phd finance uct

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PHD Program

• Masters in Taxation specialising in South African Tax
• Honours degree in Taxation
• Faculty of Law
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• ADIT- Chartered Institute of Taxation (UK)
• International Bureau of Fiscal Documentation
• International Fiscal Association

CD001FTX03: PhD in Taxation - FTX6001W

About the programme

Who is in charge?

The PhD in Taxation programme is convened by Darron West.

Do I qualify?

A suitable degree at Masters level. Acceptance onto the programme is dependent on a research proposal being approved and the availability of a supervisor. Provisional candidates will be required to present the proposal to the Departmental PhD Committee, which will decide whether the student's PhD candidacy can be confirmed. The proposal has to be presented within 6 months of first registration.

How much will it cost?

For information on fees,  please see the Fees Handbook.

How do I apply?

Click here to go to the  UCT Online Application page.

By when must I apply?

Closing dates appear on the UCT Online Application page and are generally  31 October  of the year preceding the start of the programme. 

Programme start date and overall duration

Once an offer has been made you are able to register. International students need to comply with national regulations for visas etc before they are cleared for registration. Registration with the faculty office is an annual requirement. (You are also liable for fees every year.) You may register as from 2 January annually, but need not renew your registration the start of each new academic year (mid-Feb). As your access to funding and physical access to the library and labs etc are determined by your registration status, you must follow the directions (from your faculty office) for renewing your registration.

The annual registration also requires the submission of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which sets out the expectations of both supervisor and student for the year. It is against this that your progress is assessed annually. Unbroken registration must be maintained from the first registration until graduation. If for exceptional circumstances your studies are interrupted, you may apply for leave of absence - this is at the faculty’s discretion 

What will I do on the programme?

A PhD thesis is required to be an original‚ coherent and consistent body of work which reflects the candidate’s own efforts. The thesis may not be more than 80‚000 words. A candidate will undertake research‚ and such advanced study as may be required, under the guidance of a supervisor or supervisors appointed by Senate.

Paper requirements to graduate

At the conclusion of research, the candidate shall submit a thesis for examination. This will occur after receiving an indication from the supervisor that the thesis is acceptable for submission. However, a candidate is barred from submission without the supervisor's approval. The candidate must inform the Doctoral Degrees Board Officer in writing of his/her intention.

The final dates for submission of such notification for the purpose of graduation are:

• 10 January for persons hoping to graduate in June
• 20 June for persons hoping to graduate in December

The dates for submission of theses are:

• 15 February for persons hoping to graduate in June
• 15 August for persons hoping to graduate in December

For more information on the courses, please refer to  Commerce Postgraduate Handbook .

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DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY SPECIALISING IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Make an original contribution to research, phd entrance requirements.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree undertaken with the guidance of a supervisor for a minimum period of two years.

PhD applicants need to:

• Hold a recognised Master's degree (or in special circumstances, at the discretion of the Senate, an approved Bachelor's degree or qualification recognised by the Senate as equivalent). Verification of whether the qualification is equivalent to a South African degree is also required. This can be done by contacting the  South African Qualifications Authority .
• Demonstrate that they have the necessary competencies in research methodology and practice required for the completion of an independent study research degree.
• Nominate a suitable supervisor with the application.

International applicants for whom English is a second language are required to submit one of the following, unless this requirement is waived by the GSB Research Director:

• A recent score on the TOEFL Test of at least 570 (paper-based) or 230 (computer-based) or 88 (internet-based).  This must be obtained within 3-5 years before applying to UCT.
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the international English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Information on the TOEFL test is available  here . For the IELTS contact the British consulate or embassy in the applicant’s home country.

_________________________________________________________________________

PLEASE NOTE: The UCT GSB PHD programme is highly competitive , and only a few places are awarded each year. 

• Your Master's degree must be complete (awarded)
• You must have obtained at least 70% for your Master's dissertation
• Your proposed PHD research must align with your previous Master's dissertation 

To ensure that this can be assessed as part of your application, you must upload a completed Master’s dissertation .

Start your application journey here

We’d like to know more about you. Please fill out the form below, to enquire about doing the PhD or to begin the pre-application process.

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Bachelor of Finance and Tax Programmes at UCT

The faculty of commerce provides a comprehensive guide to the field of finance and tax and South Africa and the different career options available to prospective and/or current students. Please consult the webpage for more information.

