICS ranking, the Universidade de São Paulo fares even better when competing with universities in the Latin American region; it’s second in the 2014 QS University Rankings: Latin America. Here, it comes third in the global academic survey, behind the top two Chinese institutions, and fifth in the employer survey. It ranks seventh among BRICS institutions for proportion of academic staff with a PhD – scoring higher on this indicator than any of the other top 10 universities listed here – and 12th for research papers per faculty member.

8. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (China)

China’s sixth representative among the top 10 universities in the BRICS countries, Shanghai Jiao Tong University is rated sixth in the academic survey and fourth among employers. Its strongest score, however, is for papers published per faculty member – it boasts the strongest figure among the BRICS institutions on this measure. Despite this major strength, it loses two places overall this year, with weaker scores for proportion of international academics and faculty/student ratio.

9= Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Brazil)

Brazil’s second entry in the BRICS list, the Universidade Estadual de Campinas is currently at third place in the Latin American ranking. It’s rated ninth among BRICS universities by academics and 14th by employers, with another strong score for proportion of staff with a PhD (10th). Like fellow Brazilian Universidade de São Paulo, it climbs one place overall this year, having strengthened its score for research citations. Faculty/student ratio remains its weakest area – and indeed, this is the lowest-scoring area for many of these top 10 universities in the BRICS group.

9= University of Cape Town (South Africa)

Finally, sharing ninth position, the University of Cape Town climbs two places this year, to give South Africa a top-10 representative. It’s the highest overall scorer for research citations, which is also a relatively strong point for fellow South African institutions University of the Witwatersrand and Stellenbosch University; both make the BRICS top 10 on this indicator. The University of Cape Town also scores notably well in the internationalization measures, ranking sixth among BRICS universities for proportion of international students and seventh for international faculty members – in both cases, the strongest scores among these top 10 universities. Its weakest areas are faculty/student ratio and proportion of staff with a PhD.

QS University Rankings: BRICS 2014

QS University Rankings: BRICS – Methodology

Brazilian Universities in the 2014 QS University Rankings: BRICS

South African Universities in the 2014 QS University Rankings: BRICS

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Top Universities in South Africa

hasna@qs.com — Wed, 18 Dec 2013 11:20:31 +0000

Top Universities in South Africa

hasna@qs.com Wed, 12/18/2013 - 11:20

Wed, 12/18/2013 - 00:00

Top Universities in South Africa main image

**Update: get the latest list of top universities in South Africa here, based on the 2015 edition of the QS University Rankings: BRICS.**

Known as the “Rainbow Nation” due to its incredible multiculturalism, South Africa has recovered well from its troubled past, developing into an exciting country with modern cities, an international outlook, and a well developed higher education system.

Since 2010 South Africa has been included in the five fast-growing economies that compose the BRICS group (alongside Brazil, Russia, India and China). Its economic development, combined with political changes, make it a fascinating place to study for anyone interested in emerging countries, development or international politics. It’s also likely to be an attractive study destination for linguists (there are eleven official languages, and many more in use), and lovers of the great outdoors (this is one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, boasting natural attractions on a huge scale).

The newly launched QS University Rankings: BRICS, which highlights the top 100 institutions in the five BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) features eight South African entries.

Compared to the other four BRICS countries, the South African higher education system boasts a strong research culture, getting some of the highest scores for research citations per paper. Universities in South Africa also rate well for internationalization, having been relatively successful in attracting academics and students from around the world. Read on for a closer look at the top universities in South Africa.

University of Cape Town

The highest ranked South African entry in the new QS University Rankings: BRICS is the University of Cape Town (UCT), ranked 11^th among BRICS institutions. UCT is South Africa’s oldest university, founded in 1829. It has a picturesque campus in the Western Cape Province, on the slopes of Table Mountain’s Devil’s Peak. As a public research university, the University of Cape Town boasts five Nobel Laureates among its alumni, and was host to the hospital where the world’s first heart transplant took place.

In the BRICS ranking, UCT performs well in many of the eight indicators used for assessment. It’s rated 10^th among the BRICS universities in QS’s global survey of academics, and also scores especially well for international faculty international students. Its strongest area, however, is citations per research paper, with only Russia’s National Research Nuclear University coming out ahead on this indicator – a sign that UCT’s research is having a significant impact in the international academic community. As is the general trend for universities in South Africa, weaker points are ratio of PhD-qualified staff and faculty-to-student ratio.

