History
The university (then still known as the “Technikon Free State”) opened its doors in 1981, with 285 students enrolled in mainly secretarial, art and design programmes. Today, the institution boasts more than 21 000 students who have decided to make CUT their academic partner in earning a qualification and gaining appropriate work-integrated learning.
Research
The university also commands respect with its technology transfer research, including the:
- Centre for Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing (CRPM);
- Product Development Technology Station (PDTS);
- Centre for Applied Food Security and Biotechnology (CAFSaB);
- Unit for Lean Construction and Sustainability (ULCS); and
- Unit for Drug Discovery.
Library services
In pursuit of the broader vision of CUT and to accomplish the strategic goals of its mission the Library and Information Services (LIS) will take leadership position to provide the information resources, technological platform, study space and information skills necessary to attain excellence in CUT endeavours.
ICT services
- ICT Service Delivery
- Business Relationship and Portfolio Management
- Application Support and Business Intelligence
- ICT Governance and Cyber Security
- ICT Infrastructure Support services
Campus life
- CUT is the foremost higher education institution in the heartland of South Africa. The university has two campuses – one in Bloemfontein, the judicial capital of South Africa, and one in Welkom, in the heart of the Free State goldfields.
- CUT’s Welkom campus is situated 160km northeast of Bloemfontein, and is in the hub of the Free State gold fields with several gold mines a thriving industry in South Africa.
Sports facilities
Promising sportsmen and sportswomen have over the years studied at CUT and become national or even international heroes. Os Durant, André Venter and Zola Budd are all CUT Alumni! Sport bursaries are awarded to promising sportsmen and sportswomen according to merit. Such bursaries are only awarded to individuals who participate in league sport in the name of CUT.
- CUT Sport Legends
- Sport Achievements
- Sport Leagues
Central University of Technology, Free State Overview
Central University of Technology, Free State Campus Locations
#1 Main Campus
South Africa Country
Bloemfontein City
#2 Branch Campus
South Africa Country
Welkom City
Central University of Technology, Free State Student Reviews & Awards
4.5
Based on 15 reviews
- 5 Star 7 Reviews
- 4 Star 8 Reviews
- 3 Star 0 Reviews
- 2 Star 0 Reviews
- 1 Star 0 Reviews
How Students Rated This University
- Student Teacher Interaction 4.7
- Student Diversity 4.1
- Quality of Student Life 4.3
Extensive support and committed staff
CUT stands out with its all-around support for students, offering outstanding academic, housing, and guidance services. With a team of dedicated staff, students receive timely and effective help, setting them up for success and overall wellbeing.
On my to the summit
great experience with the staff and facilities
Incredibly helpful staff
The staff at this university are incredibly helpful, and the support is exceptional. Lectures are informative and non-stressful, and the university's facilities are top-notch. The library is fantastic, with 24-hour access. When you're facing difficulties, there's plenty of support available, and it's very confidential.
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Global Student Satisfaction Awards 2025
The Global Student Satisfaction Awards empower students across the globe to determine the best universities of 2025. Universities with a score above 4.0 (out of 5) in any of the 7 award categories, receive Badges of Excellence. Congratulations!
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Student Teacher InteractionHow helpful were your teachers?
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Student DiversityHow diverse was the atmosphere at your university?
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Quality of Student LifeHow was your everyday life?