Bachelor of Business Science (BBusSc) (4 or 5 year degree)

Specialisations:

• Actuarial Science (Quantitative Finance)
• Finance with Accounting

Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) (3 or 4 year degree)

Specialisation:

• Economics & Finance

Postgraduate Degrees In Finance:

• Honours in Finance
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• PhD in Finance

Programmes in Taxation

• Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) (Taxation)
• Master of Commerce (specialising in Taxation in the field of South African Tax)
• Master of Commerce (specialising in Taxation in the field of International Tax)

UNDERGRADUATE STUDY AND RESEARCH

Bursaries South Africa This website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries for prospective and/or current

Bursaries 2017 This website provides a comprehensive list of bursaries for prospective and/or current students.

PROFESSIONAL BODIES AND ASSOCIATIONS

The African Accounting and Finance Association (AAFA) AAFA provides a platform for academics and practitioners to debate the role of accounting and finance in Africa. The AAFA hosts conferences, seminars, research workshops/training, and an emerging scholar colloquium. They also provide vital resources, information sources and a newsletter.

The Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) AAT is a professional body dedicated to the education, development, regulation and support of accounting technicians in South Africa. AAT provide a AAT(SA) qualification, training programmes, learnerships and continuing professional development information and training and up-to-date news. 

The Association for Savings and Investment South Africa (ASISA) KEY RESOURCE ASISA represents the majority of the country's asset managers, collective investment scheme management companies, linked investment service providers, multi-managers and life insurance companies. ASISA's members are considered the custodian of the bulk of the nation's savings and investments and are among the country's biggest contributors to the national GDP. Their website has information regarding codes, standards and guidelines; board committees; statistics; niche information; transformation and education; research and publications and media releases.

The Banking Association of South Africa KEY RESOURCE The Banking Association of South Africa organisation exists to contribute to the enablement of a conducive banking environment and participates at the highest-level of decision making in Government. The Banking Association of South Africa is involved in the following initiatives: corporate citizenship, financial inclusion, human settlements, inclusive economy, market conduct, prudential and small and medium enterprises (SME’s). They also provide consumer information, up-to-date news and media reports.

CFA Institute CFA Institute is a global, non-profit member organisation of financial analysts, portfolio managers, and other investment professionals. They provide information on the CFA programme, volunteer opportunities, events, candidate material, job vacancies, education programmes and press releases.

Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATAX) CATAX has 47 commonwealth countries as members and helps member countries through conferences, training programmes, publications and knowledge sharing to develop effective tax administrations that promote sustainable development and good governance. Their website has information regarding their workshops, conferences, training programmes and other resources.

The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) KEY RESOURCE ICB aims to improve and maintain the quality, credibility and reputation of bookkeeping, accounting, office management and financial management training and qualifications in Southern Africa. They offer qualifications, training, career information, job listings, events, seminars and relevant links.

East and Southern African Association of Accountants-General (ESAAG) The ESAAG aims to establish cooperation between countries in the region in the area of government accounting. They host a conference and provide training programmes, resources and job listings.

Pan-African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) PAFA is a non-profit organization, which provides a forum for co-operation and assistance among African professional accountancy organisations for the further advancement of the status of the accountancy profession. They host meetings, workshops and conferences. They also provide relevant resources and up-to-date news.

South African Accounting Association (SAAA) KEY RESOURCE SAAA promotes education and research, and the interests of educators and researchers, in the field of Accountancy. SAAA hosts conferences, meetings, discussions and seminars and produces publications.

The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) KEY RESOURCE SAICA is the professional accountancy body in South Africa. SAICA provides training, mentoring, career resources and up-to-date news.

The South African Institute of Professional Accountants (SAIPA ) SAIPA is a professional body of accountants in practice, commerce and industry, government, and academia in South Africa. They list job vacancies and provide seminars, events, training and publications.

The South African Institute of Tax Professionals (SAIT) KEY RESOURCE (SAIT) is the largest of the professional tax bodies in South Africa, and seeks to enhance the tax profession by developing standards in education, compliance, monitoring and performance. It comprises of tax professionals regulating tax practitioners in South Africa. Their website has various tax-related information and resources, such as tax and career development resources (vacancies and young professionals’ programmes). 

The South African Payroll Association (SAPA ) SAPA represents the payroll profession with legislative bodies in South Africa and is managed by an Executive Committee, comprising industry representatives and specialists, and is affiliated to other professional payroll associations worldwide, who share a common goal: to promote excellence in the payroll profession. SAPA provides members with regular newsletters, seminars, workshops and conferences to ensure that members stay current with payroll-related matters, and facilitate networking and learning from one another.