Stellenbosch University

The next South African entry in the BRICS ranking is Stellenbosch University, a public research university in Stellenbosch, nicknamed the ‘City of Oaks’ for the large number of oak trees planted by its founder in 1679. Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second-oldest town, and its university also has a rich history, dating back to 1863. As well as its main campus in Stellenbosch, the university also has facilities in Tygerberg (in the northern suburbs of Cape Town), Bellville Park (on the eastern outskirts of Cape Town) and Saldanha (a bay area north of Cape Town). Stellenbosch University’s prestigious Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering is joined by departments in Commerce, Science, Arts and the Military.

Stellenbosch University places 30^th overall in the QS University Rankings: BRICS. It has a strong reputation among both academics and employers, but like UCT gets its highest score for research citations (11^th among BRICS universities). Again, like most of the top universities in South Africa, Stellenbosch University also scores well for international diversity of staff and students, and rates fairly well for research paper publication frequency.

University of the Witwatersrand

Another multi-campus university, the University of the Witwatersrand is situated in the northern and central areas of Johannesburg – the wealthiest province of South Africa, and one of the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the world. Commonly known as ‘Wits University’, it is the third oldest South African university in operation, and the third highest South African entry in the QS University Rankings: BRICS, just one position behind Stellenbosch University at 31.

Wits University is divided into five campuses – two urban and three suburban – which accommodate nearly 28,000 students and 3,200 faculty members. It ranks extremely well for the international diversity of its academic, ranked 5^th among BRICS universities on this measure. It’s also 5^th for research citations, and gets strong scores for academic and employer reputation, and international students. As for other top universities in South Africa, relatively weaker areas are faculty-to-student ratio and percentage of staff educated to PhD level.

University of Pretoria

Established in 1908, the University of Pretoria is again a multi-campus university and one of South Africa’s largest, offering academic programs taught in both English and Afrikaans. With its main campus in Pretoria, the administrative and de facto capital of South Africa, the University of Pretoria ranks 43= in the BRICS ranking, and with more than 45,000 students is the only South African entry in the ‘XL’ category (extra large).

The university boasts South Africa’s only veterinary school, which is the second oldest veterinary school in Africa. Its nine faculties also cover education, economic and management Sciences, engineering, health Sciences, humanities, law and theology, and business at the Gordon Institute of Business Science. It has a notably large collection of art and museums, along with more than 100 student clubs and organizations.

Following the general national trend, the University of Pretoria is highly rated by both academics and employers, and scores well for its international diversity and research impact. Its lowest scores are again for faculty-to-student ratio and employment of highly qualified academic staff.

University of KwaZulu-Natal

The University of KwaZulu-Natal was created from a merger of the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. Its five campuses are all located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, which is known as the ‘garden province’ and is home to the Zulu nation. The university is made up of four colleges which are in turn divided into several schools, covering a broad spectrum of subject areas. It has also recently opened the KwaZulu-Natal Research Institute for Tuberculosis and HIV, in cooperation with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal ranks 60^th overall in the QS University Rankings: BRICS, but higher in several indicators, including international faculty (3^rd), academic reputation (39^th), international students (40^th) and research citations (46^th). Again, faculty-to-student ratio and staff educated to PhD level are weaker points.

University of Johannesburg

Ranked straight after the University of KwaZulu-Natal at 61, the University of Johannesburg is a relatively new university, created as the result of a merger between the Rand Afrikaans University (RAU), the Technikon Witwatersrand (TWR) and the Soweto and East Rand campuses of Vista University in 2005. Due to this merger, the University of Johannesburg is one of the largest comprehensive contact universities in South Africa, with four urban campuses, nine faculties, more than 90 departments and an annual enrolment of almost 50,000 students.

In order to distinguish itself from its previous institutions and establish a reputation as a new, adaptable and progressive institution, the University of Johannesburg forwent creating a coat of arms and motto (customary for universities in South Africa). Instead, it has a logo and brand identity reflective of the ‘coming together’ of its founding institutions and its adaptability: “Rethink Education. Reinvent Yourself.”

Like other top universities in South Africa, the University of Johannesburg scores very well for its intake of both international students and international faculty. It also gets a very favorable rating from graduate employers (46^th among BRICS universities), while its reputation with academics is not far behind. While it doesn’t rank as well as other leading institutions in South Africa for research citations, it does outdo them when it comes to faculty-student ratio – though this remains a relatively weak point compared to universities in the other BRICS countries.

