VAAL TRIANGLE CAMPUS

Profile

Located on the banks of the Vaal River in a proclaimed nature reserve, the Vaal Triangle Campus is an inspiring setting for work and play. Student success rates are above average, its academics are motivated and well qualified, and the research, sport, student support and cultural facilities are outstanding.

Although the Vaal Triangle Campus is the smallest of the NWU’s three campuses, it has been experiencing record growth in the past few years. In 2011, there were 5 604 students. The average pass rate for all modules presented on the Campus was 82,4%, which is higher than the norm set by South Africa’s Department of Education.

One reason for the Campus’s consistently strong academic performance is the skills profile of its academic personnel. In all, 82% of its lecturers already have Master’s or doctoral degrees, and 30% are busy with postgraduate studies. 

Academically, the Campus’s focus is on programmes in the economic sciences, information technology and the humanities. These are offered through two faculties:
• The Faculty of Economic Sciences and Information Technology, which consists of three schools (economic s sciences, accounting sciences and information technology).  The Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), Middle Management Programme (MMP) and Advanced Management Programme (AMP) are especially highly regarded by business and industry.

• The Faculty of Humanities, which has four schools (languages, behavioural sciences, basic sciences and educational sciences). Three lecturers from the School of Educational Sciences were recently acknowledged for their expertise through awards or grants from organisations such as the South African-Netherlands Research Programme on Alternatives in Development (SANPAD) and the Education Association of South Africa (EASA). 

In addition, the Vaal Triangle Campus offers short courses and workshops in various fields through its Skills Development Unit.

Student and academic facilities are top class thanks to a recent R30 million upgrade. Among others, the library and student residences have been renovated, new lecture halls are being built and a new cricket field and clubhouse are being developed. 

 The Campus has a vibrant reputation for excellence in sport and culture. It has its own Cricket Academy and Cycling Academy, as well as a rowing club that is registered with Rowing SA. Body building has emerged as a popular sport among students.

Culturally, students of the Campus are renowned for their debating skills. The Riverine Toast Master Chapter regularly participates in public speaking events and is also helping learners from local schools to hone their public speaking skills.