Tax Justice Network The Tax Justice Network is an independent international network, which conducts high-level research, analysis and advocacy on international tax; on the international aspects of financial regulation; on the role of tax in society; and on the impacts of tax evasion, tax avoidance, tax 'competition' and tax havens. They promote reform, especially in poorer countries and provide information on various topics, a blog and reports. 

SECTOR INSIGHTS

Bloomberg KEY RESOURCE Bloomberg delivers business and markets news, data, analysis, and video to the world, featuring stories from Businessweek and Bloomberg News.

The Economist KEY RESOURCE The Economist offers authoritative insight and opinion on international news, politics, business, finance, science, technology and the connections between them.

Reuters Reuters provides breaking news , business, financial and investing articles from around the globe.

PREPARING FOR THE JOB MARKET

Access graduate jobs and internships by logging into MyCareer if you are a UCT student. Be sure to set up job email alerts and check our website regularly for news and events.

South African and African Jobs

Department of National Treasury KEY RESOURCE The department of national treasury has information regarding graduate recruitment programmes and vacancies.

Economic Development Department KEY RESOURCE The economic development department has information regarding graduate recruitment programmes and vacancies for economists.

GovPage   KEY RESOURCE A free website dedicated to advertising all available Southern African Governments Vacancies including health. Also includes information on Tenders/Quotations and Public Notices/Campaigns. Covers National Government, Provincial Government, Municipal Government, Public Entities and Tertiary Institution, Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland and International Agencies.

Advertised information is provided by the relevant Government structures and authorities but  govpage.co.za  is not the official website of any government organisation.

The Provincial Government Handbook Website KEY RESOURCE This website provides information related to tenders and vacancies for each provincial government in South Africa. The links directly redirect you to the official provincial vacancy website.

South African and African Career Service and Recruitment Agencies

In terms of the film career in South Africa it is suggested that you join an agency and have an agent to secure roles and jobs more easily. Please note that recruitment agencies and employers’ firms should never ask you to  pay  for the promise of a  job . Please be aware of this.

All Accounting Careers All Accounting Jobs is a job search agency, advertising positions in the accounting field in South Africa, which is relevant to finance and tax graduates.

Careers24 Careers24 is a job search agency, advertising various positions.

Indeed Indeed is a job search agency, advertising various positions.

Grad Connection Grad Connection is a specialist recruitment agency operating in South Africa for graduates, providing information on career guidance, job vacancies, bursaries and internships.

JobVine JobVine is a job search agency, advertising various positions.

P-Net P-Net is a job search agency across different industry sectors.

Robert Walters Robert Walters is a job search agency across industry sectors, including finance and tax.

International Jobs

Seek Teachers Seek Teachers is a comprehensive international job website for the teaching field.

Country Specific International Career Service and Recruitment Agencies

UK and Ireland

Careers Group Careers Group is a UK career service and provides career guidance and international job vacancies.

GradIreland KEY RESOURCE GradIreland is a careers publication company and works in partnership with tertiary education institutions across Ireland. They advertise jobs in Ireland and are a comprehensive career guidance website.

Irish Jobs Irish Jobs is an Ireland-based job website, advertising various positions.

Prospects KEY RESOURCE Prospects provides careers advice and job and course opportunities to students and graduates.

Target Jobs KEY RESOURCE Target Jobs is a comprehensive career guidance and job website for the UK.

Taxation Jobs Taxations jobs is a UK-based job website, advertising various positions in finance, banking and tax.

USA and Canada

Accounting Jobs Canada Jobs.net is a Canadian-based job website, advertising various positions in accounting, finance and tax.

Jobs.net Jobs.net is a US-based job website, advertising various positions.

Global Brand Leaders

There are many leading s in South Africa that offer employment opportunities for graduates and students. The companies listed below are just a few industry examples. Use this list to start your own research on companies that interest you.

Deloitte Deloitte is a multinational accounting professional services firm, which provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

Ernest & Young Ernest & Young is a multinational accounting professional services firm, which provides audit, tax, business risk, technology and security risk services, and human capital services worldwide. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

Grant Thornton Grant Thornton is one of the world's largest professional services network of independent accounting and consulting member firms which provide assurance, tax and advisory services to privately held businesses, public interest entities, and public sector entities. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

Investec Investec provides a wide range of financial products in South Africa through its Specialist Banking, Asset management and Wealth and Investment divisions. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

KPMG KPMG is a global network of professional firms providing audit, advisory and tax services. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

Old Mutual The Old Mutual Group is a multi-national financial services company that offers a wide range of career options and job opportunities in the South African financial services arena including admin, call centre, legal, HR, IT, financial advisors, banking, property and insurance. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

PWC PWC is a multinational accounting professional services firm, which provides audit and assurance, tax and consulting services. Their website has a career centre, which has various career resources and information on bursaries, vacancies, graduate recruitment programmes, internships and other career opportunities.

