About the University of South Africa

I am interested in enrolling in a Bachelors´degree in Sociology, and have reduced my list to 2 universities: the University of South Africa and the University of London.

How do they compare in terms of quality and prestige?

Jorge

 

I think that most people would say that the University of London is more prestigious. Having said that, I think that they're both fine choices. I don't think you would be going wrong either way.


Tom Nixon

 

Jorge,

I have also narrowed my list (for a master's degree) down to these two schools and so have been comparing their relative merits. Both schools have been in the distance learning business a long time, and both have a similar basic educational model where the primary (or sole) assessment for each course is a final exam.

The University of London would be generally be considered much more prestigious. Almost everyone has at least heard of U of L, and several of the constituent colleges are very highly regarded within academic circles.

However, while prestige can certainly be an important consideration, it should not be the only one. Unisa also has a solid reputation and, depending on your interests, may be a better choice. Because of the unique aspects of South Africa as a country, certain subdisciplines of sociology may be more emphasized there than in Great Britain. Look closely at the curricula and at the research interests of the faculty to see which program is more in line with your interests.

Good luck,

Alex

 

Jorge,

as per the others comments, both are good choices. A while ago I was due to start an LLB at London (external program, www.lon.ac.uk/external), but changed and went the traditional route instead (due to funding). I was very impressed by London though and the scope and recognition that it has worldwide.

The amount of students from around the world is impressive, but so is UNISA. I have found that London is easier to apply to and it is more straight forward. I could be wrong though, as I haven't had that much experience with UNISA. With London though, I liked what I saw. Either choice a good one, you decide...

Good Luck,

Cheers

Dan