Discipline of

Computer Science

Computer Science is the driving force behind today’s digital revolution, transforming how we live, work, and innovate. At UKZN, our Computer Science programme equips students with cutting-edge technical skills and theoretical foundations to develop advanced computing solutions for real-world challenges.

Computer Science includes Information Systems and Technology, a sub-discipline that focuses on the use of technology to manage and process information effectively.

Why Study Computer Science at UKZN?

The University of KwaZulu-Natal’s Computer Science programme develops skilled professionals for South Africa’s growing digital economy. Our curriculum covers essential computing disciplines including artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity and software engineering.

Students gain practical experience through hands-on projects using current technologies while addressing local technological needs. The programme maintains accreditation with the South African Computer Society, ensuring graduates meet industry standards.

Study

Information Systems and Technology (IST) bridges business needs with technological solutions, empowering organizations to thrive in the digital age. At UKZN, our IST programme combines technical expertise with strategic thinking, preparing graduates to design, implement, and manage systems that drive organizational success.

Sub-Discipline

Information Systems & Technology

Research

RESEARCH AREAS

We are a research-led institution, producing knowledge for the rapidly-changing and information-rich world. 

 Research Focus Areas  

RESEARCH GROUPS

We have a number of research groups that specialise in areas of research in Computer Science.

 CENTRE FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RESEARCH (CAIR)  

STUDENT DISSERTATIONS

UKZN Research Space was developed to increase the visibility, availability and impact of tour students’ research output.

Computer Science dissertations  

CASSE – Alternative Access Programme

The Centre for the Advancement of Science and Engineering (CASSE) provides alternative access to students, predominantly from disadvantaged educational backgrounds, who do not meet the standard entry requirements for science and engineering qualifications.

How the Programme Works

  • Students complete their degree over one additional year.
  • Augmented modules are taken during the first two years.
  • Thereafter, students join mainstream students and continue with standard modules within the School.

 

This structured approach provides academic support while ensuring students graduate with the same qualification as their mainstream peers.

Entry Requirements

  • NSC degree pass with Maths, English, Life Orientation and Physical Science Level 4 (50%)
  • Application Perfomace Score (APS) range: 26-48

Programmes

Bachelor of Science (Computer Science major)

SAQA ID: 84728

NQF Level:07

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology

SAQA ID: 108917

NQF Level:07

Bachelor of Science Honours – Computer Science

SAQA ID: 84749

NQF Level:08

Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Information Systems and Technology

SAQA ID: 81079

NQF Level:08

Master of Commerce in Information Systems and Technology (Coursework)

SAQA ID: 110264

NQF Level:09

Master of Science – Computer Science

SAQA ID: 74127

NQF Level:09

Doctor of Philosophy – Computer Science

SAQA ID: 74120

NQF Level:10

Doctor of Philosophy – Information Systems & Technology

SAQA ID: 74120

NQF Level:10

Master of Commerce – Information Systems & Technology

SAQA ID: 110908

NQF Level:09

Academics

Manoj Maharaj

Head of Discipline: Computer Science
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Irene Govender

Professor
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Serestina Viriri

Professor
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Okuthe P. Kogeda

Associate Professor
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Prabhakar Rontala Subramaniam

Associate Professor
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Upasana Singh

Associate Professor
Campus: Westville

Dr Edgar Jembere

Senior Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Rosemary Quilling

Senior Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Sanjay Ranjeeth

Senior Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Surika Civilcharran

Senior Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Anban Pillay

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Andronicus Akinyelu

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Deepak Kumar

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Anban Pillay

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Luke Vorster

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Mpho Mzingelwa

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Mudaray Marimuthu

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Nitesh Narsai

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Rosanne Els

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Rushil Raghavjee

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Sibonelo Dlamini

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Sonny Ako-Nai

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Sue Price

Lecturer
Discipline: IS&T
Campus: Westville

Yuvika Singh

Lecturer
Discipline: Computer Science
Campus: Westville

Support Staff

Andile Shangase

Admin Officer: Computer Science/Statistics
Email: shangasea@ukzn.ac.za
Tel: 033-260-5609
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Bernie Moodley

Admin Officer: ISTN
Email: moodleym7@ukzn.ac.za
Tel: 033-260-5704
Campus: Pietermaritzburg

Charmaine Magwaza

Admin Officer: Computer Science
Email: MagwazaC2@ukzn.ac.za
Tel: 031-260-3018
Campus: Westville

Garth Combrink

Principal Technician
Email: Combrinkg@ukzn.ac.za
Tel: 031-260-7677
Campus: Westville

Soren Greenwood

Senior Technician
Email: Greenwoods@ukzn.ac.za
Tel: 031-260-8185
Campus: Westville