Thomas Reuters Thomas Reuters is a major multinational mass media and information firm, providing financial, intellectual property, legal, news, pharma and life sciences, research, tax, accounting and risk management services. Their website lists job vacancies in their different locations.

INTERNATIONAL & LOCAL VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

NGOs and NPOs are both involved in community-based initiatives but are structured differently. A non-governmental organization (NGO) is any non-profit, voluntary citizens’ group which is organized on a local, national or international level. A non-profit organisation (NPO) is a trust, company or other association of persons established for a public purpose and of which its income and property are not distributable to its members or office bearers, except as reasonable compensation for services rendered. Registering as a NPO enhances credibility for government funding and every non-profit organisation (NPO) in South Africa is issued an NPO number. http://www.dsd.gov.za/npo/

Please research carefully the volunteer organisation you decide to work with.

African Legend African Legend, located in Cape Town, is a non-profit organization that provides educational programmes for youths living in poverty. Volunteer opportunities are available, with positions such as voluntary teachers and soccer and cricket coaches needed.

AIESEC AIESEC is a global platform for young people to explore and develop their leadership potential. It has a wide-range of international volunteer and internship opportunities available.

Greenpeace Greenpeace is an international, independent campaigning organization that uses peaceful protests and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and to promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. They have various international projects and volunteer opportunities.

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is an international, non-governmental, and non-profit organization, which brings people together to build homes and communities. Projects are available worldwide.

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) IVHQ is a volunteer travel company focused on providing affordable volunteer travel experiences. They provide volunteer abroad projects in over 30 destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, Central America, South America and the Pacific in teaching, childcare, construction, conservation or healthcare.

My Hands and Heart My Hands and Heart is a non-profit organisation in South Africa, which acts as a volunteer management network and advertises a range of local volunteer opportunities.

NGO PULSE KEY RESOURCE NGO Pulse, a NGO network, provides a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities, organisations and networks in South Africa.

POSTGRADUATE STUDY AND RESEARCH

This information covers government funding initiatives, links to all higher education institutes in South Africa and some relevant education based websites in South Africa and the UK/USA.

Africa/Global

Masters Studies International site, search by country, useful but not comprehensive.

Masters Portal International site, search by country, useful and comprehensive.

Find a Masters International site, search by country. Useful. Contains information regarding funding and postgraduate open days.

PhD Studies International website, search by country, useful but not comprehensive.

Find a PhD International website, search by country, institution and subject. Contains information regarding funding.

PhD Portal International website, search by country, useful and comprehensive.

Doc Links An international website aimed at increasing understanding and establishing better links between African and European doctoral candidates. Provides useful information regarding funding, mentorship, research support, PhD resources and networking opportunities.

UCT Doctoral Applicants Webpage   KEY RESOURCE See for more details of PhD opportunities across the faculties and how to apply  

Association of Commonwealth Universities   KEY RESOURCE A site search for ‘vacancies’ provides links to sites for seeking job opportunities in Commonwealth universities, including all SADC countries except Angola and Congo.

See additional resources on academic postgraduate opportunities. Particularly useful for Masters considering Doctorate study and PhD researcher/early career post docs.

South Africa

South African Department of Higher Education and Training   KEY RESOURCE Go to institutions for a list of public universities then research courses via online prospectus.

South African Department of Higher Education and Training   KEY RESOURCE Use search function for “register of private higher education institutions” then research courses via online prospectus.

National Research Foundation The NRF was established in 1998 from the amalgamated of the Centre for Science Development (CSD), the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) and the Foundation for Research Development (FRD) and is a good website for staying up-to-date with research initiatives/centres, job and funding opportunities.

Universities South Africa   (previously HESA) Universities South Africa, formerly known as Higher Education South Africa (HESA), is a membership organisation representing South Africa’s universities. The new name was launched on 22 July 2015 in order to reposition the organisation as a representative body of South Africa’s public universities, that aims to promote a more inclusive, responsive and equitable national system of higher education.

SA Bursaries KEY RESOURCE A comprehensive website outlining various bursaries in South Africa across different disciplines.

