One of the University of the Free State’s (UFS) unique characteristics – and part of the essence of who it is – is the fact that it is one university spread across three diverse campuses in the Free State.
The Bloemfontein Campus is the oldest and largest campus where all seven faculties are represented. All campus facilities are available in one location, characterised by unique architecture and artworks, state-of-the-art research, learning, teaching, and sports facilities, and eco-friendly, waterwise gardens. Braille-guided areas, ramps, and elevators for visually and mobility-impaired students contribute to our culture of care and social justice.
The South Campus, nestled in the hills to the south of Bloemfontein, is home to the university’s Blended Learning Innovation and Support Services (Bliss), a subdivision of the Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL). Utilising the South Campus’ multimedia production studio, Bliss has the primary goal of providing holistic, integrated services and support towards a new, blended learning future for the UFS. The BEd Foundation Phase programme is also offered on this campus, providing a well-rounded education that equips graduates with an integrated knowledge and understanding of teaching learners between the ages of six and nine years. The South Campus formed part of the former Vista University and was incorporated into the UFS in 2004.
The beautiful Qwaqwa Campus at the foot of the Maluti Mountains in the Eastern Free State serves students from the immediate area and surrounding provinces. The campus has a strong focus on socio-economic development, informed by the rural context in which it is located. Programmes, underpinned by a strong research agenda, focus on identifying the best possible strategies to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in this area. The campus is home to the internationally acclaimed Afromontane Research Unit (ARU), a high-excellence multi-disciplinary mountain research “community of practice” leading African mountain research on the continent. The campus was incorporated into the UFS in 2003.