Rhodes University

Situated in Grahamstown in the Eastern Cape Province, Rhodes University is the oldest out of the four universities in this province. It is a public research university, with an enrolment of more than7,000 students each year – this relatively small intake means it’s the only South African university classed as ‘small’ in the QS University Rankings: BRICS. Just under half of students live on campus, with opportunities to enjoy the many arts and culture offerings of Grahamstown as well as its two largest annual festivals – the National Arts Festival in January and the popular SciFest Africa in the first term of the academic year.

In the BRICS ranking, Rhodes University places 72^nd overall, getting one of the highest scores of any BRICS university for its intake of international students. It also scores very well for research publication output (measured by papers published per faculty member) and has a respectable score for research citations. Like the other top universities in South Africa, it gets a strong rating from both academics and employers, but scores relatively poorly for faculty-student ratio and percentage of staff with a PhD.

University of the Western Cape

Finally, the University of the Western Cape is located in the Bellville suburb of Cape Town, South Africa’s southern-most city. Established in 1959, the university has always been an integrated and multiracial institution, despite apartheid legislation which ended only in 1994. As such, the university has a history of creatively addressing issues of oppression and discrimination. Its notable alumni include politicians, diplomats, authors and the CEO of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa.

Scoring particularly well in the internationalization and research citations indicators, the University of the Western Cape ranks 88^th overall in the QS University Rankings: BRICS. It also fares relatively well for percentage of academic staff qualified to PhD level – a weak point across the board for South African universities – within South Africa, only the University of Cape Town does better – though both are still outside the BRICS top 100 on this measure.

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

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Discover the top universities in South Africa, according to the new QS University Rankings: BRICS

Compare the top universities in South Africa with other BRICS universities

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Top Universities in Africa and the Middle East

laura.tucker@qs.com — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 15:53:00 +0000

Top Universities in Africa and the Middle East

laura.tucker@qs.com Tue, 12/03/2013 - 15:53

Tue, 12/03/2013 - 00:00

Top Universities in Africa and the Middle East main image

In the latest edition of the QS World University Rankings®, there are 47 ranked universities in the regions of Africa and the Middle East, split between 14 different countries. Some nations, however, boast more entries than others; the country with the largest rankings presence is Turkey with nine offerings, despite no entries within the top 400. Tied with seven ranked universities each are South Africa and Saudi Arabia, although South Africa appears higher up, with the regions’ second highest ranking. Israel, despite its miniscule size in relation to its competitors, has five ranked universities, four of which are impressively included within the top 10 universities in Africa and the Middle East.

Here’s a closer look at those 10 top universities in Africa and the Middle East, followed by a comprehensive ‘Best of the Rest’, which gives a deserved mention to all the African and Middle Eastern countries included within the QS rankings.

Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel

Located in Israel, the world’s only Jewish-majority state, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is the highest ranked of these top universities in Africa and the Middle East. The university is ranked 141= in the world and counts among its founders the likes of Nobel Prize laureate Albert Einstein, who served on the first Board of Governors alongside Sigmund Freud. The school has three campuses in Jerusalem and one in Rehovot, and is home to the world’s largest Jewish studies library. The university is also well reputed in mathematics and has been awarded a Fields Medal in the subject.

University of Cape Town, South Africa

The oldest university in South Africa and ranked 145= in the world, the University of Cape Town is an English-speaking institution with a vibrant and cosmopolitan community. The main campus is located on Table Mountain’s Devil’s Peak and boasts panoramic views of much of Cape Town. The school, with a growing population of over 25,000, says it aims to promote diversity and to create graduates with firm values of social justice and citizenship.

Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Israel

Ranked 183= in the world, Technion – Israel Institute of technology, is (as its name suggests) a science and technology- focused research university and the oldest in Israel. Hebrew is the main language of instruction and the school offers various levels of Hebrew language courses to help students improve their proficiency. The university has also helped the country gain the nickname “Start-up Nation”, with its contributions to technological innovation having helped Israel become home to more high-tech start-up companies than any country except the US.

Tel Aviv University, Israel

At 196= in the world, Tel Aviv University offers the widest range of teaching and research fields in Israel and is the country’s largest university with over 30,000 students enrolled. Located in Tel Aviv, Israel’s financial, cultural and industrial center, the institute has a metropolitan global outlook and again prides itself on fostering and supporting a spirit of innovation.

