Internationally ranked as one of the leading institutions on the continent, the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) is a premier University in Africa and an obvious choice for those seeking academic and research excellence. The University has a selective approach to research development, concentrating on areas of actual and potential international excellence while focusing on challenging, relevant, and innovative research that is beneficial to the country and Africa. Check out their 2025-2026 fact sheet and study abroad guide.
At the forefront of a changing society, Wits is an engaged institution, dedicated to advancing the public good. It continues to play a key role in fostering intellectual communities and promoting sustainable social and economic development in a globally competitive environment. Its School of Social Sciences houses the Departments of Anthropology, Development Studies, Demography and Population Studies, History, International Relations, Philosophy, Political Studies, and Sociology as well as the Forced Migration Studies Programme. The School also hosts the Sociology of Work Unit (SWOP) and the History Research Group.
Curriculum: At Wits, Elliott School M.A. students can choose from a variety of units (courses) in areas such as history, government, international relations, philosophy, anthropology, and sociology. For more details on specific units and offerings, please see the individual departments listed on the School of Social Sciences website. Exchange students typically enroll for three or four units per semester. Students select unit choices after arrival at Wits.
Enrollment and Credits: All exchange students from the Elliott School are required to be enrolled at Wits as full-time students. Students must earn the equivalent of a B grade or higher in a given course to be eligible for transfer credit. Students may earn up to 10 transfer credits from the partner into the Elliott School M.A. programs.
Grade "60-69" at Wits = Grade B at GW
One course within Wits IR program = 3 credits at GW
Academic Calendar: 1st Semester: February - June
2nd Semester: July - November
*Classes are held during the day and in the evening.
Language of Instruction: Courses are taught in English.
Housing: The International Students Office will assist in arranging accommodation where possible. For those placed at International House, the accommodation fee is approximately R391.00 per day. This includes a single room (non-sharing), internet access, and other facilities. Accommodation is not guaranteed and is subject to availability.
Tuition and Fees: Students pay regular GW and Elliott School tuition fees for their participation in exchange programs, based upon 9 or 10 GW credit hours.
