Wits Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management

Kholofelo Modise1 August , 2025

The Faculty of Commerce, Law, and Management (CLM) at Wits University offers more than just academic training. Through its rigorous academic programmes, impactful research, and strong student support systems, the faculty plays a key role in developing professionals who shape industries, drive policy changes, and lead social development initiatives. With a rich history of producing leaders who have shaped business, law, governance, and social change, Wits CLM is not just an academic institution but a hub for producing change-makers committed to improving the world.

Academic Programmes: Shaping Careers in Business, Law, and Governance

Wits CLM’s academic programmes provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience necessary to excel in their careers. Here’s a closer look at the faculty’s key undergraduate and postgraduate offerings.

Undergraduate Programmes

Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)

Skills Developed: Accounting, economics, business management
Career Impact: Graduates secure positions at global firms like Deloitte, EY, and PwC or start their own successful businesses. Example:
“The BCom at Wits helped me build the foundation I needed to excel in the corporate world. The programme not only gave me strong theoretical knowledge but also practical skills through case studies and group projects. I’m now a manager at Deloitte, and I credit my success to Wits CLM.”
– Zanele M., BCom Graduate, Deloitte Manager

Bachelor of Accounting Science (BAccSc)

Skills Developed: Financial accounting, taxation, auditing
Career Impact: Graduates become Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)) and are highly sought after by top firms. Example:
“Becoming a CA(SA) was my goal from the start, and Wits provided me with the resources and mentorship needed to get there. The BAccSc programme equipped me with the technical skills required for the accounting profession and a strong ethical foundation.”
– Thabo S., CA(SA) Graduate

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Skills Developed: Legal education, hands-on training through internships and legal clinics
Career Impact: Graduates become attorneys, advocates, judges, or policy advisors, contributing to legal reforms and social justice. Example:
“Wits LLB not only taught me the law but also how to apply it in real-world situations. The internships and legal clinic experiences were invaluable in preparing me for my career as an advocate.”
– Kgomotso P., LLB Graduate, Advocate

Postgraduate Programmes

Wits CLM offers a range of Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral programmes in Accounting, Finance, Law, and Economics. These programmes prepare students for leadership roles in academia, government, and industry, empowering them to influence policy and drive sustainable change.

Research at Wits CLM: Impacting Policy and Social Development

Wits CLM’s research focuses on pressing global issues like digital governance, economic inequality, and climate change. The faculty’s research efforts directly influence public policy and contribute to social justice. Below are key examples:

The Tayarisha Centre: Transforming Digital Governance

The Tayarisha Centre at Wits CLM works on digital governance and policy transformation, integrating technology into public administration to improve service delivery.

Impact on Digital Governance:
The Centre’s framework for municipal digital systems was adopted in the National e-Government Policy by the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) in 2020, improving transparency and service delivery in local governments across South Africa.
Impact on Climate Policy:
Research from the Tayarisha Centre led to key recommendations being included in South Africa’s National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, emphasizing the role of digital tools in monitoring and managing climate risks. Testimonial from Dr. Themba Mkhize, Research Fellow:
“The research projects at the Tayarisha Centre have shown me how technology can be harnessed for social good. One of our projects on digital governance is shaping how South African cities engage with their citizens.”

Actionable Steps for Prospective Students

If you’re considering studying at Wits CLM, here’s what you need to do:

1. Apply for Programmes

Visit the Wits Application Portal: Wits Applications to apply for undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.
Check Entry Requirements: Ensure you meet the entry criteria for your chosen programme. Deadlines for undergraduate applications are typically at the end of September.

2. Find Scholarships and Financial Aid

NSFAS Funding: If you’re a South African student, NSFAS offers financial assistance. Learn more and apply on the NSFAS Website.
Wits Financial Aid: Wits also offers internal bursaries and financial aid packages. Visit the Wits Financial Aid page for more details.

3. Get Involved in Research and Development

If you’re interested in research, particularly in areas like digital governance or economic inequality, reach out to faculty members about research assistantships or collaborative projects. Explore the Tayarisha Centre and other research hubs at Wits to find opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge work that influences policy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the minimum requirements for applying to Wits CLM?

Undergraduate programmes typically require a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with degree endorsement and specific subject requirements. For postgraduate programmes, an undergraduate degree in a relevant field is required. Check the Wits Undergraduate Entry Requirements for more details.

2. How can I apply for a bursary or financial aid?

To apply for NSFAS, visit the official NSFAS website and submit your application. For Wits-specific funding, check out the Wits Financial Aid page for available bursaries and guidelines: Wits Financial Aid.

3. How do I prepare for a career after my studies at Wits CLM?

Wits CLM offers the Road to Success Programme (RSP), which provides mentorship, career guidance, and internships. Engaging with RSP will significantly enhance your employability.

4. Can I apply to Wits CLM if I want to study part-time?

Many postgraduate programmes at Wits CLM offer part-time study options, but undergraduate programmes generally require full-time attendance. For part-time options, visit the Wits Postgraduate Studies page.

5. How does Wits CLM support international students?

Wits offers various support services for international students, including visa assistance and orientation programmes. For more information, check the Wits International Students page.

Also check: Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have

Wits CLM’s Role in Shaping South Africa and the World

The Faculty of Commerce, Law, and Management at Wits University plays a pivotal role in preparing graduates who are equipped to shape industries, contribute to policy-making, and lead social development initiatives. Through its academic excellence, impactful research, and student-focused support systems, Wits CLM is training the next generation of leaders who will tackle South Africa’s most pressing challenges and make meaningful contributions globally.