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Saudi Arabia

Ranked 216= in the world, the King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals has an enrollment of over 8,000 students and provides courses in engineering, science and management, with the aim of producing globally competitive graduates to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s vast petroleum and mineral industry. The university’s fast growth, having started with just 67 students in 1963, is tied to the rapid development in Saudi Arabia’s economy, which has been synonymous with a surge in higher education investment.

American University of Beirut (AUB), Lebanon

The American University of Beirut (AUB) is an independent and secular university in the Lebanese capital city of Beirut, ranked 250^th in the world. The main language of instruction at the university is English and there is a choice of over 120 programs for its student body of 8,000. The city is known for its mountain trails and ski resorts as well as its cuisine, rich history and archaeological interest. The campus itself overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and boasts 60 acres of fields, beaches and wooded land.

King Saud University, Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s second highest entry, King Saud University, is ranked 253= in the world and is the oldest university in the country. The institution, which offers tuition completely free, is held in high esteem in the region, having educated many elite figures in the realms of politics and business, as well as members of the Saudi royal family. The state-of-the-art campus, in capital city Riyadh, currently houses 18 libraries and over 35,000 students.

University of The Witwatersrand, South Africa

Commonly known as Wits, the University of the Witwatersrand is ranked 313= in the world and situated in the busy commercial and industrial South African city of Johannesburg. The institute is home to around 15 museums, including the Paleontology Museum and the Geology Museum, reflecting the institution’s – and the city’s – roots in the mining industry. The school strongly encourages diversity, and has a current enrollment of over 30,000 students on almost 1,000 acres of land split between its campuses.

Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel

Ranked 331= in the world, Ben Gurion University of the Negev is named after Israel’s first prime minister and is dedicated to continuing the social and environmental development of the Negev desert region (which covers over 60% of Israel) as well as the rest of the country and the world. With close to 20,000 students, the university specializes in scientific innovation and the applied sciences and says it encourages its students to develop a social conscience and the ability to think originally. The school’s campuses boast state-of-the-art sports facilities, cinemas, restaurants and chic espresso bars.

American University in Cairo, Egypt

Completing our list of the 10 top universities in Africa and the Middle East is the American University in Cairo, ranking at 348^th in the world, with just over 5,000 students and boasting the largest English-language library in Egypt. The university publishing house, the AUC, is also the leading publisher of English-language books in the Arab world. A non-profit, apolitical, nonsectarian institution that provides liberal education, the university’s main campus reflects Egyptian urban styles of architecture and is located in the area of New Cairo, a satellite city created only very recently in 2001.

Best of the rest…

That’s the 10 top universities in Africa and the Middle East, but there are many more universities in these regions ranking at international level. Here’s a breakdown of the best of the rest, by country:

Bahrain (Rankings presence: 1)

University of Bahrain (701+)

Egypt (5)

Cairo University (551-600)

Ain Shams University (551-600)

Al Azhar University (651-700)

Alexandria University (701+)

Iran (2)

University of Tehran (601-650)

Sharif University of Technology (601-650)

Iraq (1)

University of Baghdad (701+)

Israel (5)

Bar-Ilan University, Israel (651-700)

Jordan (2)

Jordan University of Science and Technology (651-700)

University of Jordan (701+)

Kuwait (1)

Kuwait University (701+)

Lebanon (2)

Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth (601-650)

Oman (1)

Sultan Qaboos University (501-550)

Qatar (1)

Qatar University (551-600)

Saudi Arabia (7)

King Abdul Aziz University (KAU, 360=)

Al-lmam Mohamed Ibn Saud Islamic University (491-500)

Umm Al-Qura University (551-600)

King Khalid University (601-650)

King Faisal University (701+)

South Africa (7)

Stellenbosch University (387=)

University of Pretoria (471-480)

University of Kwazulu-Natal (501-550)

Rhodes University (551-600)

University of Johannesburg (601-650)

Turkey (9)

Bilkent University (ranked 431-440)

Middle East Technical University (431-440)

Bogazici University (461-470)

Koc University (501-550)

Sabanci University (501-550)

Istanbul Technical University (551-600)

Hacettepe University (601-650)

Istanbul University (651-700)

Cukurova University (701+)

United Arab Emirates (3)

United Arab Emirates University (ranked 421-430)

American University of Sharjah (AUS, 431-440)

Abu Dhabi University (601-650)

Image credits: Richard Whittemore; Mark Plassio; Adrian Frith; Hanay – wiki commons; TAU; KFUPM; AUB.edu; GMW architects; SABC; Davis Saranga; AUC.