Postgraduate Information Good website for finding UK based Masters with useful “insight” articles but limited information on opportunities worldwide.

http://www.usastudyguide.com/how-to-choose-a-college.htm

www.graduateguide.com These are websites which provide directories of graduate schools in the USA and Canada and information regarding programmes, funding, immigration and other resources.

COMPETITIONS AND ENTREPREURSHIP

Student Competitions KEY RESOURCE This is an international and up-to-date website which allows you to search for competitions for university students.

DIVERSITY IN COMMERCE & EMPLOYMENT

UCT is committed to the principles of diversity and transformation, specifically a transformed university where there are no stereotypical views of others based on their gender, race or disability.

Diversity-related Professional Bodies and Associations

The African Women Chartered Accountants Forum (AWCA) The AWCA comprises of aspiring black professionals and espouses the vision of accelerating the advancement of qualified and aspiring African women CAs. AWCA is a forum where African Women CAs can network for information sharing and business opportunities. AWCA also provides a bursary fund, mentorship and leadership programmes, news, events and job listings.

The Association for the Advancement of Black Accountants of Southern Africa (ABASA) ABASA promotes the professional interests of Black persons engaged in the accounting profession. ABASA provides various bursaries, funds, leadership programmes, career days, a listing of job vacancies and up-to-date news.

Black Business Council (BBC) The BBC lobbies government on policy advocacy in order to accelerate the participation of black South Africans in the mainstream economy. They organize various programmes, events and provide up-to-date news in their industry.

Black Management Forum (BMF) The BMF develops and empowers managerial leadership primarily amongst black people within organisations and the creation of managerial structures and processes which reflect the demographics and values of the wider society. They provide managerial and leadership development, research services, consulting, resources, news, links and host events.

Business Women's Association (BWA) of South Africa The BWA is a non-profit and voluntary organisation, which is also the largest association of business and professional women in South Africa. They provide awards, events, news and networking opportunities.

International Lesbian and Gay Law Association ( ILGLaw) The ILGLaw unites people around the world who are dedicated to the principle of equality under the law for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, and intersex persons. They host an annual conference and offer an annual award.

National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in South Africa   (NCPPDSA) NCPPDSA is a national, non-profit organisation (NPO) that runs various projects, services and advocacy programmes for the advancement of persons with disabilities to attain integration into society and independence. The NCPPDSA acts as the national umbrella for nine provincial associations with their 90+ branches. 

Diversity-related Services, Awards and Scholarships

UCT provides various services and resources related to diversity and transformation. See the links below.

UCT Disability Centre The UCT Disability Service works towards the removal of any physical, policy, information and attitude barriers that might prevent students and staff from fulfilling their potential. The centre provides information regarding different forms of support, resources, bursaries, funding opportunities, advocacy, counselling, academic and examination accommodations, technical assistance and other services.

UCT Funding Boards Please check the postgraduate funding boards ( http://www.uct.ac.za/apply/funding/postgraduate/notice/ ) and undergraduate funding boards ( http://www.uct.ac.za/apply/funding/undergraduate/financial/ ) currently on the UCT website for up-to-date details on other diversity-related scholarships, fellowships and bursaries.

UCT- Harvard Mandela Fellowships This fellowship is intended to strengthen connections between the W.E.B. Du Bois Research Institute (at the Hutchins Centre for African and African American Research, Harvard University) and UCT, to provide opportunities for UCT staff to gain international experience, and to support the professional advancement of academics working particularly, but not only, in the humanities and social sciences. To be eligible, applicants must have been awarded the PhD degree at the time of application, and have permanent or T3 academic posts at UCT. In line with UCT’s equity objectives, preference will be given to applicants from the designated groups, with particular emphasis on black South African applicants.

List of Scholarships for African Women and Developing Countries Afterschool Africa provides an up-to-date and comprehensive list of scholarships (undergraduate, Masters, MBA, PhD and Postdoctoral) that are open for women from African and developing countries.

Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund (MMF) The MMF awards education grants to women from developing countries to help further their education and strengthen their leadership skills.

Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship Programme (MMUF) MMUF is an equity-inspired program that is awarded to highly performing Black students who are entering the final year of a three-year first degree or the third year of a four-year professional degree from the sciences and humanities at UCT and other participating undergraduate institutions. The program offers financial support, organized mentoring and is designed specifically to provide students with a greater awareness of what it means to be an academic. 

Mwalimu Nyerere African Union (AU) Scholarship Scheme The AU scholarship is only for applicants with physical disabilities for masters in social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, education sciences and sports sciences and closes in March annually.

