W&RSETA UJ Bursary South Africa 2026. The W&RSETA UJ Bursary is a golden opportunity for South African students who are passionate about Retail Business Management, Wholesale Business Development, and Marketing Research. Offered through a collaboration between the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA) and the University of Johannesburg (UJ), this bursary aims to financially support academically deserving students pursuing Master and PhD qualifications within the wholesale and retail sector.
If you’re aiming to further your postgraduate education in these fields, this comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know about the W&RSETA UJ Bursary 2026, including eligibility requirements, application process.
About the University of Johannesburg’s Department of Marketing Management
The Department of Marketing Management at UJ is one of the cornerstone departments within the University’s College of Business and Economics, one of eight faculties at UJ. It offers a robust suite of qualifications ranging from undergraduate diplomas and degrees to postgraduate programmes and industry-relevant short courses.
UJ Marketing Department is known for its strong links with industry, collaborating with leading corporate sponsors such as:
| Corporate Partners Supporting UJ Marketing |
|---|
| Clover |
| PPS (Professional Provident Society) |
| Juta |
| Primedia |
| Van Schaik |
| W&RSETA |
These partnerships, particularly with W&RSETA, help to shape future leaders in the Wholesale and Retail sectors, by offering financial and academic support.
What Is the W&RSETA UJ Bursary Programme?
The W&RSETA UJ Bursary is designed to promote skills development in South Africa’s Wholesale and Retail sectors by offering full bursary support for eligible postgraduate students. The bursary targets students enrolled in Master’s or PhD programmes in selected academic fields at the University of Johannesburg.
Fields of Study Covered
Applicants should be pursuing studies or research in the following fields:
- Retail Business Management
- Retail Marketing
- Wholesale and Retail
- Wholesale Business Development
What Does the W&RSETA Bursary Cover?
The bursary covers comprehensive postgraduate education expenses, ensuring students can fully concentrate on their research and studies without financial burden.
| Expenses Covered by the W&RSETA UJ Bursary |
|---|
| Full Tuition Fees |
| Research Data Collection Costs |
| Academic Language Editing |
This financial support makes it easier for passionate students to explore critical issues in the wholesale and retail industries through quality academic research.
Eligibility Criteria for the W&RSETA UJ Bursary 2026
Before applying, students must meet strict eligibility requirements. Failure to meet any of the criteria may result in disqualification from consideration.
General Requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Must be registered or planning to register for a Master’s or PhD programme at the University of Johannesburg
- The area of study must align with one of the preferred research themes
Specific Academic Requirements:
| Qualification Type | Minimum Qualification | Required Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Master’s Degree | Honours in Marketing or Retailing | Minimum 60% in Research Methodology (NQF Level 8) and overall average ≥ 60% |
| PhD Degree | Master’s in Marketing or Retailing | Minimum 65% overall and at least 60% in Research Methodology (NQF Level 8) |
Other Requirements
- Must have an approved research proposal focused on one of the preferred areas
- Must demonstrate a genuine passion for retail and wholesale development
How to Apply for the W&RSETA UJ Bursary 2026
There are two types of applications depending on your enrolment status: New Enrolments and Current Master’s/PhD Students.
1. For New Enrolments
Follow these steps if you’re enrolling for the first time:
- Apply online through the UJ Department of Marketing Management website
- Follow the full online application process and submit all required documents
- If your proposal is approved by the Department Research and Ethics Committee (DREC), email [email protected]
2. For Current Postgraduate Students
If you’re already enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme at UJ:
- Download and complete the W&RSETA UJ Bursary Application Form (PDF)
- Email your completed application form and supporting documents to: [email protected]
- Use the subject line: “WRSETA Postgraduate Bursary Application – Your Full Name”
Closing Date for the W&RSETA UJ Bursary 2026
The application deadline for the 2025/2026 academic year is:
📅 31 October 2025
Late applications will not be accepted, so it’s essential to apply well in advance to allow for proposal approval and document preparation.
Contact Information
For further assistance or inquiries about the bursary:
- Contact Person: Sandile Maseko
- Email Address: [email protected]
FAQs About W&RSETA UJ Bursary
Can students from other universities apply for the W&RSETA UJ Bursary?
No, only students who are currently registered or intend to register at the University of Johannesburg are eligible for this bursary.
Does the bursary cover living expenses or accommodation?
No, the W&RSETA UJ Bursary specifically covers tuition, data collection, and language editing. It does not include living allowances or accommodation.
What happens if I miss the closing date for the bursary application?
Unfortunately, late applications will not be considered. It is important to submit your application and required documents before 31 October 2025.
Conclusion
The W&RSETA UJ Bursary for 2026 offers a unique opportunity for South African students to advance their academic careers in the Retail and Marketing sectors. With full coverage of tuition and research expenses, and a clear commitment to building future leaders in business and commerce, this bursary is not just financial support—it’s an investment in the future of South Africa’s retail economy.
