Yes, Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) is internationally accredited, ensuring that the institution provides high-quality education that meets global standards. This accreditation enhances the value of NUST degrees and improves the employability of its graduates worldwide.
NUST consistently ranks among the best universities globally. Several of its academic programs are included in the top 200 in various global university rankings. The university’s excellence is also reflected in employer satisfaction surveys, which place NUST in the top 100 universities globally, further solidifying its reputation.
Accreditation of Architecture Programs at NUST
A significant achievement for NUST came in September 2022, when a 15-member panel consisting of representatives from the Namibia Council for Architects and Quantity Surveyors (NCAQS), the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP), and the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA) visited NUST’s Department of Architecture, Planning, and Construction. Their aim was to review the undergraduate and postgraduate architecture programs offered by the Department.
After thorough evaluation, the panel granted “unconditional validation” to the programs, which is the highest-level validation status achievable. This accreditation is recognized not only in Namibia and South Africa but also by countries across the globe, including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and China. The validation ensures that NUST’s architecture programs meet rigorous international standards and are comparable to top architecture programs worldwide.
Impact on Employability
Dr. Phillip Lühl, Associate Dean for the School of Engineering and the Built Environment at NUST, shared that this recognition places the university’s architecture programs in an elite league. The international validation of the architecture qualifications significantly boosts the employability of NUST graduates, ensuring they are on par with those from other leading architecture schools across the globe.
Since the introduction of the Architecture Master’s program in 2016/17, 19 graduates have become eligible for professional registration as Architects with NCAQS, further cementing NUST’s reputation for producing skilled professionals.
Why International Accreditation Matters
International accreditation of academic programs is crucial because it allows graduates to pursue careers both locally and globally. For architecture students, this means they can register with professional bodies and work in multiple countries, expanding their career opportunities.
With its commitment to offering world-class education, NUST continues to uphold its role as a leader in higher education in Namibia and beyond. The recognition of its programs by international bodies ensures that its graduates are equipped with the skills and qualifications needed to succeed on the global stage.