National Research Foundation (NRF) The NRF provides various postgraduate funding bursaries and scholarships. Preference is given to equity candidates.

Opportunities for Africans (OFA) KEY RESOURCE The OFA is an online information platform that seeks to connect Africans to opportunities, such as scholarships, internships, fellowships, bursaries, conferences, jobs, competitions and volunteering positions. This is a comprehensive and up-to-date website.

Scholarships for Women This website provides comprehensive information regarding scholarships, awards and funding opportunities for women.

The description regarding UCT’s policy towards diversity in engineering and employment is sourced from the UCT Disability Service Page ( https://www.uct.ac.za/main/explore-uct/transformation ) and the Transformation at UCT Page ( http://www.uct.ac.za/about/transformation/ ).

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Democratic Governance and Leadership Series

The Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town is convening a series of critical intergenerational conversations that unpack the democratic governance and leadership challenges in Africa.

Through these conversations, we aim to uncover creative and inspirational insights that can help us formulate leadership strategies and practical solutions to rebuild resilient democratic institutions.

We look forward to your participation in these critical conversations. Please feel free to share with any persons you think may be interested in attending. Any queries or questions related to the series can be directed to Dr Dineo Seabe at [email protected]

We are pleased to invite you to join us for the upcoming events in this series:

In conversation with Albie Sachs Mandela and the making of our constitution Date: Wednesday, 17 April 2024 Time:  13:30 - 15:00 (SAST) Venue: Linkoping House, Nelson Mandela School, UCT Lower Campus (in-person) or Zoom platform (online) RSVP HERE:  https://bit.ly/4aw3OkB

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How the University of Tennessee's graduate programs fared in 2024 national rankings

Graduate programs and schools at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville ranked highly in new rankings from U.S. News and World Report.

The organization released its " 2024-2025 Best Graduate Schools " report April 9, which ranks graduate programs and schools across public and private universities nationally. The report covers programs and schools in business, education and law. The rankings for engineering, medical and psychology will be updated later this year.

The top graduate program at UT is supply chain, which ranked fourth nationally. The Haslam College of Business tied for 47th for its full-time graduate programs.

The College of Social Work tied for 24th nationally, and the College of Law tied for 52nd nationally.

The College of Nursing doctoral program tied for 34th.

UT graduate programs ranked high among public universities

Narrowing down to just public universities, several programs and schools jumped in rankings.

Among public universities, the Haslam College of Business ranked 22nd for full-time graduate school programs and supply chain programs ranked third.

Additionally, the College of Social Work ranked 13th, the College of Nursing doctoral program ranked 24th and the College of Law ranked 26th among public universities.

Under the College of Law, legal clinical programs ranked eighth, business-corporate law ranked 13th, health care law ranked 21st and legal writing ranked 21st.

“The rankings this year provide evidence that UT has exceptional graduate programs across a wide range of disciplines,” dean of the Graduate School Dixie Thompson said in a press release. “These rankings are a reflection of the commitment to excellence made by our faculty, staff and students.”

Previous rankings for University of Tennessee graduate programs

UT has several programs ranked highly from previous years.

Printmaking programs are tied for UT's highest overall program ranking at fourth nationally.

Nuclear engineering at seventh. UT occupies the 10th spot for "Best Library and Information Studies Programs," along with school library media tied at 13th and digital librarianship tied at 14th. Under the law school, clinical training tied for 19th.

A few of UT's graduate schools are still ranked from previous years:

College of Veterinary Medicine tied for 21st

Physics (in the College of Arts and Sciences) tied for 55th

Tickle College of Engineering tied for 55th

What is the U.S. News and World Report?

U.S. News and World Report is a media company well known for its "Best" rankings, including university rankings for prospective students. For the "Best Graduate Schools" rankings, the organization evaluates programs and schools in disciplines including business, education, engineering, law and nursing based on expert opinion and statistical data.

Research for these rankings began in fall 2023 through early 2024. The organization used surveys of 2,225 programs sent to approximately 5,766 academics and 10,941 professionals to rank the programs within the six main disciplines.

Correction: A previous version misstated which graduate programs and schools received new rankings at the University of Tennessee. UT's business, law and social work colleges and the nursing doctoral program had new rankings.

Keenan Thomas is a higher education reporter. Email  [email protected] . X, formerly known as Twitter  @specialk2real .

Support strong local journalism by subscribing to  knoxnews.com/subscribe .

