Rhodes University is located in the beautiful and historic city of Grahamstown, South Africa. Graced with lovely grounds, and nestled in the hills of the city, Rhodes is a 45-minute drive from beautiful and unspoiled beaches. Rhodes University’s unique location and size creates close contact between students and their lecturers in surroundings that foster fellowship and learning. Small classes mean more personal attention and encourage greater involvement of students in their work. The challenge of poverty, urbanization and education in South Africa, is found in the community of Grahamstown, and provides additional invaluable material for scholars and humanists alike.
Rhodes University was established in 1904 with 50 students. Today there are more than 4,500 students studying in 38 departments spread over eight faculties - Arts, Science, Law, Education, Commerce, Social Science, Divinity, and Pharmacy. The University also offers the ideal physical environment for studying. Architecturally, it is a pleasing blend of historical and contemporary building styles.
Rhodes University offers a variety of volunteer working experiences that brings you closer to the native community of Grahamstown, and helps those who are in need, from the young to the old. You gain the knowledge of a foreign culture, as well as life long memories of those you have helped.
One member of the Rhodes University faculty will serve as adviser to Washington College students. The adviser will also be responsible for extracurricular activities. All classes will be taught by regular Rhodes University faculty. Rhodes University uses the tutorial method of instruction.
The
International Office hosts several events throughout the year, including International Week and the Africa Ball.
Grahamstown is a city of approximately 70,000 people. The weather can change suddenly, so bring both summer and winter clothes for your stay.
Rhodes University will provide housing on its campus grounds. Students will be housed in single rooms in one of the Rhodes University’s 35 residences or “houses” (dorms). Each residence is equipped with its own dining hall, washer/dryer, TV, lounge area, and is located within easy walking distance of Grahamstown.
Grades & Credits
| Rhodes University Grades |
Washington College Grades |
| First Class |
75-100% |
A |
| Second Class, Division 1 |
70-74% |
B+ |
| Second Class, Division 2 |
60-69% |
B |
| Third Class |
50-59% |
C |
| Third Class, with no right of admission to a higher level of course |
40-49% |
D |
| Fail |
39% and below |
F |
A full course load at Rhodes University is 16 credits per semester and 32 credits for the academic year. If you take a full course load at Rhodes University, you will receive a full course load at Washington College (16 credits/semester; 32 credits/academic year). If you take less than the full course load you will NOT receive a full course load at Washington College.
| Rhodes University Credits |
Washington College Credits |
| 1st & 2nd year courses |
4 credits |
4 credits |
| 3rd year semester courses |
8 credits |
8 credits |
| 3rd year term course |
4 credits |
4 credits |
| Honours term course |
8 credits |
8 credits |
