The University of Johannesburg (UJ) was ranked first in South Africa for Computer Science, Engineering, Physical Sciences, and Business and Economics.
The Times Higher Education (THE) is a data-driven, insights and global consultancy.
The 2026 subject rankings place UJ second in South Africa in Education Studies, Law, Social Sciences and Psychology.
Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, UJ’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said “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.”
Globally, the UJ was ranked in the 251–300 range, in Computer Science, and in the top 151–175 band for Social Sciences and among 126–150 for Education Studies and Law.
UJ was also ranked fourth in the top universities in Africa category by THE for 2026.
Leading the pack is the University of Cape Town, followed by Stellenbosch University, University of the Witwatersrand and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University.
THE said the following aspects make an integral part of the evaluation process- teaching, the research environment, research quality, industry and an international outlook (accounts for international students, staff and co-authorship).
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