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: University of Tennessee graduate schools rank U.S. News World Report

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100 Best universities for Mechanical Engineering in Russia

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Russia ranked based on their research performance in Mechanical Engineering. A graph of 714K citations received by 136K academic papers made by 158 universities in Russia was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. Moscow State University

For Mechanical Engineering

2. Tomsk State University

3. St. Petersburg State University

4. Bauman Moscow State Technical University

5. Ufa State Aviation Technical University

6. Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University

7. Tomsk Polytechnic University

8. Ural Federal University

9. South Ural State University

10. National Research University Higher School of Economics

11. Moscow Aviation Institute

12. Novosibirsk State University

13. ITMO University

14. N.R.U. Moscow Power Engineering Institute

15. National Research Nuclear University MEPI

16. Kazan Federal University

17. National University of Science and Technology "MISIS"

18. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology

19. Samara National Research University

20. Moscow State Technological University "Stankin"

21. Novosibirsk State Technical University

22. RUDN University

23. Southern Federal University

24. Saratov State University

25. Ufa State Petroleum Technological University

26. Samara State Technical University

27. Siberian Federal University

28. Kazan National Research Technical University named after A.N. Tupolev - KAI

29. Perm State Technical University

30. Omsk State Technical University

31. Saint Petersburg State Electrotechnical University

32. Moscow Polytech

33. Saint-Petersburg Mining University

34. Magnitogorsk State Technical University

35. Saratov State Technical University

36. Moscow State University of Railway Engineering

37. Lobachevsky State University of Nizhni Novgorod

38. Nizhny Novgorod State Technical University

39. Tula State University

40. Belgorod State Technological University

41. Far Eastern Federal University

42. Novgorod State University

43. belgorod state university.

44. Finance Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation

45. Moscow Medical Academy

46. Kazan State Technological University

47. Russian State University of Oil and Gas

48. siberian state aerospace university.

49. Tambov State Technical University

50. Voronezh State University

51. Siberian State Industrial University

52. Saint Petersburg State Institute of Technology

53. Kalashnikov Izhevsk State Technical University

54. St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering

55. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia

56. Murmansk State Technical University

57. South-Western State University

58. Ogarev Mordovia State University

59. Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics

60. south-russian state university of economics and service.

61. Perm State University

62. Kuzbass State Technical University

63. Russian National Research Medical University

64. Plekhanov Russian University of Economics

65. Ulyanovsk State Technical University

66. Ulyanovsk State University

67. Penza State University

68. Kuban State University of Technology

69. Polzunov Altai State Technical University

70. Chelyabinsk State University

71. Yaroslavl State University

72. University of Tyumen

73. National Research University of Electronic Technology

74. Leningrad State University

75. Moscow State Pedagogical University

76. Udmurt State University

77. Irkutsk State University

78. North-Eastern Federal University

79. Bashkir State University

80. Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration

81. Kuban State University

82. Kuban State Agricultural University

83. St. Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation

84. Kemerovo State University

85. Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University

86. Orenburg State University

87. Baltic State Technical University "Voenmeh"

88. Tomsk State University of Architecture and Building

89. Chuvash State University

90. ivanovo state power university.

91. Irkutsk National Research Technical University

92. Orel State University

93. State University of Management

94. Tomsk State Pedagogical University

95. Volgograd State University

96. Petrozavodsk State University

97. Tver State University

98. Northern Arctic Federal University

99. Omsk State Transport University

100. Kaliningrad State Technical University

The best cities to study Mechanical Engineering in Russia based on the number of universities and their ranks are Moscow , Tomsk , Saint Petersburg , and Ufa .

Engineering subfields in Russia

100,000+ reasons why the Tech Equity partnership wants to help Nashville learn to code

Brian Kimbrow talks about learning code with the determination you’d expect from a former SEC running back.

It’s not easy. Far from it. 

Yet Kimbrow embraced months of technology training last year with CodeX Academy, taking time to learn something that at first read like a foreign language. 

And now, with support from a host of local business leaders, he’s inching closer to scoring a full-time gig as a full stack developer or software engineer. Expected entry-level salary: north of $100,000.

“If it’s something that you see that you want to achieve, accomplish, you can as long as you put your mind to it and remember that nothing is easy,” said Kimbrow, 31, a former student-athlete at Vanderbilt from 2012-15.

He's one of more than 500 CodeX Academy students, dating back to the program's launch in the fall of 2019. Then in January, he became a teacher's assistant, helping to guide the Tech Equity partnership's inaugural class of 34.