Interested in discovering the top universities in Africa and the Middle East? Look no further…

Take a look at the BRICS rankings here

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South Africa: Graduate Level Country Guide

staff.writer@qs.com — Tue, 30 Oct 2012 15:01:25 +0000

South Africa: Graduate Level Country Guide

staff.writer@qs.com Tue, 10/30/2012 - 15:01

Mon, 11/15/2010 - 00:00

South Africa: Graduate Level Country Guide main image

South Africa, as our guide explains, is a great alternative destination for graduate-level study.

Known as the ‘rainbow nation’, South Africa is a country with a tragic history but a vibrant, inclusive, and above all, optimistic outlook. In recent years the country has made huge strides and is now one of Africa’s most dynamic up-and-coming nations.

South Africa’s culture comprises a mixture of European and native South African influences, making it a unique cultural melting pot. This diversity is matched by that of its landscape. With five different ecosystems, tropical beaches, savannahs and sprawling Karoo scrublands, South Africa is home to more animal species than Europe and Asia combined. Added to this are energetic cities such as Durban and picturesque Cape Town.

As of 2006, there were over 53,000 international students enrolled at South African universities, and there is a strong tradition of students from elsewhere in Africa undertaking graduate study in South Africa. South Africa’s leading universities are now actively opening their doors to students from outside of the continent.

With both tuition and living expenses considerably lower than those in the UK and US, South Africa’s top universities offer an excellent value-for-money, English-language graduate education.

South African education

The South African academic year runs from December to January. There are a total of 23 public universities in South Africa, which are divided into three categories: universities of technology, traditional universities and comprehensive universities.

Unlike standardized national systems, the subject matter, length, and level of graduate programs in South Africa can vary by institution. Traditionally at master's level candidates must complete one to two years full time study, with an emphasis on a lengthy dissertation – though courses consisting of classes and seminars along with a shorter dissertation and other mixed modes of assessment are becoming more common. Doctoral degrees typically last for three years.

South Africa is home to many of Africa’s leading universities. The University of Cape Town (UCT) was ranked 146 in the 2009 QS World University Rankings, making it the only African university to make it into the world’s top 200. The University of Witwatersrand also made it into the rankings at place 321, with the University of Pretoria ranked in the top 500, and the University of KwaZulu-Natal in the top 600 worldwide.

“UCT has an extensive internationalization program, which includes our long-standing partnerships with comparable institutions across the globe,” says UCT spokesperson Ray Hartle. “UCT plans to increase the number of international postgraduate students undertaking master’s degrees and doctoral research. This is very much part of our vision to take advantage of expanding global networks and our distinct vantage point in Africa.”

Admissions and entry requirements

In general, for admission to master's courses at leading South African universities you will be required to have a good bachelor’s degree in a related field, and a strong academic track record. For PhD courses, you will need strong academic credentials including a master’s degree in a related field.

You will also be required to submit a research proposal, outlining your intended area of research, the original contribution that your research will make to your field, and demonstrating the feasibility and suitability of your chosen topic.

For information on the specific admissions requirements of your chosen course, visit the university website or contact the admissions office directly. For research degrees in particular, you may wish to identify a faculty member whose research interests match your own and contact them directly.

Graduate scholarships and funding

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) offers a number of scholarships for research and exchange in commonwealth countries. These scholarships are often dependent on criteria related to applicants’ nationality and are based on an exchange agreement between two organizations.

The mining corporation, Anglo American, offers a number of scholarships including open scholarships for up to six years’ postgraduate funding.

Scholarships for full-time master’s and research degrees are also available for non-South African nationals from African countries. These are available at the National Research Foundation - South Africa.

University Scholarships for South African Students is a US-based charitable organization that offers scholarship opportunities to South African students. Loans and bursaries information for South African nationals is also available on South Africa - The Official Gateway.

Many universities also offer their own scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit and/or financial need.

Visas and immigration

To apply for a student visa for graduate study, you will need to provide:

An official letter from the relevant institution confirming provisional acceptance at that institution and duration of the course
Particulars of the person(s) in the Republic who will act as your guardian and confirmation from the intended guardian
Recognized medical cover
Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and subsistence
Exchange permits are also available for exchange students

Get set for grad school!

Meet representatives of leading grad schools from around the world at the QS World Grad School Tour - coming soon to a city near you! This is your chance to get personal answers to all your questions, attend admissions seminars, and become eligible to apply for exclusive graduate scholarships.

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South Africa, as our guide explains, is a great alternative destination for graduate level study.