The depths of the human psyche is a fascinating subject and something worth to explore. If you're in Durban and keen on studying psychology, you're in for a treat! Our sun-soaked city boasts several top-notch schools offering brilliant psychology courses. Whether you're eager to start a career or simply want to understand people better, Durban's got something for you.
In this article, you'll discover the best places to study psychology in Durban. We'll explore the University of KwaZulu-Natal's renowned psychology department, delve into the practical approach of the South African College of Applied Psychology, and check out the innovative programmes at Eduvos. You'll also learn about the requirements for psychology degrees and the various specialisations available. So, get ready to dive into the world of psychology right here in Durban!
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
When you're looking to study psychology in Durban, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) stands out as a top choice. Let's explore what UKZN has to offer for aspiring psychologists.
Programme Overview
At UKZN, you'll find a wide array of psychology programmes to suit your interests and career goals. The School of Applied Human Sciences offers innovative undergraduate degrees that prepare you for diverse professions in society. If you're aiming higher, UKZN's postgraduate qualifications are designed to equip you for leadership roles in policy and decision-making.
The Howard College Campus is where you'll find the professional training centre, offering postgraduate qualifications that can lead to registration as a Psychological Counsellor, Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, or Industrial Psychologist. But keep in mind, getting into these courses isn't a walk in the park – the competition is tough, and admission involves a multi-factored selection procedure.
For those interested in health promotion, UKZN offers an internationally recognised coursework masters programme. And if research is your passion, you can pursue postgraduate degrees by research in Critical Psychology or in areas of specialisation of the staff.

Facilities and Resources
Imagine walking into the Psychology building on Golf Road, nestled between the New Arts Block and the Education Building. This is where you'll spend most of your time as a psychology student at UKZN.
The facilities are impressive. You'll attend workshops and listen to visiting lecturers in the seminar room, and there are two additional postgraduate teaching rooms for more focused learning. For first-year students, all psychology lectures take place in the nearby Ronald MacMillan Lecture Theatre.
But that's not all. UKZN's Psychology Discipline boasts an extensive library of psychological tests, perfect for when you're diving deep into your studies. And if you're a history buff, you'll love the small museum of psychological artefacts and valuable old books on the second floor.
For postgraduate students, there's access to extensive video equipment for research and professional training, as well as computers equipped with various research and statistical packages.
Admission Requirements
To get into UKZN's psychology programmes, you'll need to have completed a psychology major at the undergraduate level. The minimum requirement is a Bachelor's degree that the college deems appropriate. It's worth noting that if you're still completing your undergraduate qualifications, you won't be considered for admission.
Research Opportunities
UKZN offers exciting research opportunities for psychology students. The school encourages students to select research topics that align with staff members' fields of interest, and group research projects are welcomed.
One unique research initiative at UKZN is SARETI (South African Research Ethics Training Initiative), which aims to build African capacity for the ethical review of health research. Through SARETI, you can participate in various educational programmes, from short workshops to full Masters programmes.
Another interesting research area is the Ethics, Law, and Human Rights (ELH) Collaborating Centre, which focuses on facilitating the ethical conduct of HIV vaccine trials in African countries. This centre offers opportunities to assess and strengthen ethical-legal frameworks, facilitate networking among stakeholders, and address key ethical issues in HIV vaccine trials.
South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP)
When you're looking to study psychology in Durban, SACAP is another excellent option to consider. Founded in 1997, SACAP has earned a reputation as a specialist in providing training in applied psychology and accredited psychology degrees in South Africa.
Campus Features
SACAP's Durban campus is a cutting-edge centre of learning, custom-designed with student life in mind. You'll find a library and resource centre, canteen, pause and study areas, and student essentials like free tea/coffee and Wi-Fi. Located on Peter Mokaba Road in the vibey suburb of Morningside, Berea, the campus is easily accessible and offers an inspiring environment for your studies.
Course Offerings
SACAP offers a wide range of psychology degrees that you can study on campus or online. These include:
- Higher Certificate in Counselling and Communication Skills
- Diploma in Counselling and Communication Skills
- Bachelor of Applied Social Science (Majoring in Psychology and Counselling)
- Bachelor of Psychology

Application Process
To apply to SACAP, follow these steps:
- Talk to an admissions officer for course advice
- Submit your application form and supporting documents
- Pay your registration fee and finalise payment plans
- Receive your student number and orientation invitation
Student Life
At SACAP, you'll find a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities for growth and engagement. The college offers various student leadership teams, including peer-assisted learning and student counsellors. You'll also benefit from the siblings programme, which pairs new students with experienced ones for support. With class representatives, an SRC, and community enrichment projects, SACAP ensures a well-rounded student experience that prepares you for your future career in psychology.
Eduvos
When you're looking to study psychology in Durban, Eduvos offers an exciting array of options. This institution stands out for its commitment to academic excellence and practical learning experiences.
Psychology Programmes
At Eduvos, you'll find a diverse range of psychology programmes to suit your interests and career goals. The Bachelor of Arts degrees offer various combinations, allowing you to pair psychology with other disciplines. You can choose from options like:
- Psychology and HR Management
- Psychology and English Literature Studies
- Psychology and Linguistics
- Psychology and Political Science
These programmes aim to develop your critical thinking skills and provide you with an in-depth understanding of human behaviour from different perspectives. You'll be introduced to both general and industrial psychology, giving you a well-rounded foundation in the field.
Study Modes
Eduvos understands that every student's needs are different. That's why they offer flexible study options to fit your lifestyle:
- Full-time campus-based study: Attend lectures, practicals, and tutorials during the day from Monday to Friday.
- Part-time online study: Perfect for working professionals, these programmes allow you to attend live, synchronous lectures after hours.
- Saturday classes: Some degrees, like Honours in Information Technology, offer full-time lectures on Saturdays.
Campus Facilities
Eduvos prides itself on providing state-of-the-art facilities to enhance your learning experience. While specific details about the Durban campus aren't provided, Eduvos campuses typically feature:
- Modern classrooms
- Well-equipped libraries and resource centres
- Student lounges and study areas
- Free Wi-Fi and computer labs
Career Prospects
A psychology degree from Eduvos opens doors to various career paths. Depending on your chosen stream, you could pursue roles in:
- Human Resources
- Communications
- Market Research
- Employee Wellness Consulting
- Public Relations
- Research
- Psychology-related fields
Remember, this degree is also an excellent foundation for further studies if you're aiming to become a psychologist in fields like counselling, clinical, research, or industrial/organisational psychology.

Opportunities Abound in Durban
Durban offers a myriad of opportunities to study psychology, with each institution bringing its own unique strengths to the table. The University of KwaZulu-Natal stands out with its extensive research facilities and specialised programmes, while SACAP focuses on practical training in applied psychology. Eduvos rounds out the options with flexible study modes and diverse degree combinations. This variety ensures that aspiring psychologists can find a programme that aligns with their interests and career goals.
For those looking to dive into the fascinating world of human behaviour, Durban's psychology programmes provide a solid foundation. Whether you're drawn to clinical practise, research, or industrial applications, these institutions offer the knowledge and skills to excel. As you embark on your journey into psychology, remember that each of these schools has something special to offer. The key is to choose the one that best fits your learning style and future aspirations.