The Tech Equity partnership is supported by Amazon, the Tennessee Titans, Nashville Predators, Nashville Soccer Club, Vanderbilt University, Nashville State Community College and Tony Giarratana. These local employers connect with students hailing from underserved and underrepresented communities in North Nashville and Antioch, getting a first look at potential job candidates.

"Most companies will train and graduate — 'OK, good luck. Let us know how you do,'" said Phil Henry, the CEO of CodeX Academy. 

"We want to take it a step further and hold their hands throughout the entire process. To make sure they get proper, all-around training and help with soft skills that will help them get in the door."

The annual cost of the virtual program is $146,000, funded by a collection of local grants. 

"When schools, community organizations and for-profit entities work together to support learning, everyone benefits," said Stephanie Stanton, the senior DEI program manager for Community Engagement, Amazon Talent Acquisition. Stanton leads and manages Amazon’s partnership with CodeX Academy.

"Investing in the continued upskilling of residents creates a stronger workforce and also serves to keep the talent local."

Are tech jobs hiring in Nashville?

Software developer jobs are expected to be one of the most sought-after occupations during the next decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with the growth rate increasing 26% between 2022-32. Meanwhile, jobs are estimated to demand a median pay of approximately $127,000 annually. 

Last year, the U.S. added 136,000 tech jobs.

While coding jobs are typically remote, some U.S. cities have become hubs for tech professionals. San Francisco/San Jose, Seattle, Denver, Austin, Boston and Washington D.C. top most lists, but Nashville's focus on healthcare, music and startups is increasing local opportunities.

Last year, Tennessee averaged more than 6,800 computer jobs each month with an average salary of $90,354, according to the 2023 State of Computer Science Education.

These Tennessee high school students are required to take a computer science class to graduate

In Tennessee, the Class of 2028 will mark the first group of public students required to take a computer science class to earn a high school diploma. Yet the state legislation has already made an impact.

More than 22,000 high school students took foundational computer science during the 2022-2023 school year, according to the 2023 State of Computer Science Education — nearly double the total of previous periods. And Tennessee is one of nine states where more middle school students were enrolled in computer science than high school students.

Is math required for tech jobs? Answers

Andrew Becker disapproves when adolescents say someone is naturally good at computer science. 

Hang on, he tells them, using himself as an example. He’s spent a lot of time in libraries; studying with peers; meeting with tutors; utilizing digital resources. An incremental journey from struggling to learning to thriving and much, much later, mastering. 

“Those advanced degrees didn’t come cheap,” joked Becker who teaches computer science at Antioch High. He was also the MNPS teacher last fall to work with Stanford University in a dual enrollment course which taught students the basics of computer science, along with coding and programming.

Count Becker as another professional who said mastering math is not the top prerequisite for a career in tech. Also, Computer Science Zone.org, which encourages careers in computer science and IT, lists the following attributes:

Self-reliance. Language. Logic.

Attention to detail. Recognition of stupidity. Abstract thinking. Patience. 

Strong memory. Scientific method. Communication and empathy.

No wonder Becker wants his students to embrace the journey, full of failures and setbacks.

"We don’t allow ourselves the ability to practice at math before we decide if we’re good or bad at it," he said. "We just say, 'Oh, I can do this, or I can't.' I have top students that take a (computer science) test — part of district testing. They can be scoring in the top of the class and not feel that they are. 

"Someone who thinks they're failing the class, but actually has some of the highest scores in the district."

Working in technology takes more than tech. After all, Henry wants his students to "wow" on interviews. That's why the Tech Equity partnership includes workforce readiness training, which helps students acquire soft skills that leave lasting impressions on hiring managers. 

Each participating company promises to support courses that prepare students with entry-level software development skills; serve as mentors and school ambassadors; offer job placement opportunities through business programs; and volunteer in-person and virtually.

"CodeX utilizes a top tier software development curriculum that teaches students the skills needed to be successful in tech roles," Stanton said. "More than that, they provide career preparation and soft-skills training resources to ensure students can navigate corporate spaces effectively inclusive of how to effectively communicate, how to elevate personal brand and how to discuss the impact of their work."

Sounds a lot like Kimbrow.

The Memphis native, who previously completed the technology training, is now matriculating through workforce readiness training. He's expected to wrap up this training around the time the inaugural Tech Equity partnership class graduates in September.

Henry expects the next Tech Equity partnership class of 50-70 students to start in January 2025.

Meanwhile, Kimbrow's career goal is to not just to enter the tech space, but create a running lane for others to rush through.

Gary Estwick is the business, race and culture editor at The Tennessean. Reach him at [email protected].